Costa Rica draws travelers with volcanic peaks rising above pristine beaches that stretch along both Pacific and Caribbean shores. Adventure seekers flock to this compact Central American paradise for world-class surfing, rainforest zip-lining and up-close wildlife encounters, all wrapped in the country’s famous “pura vida” spirit. Lush national parks house extraordinary biodiversity while beach towns offer perfect sunset spots and vibrant cultural experiences. Discover when to visit, where to stay and how to make the most of your Costa Rican escape.
When to visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s tropical climate divides into two main seasons: dry season (December to April) and green season (May to November). The dry season delivers plenty of sunny days with minimal rainfall—perfect for beach vacations and consistent surf conditions along the Pacific coast.
Temperatures remain relatively constant year-round, averaging 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C) in coastal areas and cooler in mountain regions. Peak tourist season coincides with the dry season, particularly December through March.
The green season brings afternoon showers that create lush landscapes and often delivers the best surf conditions, especially on the Pacific coast where larger swells arrive with greater frequency.
Many surfers prefer this period because there are fewer crowds in the lineup and more consistent waves. Weather patterns vary significantly by region, with the Caribbean coast experiencing its driest months (September and October) when the Pacific side sees heavier rainfall, creating a year-round opportunity for surf adventures somewhere in the country.
Getting there and around
Costa Rica’s improved infrastructure makes travel between surf spots relatively straightforward, though journey times can be longer than expected.
Major airports and flight options
- Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José serves as the primary gateway and handles flights from major carriers.
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia provides convenient access to Guanacaste surf breaks like Tamarindo and Witch’s Rock.
Most major airlines offer direct flights from North American and European hubs, with surfboards typically incurring additional fees ($50-150 each way depending on airline).
Transportation within the country
Traveling between Costa Rica’s diverse surf regions is straightforward, with options for every budget and travel style. Although, while distances may appear short on maps, mountainous terrain and road conditions mean journeys between coasts often take longer than expected.
Rental car considerations
Renting a vehicle offers the most flexibility for surf exploration, especially for reaching remote breaks. SUVs with roof racks or interior space for boards are particularly helpful. Major international agencies operate at both airports, but local companies often provide better rates. Most coastal routes now feature paved roads, though accessing certain surf spots requires 4WD during green season.
Public transportation options
Public buses represent the most economical option, connecting major surf towns with frequent service. Comfortable coaches cost a fraction of private shuttles, but traveling with boards can be challenging. Surf-specific shuttle services operate between popular breaks, typically ranging from $40-100 per person depending on distance.
Domestic flights
For time-sensitive surfers, domestic carriers operate flights between major tourist hubs. These scenic journeys reduce travel times too—flying from San José to Tamarindo takes 45 minutes versus four or five hours by road. Most domestic carriers accommodate surfboards for additional fees.
Top destinations in Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers remarkable surf diversity, from beginner-friendly beach breaks to challenging reef and point breaks.
San José and Central Valley
The capital city serves as a convenient starting point rather than a surf destination itself. Most surfers spend minimal time here before heading toward coastal spots, though surf shops offer decent equipment selection if you’re traveling without gear.
Pacific Coast highlights
Manuel Antonio combines accessible waves for beginners with wildlife viewing opportunities in the national park. Further north, Tamarindo has established itself as a surf hub with consistent waves and extensive surf infrastructure including schools, shops, and board rentals. Santa Teresa on the Nicoya Peninsula attracts a dedicated surf crowd with quality beach breaks, a laid-back vibe, and spectacular sunset sessions.
Caribbean Coast treasures
Puerto Viejo offers the country’s most famous wave at Salsa Brava, a powerful reef break for experienced surfers. Gentler options include Playa Cocles and Punta Uva, suitable for various skill levels. The Caribbean side works best during winter months when the Pacific coast may be flat, making Costa Rica a year-round surf destination.
Guanacaste region
The northwestern province of Guanacaste features numerous world-class breaks with consistent offshore winds creating ideal surfing conditions. While Tamarindo draws the largest crowds, Santa Cruz’s surrounding beaches offer less crowded and equally impressive waves. Just 20 minutes south of Tamarindo, Playa Avellanas delivers powerful beach breaks suitable for various skill levels, with Rapture Surfcamps providing comfortable accommodations, daily yoga, and easy access to neighboring spots like Playa Negra (featured in “Endless Summer II”). The region’s drier climate makes Guanacaste particularly appealing during the green season.
Arenal and La Fortuna
While not surfing destinations, these areas provide excellent multi-sport options for days between sessions or for traveling companions less interested in surfing. Adventure activities include waterfall hikes, zip-lining, and relaxing in natural hot springs, perfect for soothing surf-weary muscles.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Another non-surfing destination that provides contrast to coastal areas, Monteverde allows surfers to experience Costa Rica’s remarkable inland biodiversity between swell systems or as part of a longer itinerary.
Must-try experiences
Surfing dominates the Costa Rican experience for wave riders, with options for every skill level. Beginners find ideal learning conditions at Tamarindo, Samara, and Dominical where gentle beach breaks and numerous surf schools provide perfect introduction to the sport.
Intermediate surfers challenge themselves at Playa Hermosa (Jaco) or Santa Teresa, while advanced surfers test their skills at Witch’s Rock, Pavones (one of the world’s longest left breaks), or Salsa Brava on the Caribbean side.
Beyond surfing, wildlife viewing offers encounters with monkeys, sloths and tropical birds during morning sessions when animals are most active. Many surf spots border protected areas, creating unique opportunities to paddle out alongside dolphins or sea turtles.
Volcano adventures range from soaking in Arenal’s hot springs (perfect for post-surf recovery) to hiking dormant craters. Waterfall chasers find stunning cascades throughout the country, with Montezuma’s falls accessible via short hikes from popular surf beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Accommodation options
Beachfront properties put you steps from the waves, with options ranging from simple cabinas to sophisticated resorts. Budget travelers find excellent value in surf hostels where board storage, rinse stations, and like-minded travelers create a community atmosphere.
The luxury segment has expanded dramatically with properties like Kalon Surf Resort offering high-end accommodations paired with professional coaching. For extended stays, vacation rentals in surf towns provide space for groups and self-catering options that reduce costs.
Food and drink
Costa Rican cuisine provides perfect fuel for surfers, with protein-rich, carbohydrate-heavy meals that sustain energy through multiple sessions.
Traditional Costa Rican cuisine
The quintessential Costa Rican meal, casado (“married”), features rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and protein, ideal post-surf recovery nutrition. Breakfast often consists of gallo pinto, a flavorful rice and bean mixture that delivers sustained energy for dawn patrol sessions. Coastal areas emphasise seafood preparations, including fresh ceviche perfect for lunch between surf sessions.
Must-try dishes and beverages
Beyond casados, surfers should try patacones (fried plantain patties) and fresh tropical fruits available from beachside vendors. Costa Rican coffee ranks among the world’s finest for early morning wake-ups, while natural fruit drinks (refrescos) provide hydration and electrolytes. For post-surf celebration, Imperial and Pilsen beers satisfy at reasonable prices, often featured in happy hour specials at surf town bars.
Dining recommendations
Sodas—small, family-run restaurants—offer authentic Costa Rican food at reasonable prices in every surf town. Seafood restaurants in coastal areas serve daily catches, while major surf destinations now feature diverse international options catering to global surf crowds.
Food safety tips
Tap water remains safe to drink in most established surf towns, unlike neighboring countries. Street food generally proves safe when prepared fresh and served hot. Surfers should stay well-hydrated, particularly during multiple daily sessions in tropical heat.
Practical travel tips
Navigating Costa Rica’s surf scene successfully requires understanding a few key considerations.
- Board rental vs. bringing your own: Quality rental boards are available in major surf towns, though selection may be limited to standard shortboards and minimal-rocker longboards. Bringing your own equipment ensures familiarity but incurs airline fees.
- Money matters: The colón (₡) serves as local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in surf towns. Budget surf travelers can manage on $50-75 daily, more comfortable surf trips run $100-200.
- Packing essentials: Beyond standard surf gear, pack reef booties for rocky breaks, tropical wax, and repair kits as supplies may be limited outside major towns. Sun protection is crucial with intense equatorial rays.
- Language: While English prevails in surf towns, learning basic Spanish enhances experiences and helps when exploring less touristed breaks.
- Surf etiquette: Costa Rica’s popularity has led to occasional lineup crowding. Respect local surfers who call these waves home and follow standard surf etiquette.
Conservation and responsible tourism
Costa Rica’s surf zones often border marine protected areas and national parks, making environmental awareness particularly important. Many surf camps participate in certification programs that verify their environmental commitment, including proper wastewater management and energy conservation.
Surfers can support these efforts by choosing operators with demonstrated sustainability practices. Surfers contribute to conservation by properly disposing of trash, avoiding reef-damaging sunscreens, respecting wildlife viewing guidelines, and participating in beach cleanup initiatives organized by surf communities.
Some camps and shops even offer eco-friendly board options featuring recycled or sustainable materials. By embracing Costa Rica’s conservation ethos, surfers help ensure these perfect waves remain surrounded by pristine environments for generations to come.
Endless summer awaits
Costa Rica rewards surfers with consistent waves, warm water, and extraordinary natural settings year-round. However you design your trip, Costa Rica’s exceptional surf options and commitment to protecting its coastal environments create the perfect backdrop for your next great wave-riding adventure.
Learn more about our Costa Rican surf camp and embrace the waves
