Chasing Waves at Home
The WSL Playa Hermosa Means More Than a Competition
For most surfers, competing in a World Surf League event is a dream. For Jairo Perez, having the opportunity to compete in the WSL Playa Hermosa event this August is something even more meaningful—it’s coming home.
This is also much more than just another surf competition.
Competing at home carries a different kind of meaning for surfers. It means paddling out in front of the community that has supported him along the way. We caught up with Jairo to hear more as he prepares for the event, and he explained, “I’ve spent decades surfing the Central Pacific coastline of Costa Rica. Playa Hermosa isn’t just another contest venue; it’s one of the waves that has shaped me as both a surfer and a person. To paddle out wearing a competition jersey in front of friends, family, and the local community is an experience that’s difficult to describe.”
“I have surfed Playa Hermosa in every kind of condition imaginable. The ocean teaches you patience, preparation, humility, and respect,” Jairo explains further. “Those lessons have carried into every area of my life, including real estate.”
More Than Just Great Waves
People around the world know Costa Rica for its incredible surf, but what often surprises visitors is the community behind it. The beaches are beautiful, but it’s the people who make this place unforgettable.
Surfers from around the world come here searching for perfect waves, yet many end up discovering something much deeper—a slower pace of life, genuine friendships, and a lifestyle centered around nature and family. That is exactly what the WSL event showcases. For four days, Playa Hermosa becomes a gathering place where elite athletes, local surfers, families, photographers, businesses, and visitors all share the same stretch of sand.
Growing Up with These Waves
I’ve surfed Playa Hermosa in every kind of condition imaginable. I’ve celebrated amazing sessions and endured humbling ones. Every surfer knows that the ocean has a way of keeping you grounded. It rewards preparation, patience, and respect.
Those same lessons have carried into every area of my life, including real estate. Helping families relocate to Costa Rica isn’t much different than reading the ocean. Every client has different goals, every market has different conditions, and success comes from understanding both.
Why This Event Matters to Costa Rica
Events like the WSL bring far more than world-class surfing. They introduce thousands of visitors to our local businesses, restaurants, hotels, schools, and neighborhoods.
Many people who first visit for a surf contest eventually return to vacation, invest, retire, or even make Costa Rica their permanent home. As someone who has watched the Central Pacific grow over the years, it’s exciting to see international events continue putting our community on the map while maintaining the authentic character that makes this place special.
Surfing and Real Estate Have More in Common Than You Think
Both require patience. Both reward preparation. Both teach you not to force opportunities.
Whether you’re waiting for the perfect set wave or searching for the right property, timing matters. The best opportunities often come to those who are willing to study the conditions and trust the process.
Come Experience It Yourself
If you’ve never experienced a World Surf League event, this is a fantastic opportunity. Whether you’re a lifelong surfer, someone curious about the sport, or simply looking for an incredible excuse to visit Costa Rica, Playa Hermosa delivers an unforgettable atmosphere.
Jairo will be out there doing his best to represent our local community. If you Jairo or another REMAX agent on the beach, stop and say hello. And if your visit leaves you dreaming about making Costa Rica home, we’d be happy to help you discover why so many of us never wanted to leave.
See you in the lineup.
