Surf Camps in Jacó

Jacó is a surfer's paradise in Costa Rica, offering a vibrant surf scene and a wide variety of waves for all skill levels. From beginner-friendly beach breaks to world-class barrels, Jacó has something for everyone.

The Lowdown on Jacó's Surf Scene

Jacó is one of Costa Rica's most famous surf towns, and for good reason. It's a bustling hub of surf culture, packed with surf schools, rental shops, and a lively nightlife. While it might not be the most picturesque town in Costa Rica, it more than makes up for it with its incredible accessibility and the sheer variety of waves on offer. Whether you're a complete beginner looking to catch your first wave or a seasoned pro in search of a challenge, Jacó has something for you.

The Waves

Playa Jacó, the main beach, is a 2.5-mile stretch of dark sand that's a true swell magnet. The northern end of the beach tends to be a bit more powerful and punchy, but it can also get a bit messy on bigger days. For cleaner, glassier waves, head to the southern end of the beach, where you'll find more protection from the wind. If you're an experienced surfer, you'll want to check out the nearby breaks. Just a short drive south is Playa Hermosa, a world-renowned surf spot with powerful, hollow waves. For the experts, there are also a couple of reef breaks in the area, like Roca Loca and El Gato, that can get seriously heavy on the right swell.

Best Time to Go

The best time to surf in Jacó is during Costa Rica's wet season, which runs from May to November. This is when the south swells are most consistent, and you'll have the best chance of scoring some epic waves. That being said, Jacó has rideable waves year-round, so you can't really go wrong no matter when you visit.

Who's it For?

Jacó is a great destination for surfers of all skill levels. The main beach is perfect for beginners, with plenty of gentle, rolling waves to learn on. Intermediate surfers will find plenty of fun, rippable peaks to play on, and advanced surfers will be in heaven with the world-class waves at Playa Hermosa and the surrounding reef breaks.

What Makes it Special?

What really sets Jacó apart is its accessibility and the sheer variety of waves on offer. It's one of the easiest surf towns to get to from the international airport in San José, and once you're there, you have a whole coastline of waves at your fingertips. From the beginner-friendly beach breaks of Playa Jacó to the world-class barrels of Playa Hermosa, Jacó truly has it all.