Hidden Gems in Costa Rica’s Surf Scene Worth Exploring
Costa Rica is a dream for surfers, and that is no surprise to anyone who has paddled out along our shores. While Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Jacó are the names everyone seems to know, there is a whole world of surf waiting just beyond the better-known breaks. These places may not make the front page of travel brochures, but they have their own kind of magic: quieter lineups, uncrowded peaks, and wild beauty not spoiled by development.
If you are staying with us at Iguana Surf, we make it easy to explore these Costa Rica hidden gems through our surf trips. They’re actually designed to match your skill level, ease you into new conditions, and show you some of the best places to surf in Costa Rica without the crowds.
Let’s Start Close to Home: Surf Trips from Tamarindo
Playa Avellanas – Perfect for Beginners
After about four days of lessons in Tamarindo, when you have your pop-up dialed in and can paddle into small green waves, it is time to head out for a bit of adventure. Avellanas is just a short drive south, yet it feels like a really peaceful escape. With a long stretch of sand, playful and forgiving waves, and multiple peaks, there is space for everyone here.
“I love taking our students to Avellanas because you can really see their faces light up when they realize they are surfing a new break for the first time,” says Luis, one of our senior instructors.
We take care of the transport, and time the session for the best tide. Between sets, you can relax under the shade of the trees and watch the local pros work their magic. After your surf, we often stop for a bite at a small beachside café, where a smoothie bowl or fresh ceviche that goes down like gold.
Playa Grande – When You Are Ready to Level Up
If you are feeling solid catching green waves and trimming along the face, Playa Grande is the natural next challenge. Just across the estuary from Tamarindo, at the northern end of the Marino Las Baulas National Park, the beach offers long, well-shaped waves that let you practice turns and positioning. Grande has a more powerful wave than Tamarindo, so our instructors will guide you through the paddle-out, help you read the lineup, and give you tips between rides.
“Grande is where students start to feel like real surfers,” says Chris, one of our longtime coaches. “It has more power, more space, and it is just beautiful out there.”
It is also one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, with miles of golden sand backed by protected parkland. Between surfs, it is easy to feel the slower pace of life here, part of the pura vida spirit that keeps surfers returning year after year. Get here on a surf trip with us at Iguana and you’ll enjoy an exceptional day of fun!
Beyond the Neighborhood: Costa Rica’s True Hidden Gems
Once you are ready to venture farther afield, you’ll find a bevy of beaches that show a different side of the country’s surf scene. They are some of the best places to surf in Costa Rica if you are looking for something unique.
Playa Marbella – Guanacaste’s Underrated Powerhouse
About an hour south of Tamarindo, Playa Marbella delivers consistent beach break waves with surprising power. Surrounded by jungle and completely free from the crowds, it is a spot for confident surfers who want to test their skills. The town itself is tiny, with a couple of sodas and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to stay awhile. Just rent a car, grab a board from our Tamarindo Surf Shop, and have at it.
“Marbella can humble you in the best way,” laughs instructor Kike. “It is raw, beautiful, and perfect for surfers who want a challenge.”
Playa Coyote – Wild, Remote, and Dreamy
On the Nicoya Peninsula between Sámara and Santa Teresa, Playa Coyote is the kind of surf beach you head to when you want to disappear into nature. The sandy-bottom waves roll in gently, offering fun lefts and rights on a mid tide. The surrounding area is very laid back, with just a sleepy fishing village, a couple of ecolodges, and the occasional café. You will need to bring your own supplies, but the reward is pure, untouched beauty.
Playa Zancudo – Southern Charm Without the Crowds
In the far south, near the Golfo Dulce, Playa Zancudo stretches for miles. The waves are mellow and perfect for longboarding or relaxed fun sessions. It’s backed by palm trees and rainforest, and feels a little like a private paradise. You will likely see more scarlet macaws than other surfers, and the sunsets here are next-level.
Playa Negra (Puerto Viejo) – The Other Playa Negra
Most surfers hear “Playa Negra” and think of the famous Guanacaste reef break. But on the Caribbean side, near Puerto Viejo, there is another Playa Negra, and it is an entirely different experience. With dark sand and uncrowded beach break waves, it is a great alternative during the Caribbean swell season from December to March.
Playa Esterillos Oeste – Consistency Without Chaos
Esterillos Oeste offers consistent surf for all levels without the party atmosphere seen elsewhere. It’s just south of Jacó and is known for its bronze mermaid statue, tide pools, and long stretches of sand. The friendly surf scene makes it a perfect place to spend a quiet day chasing waves. The only bummer here is that you do need a car to get around, and you won’t find a ton of grocery stores or cafés in town.
What to Know Before You Go
Many of these Costa Rica hidden gems are remote, which is part of their charm. It also means you should come prepared. Bring your own gear, check the tide charts, and ideally travel with a friend. Some spots have limited medical services, food, or shade.
If you are staying at Iguana Surf, we can help you plan the perfect trip, whether it is a half-day adventure to Avellanas, a full day at Grande, or a multi-day surf road trip to explore some of the best places to surf in Costa Rica. We can arrange transport, connect you with trusted local guides, and even make sure you have everything from wax to a picnic packed and ready.
Not Quite Ready to Be That Remote?
If you are just embarking on your surfing journey, there is no better way to build your skills than at one of our all-inclusive surf camps here in Tamarindo. Stay just steps from the beach, surf daily with our super fun and professional instructors, and learn everything from ocean safety to board control in a friendly, low-pressure environment.
You will get personal feedback during each session and even review your progress with video analysis so you can see exactly how far you have come. Between surfs, you can relax at our on-site café, Breakfast Grinds, meet other travelers, and soak up the pura vida lifestyle that makes Tamarindo so unforgettable.
Before long, you will be ready to join one of our surf trips to Avellanas or Grande — and eventually, those remote beaches you have been dreaming about. With a smile on your face, salt in your hair, and the confidence to explore the best places to surf in Costa Rica, you will see why we call these spots our true hidden gems.
COME JOIN US AND WE’LL DISCOVER MORE, TOGETHER!
