When is the best time to visit Costa Rica for some much-needed surf and sun?
The answer to that question hinges on what you want to experience. For example, consider the dry season from December to April if you prefer sunny skies and surfable waves.
Alternatively, if you’re after big waves and a lush, green landscape, Costa Rica’s green season from May to November might be your best bet.
Either way, stick with us as we walk you through the best times to visit Costa Rica for surfing!
Our Bottom Line Upfront
If you don’t have time to read our entire guide, don’t worry; we have you covered; here’s our key takeaway:
Costa Rica offers excellent surfing conditions year-round. The Pacific Coast tends to have smaller waves that are better suited for beginners in the dry season (December to April). Whereas, in the green season (May to November), more experienced surfers can enjoy larger waves.
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Surfing
As we’ve already hinted, Costa Rica offers rideable waves all year, making it a surfer’s dream destination.
Costa Rica’s strategic location between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea guarantees consistent swells, catering to surfers of all levels.
However, the weather in Costa Rica varies throughout the year. For instance, the dry season (December to April) promises warm temperatures, clear skies, and smaller waves, making it the perfect time for a surf trip. The lack of rain leads to neat, well-formed waves, and the peak season for surf trips attracts surf enthusiasts from around the world, creating a vibrant surfing community.
It’s also worth noting that conditions are particularly favourable for beginners from December to February, as this is when the South swells subside, leaving the more prominent Northwest swells to break gently on the shores.
Conversely, the green season (May to November) offers larger, more consistent waves, which is excellent for seasoned surfers looking for a challenge! May and June, in particular, offer the most dependable surf conditions with fewer crowds, making it the best time to visit Costa Rica for those who prefer a quieter surfing experience.
However, the country’s green season also brings heavy rains and occasional road closures due to landslides or flooding. Despite these potential inconveniences, the lush landscapes and vibrant natural beauty during this time make it an appealing period for outdoor adventures beyond the waves.
The bottom line: Whether you’re planning a trip during the dry or green seasons, Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast shores are always ready to deliver an exhilarating surf experience.
Costa Rica Surfing Conditions by Month
To help you plan your surf trip, here’s a brief overview of the surfing conditions in Costa Rica by month. This will give you a clear idea of what to expect during your chosen travel period.
January to March
As previously mentioned, Costa Rica enjoys its dry season from January to March. Warm temperatures, clear skies, and consistent waves mark this period.
These months are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, with waves generally ranging from waist to shoulder high, making it an ideal time to visit for practising turns and cutbacks.
However, this period also coincides with the high season for tourists, meaning more crowds on the beaches and in the water.
Despite this, when you couple the perfect surfing conditions with the opportunity to escape the Northern Hemisphere’s winter, January to March is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Costa Rica for a surfing adventure.
April to June
April marks the beginning of the transition from the dry season to the green season, bringing with it changing wave conditions and fewer crowds.
During this period, the first major swells from the South start to arrive, providing a mix of surf conditions that can be exciting for surfers of all levels.
By May, the green season is in full swing, resulting in fewer crowds and more varied surf conditions. This is an excellent time for those who prefer a quieter surfing experience, as the beaches are less crowded.
July to September
July through September brings warm and humid weather with frequent rain showers, offering larger, more powerful waves ideal for experienced surfers.
The weather during the rainy season typically includes sunny mornings followed by afternoon rains, creating a dynamic surfing environment with an average temperature that remains comfortable for surfers.
During these months, the surf can reach heights of 4-5 feet, and occasional tropical storms can add to the challenge.
While flooding is rare, it can occur during the wettest months, particularly in September, so surfers should be prepared for changing conditions.
October to December
October to December marks the end of the green season, with improving weather and the gradual return of tourists.
Costa Rica’s weather in November is denoted by fewer rain showers, leading to more favourable surf conditions.
Similarly, Costa Rica’s weather in December is generally favourable. This month marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season in most parts of the country, bringing with it increasing tourist numbers and some of the best weather conditions for surfing.
This is a great time to visit Costa Rica if you want to experience excellent waves and a vibrant atmosphere for your holiday.
Practical Tips for Surfing in Costa Rica
Maximising your surf trip to Costa Rica requires a bit of preparation. So, here are a few practical tips for ensuring your holiday goes off without a hitch:
Essential Surf Gear
First up, when surfing in Costa Rica, you’ll need the right surf gear.
For starters, we suggest wearing a secure bathing suit or rash vest to avoid irritation and keep your wetsuits light as water temperatures seldom fall below 22°C.
Other essential items include:
- Tropical wax for your surfboard
- A fin key to adjust your fin setup according to wave conditions.
- A simple ding repair kit to fix any potential damage to your board.
- Sun protection
Long-haired surfers might also find it helpful to tie their hair up to keep it out of their faces while riding the waves.
Local Events and Festivals
It’s also wise to be mindful of local events and festivals when visiting Costa Rica. For example, the Envision Festival in Uvita is a popular music and arts festival held during the peak of the dry season. It offers a unique blend of surf experiences and Costa Rican culture, making it a must-see if you get the chance!
However, try to avoid travelling during Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the week from Christmas to New Year, as these periods see increased crowds and can affect local services.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
For transportation, consider renting an SUV to explore remote beaches requiring higher clearance. Remember to pack surf straps or buy them locally to fasten your boards to rental vehicles.
To keep your valuables safe, keep them in your hotel room safe and consider a waterproof wallet to carry your essentials with you while you’re at the beach.
Are You Ready to Go to Costa Rica for Your Next Surfing Trip?
This tropical paradise’s steady waves, warm sunshine, and varied surf breaks all makes Costa Rica a go-to for surfers of all skill levels.
Its strategic position between the Pacific Ocean and Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast ensures access to swells from both the North and South, making it a dependable surfing destination year-round.
Costa Rica’s vibrant surf culture, abundant surf camps and schools, and accessibility to top surf spots from international airports in San José and Liberia all contribute to its attractiveness as a surf destination.
From the sunny days of Costa Rica’s dry season to the lush, wave-filled months of its green season, this tropical country offers something for every surfer throughout the year.
So, pack your board, secure your surf gear, and get ready to ride the waves in one of the planet’s most beautiful and biodiverse countries.
PS. If you’re looking for a friendly surf camp in Costa Rica that will provide the ultimate surf experience, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Before we depart, we’ll quickly answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the best time of year to visit Costa Rica for surfing:
When is the best time for beginner surfers to visit Costa Rica?
The best time for beginner surfers to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, spanning from December to February. During this time, the waves are smaller and more manageable, making it ideal for practising and improving your surfing skills.
What should I pack for a surfing trip to Costa Rica?
Pack a secure bathing suit or rash vest, tropical wax, a fin key, and a ding repair kit for your surfing trip to Costa Rica. Surf straps for securing your board on rental vehicles would also be helpful.
Are there any local events I should be aware of when planning my trip?
Yes, consider attending the Envision Festival in Uvita, as it’s a popular event during the dry season. However, due to increased crowds, it’s best to avoid travelling during Semana Santa and the Christmas-New Year period.
What are the surfing conditions like during the green season?
Surfing conditions during the green season (May to November) are ideal for experienced surfers due to the bigger, more consistent waves.
What wildlife can I expect to see while surfing in Costa Rica?
While surfing in Costa Rica, you can expect to see sloths, monkeys, and various bird species in national parks like Santa Rosa, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio.
