Top 10 Surfing Beaches in Costa Rica for All Skill Levels

Looking for a place where the ocean throws you a high-five and the waves never sleep? Surfing in Costa Rica is the ride of a lifetime, literally. From soft, soul-warming rollers to thick, adrenaline-spiking barrels, this country serves surf with a side of volcano tours, jungle backdrops, and that ever-contagious pura vida spirit. 

Top Surf Beaches in Costa Rica

Here’s the ultimate hit list of the top surfing spots in Costa Rica for every level of stoke. 

Jacó 

If you’re just getting your feet wet (and your balance sorted), Jacó is your launchpad. Gentle, rolling waves make this the go-to for beginner surfing Costa Rica style. Easy access from San José means less driving, more riding.  

Bonus: Plenty of beach bars for your post-surfing reward. 

Tamarindo  

This spot brings surfing and the scene. A hub for surf tourism in Costa Rica, Tamarindo delivers consistent waves and a surf town atmosphere that never sleeps.  

It’s one of the best surfing beaches in Costa Rica for newbies who want lessons, sunshine, and that surf-chill lifestyle on repeat. 

Nosara (Playa Guiones) 

The Garden of Eden for surfing! A clean, quiet, and famous for long, steady waves and smooth sand, Nosara is the gem place to be. Nosara itself balances wellness vibes with surf energy. The mindfulness of yoga, post-session smoothies and adrenaline of beach cruisers parked by coconut palms.  

For first-timers or returners refining their skills, Guiones is a gold standard among surfing beaches for beginners in Costa Rica.  

Playa Hermosa de Cóbano (Santa Teresa) 

Playa Hermosa offers both beginner and intermediate waves, making it an ideal surfing beach in Costa Rica for those looking to progress. The sandy bottom keeps wipeouts soft, while the long, playful rides make progression feel effortless. 

It’s also got the stunning backdrop of lush jungle, flora and fauna adding to that surf tourism Costa Rica experience. 

Dominicalito 

Not into crowds? Dominicalito is your low-key surfing haven. Waves here are calm but steady, perfect for working on your turns without fighting for a lineup spot. Local fishermen launch boats from the shore at dawn, adding a rustic charm to early surf sessions.  

When the tide fills in, it transforms into a smooth, beginner-friendly break with just enough energy to keep it interesting. 

 A great pick for mellow sessions in one of the best surf spots Costa Rica hides just off the radar. 

Now, for the wave warriors and drop-hungry chargers, these beaches don’t mess around. Less gentle roll, more raw power. Ideal for expert surfing in Costa Rica. 

Playa Hermosa (Jaco) 

The name says beautiful, but the waves say business. Known as Costa Rica’s National Surfing Stadium, this spot draws local legends and serious travelers for a reason. This beach hosts national and international surf competitions for a reason!  

Quick takeoffs, heavy walls, and little room for hesitation. If you’re here, you’d better be ready to show off your skills! 

Salsa Brava  

This Caribbean break has a reputation built on intensity. Known for producing the heaviest, thickest barrels in the country, Salsa Brava breaks over sharp reef with zero mercy. The takeoff is steep, the drop is vertical, and the wave unloads with raw, unforgiving power.  

Best surf during peak Caribbean swell season (December to March), when the coast lights up and only the most dialed-in surfers paddle out. 

A rite of passage for experienced riders chasing the best waves in Costa Rica. 

Playa Negra  

This wave breaks fast, hollow, and perfectly shaped! Just the way advanced surfers like it. A rocky bottom keeps things technical, while the ride itself rewards skill and timing.  

A standout among the top beaches for surfing in Costa Rica. 

Playa Escondida  

Remote. Raw. Ridiculously good.  

You’ll need a boat to reach Playa Escondida, but what’s the pay-off? Empty lineups, deep barrels, and one of the most untamed ways to surf the Pacific in Costa Rica.  

Dominical Beach Break  

Dominical throws heavy beach breaks with serious muscle. Powerful waves, strong rips, and unpredictable peaks create an intense lineup best suited for advanced surfers.  

When conditions peak, Dominical becomes a raw, unfiltered showcase of expert surfing in Costa Rica. Respect the break or get wrecked. 

The Final Wave? 

Warm water, wild landscapes, and a lineup for every skill set, it’s all here. 

The best time to surf can totally depend on your skill set and planning to visit. Dry seasons bring clean conditions (December to April) and wet season brings power and rush (May to November).  

Wax up, pull on your leash, and let the waves do the talking. Pair the ride with a sunset view from a luxury villa, and the surf trip becomes something unforgettable. 

The ocean is ready. Are you?