Last updated on January 13th, 2024 at 08:04 pm
If you are about to surf in Boca Barranca, this article will provide you with all the information you need. You will find general travel info, surf tips, wave analysis, and everything else you need to know about surfing in Boca Barranca, Costa Rica.
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About Surfing in Boca Barranca, Costa Rica
If you’ve ever been to Costa Rica and haven’t surfed Boca Barranca, that’s too bad. Surprisingly, most surfers skip this incredible spot during their surf trip to Costa Rica. Unfortunately, they are missing an unforgettable ride.
Boca Barranca is located on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, right next to Puntarenas. In fact, you can easily get here by driving 1 hour from San Jose or 45 minutes from Jaco. When you get to Boca Barranca, you will notice there is nothing to do besides surfing. The town is boring and dirty, the water is polluted (especially after it rains), and other than a few hotels and restaurants, there is really not much going on. Therefore, the best thing to do is to stay at Jaco or Hermosa and come to surf Boca Barranca only when a big swell hits.
So why bother? Well, this wave is so long that you will voluntarily get off an open ride just because your legs hurt.
What Kind of Waves Will You Surf in Boca Barranca?
Boca Barranca is the second longest wave in Costa Rica after Pavones. It is a left-hand point break that starts in front of Barranca River Mouth and ends about one Kilometer away inside the bay. In other words, it is a goofy footer’s paradise. Amazingly, on a good day, you can surf an open wall for about 1 minute.
The waves in Boca Barranca are fat, slow, and open. Therefore, it is considered a longboard paradise. Accordingly, the famous Rabbit Kakai Longboard Competition takes place here every year. But don’t get it wrong, when the swell is big enough, you can also kill it with a short board.
The surf conditions in Boca Barranca are at their best during south swell and low tide. Moreover, it requires a big swell to perform well, so come here only if it is 5 feet or higher. When conditions are right, you can make multiple turns on each wave, and you will see how a few sessions here can improve your skills as a surfer. The beauty of this wave is that it gives you time to think and plan your next move while riding it. After getting off a long wave, it is easier to walk back on the beach than to paddle all the way back to the lineup.
Surfing Boca Barranca has a few downsides, too. First, the water is dirty, so shower after your session. Second, crocodiles are out there next to the river, but just like in many river mouths in Costa Rica, don’t let it stop you; just be aware when you are close to the river. Third, due to its closeness to San Jose, weekends can get crowded with locals in the water.
Surf Seasons in Boca Barranca
The best time to surf in Boca Barranca is the wet season, between May and November. During these months, the south swells hit the coast with great consistency and decent size. Remember, the break at Boca Barranca requires a big south swell to work properly, so check the forecast before you go.
Surf Hotels in Boca Barranca
When coming to surf in Boca Barranca, you want to stay in the right place, which basically means as close as possible to the point break. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Fiesta Resort All Inclusive Central Pacific– this all-inclusive seafront resort offers a large volcanic sand beach area, several outdoor pools with sun terraces, and a variety of bars and restaurants. In addition, Palo Verde National Park is just 10 km away.
2. Olas del Roble– with a terrace, quiet atmosphere, and clean rooms, Olas del Roble is set in Puntarenas, 9 km from Parque Marino del Pacifico, not too far from the break.
For more surf hotels in Boca Barranca, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
If you are a beginner looking for a surf camp in Costa Rica, check out all the details at Booksurfcamps.
Conclusion- A Final Thought
To sum up, if you are on the Central Coast of Costa Rica and a big south swell is coming, don’t miss the opportunity to surf Boca Barranca. The length of the wave just makes it all worth it.
We hope you enjoyed reading this guide to surfing in Boca Barranca. Have a great surf trip!
