Ultimate Guide to Costa Rica Surf Lessons
Legendary Costa Rica Surf Lessons
Whether you're a first-time surfer or looking to perfect your technique, Costa Rica offers some of the most consistent and friendly waves on the planet. With Costa Rica Surf Trip, you can take surf lessons throughout Costa Rica, one of the most sought-after surf destinations in the world! Lessons are available at a long list of our beautiful beaches. Some locations are perfect for beginners, with gentle waves and pristine environment, allowing you to focus on learning the basics or improving your skills. Other beaches are better for intermediate surfers with open faced green waves that give you more power and speed to begin to practice more advanced skills. And, of course advanced waves for professional and competitive surfers including heavy overhead sets, reef breaks, tubes, and boat-access spots reserved for those who are fully confident in their skills and just looking for pure shred!
Why Choose Our Costa Rica Surf School for your Next Surf Adventure?
Our Costa Rica Surf Camps & Surf School are unique because Costa Rica Surf Trip is locally owned and operated! With Jairo Zúñiga, a certified and internationally recognized surf instructor and coach as the head of our company, you're guaranteed personalized attention and expert guidance from his hand-picked team of staff members. Whether you're in Sámara, Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, Dominical, Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Puerto Viejo, Pavones, or another of our amazing surf locations, our dedicated instructors are passionate, knowledgeable, and trained by the best to help YOU become the best surfer you can be!
Why Book Costa Rica Surf Lessons at Costa Rica Surf Trip?
Perfect Waves for Every Level - Costa Rica Surf Lessons for Beginners to Advanced
Costa Rica is known for its reliable and diverse surf conditions that allow us to cater to all levels. Whether you're just starting out or an advanced surfer looking to challenge yourself, we have the perfect waves and lessons for you!
Playful Waves and Clear Turquoise Waters for Your Surf Lessons
The calm, crystal clear waters of Sámara & Tamarindo provide a safe and fun learning environment for beginners. For those with more experience, the challenging waves at Santa Teresa, Hermosa, Witches Rock or Pavones will push your limits while still often being accessible for intermediate surfers. Whatever your ability, our surf lessons offer you the best conditions, equipment and instruction to progress quickly.
Learn from the Best - Highly Experienced Surf Instructors
Our instructors are not only certified by the International Surfing Association, but they are also handpicked but Coach Jairo Zuñiga, who has over 25 years of surf coaching experience. The team is 100% Costa Rican, ensuring an authentic and local experience that you can't get from non-local surf schools.
Professional and Bilingual Staff Focused on Your Success
With a professional, bilingual team, you'll feel at ease from the moment you meet us. Whether you speak Spanish or not, we make sure communication is clear, and you're comfortable and safe in every lesson.
Surf Lessons That Are Safe, Fun, and Tailored to You
Safety is our top priority. Our instructors are certified in first aid, CPR, and lifeguarding, so you can focus on having fun and learning with confidence. Plus, all lessons are tailored to your skill level to ensure the best possible experience.
Emphasis on Safety with Every Lesson
We pride ourselves on providing in-water coaching with each beginner lesson, offering you direct guidance and support. We also keep a low student to instructor ratio even if you are not taking a 1 on 1 private lesson. This ensures you feel secure while learning new skills and allows for quick feedback to immediately allow you to make adjustments and enhance your technique.
Types of Costa Rica Surf Lessons We Offer
Group Costa Rica Surf Lessons - Ride the Waves with Your Friends or Family (5+ guests)
For those looking to share the surfing experience with others, our group lessons are a fun and social way to learn. You sign up for a lesson with your fellow travelers OR join a Costa Rica Surf Camp with a group of like-minded travelers, surf together, and make new friends while enjoying Costa Rica's beautiful beaches.
Join Our Fun, Group Surf Lessons for a Social Experience
With a group lesson, you'll have the support of an experienced instructor in a fun, relaxed setting. It's perfect for people looking to try surfing for the first time while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow travelers. We also offer surf lessons for school groups, corporate trips, family reunions, weddings, and more!
Join a Surf Camp for Group Lessons
Where to Book a Surf Lesson for a Group
Semi-Private Costa Rica Surf Lessons - Surf With Your Favorite(s) (2-4 guests)
Want to share the experience with a friend or partner? Surf on a double-date? Or with a small handful of cousins, siblings, or besties? Our semi-private lessons are designed for two to four people. You'll enjoy the benefits of personalized attention from 1-2 instructors while sharing the fun with a companion (or 3)!
Book a Semi-Private Lesson for Personalized Attention
Whether you're learning with a partner, friend, or family member, our semi-private lessons ensure you progress quickly with small-group attention while also keeping costs down.
Where to Book a Semi-Private Surf Lesson
Private Costa Rica Surf Lessons - Level Up Your Surf Skills Faster
For those looking to get the most out of their time in Costa Rica, our private lessons are the way to go. With a 1-on-1 lesson, you'll receive all the focus and undivided attention of your instructor. This is just what you need to improve faster and master new surf skills in the shortest amount of time.
One-on-One Surf Lessons for Faster Progress and Exclusive Attention
Our private lessons are perfect for both beginners looking to learn quickly and intermediate surfers wanting more personalized instruction to improve technique. You'll get exclusive feedback and help that are more difficult to get in group settings.
Where to Book a Private Surf Lesson in Costa Rica
Surf Coaching with Video Analysis - Hands Down Best & Fastest Way to Improve
The only thing better for learning to surf than a private surf lesson is surf coaching with video analysis. If a surf picture is worth a thousand words, a video is an entire novel! Video analysis used to only be recommended for the pros, but we don't like to gatekeep so we offer this option to surfers at ALL stages on your surf journey, whether beginner, intermediate or advanced. We want to see you succeed and advance as much as you do - and we have witnessed the power of video analysis in the progress of our students of all skill levels!
Video Analysis with a Professional Coach is - Without a Doubt - the Fastest Way for Learning to Surf
Our video analysis includes digital video package of your entire 1.5 hour surf session followed by a 30 minute analysis with your surf coach. These are best done in packages to be able to use and practice the knowledge you gain through surf sessions on consecutive days. Video analysis can be added ahead of time to any surf lesson or surf camp.
Book a Surf Camp with Video Analysis
Where to Book a Surf Lesson with Video Analysis
Costa Rica Surf Packages for an Unforgettable Surf Experience
Book Your Costa Rica Surf Trip - 3, 5, and 10 Day Surf Packages
Want to immerse yourself in the Costa Rica surfing experience for a few days or a full week? We offer customizable packages with multiple lesson options to suit your goals and schedule in addition to our Costa Rica Surf Camps. Whether you're here for a shore stay or a long surf retreat, we've got you covered.
3 Day Surf Package - 3 Surf Lessons for Beginners
Perfect for those with limited time, our 3-day package is ideal for beginners who want to experience the magic of Costa Rican surf. You'll have 3 full lessons that will introduce you to the basics of surfing in the best possible conditions.
5 Day Surf Package - 5 Surf Lessons for Beginners
If you're looking for something other than our surf camp options, our 5-day package gives you 5 surf lessons, and, as always, we can assist with adding more adventures outside the water, such as hiking or visiting local waterfalls.
10 Day Surf Package - 10 Surf Lessons for Beginners
For those who want to make serious strides, our 10-day package is the ultimate option. With 10 surf lessons, personalized attention, and plenty of free time to explore Costa Rica with our flexible booking options to add adventure and relaxation activities to your heart's delight, you'll leave with improved surf skills, independence in the water, and unforgettable memories!
Accommodation & Facilities at Our Costa Rica Surf Camps
Stay in Tropical Comfort at Costa Rica Surf Trip
We know that where you stay matters, which is why we offer comfortable lodging options, from budget dorms to luxurious private rooms or even entire properties. Our surf camps and custom trips always provide stays that will meet your needs, in a relaxing environment, where you can rest and rejuvenate after an exciting day of surfing. The variety of accommodations we can provide to our guests throughout the country are unmatched. Here are just a handful out of thousands of options to offer you where to stay when you visit us!
Choose from Dorms or Private Rooms - Comfort to Meet Your Budget
Our surf camp lodging options are designed to blend with nature while providing modern comforts. This isn't the concrete jungle, it's the REAL thing! Whether you're traveling solo or with a group, looking for luxury, or traveling on a budget, we have a room that suits your needs.
On-Site Facilities for Ultimate Surf Camp Comfort
When you're not surfing, enjoy the pool, gardens, local bars, and restaurants. Take time relax and unwind after your surf lessons, soaking in the Costa Rican sun and unbeatable tropical breeze.
Pool, Bars, Restaurants, Loungers, and More - Relax After Your Surf Lesson
Whether you're soaking in the pool or chatting with other surf enthusiasts at a local beachfront bar, our surf camps offer everything you need to relax between surf sessions and TONS of time to be spontaneous and do your own thing! There is a reason we don't provide a minute-by-minute itinerary; THIS is Pura Vida!
Real Guest Experiences: What People Are Saying About Our Costa Rica Surf Lessons
Real Guest Reviews - Why Our Surf Lessons Stand Out
We're proud of the experiences we've created for our guests, and they're happy to share their stories. Don't just take our word for it - here's a taste of what our guests have to say about their surf lessons with us.
Not only did we get an amazing surf lesson but they let is know about a bunch of great local spots and activities to fill the rest of our time here.
Our instructor was patient and kind and even though we were rank beginners he got both my wife and I riding waves the first day. They knew exactly which beach to take us to at which time as beginners based on the time of year. It was clear they knew their stuff.
I seriously cannot recommend these guys enough - we will certainly use them again when we come back to Costa Rica.
"Jairo is a truly gifted athlete and an even better instructor"
Suzy d'Amato
I can’t recommend surf camp and coaching highly enough – Jairo is a truly gifted athlete and an even better instructor. Everyone can benefit from time in the water with him, whether you’ve surfed your whole life or want to try it for the first time. I’m already planning a return trip to Costa Rica, hopefully the second of many, and wouldn’t dream of traveling with anyone else.
Jairo did a great job with planning out locations based on my skill level, and the coaching was amazing! Super patient and encouraging, so much fun, and upped my skills tremendously, even in just a short time.
"Took us to some of
the best waves
in the country"
Alex d'Amico
Booked:
Guided Surf Trips
Surf Photography
They took us to some of the best waves in the country, very friendly and communication is super easy. Booked one day in advance and added on a second trip. The service does not get any better!
My instructor, Jairo, is world class. He makes sure to cover all the basics with you and gives you a goal to work on for the day. Jairo really takes the time to coach on each wave, letting you know what was good if it went well, and what you could work on or have done differently if it didn't go so well on that wave. He was so patient and if I didn't understand a concept right away, he'd find different ways to explain it so I did. I feel like he really adapted to my style of learning and was able to pick the perfect waves and time of day for my skill set.
We did a video review session mid week and I could already see the progress from the beginning to mid-week. My coach really helped with my wave reading and knowing where to line up and when to paddle. He also gave me some paddling techniques that really helped. I've been surfing almost 2 years now and no one ever actually taught me 'how' to paddle. I felt like I was moving through the water so much quicker and easier after he showed me.
I will be going home with a new found confidence I didn't have before I came. If you really want to increase your skills and take your surfing to a new level I can't recommend Costa Rica Surf Trip enough.
Hear What Our Happy Guests Have to Say
Our reviews speak for themselves. We have 5-star ratings across all platforms! Guests rave about our knowledgeable instructors, the personalized attention, and th unforgettable Costa Rica surf experience. Click a category below to read more reviews from travelers like you, or click here to access all of our Costa Rica Surf Trip Reviews.
Costa Rica Solo Traveler Reviews
Costa Rica Honeymoon Traveler Reviews
Costa Rica Family Travel Reviews
Costa Rica Trip with Friend(s) Reviews
More Than "Just" Surf Lessons - Activities & Adventure in Costa Rica
Explore Costa Rica Beyond the Waves - Fun Activities to Complement Your Surf Lessons
There's so much more to Costa Rica than just surfing! When you're not catching waves, you can explore the country's natural beauty with activities like ziplining, waterfall tours, horseback riding, visiting the volcano, hiking in the rainforest, soaking in hot springs, and more!
Ziplining, Waterfall Adventures, Horseback Riding, and More!
Costa Rica is a playground for nature lovers and Costa Rica Surf Trip specializes in cultural immersion! After your surf lesson, join on on an eco-tour or take a trip to one of Costa Rica's hidden waterfalls. Learn about coffee or how to make chocolate. Take a cooking class or learn to dance salsa! When you're with us, you get the inside scoop on local life and become part of the community.
Special Offers and Discounts on Costa Rica Surf Lessons
Save More with Our Special Offers and Tips
Who doesn't love a good deal? Our Special offers and discounts let you save while enjoying your surf trip to Costa Rica.
Surf, Share, Save!
See Surf Specials Below. Read about more Costa Rica Cost-Saving Tips on our blog.
Bring a Friend and Save 10% on Your Costa Rica Surf Lessons
Surfing is better with a friend. Book your lessons together in a semi-private (2-4 guests total) and you'll all automatically save 10%
Save 15% on Your Costa Rica Surf Lessons When You Bring a Small Group
When you bring a small group (5-9 guests total), you automatically receive over 15% off your surf lessons.
Large Groups Save Over 25% on Your Costa Rica Surf Lessons
Groups of 10 guests or more automatically enjoy a discount of over 25% on your surf lessons. Be sure to book ahead of time to make sure we can make plans to accommodate the whole crew!
Save up to 50% Off Surf Camps When You Share a Room
On all surf camps except budget dorms, the rooms are private and allow you to share with your friends and family or stay solo. If you bring friends or family to camp and share a room with them, you can all save up to 50% off the single-traveler rate! The more guests you travel with, the lower the rate per person!
Why Costa Rica Surf Trip? The Best Place for Your Surf Lessons
Why Costa Rica Surf Trip is Your Top Choice for Surf Lessons in Costa Rica
There are MANY surf schools in Costa Rica, but none like ours. With over 25 years of coaching experience and competitive surfing (including internationally), Jairo Zuñiga leads our team of expert hand-picked instructors, who form our 100% Costa Rican team. We offer an authentic experience with a focus on sustainability, local culture, and top tier surf lessons using our proven method for surf progress.
Ideal Location, Ideal Surf Conditions - Perfect for All Skill Levels
From the beginner-friendly waves of Playa Sámara to the advanced breaks like Santa Teresa (and beyond), we provide surf lessons and surf coaching with video analysis at the best beaches in Costa Rica for every skill level.
Where to Book The Best Surf Lessons in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has some of the most consistent waves in the world. Not all beaches have waves for surfing and not all waves for surfing are appropriate or safe for all surf levels. While ocean conditions can change by the minute and we get seasonal changes that can impact the size and difficulty of waves, we have broken down locations into general categories based on our comfort level that any day of the year, we could provide you a lesson for the surf level indicated and it would be safe to do so.
A Note About The Best Surf Locations in Costa Rica for Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Surfers
While we can theoretically give lessons for different experience levels at all locations - this is simply a guide to help for planning purposes without getting into the nitty-gritty details of seasonal swells, directions, currents, and the particulars of your abilities and comfort level. If you are interested in a specific location not shown in your surf experience level, please contact us with your dates and we can advise based on our local knowledge for your specific situation. For some dates, we may tell you it is within a known swell season making it too unpredictable to be sure of expected conditions until we get within about 2 weeks of the dates. If this happens, please understand we are not trying to be "wishy-washy" or hide information from you; this honesty is a sign of our immense knowledge and understanding of our locations as well as a concern for guest safety. Gracias!
Best Locations for Beginner Surf Lessons in Costa Rica
Rolling waves, whitewater power and some green wave options, less current, less chance for swell / current to impact the ability to give beginner lessons, less overall hazards. These are locations where we feel confident that we can safely provide lessons to beginners no matter the conditions. For planning purposes, it is best for beginners to schedule in these locations. For other locations, please contact us for condition based recommendations or insights prior to booking.
Avellanas Surf Lessons
Carrillo Surf Lessons
Dominical Surf Lessons
Jaco Surf Lessons
Manuel Antonio Surf Lessons
Playa Grande
Puerto Viejo Surf Lessons
Sámara Surf Lessons
Tamarindo Surf Lessons
Best Locations for Intermediate Surf Lessons in Costa Rica
Green wave action, chances of larger sets and stronger currents. These will be impacted by swells, but potentially not to the extent of impacting ability to give intermediate lessons. Hazards are possible.
Avellanas Surf Lessons
Carrillo Surf Lessons
Dominical Surf Lessons
Hermosa Surf Lessons
Jaco Surf Lessons
Manuel Antonio Surf Lessons
Nosara Surf Lessons
Playa Grande
Puerto Viejo Surf Lessons
Sámara Surf Lessons
Santa Teresa Surf Lessons
Tamarindo Surf Lessons
Santa Teresa Surf Lessons
Tamarindo Surf Lessons
Best Locations for Advanced Surf Lessons in Costa Rica
Read: CAUTION - likely to be larger waves, stronger currents, more hazards year-round. During swells, these will NOT be appropriate for beginners and may not be accessible to intermediate surfers, depending on skill level.
Note: If the location is also listed in beginner category, it is because we have enough wave variety with the location to safely be able to offer beginner lessons year-round, even during advanced swells.
Avellanas Surf Lessons
Dominical Surf Lessons
Hermosa Surf Lessons
Jaco Surf Lessons
Nosara Surf Lessons
Pavones Surf Lessons
Playa Grande
Puerto Viejo Surf Lessons
Santa Teresa Surf Lessons
Tamarindo Surf Lessons
Witches Rock Surf Lessons