Last updated on January 4th, 2024 at 07:33 pm
If you plan to surf in Playa Hermosa, 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, surfer’s tips, and the best surf spots in Playa Hermosa.
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About Surfing in Hermosa, Costa Rica
If you want to surf in Playa Hermosa, you better be an experienced surfer, or at least an intermediate, as this is a pretty aggressive surf spot. However, if you are skilled enough to deal with fast and steep barrels, it can definitely be the highlight of your surf trip.
Hermosa is a small town with epic waves, located on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, about 5 km south of Jaco and a 1.5-hour drive from the capital, San Jose. It became famous for its black sand beaches and powerful waves, which challenge any surfer who feels like testing his limits. The surf in Hermosa Beach is very consistent, probably because it is so well-exposed to any swell direction. Therefore, it is one of the most popular and respected breaks in Costa Rica.
Luckily, you can surf in Playa Hermosa at any season, any tide, and any swell direction. Since Hermosa is the closest high-quality break to San Jose, many locals hang out in the lineup. However, don’t worry; the 8 KM long beach at Hermosa offers multiple picks, so you can always find a wave for yourself.
Note- if you are a novice surfer or a longboarder, the waves in Hermosa might be too much for you. However, you can always go to nearby Playa Jaco, which is more “user-friendly”. Know your limits. However, if you are an advanced surfer looking for a challenge, you will definitely find it here.
Surf Spots in Playa Hermosa
Terrazas:
Located right in front of Terrazas Hotel, this wave breaks next to a few big rocks, which pop out during low tide and offer fast and hollow drops.
The Backyard:
The beauty of this spot is that the waves break very close to shore with massive power. On the one hand, it makes you feel safe being close to land, but on the other, it will smash you down if you hesitate on the takeoff. This spot is very popular, and many local surf competitions take place here.
Almendro (The Tree):
When driving south from Backyard on the main road, you will see a big almond tree and usually a few cars parked next to it. The break in front of it offers several different peaks with much less crowd than the other spots in town.
Tulin Rivermouth:
This is the most southern surf spot in Playa Hermosa and is also known as a great fishing spot. The waves here break in front of the Tusubres River, which gives the water its brown color. Crocodiles??? Mmm… yes, they are here, and they are not from the nice type. Therefore, I advise you to keep a reasonable distance from the river. You will find some great empty waves just a 2-minute walk away.
Surf Seasons in Playa Hermosa
Luckily, you can surf in Playa Hermosa on any given day. This beach is a swell magnet, producing good waves even when all the other spots are flat. During the wet season, between May and November, the waves can get up to 6-12 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. As always, it depends on the swell; we never know exactly what we will get.
Surf Camps in Playa Hermosa
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 Hermosa at a surf camp. With the proper guidance and a supportive atmosphere, a few days in Playa Hermosa surf camp can do magic to your surfing skills.
These are the best surf camps in Playa Hermosa:
1. Vida Asana Surf and Yoga Holiday.
2. Surf Inn Hermosa- Learn to Surf Package.
3. Lua Villas Women’s Surf and Yoga Retreat.
For more details, please check out the page about surf camps in Playa Hermosa.
After a few days in one of Playa Hermosa’s surf camps, you will be surprised how fast you can learn to surf and how fun it is to do it together with a group of great people.
Surf Hotels in Playa Hermosa
When coming to surf in Playa Hermosa, you want to stay as close as possible to the waves. These are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Surf Inn Hermosa– Surf Inn Hermosa is situated right in front of the surf and offers accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, an outdoor swimming pool, and free private parking.
2. Ola Bonita BeachFront Apart Hotel– Offering an outdoor pool and ocean views, Ola Bonita BeachFront Apart Hotel is located right on the beach. Free WiFi access is available, and the property has free parking for the guests.
3. Hermosa Beach House– Located in Playa Hermosa, 2.6 km from Jaco, Hermosa Beach House provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a private beach area. Certain units at the property include a balcony with a pool view.
4. Hotel Sandpiper– Hotel Sandpiper features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a garden, and barbecue facilities. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation offers room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
For more surf hotels in Hermosa, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Can Beginners Surf in Playa Hermosa?
Generally, Playa Hermosa is not a place for beginners. The waves are extremely powerful and require some experience to deal with. That being said, there are spots on the beach that 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 safe areas. But don’t just paddle out on your own if you don’t know what you are doing, as these waves can eat you alive.
Hermosa- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Currency– Costa Rican Colon.
Electricity– 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US
Population– About 1,000.
Calling code– +506.
Time zone– GMT -6.
Pros– Consistent year-round surf, warm water, quiet and peaceful town.
Cons– The water is muddy after it rains, and the waves can be too aggressive.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, surfing in Playa Hermosa can definitely be the highlight of your surf trip to Costa Rica. However, you must have the skills to deal with such powerful waves to enjoy it and stay safe. Otherwise, look for other breaks in the area that are more user-friendly.
Note- “Hermosa” is a common name in Costa Rica, and there are other surf spots with that same name in Santa Teresa and in Dominical, which are more suitable for beginners.
