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.