Surfing in Costa Rica

Costa Rica became a lot of people's first surf trip, and not by accident.

Two coasts, two seasons, and warm water all year. The Pacific, from Tamarindo to Santa Teresa and Pavones, offers the widest range: learning beach breaks through to points that run a long way. The Caribbean side, shorter, works mainly in winter and produces waves of a completely different order when it does.

The Pacific coast works all year, peaking from May to October when southern swells arrive. That is also the rainy season, which thins the crowds and leaves the breaks calmer.

The country is unusually easy to travel as a surfer: schools everywhere, board hire, organised transfers, and a habit of dealing with visitors that removes most friction. That is exactly what makes it a first-trip destination, and also what makes it busy.

Who it suits: beginners and intermediates above all. Experienced surfers will find Pavones and Witch's Rock, but will need to get away from the beaches where everyone gathers.