Surfing in Tamarindo Bay
Skill level
There’s perfect waves for beginners and pros
Group size
1 - 3 / private lessons are available
Price range
$80 - $1,141 per person
Season
Peak surfing is December through March
Duration
2 hours - 7 days
Trip review
Read our trip review here
The beaches in Tamarindo Bay have sandy-bottoms and crystal clear breaks
Tucked away on Costa Rica’s Pacific-facing northwestern coast is the little town of Tamarindo with big, big waves. While the big waves are a draw for veteran surfers, especially with breaks like Isla Capitán and Pico Grande, the bay’s white, sandy-bottomed beaches are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers who don't want to worry about rocks and coral if they wipe out. Surfers can expect decent action at Tamarindo Bay year round, but December through March brings the best swells during high tide. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of good to be had in the other months. Tamarindo Bay is a popular destination, but there’s at least twelve spots you can look for waves and get away from the crowds — and even more if you want to travel just a little bit north.
Catch amazing breaks right outside your door, or get boat access to Ollie’s Point and Witch’s Rock
We weren’t joking about the twelve breaks just a stone’s throw from wherever you’re staying. There’s also breaks not too far away that are accessible only by boat. The first is Witch’s Rock. This beach is located within the gorgeous Santa Rosa National Park and offers consistently strong surf with larger outside waves with an a-frame wave that breaks right and left, leaving plenty for everyone who makes the journey via jungle or sea. The other spot that’s gained worldwide fame is Ollie’s Point, named after the Oliver North. Located near the border with Nicaragua, surfers will find big waves during high tide and a gorgeous secluded beach too. So whether you surf what’s outside your door, or venture farther afield, Tamarindo Bay has something for everyone.
Our selection of videos
Our favorite surfing adventures in Tamarindo Bay
Beginner Surf School - 7 days - from $1,141
Located directly on the beach, this all-inclusive week long surf school has everything you could possibly need on a surfing vacation. The soft, ocean sand is perfect for beginners, and your instructors guarantee you’ll be riding waves before the course is over. There’s in class surf seminars and video analysis, too, helping you make the most out of your surfing needs. Intermediate and advanced camps are available too. Learn more at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp
5 Lesson Surf Course - 5 days
So, you’ve got turns nailed and are comfortable in whitewater, but it’s time to bring your surfing knowledge and game to the next level. Over the duration of five lessons, you’ll work on deep water surfing and riding your first, unbroken green waves. This program is for surfers with more experience, but can be tailored to your needs and abilities. Learn more at Tamarindo Surf Academy
Private Lessons - 2 hours - from $80
The perfect course for those surfers out there who may just need some pointers and refreshers, all done under the watchful eye of an experienced surfing instructor. Work on whatever techniques you want in Tamarindo Bay’s multitude of breaks. Learn more at Blue Trailz
Who should go surfing in Tamarindo Bay?
With white, sandy beaches, and a dozen breaks outside your door, every surfer should put Tamarindo Bay on their list of places to visit.
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