Costa Rica is a paradise for beginner surfers, with warm waters, consistent waves, and some of the best surf camps in the world. Whether you’re looking to catch your very first wave or refine your skills in a laid-back tropical setting, this guide will help you find the perfect surf camp for your needs. With a strong surf culture, stunning beaches, and year-round swell, Costa Rica is one of the best places to learn how to surf.
What to Look for in a Beginner Surf Camp
Before we dive into the best beginner-friendly surf camps in Costa Rica, here are a few things to consider when choosing the right one:
Beginner-Friendly Waves
The best surf camps are located near gentle, rolling waves that are ideal for beginners. Look for camps with access to sandy-bottom beach breaks rather than reef breaks. These types of waves provide a soft landing and are much easier to ride when you’re starting out.
Experienced Instructors
A good surf camp will have professional, patient instructors who focus on safety and skill progression, ensuring you get the most out of your lessons. One-on-one coaching or small group sizes can make a big difference in helping you improve quickly.
Equipment and Amenities
Many surf camps provide high-quality boards, rash vests, and other gear, plus accommodations and meals to make your experience hassle-free. Some camps also offer yoga, fitness sessions, or even spa treatments to help you recover between surf sessions.
Location & Atmosphere
Are you looking for a quiet retreat or a lively social scene? Some camps cater to digital nomads, while others focus on wellness or adventure. Choose one that fits your vibe! Costa Rica has something for everyone, whether you’re after a relaxed escape or a buzzing surf town.
For more details on surfing in Costa Rica, check out our Complete Guide to Surfing in Costa Rica.
Top 5 Surf Camps in Costa Rica for Beginners
Rapture Surf Camp Costa Rica – Best Overall for Beginners
Location: Playa Avellanas
Price: Around $55 per night, approximately $385 per week
Best For: Beginner-friendly waves and immersive surf experience
Rapture Surf Camp Costa Rica is hands-down the best place to learn to surf in Costa Rica. Located in Playa Avellanas, this camp gives beginners access to some of the most forgiving waves in the country while offering world-class instruction.
What makes Rapture stand out? The small group lessons and personalised coaching help beginners feel confident in the water. Plus, the beachfront accommodation, yoga sessions, and healthy meals create the perfect environment to relax and recharge between surf sessions.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience that combines top-notch surf coaching with an authentic Costa Rican vibe, this is the camp for you.
Book Rapture Surf Camp Costa Rica HERE.
CR Surf School – Best for Personalised Surf Coaching
Location: Tamarindo
Price: Contact for pricing
Best For: Small-group or one-on-one coaching for fast progression
CR Surf School in Tamarindo is an excellent choice for beginner surfers looking for highly personalised coaching. With experienced instructors who tailor lessons to individual skill levels, this surf school ensures that students progress at their own pace in a supportive and fun environment.
Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s best surf towns for beginners, offering consistent waves and a lively atmosphere. CR Surf School provides high-quality boards, flexible lesson packages, and video analysis to help students improve their technique.
Book CR Surf School here: CRSurfSchool.com
La Point Santa Teresa – Best for an All-Inclusive Experience
Location: Santa Teresa
Price: From $650 per week
Best For: A mix of surf, adventure, and social vibes
La Point is a dream spot for beginner surfers who want a stress-free, all-inclusive surf camp experience. Located in Santa Teresa, this camp provides structured lessons for all skill levels, including complete beginners.
The accommodations are stylish, and the property features a pool, a restaurant with healthy meals, and an outdoor lounge space. The surf camp packages include equipment, lessons, and transportation to the best beginner waves nearby.
Book La Point Santa Teresa here: Lapointcamps.com
Surf Synergy, Jaco – Best for Wellness and Surfing
Location: Jaco
Price: From $3950 for 7 nights (all-inclusive)
Best For: Combining surfing with health and wellness
If you're looking for an immersive surf and wellness experience, Surf Synergy in Jaco is an incredible choice. Their all-inclusive package includes surf coaching, yoga, breathing exercises, and even sports massages.
Jaco is home to some of the best beginner waves in Costa Rica, and Surf Synergy provides personalised coaching with video analysis to accelerate your progress.
Book Surf Synergy here: Surfsynergy.com
Kalon Surf Resort, Dominical – Best for Luxury Surf Coaching
Location: Dominical
Price: Varies – Contact for rates
Best For: Personalised, high-end surf coaching
For those looking to learn to surf in style, Kalon Surf Resort in Dominical offers a luxury surf coaching experience. This boutique surf resort provides in-depth surf lessons, gourmet meals, yoga, and a stunning infinity pool to relax in after your sessions.
Dominical is home to some incredible beginner-friendly waves, and the instructors at Kalon ensure that you progress at your own pace in a comfortable, safe environment.
Book Kalon Surf Resort here: Kalonsurf.com
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning your first surf trip to Costa Rica, these camps provide the perfect mix of great coaching, beginner-friendly waves, and an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for a social surf camp, a luxury retreat, or a wellness-focused experience, there’s something for every type of beginner surfer in Costa Rica.
For the best all-around beginner surf experience, we highly recommend Rapture Surf Camp Costa Rica. It offers everything a new surfer needs: top-tier coaching, beautiful accommodations, and access to some of the best beginner waves in the country.
Ready to ride your first wave? Book your spot at Rapture Surf Camp Costa Rica HERE.
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