Lonely PlanetAug 16, 2026
Costa Rica's Best Surf Spots
If you
17 things in this story
- Playa HermosaSightNearby beach with easier waves for beginners.
- Elsewhere
- Playa TamarindoSightTamarindo, Costa RicaTwo-kilometer beachfront with six named surf breaks.
- Iguana SurfPlaceTamarindo, Costa RicaOrganizes starter surf lessons right beside the beach.
- Playa Santa TeresaSightSanta Teresa, Costa RicaTwo miles of beach break offering solid intermediate surf.
- Zeneidas Surf GardenHotelSanta Teresa, Costa RicaOffers surf packages and early morning water access.
- Playa DominicalSightDominical, Costa RicaFamous for powerful waves near the river mouth.
- Fuego Brewing CompanyRestaurantDominical, Costa RicaPours crisp hefeweizens and pilsners made with natural spring water.
- Playa DominicalitoSightDominical, Costa RicaOne bay south, with smaller, easier waves for beginners.
- Roca BrujaSightSanta Rosa, Costa RicaIconic remote break with rifle-barrel A-frames.
- Santa Rosa National ParkSightSanta Rosa, Costa RicaNational reserve where Witch's Rock is located.
- Witch's Rock Surf CampPlaceSanta Rosa, Costa RicaOffers advanced surf tour packages, sometimes including boat trips.
- Bowie's PointRestaurantJaco, Costa RicaLocal legend with a resident pet pig and sunset view.
- Playa EsterillosSightEsterillos, Costa RicaUndeveloped surf spot with reefs and A-frame waves.
- Brett's BoardsPlaceEsterillos, Costa RicaOffers surf lessons and gear rentals.
- Playa GuionesSightNosara, Costa RicaBeach with a shallow shelf for learners and bigger waves.
- The NomadicHotelNosara, Costa RicaDiscover The Nomadic Hotel in Nosara, Costa Rica – a tranquil haven for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
- The Gilded IguanaHotelNosara, Costa Rica