Surf

Definitely on the most beaten tourist path, Tamarindo is the surf mecca for beginners and intermediate wave riders. Located on the Pacific’s Nicoya Peninsula, this beach town delivers consistent waves, a laid-back vibe, and plenty of surf schools if you’re still figuring out how to balance on a board.

What’s Unique: The beach break at Playa Tamarindo is gentle, making it ideal for learning. Advanced surfers can hit Playa Grande, just a short drive up the road and way less crowded.

Wildlife Bonus: Nearby Las Baulas National Marine Park is a nesting site for leatherback turtles—don’t miss a chance to witness these giants during the nesting season (October–March).

Pro Tip: Post-surf, grab fish tacos and a cold drink at Nogui’s, a local institution.

Known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, Santa Teresa boasts pristine beaches and some of the best waves in the country. Playa Carmen in front of the town is perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers, with consistent swells year-round. The surf is pretty brutal and definitely requires strong swimming skills

What’s Unique: The vibe here is straight out of a surf movie—morning waves, sunset yoga, and beach bonfires and beautiful people. It’s been put on the map by a few celebrities lately, too. One of our favorite traditions is everyone flocking to the beach to watch the sunset. Some of the best sunsets we’ve ever seen have been here. To expand your surf trip, see our Last Frontier Itinerary

Wildlife Bonus: Keep an eye out for howler monkeys in the trees and colorful macaws flying overhead.

Pro Tip: In the morning, grab a coffee from Café Social, have lunch at Soda Pura Vida (the cheapest and best local food in town) then head to Roca Mar for drinks and epic beachfront sunsets.

This tiny village on the southern Pacific coast is home to one of the longest left-hand waves in the world. On a good day, you can ride the same wave for nearly a mile!

What’s Unique: Pavones is a remote and uncrowded gem at the end of the road hugging the border with Panama and just across from the Osa Peninsula. This place feels like the last frontier and what we imagine Santa Teresa felt like 20 years ago. It’s perfect, a hidden gem for surfers who crave solitude and epic rides. We recommend a 4×4 vehicle for driving in this area.

Wildlife Bonus: The Golfo Dulce is a hotspot for humpback whale sightings from August to October. If you want to extend your wildlife viewing, drive up the coast and over to the Osa Peninsula to Corcovado National Park - one of the most biodiverse places in the world as described by National Geographic.

Pro Tip: Stock up on essentials before you go—this place is off the beaten path, and the nearest grocery store is a mission away.

Cocles Beach, located on Costa Rica’s stunning Caribbean coast near Puerto Viejo, is a haven for surfers seeking thrilling waves and a laid-back vibe. The beach is renowned for its consistent breaks, offering both lefts and rights, making it a favorite for intermediate and advanced surfers. The best conditions typically occur between November and March when the Caribbean swell is strongest. For safety, be mindful of the rip currents and stick to areas where other surfers gather.

What’s Unique: Cocles Beach stands out not just for its consistent surf, but for its idyllic Caribbean vibe. Surrounded by palm-fringed sands and dense jungle, it offers a surf experience immersed in nature. The area’s Afro-Caribbean culture adds to the charm, with vibrant music, food, and a relaxed atmosphere you won't find on the Pacific coast.

Wildlife Bonus: Keep your eyes peeled for sloths lounging in the trees near the beach and howler monkeys announcing their presence from the canopy. If you're lucky, you might even spot a hawks bill or green sea turtle in the water during the nesting season. The Great Green Macaw may even make an appearance in the sky.

Pro Tip: Start your morning with a sunrise surf session for smaller crowds and incredible lighting over the water, since the sun rises on this side of the country. After your surf, grab a fresh smoothie to last you until lunch at La Sirena restaurant, just down the road in Punta Uva and the freshest , most delicious seafood food we’ve had in Costa Rica.