Top 5 Surf Spots in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Not only does Guanacaste have many gorgeous relaxing beaches but it is also well known as a world-class surfing destination. Along with Puntarenas and Limon, Guanacaste is considered one of the main surf provinces of Costa Rica. Whether you are an advances surfer, or a beginner just getting familiar with the basics; there are a multitude of surf spots available for every level. If you’re considering surfing in Guanacaste, have a quick look at our top 5 surf spots in Guanacaste

1.   Tamarindo

Tamarindo is probably the most well-known and crowded of the surf spots as it is found in the heart of Guanacaste. The surf break is right in the town of Tamarindo with the best waves forming at the river mouth. The waves here are consistent year around making it a great destination for traveling surfers who want guaranteed waves. Additionally, the wave breaks on soft sand which makes it a great spot for beginners. There are various surf camps available providing lessons or rental boards for those in need. Want to mix surfing with a vibrant party scene? Then Tamarindo is the place for you. With many restaurants, bars, and clubs, Tamarindo is a great place for those looking to combine surfing with other activities during their vacation.

2.   Playa Grande

Playa Grande is another popular surfing destination situated just on the other side of the river from Tamarindo. Playa Grande is visited by surfers of all levels, beginner, intermediate, and advanced. With that being said, Playa Grande is a spot better suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. It gets crowded on the weekends and is impacted by sudden shifts in the tide. However, when the waves are good, they can be epic. Despite being so close to the town of Tamarindo, Playa Grande has a totally different feel. If you’re looking for great surf in a calm setting with more nature and a laid-back atmosphere, this is the place for you. From May to November is also a great time to visit for nature lovers as hordes of massive leatherback sea turtles come ashore during this time to lay their eggs.

3.   Playa Avellanas

Playa Avellanas is located south of Tamarindo. Playa Avellanas is a long beach with various surf spots working on different tides, such as: Little Hawaii, River Mouth, Palo Seco, and La Purruja. The variance of surf breaks makes Playa Avellanas suitable for surfers of all levels, with certain peaks gearing more towards beginners and others more to advances surfers. Advances surfers should check out Little Hawaii which is known for hollow and powerful waves. Intermediate surfers may prefer to surf in front of Lola’s or at Palo Seco, where there is a reef break producing great lefts and rights. This spot works best during the upcoming (mid to high) tide.

4.   Playa Negra

Playa Negra is situated south of Avellanas, which is a murky black sand beach known for its right-hand barrels. Depending on the swell direction Playa Negra will either throw perfect right hand barrels off the point, or it will function more as a reef break throwing both lefts and rights, with the right especially being great fun. It is important to look out for rocks during low tide. For advanced surfers, Negra’s mid-high tide can be an adventure, as where other beaches close down due to high waves getting bigger, this wave still pumps out big hollow barrels.

5.   Playa Guiones

Playa Guiones, found in the town of Nosara, has become one of Guanacaste province’s best known and busiest surf spots. It has nearly seven kilometers of beach, which is a major attraction for any surfer. Waves will break at all tides, making it a great consistent option. Additionally with a sandy bottom and many surf shops this is a great beginner friendly location. Even if the conditions aren’t perfect, the beautiful sunsets and fun town of Nosara make it a worthy visit.  

These are our pick for the top 5 surf spots in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. With many options, Guanacaste has something for everyone regardless of your surf level. Whether you are visiting Costa Rica for the sun and nature and just considering trying to surf for the first time or looking for the next destination for your surf trip, Guanacaste has everything to make it an unforgettable trip!

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