Where are the best places to surf in Costa Rica? A surf vacation to Costa Rica is really like no other. Not only is the country immensely beautiful and blessed with an abundance of unique vegetation, animal species and tropical birds, but it is also home to some incredible surf spots, reefs and beaches.
Located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama the country boasts a long coastline of some 800 miles, with 132 miles facing the lush Caribbean and 631 miles facing the Pacific. Added to this the country enjoys a year round tropical climate which helps explain why Costa Rica has become a popular destination for many eco-tourists and surfers year round.
When and where to surf?
The best time of year for experienced surfers to head there is any time between April and October as this period offers the best conditions and is known as swell season. On the Pacific coast in particular you can expect high tides and strong winds to deliver some huge breaks if you time your visit right. If you’re a newbie surfer, clean waves and swells from December to April are also available so do not be put off by any means.
The first place you should head to is the Guanacaste region which has many excellent spots. Ollie’s Point is hard to find and is only accessible by boat from Playa del Coco and Playa Ocotal but for experienced surfers it’s a great starting place thanks to its consistent world class right point-break which produces very fast and long waves. The surrounding rocks can pose a danger although anyone with enough experience should be fine.
The water is teaming with incredible tropical fish which can be a pretty fun distraction when you’re waiting your turn in the lineup. Add to that the fact you are able to look back on the stunning Santa Rosa National Park with its lush vegetation and tropical birds and you’ve got a truly unique location, one I would recommend every surfer pay a visit to at least once in their lifetime.
A word of warning however, the place can get pretty crowded with boats as everyone and his aunt comes here to surf. As there’s only one real spot to take off from you need to be pretty patient. So do yourself a favor and book a night on the surf charter boat so you can stay overnight and be the first in the water at sunrise. It is the only boat that is allowed to stay in the waters overnight. I did and it was worth every penny.
Another great spot worth a visit is Playa Negra. With its consistent right reef break these world class waves produce a consistent barrel and are again ideal for experienced surfers. There is a short left here as well although it’s best to avoid this in low tide as it breaks on rocks.
The vibe here is pretty relaxed although there was one Cali guy who was out for a few days and really getting on everybody’s nerves. I guess you get that everywhere and luckily enough for me he was gone by my third day much to the relief of many of the locals. Ah well, that’s life I guess, even in a beautiful place like Playa Negra.
If you are still relatively new to surfing you should check out Playa Grand. It is a pretty decent beach-break which is fast and fun although it can get a little crowded even on week days so watch your step with the local etiquette.
Away from the water
Away from the water ecotourism is hugely popular thanks to the many protected reserves. I took a tour through the Santa Rosa National Park in a 4×4 early one morning and it was breath taking. It marked the first time I have ever seen monkeys in the wild and was the turning point that left me staying on an extra few days in the area.
Although I didn’t partake some fellow surfers I met in Playa Ocotal raved about the deep sea fishing expedition they had been on. I ran out of time to go test the waters myself but the enthusiasm with which they spoke left me in no doubt that on my next trip out I’ll be reserving some time to take that in as well.
In general, Costa Rica is a friendly, safe and exciting country to visit. It is blessed with some of the most consistent and fun waves I’ve ever experienced. I’d say it needs to go top of your next surf vacation to do list as its got something for everybody and, whilst its getting ever more popular, its still got enough hidden gems to escape the crowds.
About the Author: Josh Aggars regularly writes about beach life, surfing, travel and more. His passion for surfing takes him to amazing places around the World and comes through in his regular articles as he explores all aspects of the sport. He funds his trips by selling havaianas flip flops and by writing. Contact him for free articles for your blog or website at joshaggars@gmail.com, http://twitter.com/joshaggars or on www.facebook.com/josh.aggars. Photo courtesy of Jean-Marc Astesana.