Costa Rica has earned its place on the global surf map for a reason. With two coastlines, year-round swell, and hundreds of surfable beaches, there’s truly something for everyone—from total beginners to tube-hunting chargers. The key is knowing where to go for your ability level.

At Safari Surf School, we’ve been guiding surfers across Costa Rica for over two decades. Here’s our insider breakdown of the best waves in the country, organized by skill level so that you can plan your surf trip with confidence.

For Beginners and Intermediate Surfers: Easy Rollers and Gentle Whitewater

Playa Guiones – Nosara

The ultimate beginner beach—and our home base. Guiones offers long, slow, rolling waves that break over soft sand and hold their shape for hundreds of yards. There are no rocks, no reef, and the vibe in the water is as mellow as the takeoffs. Intermediate and advanced surfers will also love how Playa Guiones can hold serious size while retaining its playful nature.

Pro tip: Conditions are best mid- to high tide. Safari Surf’s ISA-certified coaches are in the water daily to help you catch your first real wave.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo’s main break is great for first-timers thanks to its sandy bottom and forgiving wave faces. It’s a popular spot with multiple surf schools, so expect more crowds and more energy in the water. The advantage? Easy board rentals and quick access from the Liberia airport.

Playa Hermosa (Santa Teresa)

Not to be confused with the heavier Playa Hermosa near Jaco, the Santa Teresa version is a dreamy stretch of coastline with multiple peaks. At chest-high, it’s perfect for progressing intermediates. The waves offer steeper drop-ins, but still break over sand, making it a great step up from beginner spots.

Playa Grande

Just north of Tamarindo, Playa Grande serves up powerful, playful beach break peaks that work best on mid tides. The wave can be punchy and fast, but it’s consistent and usually uncrowded compared to its neighbor. Great for those working on turns and progressive maneuvers.

For Advanced Surfers: Power, Tubes, and Point Breaks

Pavones

The stuff goofyfoot dreams are made of. When it’s firing, Pavones can peel for over a kilometer, delivering fast, hollow sections and long carveable walls. It’s a remote spot in Southern Costa Rica, requiring effort to reach, but the payoff is undeniable. Best on a solid SSW swell and mid-tide push.

Playa Negra

Playa Negra is a lava rock reef break with punchy rights that offer steep drops and occasional barrels. This wave is for confident surfers only—when it’s on, it breaks fast and shallow. There’s also a tight lineup and local crew, so bring respect and strong positioning skills.

Dominical

This is one of the few beach breaks in Costa Rica with real punch and power. While it’s not ideal for total beginners, it’s a good proving ground for intermediates getting comfortable with bigger surf.

We’re biased, but Nosara does have it all. Playa Guiones handles all swell directions and offers everything from mellow inside reforms to fast outside peaks. On small days, beginners thrive. On bigger days, intermediates and advanced surfers get fun, sectiony walls and playful shoulders. You’ll find lefts, rights, longboards, shortboards, and an easy walk to the lineup.

The beauty of Costa Rica’s coastline is its variety. Whether you’re standing on a board for the first time or chasing freight-train lefts down south, there’s a wave that matches every style and skill level.

At Safari Surf, we’re here to help you get the most out of every session—whether that means finding the perfect beach for your first lesson or connecting you with the best local guides for a trip to Pavones or Venao.

Ready to plan your Costa Rica surf adventure? Get in touch—we’ll help you build a trip that fits your skill level, goals, and travel vibe.

You’ve got your surf trip to Costa Rica booked with Safari Surf School—now it’s time to pack! Whether you’re heading to Nosara for your surf lessons or just looking to explore the stunning beaches of the Pacific coast, packing smart is key to making the most of your trip. Safari Surf School and Olas Verdes have you covered with everything you’ll need, from boards to transport, so let’s get down to the essentials to bring along.

Boards & Leashes

You’ll be chasing waves with Safari Surf School, but it’s still important to make sure you’ve got your gear dialed in. While the school offers top-notch rentals, if you’ve got your own board, don’t forget to bring it.

• Leash: Always pack a spare leash, and make sure your main one is in good condition. You don’t want to be scrambling when a big wave rolls in.
• Travel board bag: If you’re bringing your board, protect it with a solid, padded bag. Something with wheels will make your travel easier.

Surf Apparel

You’ll be spending long hours in the surf, so comfort is key:

• Surf bikini or boardshorts: For women, a surf bikini designed for active movement is ideal for comfort and performance in the water. For men, boardshorts will keep you comfortable while you ride the waves.
• Rash Guard: A good rash guard will keep you comfortable during long surf sessions and offer protection from the sun.

Sun Protection

The Costa Rica sun is intense, and even the most seasoned surfers. Be proactive about your skin.

• Reef-safe sunscreen: Go for a mineral-based sunscreen that won’t harm the ocean. Protect yourself on and off the board.
• Hats & Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat is a must for protecting your face after you’re out of the water. Pair it with a good pair of sunglasses for full protection while you’re hanging out post-surf.
• UPF Clothing: Invest in quality UPF clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher for in and out of the water.

Footwear

You’ll likely be walking on beaches, exploring the jungle, or heading into town:

• Flip-flops: Perfect for lounging on the beach or heading out to town. Comfortable, easy to slip on, and ideal for warm weather.
• Waterproof hiking shoes: When exploring the jungle or hiking to surf spots, waterproof hiking shoes are a must. Look for something sturdy and breathable, with good grip for those rugged trails.
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Essential Surf Accessories

It’s always good to be prepared if you’re bringing your own boards.

• Leash backup: Bring a spare leash (or two), just in case.
• Wax & Fin Key: Keep your board ready to go with fresh wax. And always have a fin key on hand for adjustments.
• Spare fins: A broken fin can ruin your day. Having a spare set can save you the hassle, especially in remote surf spots.

Light Rain Jacket & Comfortable Clothes

While Costa Rica is tropical, evenings can cool down, and there’s plenty of exploring to do when you’re not in the water:

• Light rain jacket: Essential for the rainy season, a light rain jacket will keep you dry during unexpected showers while still being breathable enough for the warm climate.
• Comfortable clothes: Loose, breathable clothing for downtime, whether you’re lounging at Olas Verdes or exploring Nosara.

Last but not least, don’t forget the little things:

• First aid kit: It’s always good to have a basic kit with band-aids, antiseptic, and any personal meds.
• Personal items: Don’t forget toiletries, a camera, or any other essentials you need to stay comfortable and fresh.

At Safari Surf School, we provide everything you need to focus on the waves—from surfboards to transport. So, whether you’re here for a few days of surfing or a longer stay, your gear should be tailored to fit the adventure. With everything packed and ready to go, it’s time to hit the surf and make the most of your Costa Rican surf experience.