Tropical waters, sandy beaches, well-known, world-famous surf breaks… these are just some of the many blocks on which Costa Rica has built its enviable surfing reputation.
The tropical waters of Costa Rica are a surfers’ paradise (Photo: Chris Goldberg via Flickr)
Whether you’re looking to join those seeking out these famous spots or heading to Costa Rica in search of your own, there are a number of surf school’s offering camps to help you on your way. Surfing camps are regularly stationed around three key surf areas of the country: Jacó, Santa Teresa and Tamarindo. Given the number of options available, surfing schools are incredibly competitive prices and extras. Below, we’ve selected seven of the best surfing camps in the country based on reviews, all-around itinerary and value for money.
BOB MARLEY SURF SCHOOL IN JACÓ
FROM: $600/per person
Bob Marley Surf School offers up to six difference surf and SUP packages suitable for all ages and levels. Surrounded by the tropical Pacific waters, the resort town Jacó provides an energetic, international atmosphere for guests to mingle and learn to surf. Friendly English and Spanish speaking instructors give a two-hour lesson where participants will strengthen their surf skills. As well as surfing, the package included a stand-up paddle boarding tour of Jaco beach and a scenic hike in the surrounding area. Accommodation is offered in a private single room at the South Beach Hotel and breakfast, lunch and snacks are included. Board rental is not included in the price and surf students are offered rental at a discount rate of $15 per day.
LA BOTELLA DE LECHE IN TAMARINDO
From $440/ per person
Hostel La Botella de Leche has yoga, surf and diving experiences in the vibrant town of Tamarindo. The beach here is ideal for beginners and the hostel offers high-quality surf equipment to its guests free of charge. Each surf class is comprised of just four people to ensure participants et a hand on experience. Packages are designed for four, six and eight days, included in the price of the tour is a traditional Costa Rican lunch, private or dorm accommodation at the hostel and a snorkelling trip to the tropical reef. A special extra given by the team at Tamarindo is a USB filled with photos from your surf experience. Guests are also invited to participate in aerial yoga and make the most of many of the surrounding beaches.
ZENEIDAS GARDEN SURF IN SANTA TERESA
From $472 per person
Zeneidas Garden Surf is a laid back hostel based in the coastal town of Santa Teresa, where guests can enjoy a great social calendar outside of their time on the waves. Zeneidas Garden was built by a group of friends and offers a welcoming, homely atmosphere. The shared interest in travelling, surf, skate, yoga, and healthy lifestyle has led to the team creating a full surf experience, over eight days guests can enjoy social nights, surfing and local trip all included in the price. The hostel offers both private and dorm rooms, which is included in the trip price. Additional extras of massage, zip-lining, snorkelling and horse riding can be enjoyed for at an additional price. The hostel offers its own self-catering facilities where guests can prepare their own meals.
WAYRA SPANISH SCHOOL IN TAMARINDO
From $450 per person
If learning both Spanish and improving your surfing schools are activities you want to fill your surf vacation with, then Wayra Spanish School has a great surfing camp for you. Offering camps for durations of 8, 14 and 21 days, guests spend their days immersed in Spanish classes and free time and weekends are made-up of surf sessions. Daily breakfasts are included and accommodation is offered with a host family. The surfing school has its own campus where lessons take place in ranchos: open-air dry palm huts. Outside of surfing and Spanish, the school organises two weekly activities, which include volleyball, football, dance classes, cooking classes and other local cultural activities to immerse guest in the local community traditions.
TAMARINDO BACKPACKERS IN TAMARINDO
From $450 per person
Catering to backpackers and looking for a surf vacation on a budget, everyone from beginners to advanced surfers are cater for Tamarindo Backpackers Surf Camp. Waves stretch the coast, and experienced instructors take surfers to Tamarindo, Langosta, Playa Grande, Playa Negra as well as offering excursions to famous surf spots famous Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s Point. This seven day surfing camp includes daily surf lessons, trips and equipment rental. Also included is guests’ accommodation, this is at the Tamarindo Backpackers Hostel, where a selection of rooms are on offer: private singles to quadruples and dorms.
SELINA SURF CLUB IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN COSTA RICA
From $289 per person
Surf vacations with Selina Surf Club offer guests incredible options: choose to head to surf hotspot Jacó, retreat to the idyllic beaches of Santa Teresa, explore the nature and strong waves of Tamarindo or experience renowned beaches in Puerto Viejo. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural landscapes made up of incredible beaches and jungles, or opt for a low-key city hub. Trip length is also variable, with surfing camps lasting six, eight and eleven days. Skill levels are also catered for with novice, intermediate and advanced surfers able to enjoy daily surf sessions and equipment rentals. Bringing surfing schools into the 21st century, Selina offers digital nomads a surfing camp where creatives can work, surf, relax and be inspired by their exotic surroundings. Included in the price of all trips is accommodation at Selina’s own beachfront hostel with double and single private rooms. Daily meals are also included in the price.
FUNKY MONKEY LODGE IN SANTA TERESA
From $380/ per person
Funky Monkey Lodge creates a surf vacation for those enjoy the relaxed vibe and lifestyle that accompanies surfing. Located in Santa Teresa, the surfing camps vary in length and each is designed with a relaxing yoga retreat built into the programme. The health-conscious aspect of the surfing camp extends to meals, breakfast and dinner are included in the price made from fresh, organic local produce. Days are made up of yoga, where you can practice your technique on aerial silk ropes, and surf classes led by qualified professionals. Funky Monkey Lodge provides an escape into nature, surrounded by tropical gardens on a rocky hill in the middle of a private jungle. Included in the surfing camp is the accommodation where guests have the option of sharing a dorm with other guests or enjoying the privacy of a private bungalow or apartment. at the lodge with a swimming pool, yoga studio, bar, and restaurant.