Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the ideal tropical paradise for your vacation. Tourists can enjoy the pristine beaches and incredible surfing spots that will make surfers have and unforgettable vacation. The small Central America country boasts one of the highest concentrations of warm-water waves anywhere in the world. It’s widely considered the most stable Central America country. But what make it so special is the diversity and accessibility of the endless array of surf sports, not to mention the charm and warmth of its culture and natives. You can literally surf any type of wave in Costa Rica, from forgiving beginners peaks to reeling points and offshore reefs-all in the same day. And while there are two distinct coastlines to choose from, the Pacific is definitely the call in summer, while its Caribbean counterpart goes fairly dormant. Whatever it is that you are looking for, from the ultimate in outdoor adventures to rich Latin culture, you’ll find it here.

Costa Rica offers a diverse selection of surf reefs and beach breaks at a short distance for surfing commodity and convenience. The countries natural resources and landscapes allows for the vacationer to enjoy much more than just the great surf with actives such as the rainforests hikes, national parks tours, an opportunity to experience the vast wild life is just small example of what there is to do in this amazing country.

For Nature lovers there is a great variety of exotic wildlife and tropical plants. Butterflies and orchids, crocodiles and sharks, turtles and toucans are wild life you constantly. The rainforest covering the mountains are a paradise for eco tourism.

Life is good in Costa Rica, a friendly, democratic and peaceful country.

For action vacation you can surf, hike, do rafting, canopying, diving, deepwater fishing and snorkeling and many more. You can go with a low budget or seek the more exclusive resorts.

For relaxation there are beautiful unique golf courses and luxury spas. The hotels have all the modern comforts in the most private and secluded environments.

Warm Water and Year-Round Breaks

Costa Rica’s soothing sunshine, year-round tropical climate, warm waters (average 80°F) and countless surf breaks attract more and more surfers and outdoor enthusiasts every year. The 800-plus miles of shoreline divided between the Caribbean and Pacific coasts offer excellent waves for both beginner and seasoned surfers. Beach and point breaks, reefs and river mouth runs – there's always fabulous surf somewhere in Costa Rica. The waves are never far away, and getting to them is half the fun.

Many beaches are located just a couple hours drive from San Jose, making it easy to plunge your board into the water on the same day you arrive. Surf lessons are offered in the country’s major surf destinations, including playa Hermosa, Jaco, Esterillos, Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Pavones, Tamarindo, Mal Pais wet suits are unnecessary, equipment such as boards and other surfing gear are widely available to rent or buy from FATUMSURFBOARDS.

Regional Surfing Information

North Pacific Coast

If you’re searching for the best, start your surf adventure in the North Pacific province of Guanacaste, along a stretch of beaches known as the Gold Coast. Look for Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Playas Negra or Avellanas, all hot North Pacific surf breaks. Experienced surfers will love riding the consistent swells at Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s Point, located in Santa Rosa National Park.

Farther down the Nicoya Peninsula, the coastal towns of Samara, Nosara, Mal Pais and Santa Teresa are also popular surf destinations. Waves are ideal in this region from December to April (the dry season) when offshore winds combine with intense Atlantic swells to form perfect conditions.

Central Pacific Coast

Just a two-hour drive from San Jose, Jaco is renowned for its year-round swells and happening party scene. The beach town is packed with surf schools and shops and is a great spot for both novice and seasoned surfers. A few kilometers south of Jaco, Playa Hermosa offers a longer break, bigger waves and a more tranquil atmosphere.

Farther south, the small beach town of Dominical lures boarders with consistent breaks. It is less developed than Jaco or Tamarindo and has a laid-back vibe. The Central and South Pacific beaches are best from May to November (the rainy season).

South Pacific Coast

The tiny village of Pavones, located on the Golfo Dulce, is known around the globe as having the 2nd longest left point break in the world. The break has been recorded to last up to three minutes on a slow, south swell. The biggest waves are from April through October, which is the rainy season in Pavones.

Huge waves can be found on the isolated beaches of Cabo Matapalo, situated on the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula. Facilities are minimal in this undeveloped area, so surfers should bring their own boards. Playa Zancudo and Drake Bay also have some nice beach breaks.

Caribbean Coast

Things are a bit quieter on the Caribbean coast, with the exception of Puerto Viejo's famed reef break, Salsa Brava. Salsa is for experts only and is usually good from January through April. A little farther south, the beach break at Playa Cocles offers gentle waves that are perfect for beginners. Playa Negra in Cahuita has consistent waves, and the funky town is worth a visit even if you don’t surf.

Just off the Caribbean port of Limon lays Isla Uvita, an isolated island with adrenaline-pumping reef breaks. The Caribbean surf typically climaxes from November through March.