Costa Rica is one of the world’s top surf destinations. With its year-round waves, beautiful weather, and incredible natural environment, it is simply one of the best places for surfers of all levels. Although you can surf here any time of year, the best time will definitely depend on a few things.

Different times of year bring different swells and wave size, changes in climate, and variation in crowds. Finding the right time of year to surf Costa Rica depends on your goals, tolerance for crowds, skill level, and region you’ll be visiting. We’ll cover the two seasons (dry and rainy season), various surf spots, and the best time of year for different skill levels.

Why Costa Rica is a Great Year-Round Spot

Before picking apart the various surf seasons and surf spots in Costa Rica, it’s important to recognize that this part of Central America is generally surfable year-round. The Pacific Coast here can take a range of swells from both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, offering waves up and down the coast in the form of beach breaks, point breaks, and some amazing reef breaks.

You generally won’t need a wetsuit any time of year. Water ranges from around 78°F to 86°F, making it a comfortable place to get in the water year-round. There are some great beginner surf spots, mellow point breaks, powerful advanced waves, awesome longboard waves, and something on offer for every type of surfer.

Understanding Costa Rica’s Surf Seasons

Costa Rica, like much of Central America, really has two seasons: dry and rainy. Dry season runs roughly from December to April while the rainy season runs from May to November. These two seasons offer very different experiences when it comes to waves, tourism numbers, weather, and wind.

Dry Season

Dry season, from December to April, will quite obviously be more dry. You’ll find small, but consistent waves, some crowds in general, and solid beginner-friendly waves. Prices are often generally higher during this time due to demand from increased tourism.

Weather

On the Pacific Coast, you’ll have offshore winds most days in the morning. Rain is not common, although you may have some days with rain in the afternoon. Temperatures will be slightly warmer in dry season, with the end (March and April) generally seeing the highest temperatures.

Waves

The dry season in Costa Rica is not generally seen as the best surf season by experienced surfers. However, it may be the best time of year for beginners. You’ll have incredible consistency, with surfable waves basically every day. The waves will be smaller than during the wet season as the strong North Pacific storms and tropical systems aren’t pumping. Expect more days in the waist-high range than overhead range.

Pros

The big pros of surfing in Costa Rica in the dry season are the weather, more beginner-friendly waves, and easier travel conditions. For those looking for a vacation that includes some surfing, dry season may be best. It’s also worth mentioning again that the consistency during dry season is unrivaled. Furthermore, December isn’t exactly ideal surf season in this region of the world, which makes it one of the best places to surf in December in Latin America.

Cons

The major downsides here are more crowds (especially at beginner spots), higher prices due to peak tourist season, and lack of big swells. You still may get the occasional big day, but they are much more rare than during rainy season.

Who Is Dry Season Best For?

This is just my opinion, but keep in mind I did live in Costa Rica for a few years in the mid-2000’s and go back nearly every year. In my experience, dry season surfing in Costa Rica is best suited for more casual surfers. Whether you’re a newbie looking for ideal beginner surf conditions or just looking for some casual surfing, dry season may be the time to choose.

I also think dry season is a good time for a family surf vacation. There are more gentle waves to be found, great weather, and plenty of other things to do without the rain and weather getting in the way. Costa Rica is home to some amazing family surf camps as well.

Rainy Season

Rainy season runs from May to November, and is characterized by cooler weather, fewer tourists, and rain nearly every day in the afternoon. It’s less busy for tourism due to the weather, but the waves absolutely pump during this time. For more experienced surfers, this is the time to visit for sure.

Weather

During the rainy season, it can rain nearly every single day in the afternoon. The amount of rain can make conditions less than ideal for surfing and other adventures hard to plan. You will find less tourists because of the rain, and beautiful lush landscapes.

Waves

In the rainy season, the storm systems in the North Pacific can send powerful swells to the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. There will be fairly reliable swells rolling through. Although this is the time of the year for intermediate and advanced surfers, you can still find some beginner waves on the inside at many surf spots. If you’re looking for pumping, hollow, or strong waves, rainy season is your time of year.

Pros

The big pro during rainy season is the size and power of the waves. You will also find significantly fewer crowds at most tourist destinations, and certainly at many surf spots. Finally, rainy season brings lower prices across Costa Rica.

Cons

With the heavier rain, surfing in the afternoon can become impossible. With consistent and heavy rainfall, some roads get washed out as well. If you’re a beginner, the bigger surf and more powerful swells can be a bit overwhelming as well.

Who is Rainy Season Best For?

Rainy season, simply put, is the best time to surf in Costa Rica for intermediate or advanced surfers. For those seeking the big world-class waves the country is known for, the wet season is the time to travel. If you are not yet intermediate but want less crowds and cheaper prices, Costa Rica can still absolutely work as long as you head to the right spot.

Best Time to Surf Costa Rica by Skill Level

Understanding the basics of the surf seasons in Costa Rica, you definitely want to consider your skill level when choosing a time of year for a surf trip in Costa Rica.

Beginners

For beginner surfers, dry season is the time to visit. You can also get away with shoulder season in May or November, but you may get more days with growing swells. The waves in this season are super predictable and consistent. You’ll have something to surf every day, waves with less power that are perfect for learning on, and great weather for surfing.

Top beginner surf spots in Costa Rica include Tamarindo, Playa Guiones, Jacó, Santa Teresa, and the Uvita/Dominical area. There are plenty of surf camps for beginners in Costa Rica you can check out as well. Tamarindo is also on our list of the best places to learn to surf for its gentle waves, tourist center, and plethora of surf schools and surf camps.

Intermediates

For intermediates, the shoulder season can be the best option. Shoulder season is the period just between slow and high season for surf. Think May/April or August/September. If you are truly an intermediate surfer, you’ll probably find acceptable waves any time of year though. These should seasons offer a nice balance between power and size, offering chances to surf and progress without getting too extreme.

Some solid intermediate breaks include Playa Hermosa on smaller days, Dominical and Uvita, Boca Barranca, and Nosara. Be aware that Playa Hermosa can absolutely pump, so make sure there are actually intermediate conditions if you’re headed to the area.

Advanced

Advanced surfers will generally see the best swells in the June-August range, right in the middle of rainy season. This is when the strong storms from both the North and South Pacific can come rolling through. The waves pump, and you’ll be treated to the biggest and most powerful waves Costa Rica has to offer.

Some good spots for advanced surfers are Playa Hermosa, Pavones, and the Witch’s Rock area. With the right conditions, these spots become world-class and draw surfers from around the world.

Tips for Planning Your Costa Rican Surf Trip

I have planned surf trips for ourselves or the whole family, and know how hard it can be to pick a spot, time of year, what boards to bring, etc. So, here are a few things to consider when planning your surf trip to Costa Rica.

Goals

Whether you’re a totally new surfer hoping to stand up for the first time or an advanced surfer looking for a barrel, it’s important to know both your skill level and what your goals are. Check in with yourself and be realistic about what you hope to find on your Costa Rican surf trip.

If you’re a beginner surfer, for example, don’t book a week in Witch’s Rock. Tamarindo or Santa Teresa may be a better fit. Go where the waves and conditions will fit your style and skill. And this holds true for the season too. Remember, dry season is more beginner friendly, and wet season is better for more advanced surfers.

Book Early

I have personally found that things in Costa Rica seem to book up rather early. Compared to the rest of Central America, the hotels and surf camps are booked out much more in advance. This is especially true if you’re going during dry season. Make sure to book your accommodations and make your plans earlier than you think you’ll have to, or you might be left without many options.

Don’t Fear the Rain

I know some people don’t mind the rain more than others. You do you. In general, don’t be scared of the rain. It’s just water. Unlike places farther from the equator, it’s not a cold rain. The rain is just part of the jungle life. Although it may rain every day in rainy season, it’s often in the afternoon. This leaves you plenty of hours of sunshine or at least dry skies every morning!