Explore Tamarindo’s Best Surf Breaks
From Local Waves to World-Class Barrels
From beginner-friendly beach breaks to legendary world-class waves, discover the surf spots that make Tamarindo one of the best surf destinations in the world. Nobody knows these waves better than Witch’s Rock Surf Camp—let us take you to the best spots at the right time.
Tamarindo’s Role in Costa Rica’s Surf Culture
Surfing in Tamarindo has been legendary since the 1970s
The town’s perfect mix of consistent waves, warm water, and offshore winds has made it a go-to surf destination for decades.
Endless Summer II put Witch’s Rock on the map
and since then, Tamarindo has played a crucial role in developing Costa Rica’s surf culture. This is where early surf pioneers settled, surf tourism took off, and some of the most iconic waves were first explored.
What makes surfing in Northwest Guanacaste unique?
✔ The most varied surf zone in Costa Rica – Different wave types (beach breaks, reef breaks, point breaks) in one area.
✔ Offshore winds almost year-round – Perfectly groomed waves thanks to consistent wind patterns.
✔ Swell from multiple directions – NW and SW swells light up different breaks, offering waves in all seasons.
Surf Breaks in Tamarindo Bay
(Walkable & Short Distance)
Tamarindo Bay has some of the most fun and accessible waves in Costa Rica. These spots are surfed daily by our guests and offer waves for all levels.
Tamarindo Beach Break
✔ Best for: Beginners & longboarders
✔ Swell Direction: NW-SW
✔ Tide: Mid to high
✔ Break Type: Beach break
Tamarindo Rivermouth
✔ Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
✔ Swell Direction: NW-SW
✔ Tide: Mid to high
✔ Break Type: Sandbar
Playa Langosta (2-min drive south)
✔ Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
✔ Swell Direction: SW
✔ Tide: Mid to high
✔ Break Type: Reef & river mouth
Playa Grande
✔ Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
✔ Swell Direction: NW-SW
✔ Tide: Mid to high
✔ Break Type: Beach break
Witch’s Rock & Ollie’s Point
The Legendary Waves We’re Known For
Witch’s Rock (Roca Bruja) and Ollie’s Point are two of the most famous waves in Costa Rica—and we’ve been taking surfers there longer than anyone. These breaks are accessible only by boat, and our experienced guides know exactly when to go for the best conditions.
Witch’s Rock (Roca Bruja) (Boat access only)
✔ Best for: Advanced surfers
✔ Swell Direction: NW-SW
✔ Tide: All tides work, best on mid to high
✔ Break Type: Powerful beach break
Ollie’s Point (Potrero Grande) (Boat access only)
✔ Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers
✔ Swell Direction: NW-SW
✔ Tide: Mid to high
✔ Break Type: Right-hand point break
Other Regional Surf Breaks
Beyond Tamarindo, our surf tours take guests to some of the best waves in Costa Rica. These waves are ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers looking for variety.
✔ Avellanas – A mix of beach and reef breaks, fun A-frames. (20 min drive, van access)
✔ Playa Negra – Fast, hollow right-hand reef break. (30 min drive, van access)
✔ Marbella – Powerful and consistent beach break. (1 hour drive, van access)
✔ Ostional – A mix of reef and beach break, uncrowded perfection. (1.5-hour drive, van access)
✔ Nosara (Guiones) – A long, mellow beach break, great for progression. (2-hour drive, van access)
Best Time to Surf in Tamarindo – Seasonal Surf Guide
Tamarindo Bay has some of the most fun and accessible waves in Costa Rica. These spots are surfed daily by our guests and offer waves for all levels.
Dry Season (Dec – April)
- Best for: Consistent offshore winds, clean conditions
- Swells: NW swells dominant
Rainy Season (May – November)
- Best for: Big south swells, less crowded waves
- Swells: SW swells dominant
How We Get You to the Best Waves
Van Trips
Daily trips to Avellanas, Playa Negra, Marbella, Nosara, and beyond.
Boat Trips
Exclusive access to Witch’s Rock, Ollie’s Point, and hidden gems.
Why Local Knowledge Matters
We take you where the best waves are, based on daily conditions, tides, and swell direction.
Ready to Surf the Best Waves in Costa Rica?
Come surf with the most experienced surf guides in Tamarindo and score perfect waves every day.
Let’s Plan Your Ultimate Surf Tour!
Tell us your skill level and travel dates, and we’ll match you with the best surf tour for your experience.
