Riding the Waves in Costa Rica

Though perfect curls roll in on both of Costa Rica’s coasts year round, April marks the beginning of big wave season on the Pacific side. Serious surfers have scores of sites to explore, from the southernmost swells in pretty, pristine Pavones, home to one of the longest lefts in the world; to epic Ollie’s Point in the far northwest—named for Oliver North, who handed off supplies to Nicaraguan Contras here during the 1980s.

Like many of Costa Rica’s best breaks, Ollie’s Point and neighboring Witch’s Rock, with its eerily howling backdrop, were immortalized in Bruce Brown’s 1994 movie Endless Summer II. The flick followed its iconic 1966 predecessor to Costa Rica (among other locales) to check out the growing global surf scene, and helped this small Central American country grow from an almost undeveloped surfing secret to one of the top destinations for waveriders from all over the globe.

The movie focuses on the Nicoya Peninsula, home to legendary surf spots such as the festive beach town of Tamarindo, with hotels for every budget and amusements for the whole family; much more isolated Nosara, where surfing is still the main attraction; and the incredibly beautiful twin surfing communities on Nicoya’s southern tip, Mal Pais and Santa Teresa.

But don’t overlook the lush Caribbean Coast’s wild and wonderful waves, which are less predictable than those on the Pacific, but can grow to Hawaii-sized proportions depending on the weather. The most popular eastern beach town is Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, with easy access to expert-only Salsa Brava, right offshore, and more beginner-friendly breaks up and down the coast.

There are dozens of other waves crashing into Costa Rica’s undulated shore, with lefts and rights for every expertise. Although many of the most famous breaks are described in online guides such as Surf Costa Rica.com, CRSurf.com, and Costa Rica Surfing Travel Guide, as well as specialty guidebooks like Mike Parise’s recommended Surfers Guide to Costa Rica, keep in mind that there are plenty of secret surf spots you’ll only find out about once you’ve arrived.

Los Sueños Resort and Marina is happily splashed by some of the best-loved surf spots in Costa Rica, the most famous located right at our doorstep, in the bustling town of Jacó. The popular, reliable beach break is perfect for beginners, and fun for anyone warming up for the more challenging waves at Playa Hermosa, just five minutes away.

If you’re an experienced surfer, you’re already daydreaming about the peaks and barrels rising with the season—let us recommend local surf operators who’ll help you find the sweet spot. In the Jaco and Los Suenos Resort areas, we’ll set you up with national champion surfers (they teach as well as they surf!). If you’ve always wondered what it was like to ride the waves, but never had the chance to try, this is it! You won’t find a finer place for your first lesson. Don’t be shy—every surfer out there had a first time. Make this vacation yours.

Mead Brown Costa Rica Vacation Rentals has villas, houses, condos and condominiums available for rent during the 2009 International Surfing Association World Surfing Games, sponsored by Billabong, which will take place July 31 through August 9, 2009 in Playa Hermosa, 10 minutes from Jacó in Costa Rica.   Athletes from 40 countries are expected to compete; tens of thousands of spectators are anticipated as well.  In addition to surfing, attendees can experience the natural beauty for which Costa Rica is known, including rain forests, dolphins, sea turtles, scarlet macaws, toucans and stunning beaches.  The lively beach town of Jaco is home to many unique shops, restaurants and nightlife.  Live bands will be featured at many venues and sponsors will host parties throughout the competition. 

Mead Brown has many vacation rental properties that are ideally suited for sponsors, competitors and observers; these include Villa Antigua, the luxury oceanfront condominium residences of Vista Las Palmas, and Casa Ponte.  All three properties are in Jacó.  Additionally we have a house right on Playa Hermosa!  Call us now a 1.888.744.6599 or from Costa Rica at 2637.8561.

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