In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the best surf camps in Santa Teresa Costa Rica.
The coasts of Costa Rica are full of tropical beaches that attract surfers from all over the world.
Many of these surfers go to Tamarindo, but Santa Teresa is a better option if you’re looking for a more relaxed and chill surfer vibe.
There are plenty of beginner-friendly points where you can get Nosara surf lessons.
(The Ultimate Guide to Surfing in Costa Rica)
The best Surf camps in Santa Teresa Costa Rica
Selina Santa Teresa
The Selina Santa Teresa surf camp is one of the best in Central America.
It’s great for people traveling solo because you get to have a good time and there are plenty of activities included in the price of your stay.
If you’re looking for more adventure, there are plenty of options to sign up for additional activities in Santa Teresa.
Lost Boyz Surf Hostel
The Lost Boyz team is passionate about surfing, maintaining an eco-friendly atmosphere, and most importantly having fun!
This makes it the perfect place to stay for both surfers and non-surfers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Whether you’re in or out of the water, there’s always something to do here at Lost Boyz.
The beach is just 150 meters away at this Santa Teresa surf camp, so you can get ripping straight away.
This is a budget-friendly stay for backpackers, so don’t expect anything fancy from Lost Boyz.
What you will find, on the other hand, is an eco-lifestyle with kind people and plenty of enjoyable moments.
Believe Surf & Yoga Santa Teresa
Believe Surf Camp & Yoga Santa Teresa is the top-rated surf camp provider in the area for a reason: vacationers can tailor their experience to fit their needs.
So, whether you want to focus on surfing or yoga (or both!), you’ll be able to create a trip that’s perfect for you.
Believe offers a 5-step customizer tool so you can plan your perfect trip, down to the preferred dates, accommodations, meals, and more.
If that’s not your idea of fun then they also have several all-inclusive vacation packages.
The most popular option is their 7-night Discover Package which provides the ideal balance of surf and yoga classes with plenty of time to relax on the beach.
Zopilote Surf Camp
Zopilote Surf Camp is located on the Costa Rican coast town of Santa Teresa, but it is considerably quieter both on and off the beach.
Furthermore, there are waves for all levels of ability all year round.
“Come as a guest, leave as a friend” is the motto at Zopilote Surf Camp, which was built for surfers by surfers.
How to get to Santa Teresa
Before you go on your surfing adventure in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, you need to plan out how you’re going to get there.
The closest airport to Tambur is the easiest way to go, and then from there it’s a hour shuttle ride into Santa Teresa.
If you’re looking for a direct journey, shuttles leave San Jose twice a day during high season (and once per day during low season), which takes about 6-7 hours total with a 90-minute ferry ride included.
However, if other options are available Puerto Jimenez typically has the most well-organized shuttle system .
What you need to know about Santa Teresa
About Santa Teresa
The fishing village of Santa Teresa is located on the west side of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.
It began as a tiny, sparsely visited fishing hamlet, but it has evolved into a thriving beach resort.
Santa Teresa is not as crowded as other Costa Rican hotspots like Tamarindo or Jaco.
If you’re looking for a great place to surf, Santa Teresa is the answer.
But even if surfing isn’t your thing, this spot has something for everyone.
There are luxury restaurants and resorts as well as more relaxed hippy vibes. Santa Teresa truly has it all.
How much should you budget for Santa Teresa
Costa Rica is not a cheap destination, unlike several other Central American nations.
However, you should not let this prevent you from visiting. It will be tough to stick to a tight budget, but it is possible.
Eco lodgings, hostel dorm rooms, and outdoor camping are all low-cost alternatives that may help you keep your expenses under control.
Plan for spending at least $30 per day when visiting on an extreme weekend; realistically, plan for around $50 (particularly if you want to participate in all of the exciting activities).
You can save money on food by eating rice and beans.
This is a cheap option.
You can find the best deals at local places, not touristy restaurants.
But it is easy to spend more money when you are traveling.
This is especially true if you stay in a mid-priced hotel room or a nicer resort.
When you should visit Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a beach town that you can visit any time of year and still enjoy the sun and sand.
The best time to come for Santa Teresa surf is during “green season”, which falls from May to December.
This is when conditions are most consistent and waves are strongest.
Even though green season also means more rain, it’s worth braving for better surfing conditions.
No matter when you visit Santa Teresa, be prepared for hot weather that will make you want spend all your time in the water!
Surfing in Santa Teresa
Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Hermosa are the finest surfing locations in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica.
The best surf breaks in the region are only a short drive from the town center, including well-known sites like Surf Rock, La Lora, and Mar Azul.
Playa Santa Teresa
If you’re a beginner surfer, Playa Santa Teresa and La Lora are two great beaches to check out.
The waves at Playa Santa Teresa are small and manageable, while the waves at La Lora can be a bit bigger and more challenging.
Mar Azul
Located in the heart of Mal Pais, Mar Azul is a left-hand point break that is popular among surfers.
This spot is often referred to as a “soul surfer” destination because it has such consistent conditions.
Even though it’s always in good condition, there are never too many people surfing here.
Playa Hermosa
Playa Hermosa is a short drive north of Santa Teresa, where you’ll find two well-known breaks.
The pleasure of surfing here comes from trekking to the beach along the dirt road bordered by bright flowers, but the real adventure begins when you reach Halfway Point Break.
Is Santa Teresa good for beginner surfers?
Yes, Santa Teresa is good for beginner surfers. The waves at Playa Santa Teresa are small and manageable, while the waves at La Lora can be a bit bigger and more challenging.
Where can I surf when Santa Teresa is too big?
If you’re looking for a surf spot that’s a bit bigger when Santa Teresa is too big, head to Playa Hermosa. This spot is a short drive north of Santa Teresa, and you’ll find two well-known breaks here.
Can you learn to surf in Costa Rica?
Yes! Many surf camps in Santa Teresa Costa Rica offer beginner surf classes for those who want to learn how to surf, Costa Rica is a great place to surf because the waves are small and manageable, making it perfect for beginners.
How far is Santa Teresa from airport?
Santa Teresa is a small city located approximately 150 kilometers from San Jose International Airport.
Where do beginners surf in Costa Rica?
Beginners surf in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. The waves here are small and manageable, making it the perfect spot for those just starting out. You’ll find plenty of surf camps in Santa Teresa that offer beginner surf classes, so you can get started right away.
What is the best time of year to surf in Costa Rica?
The best time of year to surf in Costa Rica varies depending on the surf spot. However, most surfers agree that the best time to surf is from December to April when the waves are biggest.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Costa Rica?
No, you do not need a wetsuit to surf in Costa Rica. The water temperature is typically around 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit, so most surfers do not wear wetsuits. However, if you are particularly sensitive to cold water or are surfing in a colder spot, then a wetsuit may be necessary.