To me, surfing was always one of those sports that seemed almost impossible to learn. Nevertheless, it is a fascinating sport. I decided that since I was in Costa Rica, I might as well give it a try. I have heard many times and from several sources that Jaco beach is a great surfing destination. Apparently, individuals come from all over the world to surf there especially since you can surf there year-round.
Upon my arrival, I debated whether or not I should take a lesson or try by myself. I quickly saw that there were many surf schools and realized that if I actually wanted to stand on my board, I should probably take a lesson. So, I arranged for a lesson with a few of my friends. We started the class with a quick on-land course (how to get up on your board, etc.) and then quickly ventured into the ocean. There was one instructor for every 2 to 3 people which was a good ratio. After my second try, I was able to get up on my board! What a wonderful feeling! Every person in my group managed to stand on their boards and get in a few good rides on the waves. However, please note that this in an exhausting sport. After about an hour, almost the whole group was ready to quit. After two hours, we were absolutely exhausted. So, don’t plan on spending a whole day surfing, it just is not very realistic.
A few more words of advice, I would take a lesson. They give you invaluable advice and pointers and know where to bring you so that it is safe. Also, I would recommend going early in the morning (around 8am) because the waves are best then. By about 10am., the waves were all ready dying out and the tide was way out. Bring water and some fruit because you get dehydrated quickly! Finally, if you have a friend with you that isn’t taking lessons, ask them to take pictures! Such great memories… To conclude, if you are planning on going to Costa Rica, surfing is one of those to-do activities!!!
This Blog post was generously submitted by Stefanie Brunelle
thanks for the info. i’m going to Costa Rica in November and definitely want to go surfing when i’m there. we might to check jaco out.
Playa Esterillos Oeste offers very good surfing too. I have owned a rental house here for about 5 years. Esterillos Oeste is a quaint fishing village, just south of Jaco, but worth the extra
drive. Beaches are beautiful, locals are very friendly, and there are lots of reasonably priced accommodations and restaurants.
kwengel@comcast.net
[...] spring break trips and Costa Rica is very popular for things like sportsfishing trips, along with learning how to surf while in Costa Rica. However, this is the first I have seen or read about a group actually travelling to Costa Rica to [...]