Costa Rica is one of the world’s most beloved destinations for learning to surf — and for good reason. With two coastlines (Pacific and Caribbean), year-round swell, warm water, and a relaxed surf culture, it offers ideal conditions for beginners and progressing surfers. Add in high-quality surf schools, breathtaking nature, and welcoming communities, and you’ve got one of the best places on Earth to start your surf journey.

Top Regions for Surf Schools in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is the most popular area for surf lessons, with dozens of well-established surf towns offering consistent waves and surf schools.

• Tamarindo (Guanacaste) – A lively beach town perfect for beginners, with long, forgiving waves and a big range of surf schools and camps.

• Santa Teresa (Nicoya Peninsula) – A laid-back surf town with jungle-fringed beaches and a strong mix of beginner and intermediate spots.

• Nosara (Playa Guiones) – Known for its yoga-surf vibe and consistent whitewater—ideal for soft progression and wellness-focused surf camps.

• Dominical & Uvita (South Pacific) – Great for more adventurous learners looking for quieter beaches and more immersive experiences.

• Puerto Viejo (Caribbean Coast) – Less consistent but with occasional mellow waves at Playa Cocles, great for travelers exploring the Caribbean side.

Why Learn to Surf in Costa Rica?

• Tropical water – No wetsuits needed, ever

• Friendly, professional instructors – Most are bilingual (Spanish/English) and ISA-certified

• Beginner-friendly beach breaks – Soft sand, long rides, and minimal crowds in many places

• Holistic surf culture – Many schools combine surf with yoga, healthy food, and local culture

• Adventure travel – Easy to combine surfing with jungle hikes, wildlife tours, and natural hot springs

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, Costa Rica’s surf scene is as welcoming as it is scenic.

Best Time for Surf Lessons in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is surfable year-round, but the best time for beginners is during the dry season (December to April), when waves are smaller, the weather is stable, and beach access is easier. The green season (May to November) brings more swell and rain, great for intermediate surfers looking to level up with fewer crowds.

What Surf Schools in Costa Rica Offer

• Daily group and private lessons (usually 1.5 to 2 hours)

• All equipment included: soft-top board, rash guard

• Beach or oceanfront meeting points, often with shade and facilities

• Local wave knowledge and tide-based scheduling

• Multi-day surf camps including lodging, meals, and optional yoga or Spanish lessons

Surf schools range from high-end eco-lodges to casual walk-in shacks by the beach, so there’s something for every type of traveler.

Is Costa Rica Beginner-Friendly?

Without a doubt. Costa Rica has built its surf culture around beginners and traveling surfers. Most beach towns have easy waves, supportive instructors, and infrastructure to help you feel at ease—both in and out of the water. It’s the kind of place where people arrive for a week and stay for a month.