Costa Rica Surfing: Best Beaches for Beginners and Pros

Costa Rica is a true surfer’s paradise. With two coastlines, the Pacific and the Caribbean, this tiny but mighty country offers waves for every level, from mellow beginner breaks to world-class barrels that attract seasoned pros from around the globe.

Whether you’re a total newbie dreaming of your first ride or a seasoned surfer chasing the perfect swell, this guide will help you discover the best Costa Rica surfing beaches. And of course, if you need help booking lessons, boards, or transportation, Pura Vida Traveling has you covered.

Best Surf Beaches for Beginners

Tamarindo (Guanacaste)

• Perfect for: Beginners, families, first-time surfers

• Location: Northern Pacific Coast, about 1 hour from Liberia Airport

• Tip: Head out at mid to high tide for the most forgiving waves.

Tamarindo is a surf town with serious charm. The beach break here is consistent and friendly, perfect for learning how to surf. There are plenty of surf schools, rentals, and instructors ready to help you catch your first wave. After your session, grab a smoothie or a beachside lunch and watch the sunset.

Dominicalito (South Pacific)

• Perfect for: Beginners and low-intermediate surfers

• Location: Just south of Dominical, about 3.5 hours from San José

• Tip: Stay in Uvita or Dominical and ask us about surf lessons, we know great local instructors!

Unlike its big brother, Dominical (which is more for advanced surfers), Dominicalito is a small bay with gentler waves. It’s quiet, scenic, and ideal for relaxed learning. Plus, it’s close to many waterfalls and nature hikes, great for mixing in some adventure.

Playa Samara (Nicoya Peninsula)

• Perfect for: Total beginners, kids, and families

• Location: Nicoya Peninsula, around 2 hours from Liberia Airport

• Bonus: The sunsets here are unreal. Catch a wave, then stay for the show.

This beach is protected by an outer reef, which keeps the water calm and makes for gentle, rolling waves, ideal for beginners and kids. The vibe in Samara is laid-back, safe, and welcoming, with a small-town feel and lots of surf schools right on the beach.

Puerto Viejo – Playa Cocles (Caribbean Coast)

• Perfect for: Beginners to intermediate (on small days)

• Location: Southern Caribbean, 4.5–5 hours from San José

• Local vibe: Stay in town for Afro-Caribbean food, reggae nights, and colorful culture.

On small-swell days, Playa Cocles is a fun and playful break for newer surfers. You’ll find friendly local instructors and a Caribbean flavor that’s totally different from the Pacific. Just be aware: when the swell is big, this beach becomes a pro zone, so ask about the conditions before heading out.

Best Surf Beaches for Pros and Advanced Surfers

Playa Hermosa (Central Pacific, near Jacó)

• Perfect for: Advanced surfers and big wave chasers

• Location: 10 minutes south of Jacó, about 2 hours from San José

• Caution: Not for beginners. The rips are strong, and the waves are serious.

Playa Hermosa is a heavy beach break known for its fast, powerful waves, and it’s one of the most consistent spots in the country. It often hosts national and international surf competitions. If you’re an experienced surfer, this is the place to test your skills.

Witch’s Rock (Roca Bruja) – Santa Rosa National Park

• Perfect for: Advanced surfers with boat access

• Location: Off the coast of Playa Naranjo, near Liberia (Pacific Northwest)

• Fun fact: This is the wave featured in the surf movie Endless Summer II.

Witch’s Rock is legendary. It delivers long, fast, hollow waves, especially in offshore winds. The spot is remote, access is by boat or a gnarly 4x4 drive, but if you make it, you’ll score some of the best surf in the country.

Playa Pavones (Southern Pacific)

• Perfect for: Intermediate to advanced surfers chasing long lefts

• Location: Southernmost part of Costa Rica, near the Golfo Dulce

• Travel note: You’ll need a 4x4 or a local driver, reach out, and we’ll help you plan your route.

This remote town is home to one of the longest left-hand waves in the world, some say up to 2–3 minutes of ride time on a good day. It takes effort to get there, but the wave and peaceful jungle vibe make it worth every mile.

Salsa Brava (Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast)

• Perfect for: Experts only

• Location: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

• Pro tip: Respect the locals and the reef. This wave demands both.

This is Costa Rica’s heaviest wave, a shallow reef break known for thick barrels and strong local surfers. If you’re not 100% confident in your abilities, it’s best to watch from the beach (with a coconut in hand). But if you’ve got the skills, Salsa Brava delivers.

When to Surf in Costa Rica?

• Pacific Coast (dry season): November to April = smaller, clean conditions. Great for beginners.

• Pacific Coast (rainy season): May to October = bigger swells. Great for pros.

• Caribbean Coast: Best waves from December to March and July to September, thanks to unique weather patterns.

  
  

Planning Your Surf Trip to Costa Rica

Whether you’re just getting your feet wet or already carving up the waves, Costa Rica is one of the best places to surf, with beginner-friendly beaches and pro-level breaks across both coasts.

Need help getting started? We can connect you with local surf schools, board rentals, or full-on surf camps in hotspots like Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, and more.

Worried about how to get there? Don’t be, we offer private shuttles, shared rides, and discounted rental cars to take you straight to the best surf beaches in Costa Rica, no hassle.

And the best part? Most surf towns offer more than just waves, think yoga, nature tours, and chill beach vibes to round out your trip.

Wherever you’re headed, we’ve got the local tips and connections to help you catch the right wave.

Conclusion: Surfing Costa Rica with Ease

From gentle beach breaks perfect for beginners to powerful waves for seasoned pros, Costa Rica offers some of the best surfing in the world. With the right gear, local guidance, and smooth transportation, your surf trip can be as stress-free as it is unforgettable.

Whether you need lessons, board rentals, or help getting to your favorite surf beach, we’re here to help you ride the waves with confidence. Reach out to Pura Vida Traveling to start planning your surf adventure today.

Want to know how to travel around Costa Rica with a surfboard, check out our blog article:

• How to travel around Costa Rica with a surfboard?

  
  

Frequently asked questions:

When is the best time to surf in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has waves year-round, but the best surf season on the Pacific coast is from April to October, during the green season, when swells are most consistent. The Caribbean coast sees its best waves from November to March. Beginners can enjoy smaller, more manageable waves in the dry season (December to March), while advanced surfers may prefer the bigger swells during the rainy months.

 Do I need to bring my surfboard to Costa Rica?

Nope! Surfboard rentals are widely available at all major surf spots like Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Nosara, and Dominical. You’ll find a variety of boards for different skill levels. If you're particular about your gear or planning to travel to remote beaches, bringing your own board could be a good idea, just be aware of airline fees.

Is Costa Rica good for beginner surfers?

Yes! Costa Rica is one of the best countries in the world for learning to surf. Beaches like Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa offer gentle, sandy-bottom breaks and professional surf schools that make it easy and safe to get started.

Are there surf camps in Costa Rica?

Absolutely. Costa Rica has plenty of surf camps for all levels — from beginner-friendly packages that include lessons and board rentals, to advanced retreats focused on technique and fitness. Most camps also offer yoga, healthy meals, and lodging by the beach.

What should I wear while surfing in Costa Rica?

The water is warm year-round (around 27–29°C or 80–85°F), so you don’t need a wetsuit. A rash guard or surf shirt is recommended for sun protection and to avoid board rash. Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen!

How do I get to Costa Rica’s best surf beaches?

Getting around is easy! You can rent a car for flexibility or book shared or private shuttles through services like Pura Vida Traveling. Some beaches are remote and may require a 4x4 vehicle, so plan accordingly. Shuttle services are a great stress-free option if you don’t want to drive.

Are there dangerous animals or hazards when surfing in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is generally safe for surfers. Be mindful of strong rip currents, especially during big swells. Jellyfish stings and sea urchins can happen occasionally, so watch your step and surf with caution. Local surf schools will always brief you on conditions and safety.

Can kids learn to surf in Costa Rica?

Yes! Many surf schools offer kid-friendly surf lessons with experienced instructors, soft-top boards, and shallow water conditions. Tamarindo and Nosara are especially popular for family surf vacations.

Where to surf in Costa Rica?

For beginners, Tamarindo, Dominicalito, and Playa Samara are popular choices, offering consistent and gentle waves. For inte rmediate to advanced surfers, Playa Hermosa in Jaco, Playa Pavones and Salsa Brava provide more challenging breaks.