Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise famed for its consistent surf, warm waters, and stunning coastlines. Beyond the well-known spots like Tamarindo and Jaco, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this blog, we’ll take you through a journey to uncover the lesser-known surf spots in Costa Rica that offer pristine waves and perfect solitude.
1. Serene Shores of Playa Grande
Playa Grande is a coveted spot for locals who crave privacy while ripping waves. Here, the offshore breezes sculpt long right-handers that offer a thrilling ride for intermediate and advanced surfers. What makes it exceptional is its vast beachscape that ensures you’re not bumping rails with others. When the summer swell hits just right, you might even catch a blue-water barrel nestled in the breakers. For more secretive beach options like this, check out our guide on The Best Kept Secrets of Costa Rica Beaches for your ultimate surfing getaway.
What’s great about Playa Grande is its proximity to Tamarindo without the hustle. After an exhilarating surf, take a short boat ride to explore Tamarindo’s vibrant nightlife or enjoy a laid-back dinner by the beach. And since it’s part of the larger Las Baulas National Marine Park, you can also engage in turtle watching—an enchanting experience if you’re visiting between October and March.
2. Seclusion at Playa Coyote
For those seeking solitude, Playa Coyote on the Nicoya Peninsula offers breathtaking scenes and a peaceful environment. The soft, sandy beach flows seamlessly into the ocean, presenting long, gentle waves ideal for beginners to practice their form. Few know about this sanctuary, making it an oasis for nature lovers and those looking to catch uncrowded waves.
The isolation of Playa Coyote means you’ll have to plan well regarding supplies as amenities are few and far between. Bring your cooler and a shady spot for an after-surf picnic. The serene setting makes it equally perfect for yoga practice and meditation post-surf, harmonizing your body and soul under the Costa Rican sun.
3. Wild Waves at Zancudo Beach
Zancudo Beach showcases Costa Rica’s rugged charm with its black sands and vibrant surfscene. Located in the Southern Pacific, it stretches for miles, offering plenty of room for surfers to spread out and conquer its bold waves. Protected by rip currents, this spot is best suited for those with a sturdy board and heaps of confidence.
What makes Zancudo special is its abundance of wildlife—spot howler monkeys overhead as you paddle out, and revel in the tropical beauty surrounding you. After a day in the waves, indulge at local eateries offering fresh catch and fruity cocktails that encapsulate the flavors of Costa Rica. Before you know it, you’ll be planning your next trip back.
4. Mellow Rides at Samara
Samara might just become your second home thanks to its laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere. While not known for massive waves, Samara offers consistent, mellow surf perfect for beginners getting the hang of things. Its warm waters and forgiving waves make it possible to ride almost any time of the year, supporting your pursuit of endless summer.
With a lively community vibe, you’ll find no shortage of things to do outside the water. The town is lined with cafes and bars, allowing you to kick back, listen to live music, and share stories with fellow surfers. If you’re into trying your hand at the local dance Zumba or hitting a yoga class by the beach, Samara’s got you covered.
5. Mystical Playa Avellanas
Sublimely stationed a short drive from Tamarindo, Playa Avellanas offers uncrowded conditions with great waves for all skill levels. Surfers flock here for its rolling beachbreaks and the famous ‘Little Hawaii’ wave, perfect for those seeking thrilling rides. When you’re not surfing, watch over the scenic estuary where many find joyful solitude.
Avellanas is also home to Lola’s Beach Bar, famous for its laid-back vibe, delicious local fare, and the big pet pig stealing everyone’s hearts. Taking a break here turns your beach day into a complete experience with a stunning sunset to end your perfect surfing day.
6. Hidden Beauty of Playa Hermosa
Often overshadowed by its more famous namesake near Jaco, Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste is a hidden marvel promising uncrowded waves. Its dark volcanic sands are among the prettiest settings for a surf session. Known for its Pacific swells, it delivers predictability crucial for consistent practice and improvement.
Beyond the surf, Playa Hermosa offers rich biodiversity typical of Costa Rica’s natural wonders. To recharge after your surf session, wander through the nearby national parks where you might spot monkeys or exotic birds.
7. Off the Beaten Path at Pavones
Pavones is legendary for its left-hand wave, the longest in the world, providing a once-in-a-lifetime ride bridging the gap between surfing and heavenly existence effortlessly. Reserved for experienced surfers, taming Pavones is a rite of passage few are lucky enough to experience. It’s not just the wave but its remoteness and untouched allure that draw people from all corners of the globe.
Prepare for an adventure set deep within lush jungle terrain. Whether it’s maneuvering through the line-up or just shooting the breeze with fellow surfers, each encounter here etches into the paradise narrative Costa Rica exudes. A trip to Pavones is as much about serfing excellence as it is about connecting deeply with the land.
8. Adventurous Waves at Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa offers an inviting mix between a strong surfing culture and idyllic beauty. Its consistent breaks satisfy all from novices seeking to improve their skills to pros gunning for perfection. Its mix of gritty jungle and glorious coastlines make Santa Teresa a must-visit for anyone in search of the perfect wave.
Off the water, relax with a smoothie bowl or hike in the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, ensuring balance in your tropical adventure. Known for its ‘hippie’ atmosphere, Santa Teresa is laid back, drawing an international crowd mingling harmoniously with local Ticos. This place lets the soul breathe a fresh vibe and lets the board swim in a personal paradise.
9. Untouched Bliss at Matapalo
For surfers who crave a secluded thrill, Matapalo gives you intimacy with the ocean. Tropical greens frame the golden sands where the Pacific rolls in waves to test even the best. Unfrequented, these breaks invite intrepid surfers to an authentic Costa Rican surfing journey.
Plunge into this wilderness where crocodiles rest and scarlet macaws soar freely. Here, with fewer facilities, spend days reconnecting with the basics—catching waves and witnessing nature in raw form. Expect serenity and challenges as you ride along the outer edge of Costa Rica’s surf spectrum.
10. Remote Retreat of Playa Negra
On the northern Pacific coastline, Playa Negra welcomes surfers seeking solace in its black sands and clear ocean swells. It’s famously featured in classic surf films, although the crowds remain largely at bay, which keeps the wave-face smooth and accessible. Prepare to experience iconic cinematic surf scenes firsthand.
Simple lodging and authentic local cuisine restore the senses post-surf, letting you reflect on your day’s adventures as you enjoy spectacular sunsets. Here, the Pura Vida spirit extends to every wave caught and every laugh shared down the endless stretch of surreal Costa Rican coast.
11. Crystal Clear Waters of Playa Conchal
Known for its unique seashell-strewn shores, Playa Conchal offers more than rich surfing potential. The backdrop of calm, crystal-clear waters makes this coastline a favorite for leisurely day surf and other water activities like snorkeling, all within a short distance from Tamarindo.
Off-shore winds split perfect waves into text-book surf moments for all levels of surfers. And don’t just stop at surfing—intermingle with wandering iguanas or spot a distant, leisurely moving sloth as you immerse yourself in the lush surrounding landscapes of Conchal.
12. Tropical Wonderland of Manzanillo
Tucked on the Caribbean side, Playa Manzanillo is a hidden surfing gem where serene beauty meets tropical vibrancy. With perfectly clear water mirroring the sky, its reef breaks are for the spirited and skilled. Far less crowded than its Pacific counterparts, Manzanillo is worth the journey.
Swim amidst colorful reefs or dance with gentle waves while exploring this tropical masterpiece. Culture also beats strongly here—indulge in Afro-Caribbean cuisine with musical breezes from steel drums softening in the warm air as you rejuvenate alongside the region’s hospitable charm.