The Pura Vida Lifestyle
Costa Rica means "rich coast" and lives up to its name for surfers. With Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, year-round warm water, and incredible biodiversity, it's a tropical surf paradise.
Pacific Coast - Guanacaste
Northwest Region
- Witch's Rock: Remote, powerful beach break
- Ollie's Point: Pristine right point break
- Tamarindo: Beginner-friendly, developed town
- Playa Grande: Beach break with sea turtles
Pacific Coast - Central
Nicoya Peninsula
- Santa Teresa: Consistent beach breaks, surf town
- Mal Pais: Rocky points and reefs
- Manzanillo: Quiet, quality waves
Jaco Area
- Jaco: Party town, consistent waves
- Playa Hermosa: Powerful beach break, contests
- Boca Barranca: River mouth left
Pacific Coast - South
- Dominical: Powerful beach break
- Pavones: Legendary long left point
- Matapalo: Right point, less crowded
Caribbean Coast
- Puerto Viejo: Salsa Brava reef break
- Playa Cocles: Beach break, beginner-friendly
- Best season: December-March
- Caribbean culture and music
Best Seasons
Pacific Coast
- Dry season (Dec-Apr): Offshore winds, consistent
- Wet season (May-Nov): Bigger swells, onshore afternoons
Caribbean Coast
- December-March: Swell season
- Rest of year: Generally flat
Wildlife
Expect to see:
- Howler monkeys in the trees
- Sea turtles nesting
- Dolphins and whales
- Sloths, toucans, scarlet macaws
Travel Tips
- 4WD recommended for remote spots
- No wetsuit needed - boardshorts all year
- Bring rash guard for sun protection
- Respect the ocean - rip currents are strong
- Learn basic Spanish phrases