Your Guide to the Best Surf Breaks in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific

Surf’s Not Just a Sport — It’s a Story

You arrive in Costa Rica seeking more than just waves. You want connection: with the ocean, nature, locals, yourself. The Central Pacific offers that. But to fully experience it, you need to read the ocean, know the breaks, and ride when conditions align.

Here are some of the best surf breaks in the Central Pacific, with what to expect, when to be there, and how to surf like a local.

Top Surf Breaks in the Central Pacific

Playa Hermosa

Located just 10 minutes south of Jaco Beach with intermediate to advanced surf conditions all year around. If you dream of Costa Rica’s most iconic surf destination, Playa Hermosa is where the story unfolds. This four-mile stretch of black sand offers consistent waves, shifting A-frame peaks, and the thrill of open exposure to Pacific swells. Yes, it draws crowds on the more popular areas with parking like “Almendros”, “Backyards”, “La Curva.” But here’s the secret: Hermosa’s long expanse means there’s always a quieter break waiting for you just down the beach. The further south drive, the fewer the surfers. Here, you’ll trade the buzz of the main beach for wide-open coastline. This is where jungle meets ocean and adventure feels untouched.

Jaco Beach

This beach is known for being the hotspot for beginner surf schools on the south end and intermediate advanced sections closer to the center of the bay. Usually the waves are in the 2‑5 ft range for learning waves in the bay. On bigger SW swells can reach overhead or more in exposed sections. Jaco waves are best in the 4 hour window around high tide early in the mornings when there is little wind. Jaco has many surf schools and rentals making it the perfect surf destination for traveling surfers.

Esterillos

THis beach is divided into three sub areas; Este, Centro, and Oeste. The waves range from beginner to intermediate, some advanced when swell is big and long beach‑breaks. In moderate swell you can find chest‑high to a few feet over (≈ 3‑7 ft). Stronger swells bring more power in certain zones, especially Esterillos Oeste. Best during rainy season SW swells (May‑Oct) for bigger surf. Dry season gives smaller, cleaner conditions for learning. Tide matters: higher tide helps in some rocky/reef sections, but mid‑tide either rising or falling tends to be more forgiving for beach breaks. Esterillos offers more room and fewer crowds compared to Hermosa/Jaco. Lots of sand bottom, though some parts have rocks or promontories. West (Oeste) tends to have more variety of peaks; Este and Centro are gentler. Great place to base if you want consistent surf + quieter atmosphere.

When and How to Catch the Best Conditions

• Seasons
  • Rainy/Green Season (roughly May‑November): SW swells are more powerful, giving more advanced surf. Conditions can be ra
  • Dry Season (December‑April): winds tend to be lighter onshore → better clean mornings; waves generally smaller, more forgiving.
• Tides
  • Mid‑tide (rising or falling) is often safest bet: enough water over shallow parts, less backwash, more work in beach breaks.
  • High tide gets tricky in some spots (Hermosa reefs, rocks), closures or slams.
  • Low tide may expose reef, rocks, or create break‑downs.
• Wind
  • Early morning (before 9am) tends to have calmer or offshore winds, especially in dry season.
  • Afternoon usually brings onshore breezes, which reduce wave quality.
  • In Hermosa, east wind is best (offshore), helps clean up face.

Local Community and Culture: More Than Just Waves

• Hermosa and Jaco are well developed for surfers: surf schools, gear rental, community vibe. Hermosa has more serious surf culture; Jaco more touristy, more amenities.
• Esterillos gives more space, more peace. Local Tico culture, fewer crowds, more natural feel.
• The people matter: whether it’s the surf instructors at Jaco, the restauranteurs, the folks holding it down at the lineups. Respect, humility, patience go a long way. Bring cash, good attitudes, and tips when service is good.

Local Tips to Surf Like a Pro

• Watch the swell forecasts (MagicSeaWeed, Surfline, local surf cams). If you see a SW swell building, plan to hit Hermosa or exposed breaks.
• Talk to locals — often they know current reef changes, sandbank shifts, where the best peaks are today.
• Bring proper gear: leash, good surf wax, board types matched to conditions (maybe a mid‑length for bigger beach breaks).
• Water safety: rip currents, changing tides, hidden rocks. If unsure, surf with someone experienced or take a lesson.
• Avoid peak crowd times: sunrise and weekdays help, but weekends are busy. For less crowded lineups, early morning or later afternoon can help when wind is okay.

Why These Breaks Capture the Pura Vida Spirit

Surfing in the Central Pacific is more than catching waves—it’s about rhythm. Rhythm of nature, of community, rhythm of peace. Whether you’re a beginner just standing up for the first time, or a carved‑up veteran chasing perfect tube walls, these breaks give you a chance to connect with more than just a surfboard.

Connect with our local REMAX agents to find out more about the local culture and pura vida that is waiting for you in Costa Rica.