Last updated on January 8th, 2024 at 06:26 pm
If you plan to surf in Playa Grande, you came to the right place. In this guide, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer tips, and a complete description of the surf in Playa Grande, Costa Rica.
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About Surfing in Playa Grande, Costa Rica
Playa Grande is a small Authentic town located inside a national forest on the North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The nature and beauty of this area e are incredible. For instance, monkeys hang out regularly on the trees, and the beach is a nesting home for the leatherback sea turtles that come here to lay their eggs. Since the place is so magical, foreigners who come to surf in Playa Grande tend to stay much longer than planned. For some, it is the favorite place on their entire surf trip.
Anyone who surfs in Playa Grande for the first time immediately falls in love with it. Although it is close to the party town Tamarindo, the vibe here is completely chill. You will find a few excellent restaurants (try Bar Seven and Kiki’s), a few shops, and hotels. The accommodations are relatively expensive, so bear that in mind if you want to stay here. The people you will meet here, just like elsewhere in Costa Rica, are very friendly and welcoming.
What Kind of Waves Will You Surf in Playa Grande?
Playa Grande is, without a doubt, one of the best surf spots in Costa Rica. In fact, it is consistent year-round and always bigger and better than its neighbor beach, Tamarindo. The swells that hit Playa Grande turn into a perfectly shaped A-frame break, which opens up equally to the right and left sides and crushes with great power over the sandy bottom. On a good day, you can ride perfect barrels. Although it is powerful, the waves at Playa Grande can suit all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
When surfing in Playa Grande, you can expect a crowded lineup. Locals love this spot, and it is always packed, especially on weekends. However, if you surf Playa Grande in the middle of the week, there are not many surfers in the water, and you can get enough waves for yourself.
Surf Seasons in Playa Grande
Luckily, you can surf in Playa Grande almost 365 days a year. This beach is exposed to all swell directions and produces good waves even when other spots don’t work.
During the wet season, between May and November, the waves can get up to 5-10 feet and sometimes even higher. However, in the dry season, between December and April, it is typically around 3-6 feet, and the conditions are more glassy.
The best time to surf Playa Grande is mid-tide, when the waves break with perfect form. With that in mind, you can also score great barrels at low tide and long rides at high tide. In reality, it all depends on the swell size and the given wind conditions.
Surf Hotels in Playa Grande
When coming to surf in Playa Grande, you want to stay as close as possible to the waves. These are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Playa Grande Surf Camp– Located just steps from Playa Grande beach, Playa Grande Surf Camp offers an outdoor pool, BBQ area, a full shared kitchen, and lounging hammocks.
2. Pipe House Playa Grande– Offering a private beach area and a garden, Pipe House Playa Grande is located on Playa Grande beach and 1.2 km from Marino Las Baulas National Park. Free WiFi is also available throughout the property.
3. Hotel Cantarana– Hotel Cantarana is 50 m from Playa Grande Beach and 20 minutes drive from Tamarindo Local Airport. It features a swimming pool, a sun terrace, and free WiFi.
4. The Grateful Hotel– the Grateful Hotel features a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a garden in Playa Grande. Featuring room service, this property also provides guests with a terrace and lovely garden views.
For more surf hotels in Playa Grande, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Surf Camps in Playa Grande
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore the waves of Playa Grande at a surf camp. With the proper guidance and a supportive atmosphere, a few days in Playa Grande surf camp can do magic to your surfing skills.
The two most recommended surf camps in Playa Grande are Onda Surf Camp and Playa Grande Surf Camp. For more details about surf camps, please click here.
After a few days in one of Playa Grande’s surf camps, you will be surprised how fast you can learn to surf and how fun it is to do it with a group of great people.
Can Beginners Surf in Playa Grande?
Generally, the waves at Playa Grande are suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. Since the break is relatively powerful, surfing in Playa Grande can be too challenging for beginners. That being said, some areas on the beach receive the swell with less power. If you go in a guided group or with a local instructor, you can definitely learn and practice in these safer zones. Since the bottom is sandy, you will be just fine.
How to Get to Playa Grande?
There are several ways to get to Playa Grande. First, you can take a 40-minute drive from Tamarindo (The actual distance is only 1 KM, but the road will take you around the forest). Second, you can walk on the beach 40 minutes from Tamarindo (after crossing the Estuary River by boat). The third way is just to take a 5-minute boat ride from Tamarindo.
Playa Grande- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Currency– Costa Rican Colon.
Electricity– 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US
Population– About 6,000.
Calling code– +506.
Time zone– GMT -6.
Pros– high quality waves, relaxed atmosphere, year-round surf, warm water.
Cons– not much to do outside of the water.
Conclusion- A Final Thought
In summary, Playa Grande is definitely a place to consider for your next surf trip. The town is welcoming, and the waves are incredible, so what else does a surfer need?
We hope you enjoyed reading this surf guide to Playa Grande, Costa Rica. Have a great surf trip!
