Costa Rica is a surfer's dream. There are miles and miles of white sandy beaches and great waves waiting to be ridden. Add to this an unspoiled environment, along with great food and people, and you do indeed have a paradise. There are unpaved roads to some beaches. There are small towns that are not overrun by tourists. Here you can focus on the actual surfing. Palm trees, some even with monkeys running around, line the white beaches. Tour companies arrange trips, and there are great accommodations along all the beaches in Costa Rica, whether you want a four-star experience or just a place to lay your head in between surf sessions. There are also dozens of beaches - each with its own personality - to get acquainted with. If you're thinking of taking a Costa Rica surf vacation, keep reading to see the top questions answered, so you can book the trip of your dreams.
Playa Guiones at Nosara averages 300 days a year of good surfing. Water temperature is about 83 degrees year round. The beach starts out shallow with a sandy bottom that is good for beginners. The waves are big enough at times for experts. You can also surf here at both low and high tide. It has the complete package.
The Kalon Resort calls it the Kalon Experiencde, and it is a very nice first-class resort that is dedicated to surfing. It is near some of the best beaches, and transportation to other beaches is provided. All the equipment you need is provided, and there are lessons for both beginners and advanced surfers. Meals are included and prepared to order. Everything is provided in a gorgeous setting for surfing. You can also get a massage and enjoy the usual resort amenities in addition to surfing.
The Pacific side of Costa Rica is best for surfing just because of the waves. The Atlantic side is more geared toward rain forest adventures. The country is fairly small, so it is not hard to enjoy both. The Atlantic side has a shorter season but bigger waves. The Pacific side is more consistent and has more of a surfer culture.
Costa Rican Vacations has a wide variety of packages to choose from, and they use local businesses when possible. Your hotel may be a locally operated hotel. Your surfing guide will be local, but the company takes care of the arrangements for you. It is also possible to combine types of trips. You could spend a few days surfing, a few days fishing and a few days exploring the rain forest.
The Surf School, also put on by Costa Rican Vacations, is a trip that is focused entirely on surfing. You get six nights in Tamarindo. The package includes lodging at the main hotel which has great beach access. There are lessons for any level of surfer. Meals are not included, but it is a very customizable package.
Surf Inn Hermossa is all about surfing, and offers packages for all skill levels. Studio apartments are available, and you can make your trip as long or as short as you would like. Everything is included, so you can just surf.
Real Surf Trips offer all-inclusive packages where everything from your pickup and dropoff at the airport is included. They also have photographers who will make photos and shoot videos of your surfing adventure. This is a 24-hour gated community so your security is guaranteed while you are there.
Witches Rock Surf Camp has a seven-day package that is $1300 for individuals, and $900 each for a couple. There are also special prices for families. This includes lodging and most meals. There is a surfing program - or school - for beginners, intermediates or advanced surfers. You can easily add adventures like zip lines, sunset catamaran tours, hot springs and so forth. Guided surfing tours to the best beaches are included.