Last updated on December 31st, 2023 at 02:49 pm
If you are planning to surf in Pavones in the near future, you came to the right place. In this post, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, travel tips, and everything else you need to know about surfing in Pavones.
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About Pavones
Pavones is a small Costa Rican town situated on the Southern Pacific Coast. The whole village depends on its surf community, but there are also tons of birds, which attracts some birdwatchers. While most of the residents are Costa Rican, many international expats have voyaged to Pavones and call it their home.
Because of the amount of international culture in Pavones, there is certainly a very cosmopolitan vibe to the place, which makes it more hospitable for foreigners. Even though Pavones is very small and remote, it has a variety of restaurants and hotels, so you can always find a place to stay. There is also a small Supermarket with all the necessities you will need.
As for the surf in Pavones, it is the best you can get. Surfing in Pavones is one of the best gifts you can give yourself as a surfer. In fact, it is very likely to be one of the highlights of your surf trip to Costa Rica. Here, you will find a peaceful and magical town and, more importantly, one of the best waves you will ever witness. Pavones offers surfers a perfectly long left-hand point break and an unforgettable surfing experience. Actually, it is the second longest left wave in the whole world, after Chicama in Peru. Therefore, it is a true surf paradise, especially for goofy footers. So, if you haven’t gone so far, you must surf in Pavones at least once in your life.
Pavones Point Break- Pure Perfection
The main break in Pavones is definitely a world-class type. It is consistent about 150 days a year and is, without a doubt, the longest wave in the country. The only problem about surfing in Pavones is that it requires a big southern swell to perform well, otherwise it is flat. Therefore, the best time to surf in Pavones is during the wet season, between May and October. The beach in Pavones is sandy but full of rocks and big boulders, so you need to be careful with your feet when entering and exiting the water. When the right swell hits Pavones, the wave goes on continually. In fact, an average wave-length in Pavones is about 400-900 meters, which is plenty of time to think what you want to do next on the wave, and match your speed to the breaking sections. If you do it right, you will score the whole length. Unfortunately, your legs will hurt, but believe me, you will have a big smile on your face.
One other tiny hidden secret about Pavones is that you can also move south and surf a spot called Punta Banco. Unlike Pavones, there you will be able to surf both lefts and rights (not as long, though). In addition, Punta Banco is much less crowded than Pavones, which is a big plus. For that reason, it can be ideal for surfers who don’t want to deal with a crowded lineup, and in general, it’s always good to have other options.
Surf Seasons in Pavones
The best time to surf in Pavones is between May and October in the wet season. The swell is consistent during these months, and the winds are light offshore. July and August usually get the biggest swells, so if you are looking for a decent size, try to get here as close as possible to these months.
During the dry season, in contrast, Pavones is usually flat. However, once in a while, a good swell can be hit by surprise. Remember, Pavones requires a big swell to reveal its magic. Therefore, you better check the forecast before you go to ensure you score it at its best.
Surf Camps in Pavones
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world, a surf camp in Pavones might be the best solution for you. Taking surf lessons in a supportive environment is a great way to explore the magic of the waves. So, these are the most recommended surf camps in Pavones:
1. Mokum Surf Club– The camp takes its guests to different spots in the nearby area with their English-speaking surf guides.
2. Surf with Amigas– This camp is for women only, with the intention of empowering girl spirit through the love of surfing.
For more details about surf camps in Pavones, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Pavones
When coming to surf in Pavones, you obviously want to stay as close as possible to the main point. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Pavones Point– With an outdoor pool and beautiful sea views, Pavones Point is a great location, and it offers clean rooms, free WiFi, and a terrace.
2. Caza Olas– This property is situated only 3 minutes’ walk from the beach. It also offers a beachfront view, free WiFi, and private parking.
3. Hotel Swell Pavones– Hotel Swell Pavones features a garden and a terrace. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a shared kitchen, and free WiFi throughout the property.
For more surf hotels in Pavones, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Can Beginners Surf in Pavones?
Generally, the main break at Pavones is considered an intermediate surf spot. Since it is a point break and the rides are long, surfers can choose whether to catch the waves where they start or let them fade away and catch them along the way when they are less powerful.
For complete beginners, though, it might be too challenging due to the rocky bottom. But remember, Punta Banco, just nearby, offers beginner-friendly waves over a sandy bottom. Therefore, surfers of all levels can surf in Pavones.
How to get to Pavones?
Since Pavones is located on the South Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, getting there is quite a journey. It will take you about 8 or 9 hours by car from San Jose unless you are taking a bus, and then the trip can take up to 16 hours because of the number of bus transfers you will need to make. On your way to surf in Pavones, a smart thing to do is to stop for a few days in Dominical, a super cool surf town on the way. Compared to other surf spots in Costa Rica, Pavones is hard to reach, but it is so good that it is simply worth it.
Pavones- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Currency– Costa Rican Colon.
Electricity– 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US
Population– about 2,500 people, both locals and foreigners, live in the Pavones area.
Calling code– +506.
Time zone– GMT -6.
Pros– extremely long waves, chill atmosphere, warm water, 100% safe.
Cons– Work only when there is a big south swell, sometimes crowded, remote village, nothing to do outside the water.
Conclusion- Final Thought
Pavones is a true surf paradise. With incredibly long waves and perfect conditions, surfing in Pavones is a once in a lifetime experience. Therefore, it should definitely be on any surfer’s travel list.
After surfing in Pavones, you can cross the southern border to Panama, and surf in Santa Catalina and Playa Venao.
