Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a true paradise for surfers , with a variety of beautiful beaches that provide the perfect setting for catching powerful waves.
One of its best locations is Santa Teresa, located on the Nicoya peninsula, this city has several beaches with incredible waves, thanks to the natural rock formations in which they break.
Many professional surfers head to this area to catch these strong waves and long sections. When you head to this popular Costa Rica location, don't be surprised to see Kelly Slater and other pros by your side while you surf. There are some safe spots for less experienced surfers, but most of these spots require a certain level of experience.
The most recommended spots in this surfer town are:
The parrot
One of the most popular surf beaches in Santa Teresa is La Lora. Surfers enjoy the regular crescent-shaped waves in which some barrel-shaped waves can be surfed. Thanks to the constant and generally favorable conditions, La Lora is the spot for several surf competitions in Costa Rica. This popular wave is located near the popular La Lora Amarilla nightclub, which makes it easy to party and have fun after a long day on the waves.
Cecilia House
Another reliable and popular surf spot in Santa Teresa is Casa Cecilia. The waves can be quite big and challenging, the perfect place for more experienced surfers. At low tide, the surf is generally friendlier to less skilled surfers, but still has good waves that offer great opportunities.
Beautiful beach
If you want to learn to surf in Santa Teresa, head to Playa Hermosa. It is less crowded than other more popular places, the rip current is not as strong as some of the first mentioned places. However, waves can still reach up to three meters when conditions dictate, so it is recommended to surf at the beach break or at a rest point located in the northern part of the beach. This beach hosts the Quicksilver International Surf Championship in the month of August each year.
El Carmen Beach
Just outside of Santa Teresa is Playa el Carmen, a great spot for less experienced surfers. This white sand beach is a long strip that is located between Santa Teresa and MalpaÃs. This beach is very popular with the locals of Santa Teresa, because it is located near the center of town and is easily accessible.
When you head to Santa Teresa to catch some waves, you should take a look at the informational tide charts before venturing into the water.
Santa Teresa has a varied range of hotels, hostels and rental apartments along all its beaches, which vary in value depending on the comfort and proximity you are looking for.
Finally, we recommend visiting the different local restaurants and sodas, to enjoy their exquisite local foods and tasty soft drinks that are made with local fruits.