Boca Barranca Surf Guide
The second longest left in Costa Rica, Boca Barranca offers one of the longest left-hand waves in the world.
Quick Facts
Super long left
Much more accessible than Pavones
Mellow, good for longboards
Can be more crowded due to accessibility
Introduction to Boca Barranca
Boca Barranca is known for having the second longest left in the country, after Pavones. As it’s much closer to the capital of San Jose and the hotspot of Jacó, it gets more crowded than Pavones. You have to paddle through the San Jose runoff to get to the wave, but on the right day it is well worth it. There’s some drift, and it’s a favorite for longboarders. There are showers and bathrooms, and we highly recommend showering after getting out of the water due to the runoff here from the Barranca River.
Boca Barranca Surf Season
As with most of the surfing in Costa Rica, the best time of year will be the wet season from May to November. This is when the bigger swells will come in. You also will have more runoff from San Jose durign the rainy season so make sure to shower after. In the dry season (North American winter), you’ll find more offshore wind but smaller waves. This means consistent but mellower waves. It also is likely to be less crowded in the dry season, with the exception of the holiday time. If you’re a beginner, try to aim to go during the dry season.
Where to Surf in Boca Barranca
There’s really one surf spot in Boca Barranca. Boca is a point break that forms at the rivermouth of the Barranca River. When southwest swells come into the Gulf of Nicoya, there are super long lefts to be found that can be great. This wave isn’t the most aggressive or steep, and is popular among longboarders and midlength surfers.
Crowds - Some
Surfer Level - Beginner, Intermediate
Ideal Swell - SW
Ideal Wind - NE, Light
Break Type - Point break
Consistency - 80%+
Be Aware: River runoff is dirty!
Surf Camps, Classes, and Lessons in Boca Barranca
Boca Barranca Surf School - Located right at the break, Boca Barranca is really the place to go for classes in the area. They offer intermediate and beginner-level classes for all ages and tons of equipment for your surfing needs!
From the Store
Other Things to Do in Boca Barranca
There isn’t a ton to do in Boca Barranca itself. However, we have to include a few things relatively close that should be checked out:
Monteverde Cloud Forest - One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been, the Monteverde Cloud Forest is 100% worth checking out. It’s about an hour and half north and inland from Boca Barranca. If you’re in the area, go check it out. Beautiful hikes, hanging bridges, waterfalls, and more await you!
Visit Puntarenas - Puntarenas is nearby and a cool little port town with ferries across to the Nicoya Peninsula. It’s not exactly popping off, but is close enough and big enough that it is worth visiting!
Where to Stay in Boca Barranca
If you don’t want to stay at one of the many surf camps in Jacó, don’t worry! We have you covered. There are seriously a ton of hotels in town. The town can get rather rowdy with parties at night. This may be what you’re looking for, or not, so keep that in mind.
Budget-Friendly Options (under $100/night)
Hotel Rio Mar
Budget hotel at the surf
Definitely not a luxury hotel, but you absolutely cannot beat the location. Small pool, nice little garden area, and literal steps to the surf!
Apartamento Acogedor
Beachside apartment in Puntarenas
Retro house on the beach
Located just a few miles away in Puntarenas, Acogedor is a 3 bedroom pet-friendly apartment has a full kitchen, washing machine, and air conditioning. For three bedrooms, it’s hard to beat this price.
Hotels and Resorts ($100-200/night)
Vida Mountain Resort
Adults only health resort
Located a few miles away in Piedades Sur, Vida Mountain is an adults-only resort and spa. They have beautiful views, a relaxing pool atmosphere, and a fantastic spa to relax at after surfing.
Fiesta Resort
All-inclusive family resort
Right in Boca Barranca, Fiesta is an all-inclusive resort with a nightclub, poolside bar, full spa, several restaurants, and tons of activities for the whole family.
Private Residences ($100-200/night)
Casa Canadiense
Studio cabina on the beach
Casa Canadiense has several units available. Think private rooms, but shared common areas like a hostel. There’s a pool, 5 cabins, outdoor kitchen and barbecue, bikes, and a beautiful garden.
Beach Front 1940
Located in Puntarenas, Beach Front 1940 is a private three-bedroom house. There are rooms with king beds and queen beds, as well as a room with several bunk beds. Great for a family or group!
Getting to Boca Barranca
Boca Barranca is one of the more accessible surf spots in Costa Rica.
Driving - If you rent a car, you can drive straight from San José. It’s about two hours down the main highway, and a relatively easy drive.
Public Transport - From the bus terminal in San José, you can take a bus direct to Puntarenas. From there, you can get another bus to Boca Barranca, or get a taxi for the short ride.
Be sure to check out our Resources page for tips on traveling, spending money, support, and more.
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