Some of the planet’s best waves are found in Costa Rica. They crash along clean beaches that are empty for the most part. These sandy shores are less crowded than the popular beaches of Hawaii, Sydney, and Southern California with plenty of surf shops, breaks, and swells needed for Costa Rica Surfing.
Costa Rica Surfing in the Caribbean
The surfing season is short along the Caribbean coast, and the majority of the waves are due to tropical storms. Surfers will find some of the country’s biggest waves here, especially in Puerto Viejo. The Hawaiian style breaks created by a coral reef can carry as many as 20 surfers. It is found in Limon Province with a vibrant seaside town. Westfalia offers reliable breaks from the left and right which provides consistently good surf, but watch for the riptides and jellyfish.
North Pacific Coast Surfing
This area encompasses the Guanacaste Province which is home to a few of the best surfing spots in Costa Rica. Playa Naranjo, or Witch’s Rock, is one of the country’s best breaks with strong offshore winds from December until March. Playa Grande has consistent swells and breaks, and it is one of the quieter places with beaches like Playa Tamarindo. Playa Negra has a right handed break with powerful waves that are reliable.
Central Pacific Coast
Located a short ways from San Jose, this area is the most accessible and vacation friendly. The surf is fantastic, and the resort towns provide plenty of nightlife. Boca Barranca provides one of Costa Rica’s longest rides with a left break at the river’s mouth. Playa Escondida has excellent right and left breaks. High tide is the best time for surfing here, and Hermosa Beach has constant swells where it juts into the Pacific Ocean.
South Pacific Coast
The South Pacific, in contrast to the Central Pacific Coast, is home to the largest stretch of remaining rain forests. Playa Dominical has lush landscapes and waves for all skill levels. Advanced surfers can find more challenging waves on the beach’s North end near the mouth of Baru River. Some of the world’s longest rides are found at Pavones. The best surfing here is from April until November. Across from Pavones is Matapalo. This area is ideal for beginners or those avoiding the crowds.