Surf Camps in Tamarindo

Tamarindo is Costa Rica's surf capital, offering a vibrant surf scene with waves for all levels. From the beginner-friendly breaks of Playa Tamarindo to the challenging rivermouth and reef breaks, there's a wave for everyone in this tropical paradise

The Ultimate Surfer's Guide to Tamarindo

Tamarindo is the beating heart of Costa Rica's surf scene, and for good reason. This vibrant town is a magnet for surfers of all stripes, from absolute beginners to seasoned pros. The main beach, Playa Tamarindo, is a sprawling playground of mellow waves perfect for learning, while a short walk or drive unlocks a world of more challenging breaks. The town itself is a lively hub of surf camps, shops, and a nightlife that keeps the good vibes rolling long after the sun goes down.

The Waves

Tamarindo's coastline is a treasure trove of diverse surf spots. Here's a taste of what's on offer:

Playa Tamarindo: The main event. A long, sandy beach with gentle, rolling waves that are ideal for beginners and longboarders. The sandy bottom makes wipeouts a breeze, and the sheer number of peaks means there's always a spot to call your own.
Playa Grande: Just a short walk north of Tamarindo, Playa Grande offers a more powerful and consistent wave. It's a beach break that can produce some hollow sections, making it a favorite among intermediate and advanced surfers.
The Rivermouth: At the estuary of the Tamarindo River, you'll find a series of sandbars that create fast, hollow rights and lefts. This spot is for experienced surfers only, as the currents can be strong and the waves powerful.
Pico Pequeño and Pico Grande: These two reef breaks are located just off the coast of Tamarindo and offer a more challenging wave for intermediate to advanced surfers. Pico Pequeño is a fun, wedgy left, while Pico Grande is a more powerful right that can get hollow on bigger swells.

Best Time to Surf

You can surf in Tamarindo year-round, but the best time to go depends on your skill level. The dry season, from November to April, is the best time for beginners, with smaller, cleaner waves. The green season, from May to October, sees bigger swells and is better for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Who is it for?

Tamarindo is a surfer's paradise for everyone. Beginners will find plenty of gentle waves to learn on, while intermediate and advanced surfers will find a variety of challenging breaks to test their skills. The town's lively atmosphere and abundance of surf camps also make it a great destination for solo travelers, families, and groups of friends.

The best time to surf in Tamarindo depends on your skill level. For beginners, the dry season from December to April offers smaller, cleaner waves and plenty of sunshine. For more experienced surfers, the green season from May to October brings larger and more consistent swells. July and August are particularly good months with solid swells and drier weather.

Tamarindo is a great destination for surfers of all skill levels. The main beach break in Tamarindo is perfect for beginners, with a sandy bottom and smaller, manageable waves. Intermediate and advanced surfers can find more challenging waves at nearby spots like Playa Grande and the reef break at Isla Capitán.

The water in Tamarindo is warm year-round, typically ranging from 26-29°C (78-84°F). You can comfortably surf in boardshorts or a bikini, so there's no need to pack a wetsuit.

Besides your swimwear and surf gear, be sure to pack light clothing, a good sun hat, sunglasses, and plenty of high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen. A rash guard is also a good idea for sun protection while surfing. If you're visiting during the green season, a light rain jacket is recommended. For more packing tips, check out our ultimate surf trip packing list.

Tamarindo has a vibrant and diverse food scene with everything from traditional Costa Rican sodas serving casados to international cuisine. Be sure to try the fresh seafood and tropical fruits. The local culture is a mix of laid-back surf town vibes and a lively nightlife. You can learn more about the local culture in our Guanacaste guide.

The cost of a surf trip to Tamarindo can vary widely. A bed in a dorm room can be as cheap as $15-20 per night, while a private room in a surf camp can range from $50 to $150. Board rentals typically cost around $20-40 per day. A meal at a local soda will cost you around $5-8, while a dinner at a nicer restaurant can be $15-30. You can find more detailed cost information on our Tamarindo surf camps page.

Tamarindo is generally a safe town for tourists. However, like any popular tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so don't leave your belongings unattended on the beach. When surfing at Playa Grande, be mindful of the crocodiles in the estuary when crossing from Tamarindo.

Yes, there are plenty of things to do in and around Tamarindo. You can take a boat trip to the famous surf spots at Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point, go zip-lining through the jungle, or visit the Marino Las Baulas National Park to see nesting sea turtles (in season). For more ideas, check out our guide to the best things to do in Guanacaste.