Costa Rica has great waves, warm water full of dolphins and sea life and beautiful sandy beaches edged by lush tropical jungle. From one end of the country to the other, there are all sorts of waves to suit all level of surfing, with waves usually user-friendly and accessible. The locals are friendly and you’ll find funky cafés and international restaurants in each little village along the coast.

Quick Facts

World class waves such as Pavones and Witches Rock

Year round waves for all levels of surfers, as a mix of beachbreaks, points and reefbreaks

The most stable and safest country in Central America

Prime ecotourism destination and boasts some of the world’s most biologically diverse habitats

Costa Rica Surf Spots

A good central location to base yourself is the lively town of Tamarindo on the northern Pacific Coast, from here you have access to all sorts of breaks for all abilities. Go north to Witches Rock or south to Play Negra, and for those looking to really chill out in a quieter location, head to Nosara or Playa Grande.

Costa Rica Surf Season

The dry season from December to April provides the offshores and the ideal swell direction that turn on breaks like Witches Rock, Playa Negra and Playa Grande.  The Central and Southern Pacific Coasts work best between May and November when the southerly swells push in.  The Caribbean Coast is at its best from November to March and the low season starts when the rains kick in from September until November.

Attractions

 The jungle canopy tours are worth checking out and when you’re not surfing go white-water rafting, fishing or snorkelling at the Isla de Tortugas. Seemingly primordial, the jungles of Costa Rica are home to all sorts of flora and fauna and exploring the interior of this magical country is not to be missed. Canopy tours are the ideal way to get a bird’s-eye view of the forest. Furthermore, the colonial cities of Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago are overflowing with life, and people visit from all over the world to photograph the pastel lined streets. The country’s volcanoes promise relaxing hot spring experiences, and adventure-seekers might also enjoy white water rafting. The Pacific coastline is also known for pelagic life, from humpback whales to manta rays, the Costa Rican coastline is suitable to all diving levels.

The Country

Costa Rica is found between Nicaragua and Panama. Much tussled over in the olden days, Costa Rica gained its independence in 1949. Since its release from Spanish rule, this tropical nation has been one of the most stable and progressive in Latin America. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica is a prime ecotourism destination and boasts some of the world’s most biologically diverse habitats. Volcanoes dot the horizon, shaded from view by verdant rainforests. The landscapes give guests the feeling they are secluded in nature. Spend some time at nearby landmarks, eat fresh fish and drink local rum to make the most of your holiday. Or try speeding through the rainforest canopy on a zip line.

Getting There

Flying into Costa Rica is easy. There are two international airports in Costa Rica – Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela (SJO) near San Jose and Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Guanacaste. Most international flights arrive to the capital city of San Jose. It’s also possible to enter the country by bus from other Central American countries. From San Jose, you can reach either coast by bus or private transfer.

Travel Information

Time Zone

UTC -6

Currency

Costa Rican Colón

Calling code

+506

Electric

120V – Plug A, B