A Love Story at a Surf Camp in Costa Rica – Could You Be Next?

Every now and then, we hear a story that really shows what Iguana Surf Camp is all about. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we thought we’d share one that really inspires us: a story of love, fun, and the shared passion from surfing. 

Meet Robert, a 25-year-old from the Netherlands, and Juliana, 24, from Germany. They came to our surf camp in Costa Rica for a week of sun and waves, and left with something neither of them could have ever imagined—a love story that started right here in Tamarindo! 

Love at First Wave

Robert and Juliana met on their first day at Iguana Surf Camp. As Robert checked in late one afternoon, Juliana came down the steps. She flashed her beaming smile (what caught Robert’s attention right away), handed him some cash for beers they could share, and walked off. That one instant meeting pretty much set the stage for their super fun connection. 

How they got there…

Robert was looking for the perfect surf camp in Costa Rica. He found Iguana Surf Camp online and saw it had everything he wanted: sun, surf, and a chance to practice his Spanish. Juliana’s story was quite similar. She Googled “best place to learn how to surf,” and Tamarindo popped right up (of course). So did our surf camp. 

“Iguana has the best location, so close to town,” Juliana said. “And the beach is right there.” 

Tamarindo: The World’s Best Place to Learn Surfing

It’s easy to see why both found their way to Tamarindo. This lively coastal town is known for being one of the best spots in the world to learn how to surf. The water is warm year-round, with waves for every skill level. Tamarindo has beautiful sandy beaches, each one offering waves that work for beginners and pros. 

Iguana Surf Camp sits right in the heart of the town. It’s a 2-minute walk to the beach, something Juliana really appreciated. “You can just grab your board and you’re right at the beach!” Our camp’s location makes it easy to spend hours in the water without any hassle. Plus, Tamarindo has that chill, surfy vibe that makes everyone feel right at home. 

Surfing: The Bond That Brought Them Together!

Robert and Juliana’s shared love for surfing is what brought them together at Iguana. They were both beginners and learned side by side with the help of our great instructors. They cheered each other on and chatted between waves. Amazingly, they improved at the same pace and kept surfing together. It was meant to be! 

At Iguana, we like to keep our surf classes small so that everyone gets personalized attention from the instructor. This is what helps people progress faster. Robert and Juliana both agree that surfing brings you closer: you start out as strangers and end up as friends. All that paddling, cheering, and celebrating small wins helped them grow closer with each session. Eventually, they even set off on sunrise sessions together, something they both highly recommend doing once you’ve got the grasp of the sport. 

As Juliana notes, “Having a common project, like learning to surf, makes it so much fun. You end up spending a lot of time together in the water.” 

And doesn’t that sound like the absolutely perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day in Costa Rica?!

Sharing Unforgettable Moments in Paradise Helps!

Robert and Juliana had an intense, fun-filled week with us here at Iguana, and one stand-out highlight was celebrating Robert’s birthday. They rented a car, visited nearby beaches, and practiced their new surfing skills together. On their last day, they joined a guided surf session at Avellanas Beach. It’s a stunning spot known for its amazing scenery and waves. 

It was the perfect way to end what they called “The best week of their lives.”

Why Iguana Surf Camp Is Special

Robert and Juliana felt what many of our guests experience: Iguana Surf Camp has a unique sense of community. Unlike regular vacations, surf camps bring people together in a fun, social way. “The camaraderie here is incredible,” Juliana said. “You spend so much time together without the pressure of dating. It’s easy to get to know someone.” At Iguana, you can enjoy some time to yourself whenever you need, but living and surfing together makes for a wonderful, life-changing experience. 

We’ve previously written about the transformative power of surfing. There’s something undeniably romantic and soul-soothing about the simplicity of surf camp life.

The One-Week Surf Camp @ Iguana

Robert and Juliana signed up for our one-week surf camp. It includes everything you need for the perfect surf vacation so you don’t need to worry about anything at all: five surf lessons, unlimited board rentals, and even a professional photo session to capture your best waves. Staying at our hostel also means you’re just steps from the beach, – oh, and you also get a deliciosu breakfast included every day. With the social vibe at camp, you are guaranteed to meet plenty of like-minded travelers. 

Every surf camp at Iguana includes one guided surfing excursion to an awesome beach nearby where you can put your new skills to the test on more challenging waves.

A Love That Lasts!

Now, Robert and Juliana live together in Germany and plan a surf trip at least once a year. They’ve surfed in Europe, but nothing beats their time in Tamarindo. “Europe doesn’t have a good surf culture,” Juliana said. “You have to travel far to find good waves. The water is cold, and it’s hard to find that friendly vibe we love at Iguana.” They’ve since returned to Iguana Surf Camp, drawn back by the warm community and great waves. 

Because when you find the best place to surf, why go anywhere else? 

Plan Your Valentine’s Day Surf Adventure!

This Valentine’s Day, why not take some inspiration Robert and Juliana’s story? Bring your partner and learn to surf together, explore the beautiful beaches and wake up to the sound of waves. 

At Iguana Surf Camp, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable romantic getaway. 

As Juliana and Robert say, “We highly recommend it!” 

Book your trip today! Enjoy Valentine’s Day in Costa Rica and make memories that last a lifetime. Who knows? You could write your own love story at Iguana Surf Camp.