An Introduction To Puerto Viejo Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 09, 2025
Puerto Viejo surf is essentially heaven on Costa Rica Caribbean coastline, world-class surf breaks, relaxed tropical vibe, and effortless accessibility to some of the most iconic surf spots in the vicinity. Set in lush rainforest and colorful beaches, the inviting vibe of this town accommodates surfers from all levels of experience with a rich culture of Afro-Caribbean heritage.
Just five minutes on foot or a bike ride from the town center, Salsa Brava rises above the rest for being the most famous and powerful wave in the area. With its steep drop-offs and hollow barrels, this break tests the mettle of even the most experienced shredders and attracts adrenaline seekers from all corners of the globe.
If you’re a beginner just starting out or an intermediate looking to improve your skills, down the road from Salsa Brava are the much milder waves of Playa Cocles, which are perfect for beginners and intermediates alike, with a sandy bottom ensuring a safe and fun ride.
The Puerto Viejo surf scene makes everything quite easy and accessible. With a ton of bike rentals and an efficient public transportation network, the coastline is easy to navigate, and surfers can explore nearby beaches like Playa Negra and Punta Uva without the hassle of needing a car.
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Video by Alejandro Faba, originally published on YouTube.
In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Puerto Viejo
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Peak Puerto Viejo Surf Season | December to April
Suited For All Skill Levels
Puerto Viejo surf peaks from December through April, with clean, consistent waves rolling in across the Caribbean coast. This time of year offers rideable, mellow swells perfect for both learning & progression. Puerto Viejo surf during the peak season stands out for its smooth rides & laid-back atmosphere, drawing surfers who value flow & style.
Whether you’re linking graceful turns or just starting out, the welcoming conditions of Puerto Viejo surf create a tropical paradise for wave riders. Add in warm water & picturesque scenery, & it’s easy to fall in love with the surf here.
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Shoulder Puerto Viejo Surf Season | May & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
In May & November, Puerto Viejo surf shifts into a gentler rhythm. While the swells aren’t as powerful, the waves remain well-formed & accessible, making it a fantastic time for learning or refining skills. Puerto Viejo surf during the shoulder season caters to surfers seeking fewer crowds & more relaxed sessions.
The atmosphere is peaceful, the wind is variable, & the ocean is still welcoming. Whether you’re on a shortboard or longboard, Puerto Viejo surf in these transitional months offers a great balance of fun & comfort.
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Low Puerto Viejo Surf Season | June to October
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
From June through October, Puerto Viejo surf enters its low season, marked by smaller swells & softer wave energy. These gentle conditions are ideal for beginners or anyone looking to enjoy a calm & steady surf session. Puerto Viejo surf during the low season is all about ease, easy paddles, long rides, & a mellow lineup.
Even in the rainy season, the waves stay consistent enough to practice your pop-up or cruise down the line. For a chilled-out experience focused on flow & fun, Puerto Viejo surf in these months is the perfect fit.
Puerto Viejo Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Puerto Viejo Surf Temperature:
27–28°C (81–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini paired with a rash guard are recommended to take advantage of the tropical warmth & protect against the sun during longer sessions.
Rainfall:
Being on the Caribbean coast, expect regular showers with around 10–14 rainy days per month, creating playful, gentle waves in a humid environment.
Puerto Viejo Surf Temperature:
27–28°C (81–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshort/bikini remain ideal. Adding a rash vest is a smart option for extra protection under the stronger Caribbean sun during this active season.
Rainfall:
Heavy rainfall is common, with roughly 12–16 rainy days per month, which often brings a mix of solid swell & variable wind conditions.
Puerto Viejo Surf Temperature:
27–28°C (81–82°F)
What To Wear:
A light rash guard with boardshorts/bikini is sufficient, as the water retains its tropical warmth even during the cooler months.
Rainfall:
Rainfall lessens somewhat, with about 7–10 rainy days per month, resulting in relatively calmer surf & more consistent conditions.
Puerto Viejo Surf Temperature:
28–29°C (82–84°F)
What To Wear:
Maintain the use of boardshorts/bikini, with a rash vest if needed for extended sessions in the sun.
Rainfall:
Rainfall moderates to around 8–12 rainy days per month. Conditions remain consistent, offering a blend of playful waves with intermittent showers.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Puerto Viejo
| Puerto Viejo Surf Spots | Distance from Puerto Viejo | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Salsa Brava |
In town centre |
4-8+ foot |
Heavy reef break |
Advanced only (sharp reef) |
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Playa Cocles |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Playa Negra |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) north |
1-4 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence |
Further Information To Puerto Viejo Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: West
- Swell Direction: East
- Crowd Factor: High
Salsa Brava stands as the crown jewel of Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean surf scene, delivering some of the most powerful & challenging waves along the coast. Best surfed at mid tide when a steady east swell combines with light westerly winds, this break produces fast, hollow barrels over a rocky reef.
The wave’s aggressive takeoff & rapid, peeling sections demand precision & strong technique, making it a destination strictly for advanced surfers. Its high‑performance nature attracts a competitive lineup, especially during prime swell periods, & the break’s intensity creates an adrenaline‑pumping experience that few other spots can match.
Beyond the thrill of the ride, the lush tropical surroundings & vibrant local surf culture further elevate the allure of Salsa Brava, ensuring every session is as challenging as it is unforgettable.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: West & southwest
- Swell Direction: East & northeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa Cocles is a beloved staple in Puerto Viejo’s surf lineup, offering a long, peeling beach break that caters to a wide range of skill levels. At mid tide, a consistent east‑northeast swell paired with light west winds creates smooth, rolling waves over a soft, sandy bottom.
This forgiving break is ideal for beginners & intermediate surfers who enjoy extended rides & a relaxed pace to refine their technique. Although its reliability draws a high crowd during peak seasons, the expansive shoreline typically provides ample space to find a quality takeoff.
The friendly, laid‑back atmosphere combined with a strong local surf culture makes Playa Cocles not only a great learning spot but also a vibrant community hub where every surf session feels welcoming & invigorating.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: West
- Swell Direction: East & southeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa Negra distinguishes itself with its dramatic dark volcanic sand & a more dynamic wave profile, offering a robust challenge for intermediate to advanced surfers. Best experienced at mid tide, a well‑aligned east‑southeast swell combined with light west winds produces fast, reactive waves that break over a mixed sandy & rocky bottom.
The break features a steeper takeoff & occasionally hollow sections, rewarding confident maneuvers with exhilarating rides. While its intensity draws a moderate crowd, the unique character & consistent quality of the wave make Playa Negra a favorite among those looking to elevate their surfing skills.
The striking contrast between the dark sand & the vivid Caribbean blue creates a memorable setting, ensuring that every session here is both challenging & visually stunning.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Puerto Viejo Surf Spots
| Puerto Viejo Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Salsa Brava |
5 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Playa Cocles |
Approx. 15-20 min. |
5-10 min. |
5-10 min.
(Local bus)
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Playa Negra |
Approx. 25 min. |
10 min. |
10-15 min.
(Local bus)
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Accommodation In Puerto Viejo
Trip.com is one stop for accommodation for your surf trip to Costa Rica. With an extensive collection of places near the beach, you can pick the one that suits your style and budget. Being able to book your stay in advance is reassuring so you can focus on how much surfing you’ll be doing once you get there!
For surfers wanting a bit more of an experience in Costa Rica, Tripaneer organizes surf camps offering expert teaching, comfortable accommodation, and a friendly atmosphere. They offer a full surf lifestyle experience to develop your skills and immerse you in the amazing Puerto Viejo surf scene.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€12 to €30 |
$15 to $35 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€35 to €90 |
$40 to $100 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€110 to €300+ |
$120 to $320+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Puerto Viejo Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Puerto Viejo surf schools offer a mix of expert instruction and laid-back Caribbean vibes, making it an ideal place to learn or improve your surf skills. Puerto Viejo Surf and Tours delivers expert instruction with both group and private lessons, tailoring each session to help you progress confidently in the water.
Surf The Jungle stands out for its personalized coaching, providing a high-quality learning experience in this idyllic setting. Another great option is Lewis Brother Surf, known for its friendly instructors and skill-focused approach, making it a favorite among both beginners and those refining their technique.
With a welcoming atmosphere and a range of tailored lessons, Puerto Viejo surf schools make it easy to progress in the water while soaking up the town’s relaxed charm.
Puerto Viejo Surf Camp
For a fully immersive surf retreat, Surf The Jungle’s surf camp is an exceptional choice. Their multi-day packages combine professional surf instruction with comfortable accommodations, fostering a sense of community among surfers.
If you’re heading to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, don’t miss the Tamarindo surf camp experience at La Botella de Leche. This relaxed, social spot offers cozy accommodation and easy access to Tamarindo’s consistent waves, perfect for surfers of all levels. More information about the camp, can be found on our Tamarindo surf page.
Additionally on the Pacific coast, Jaco is home to a wide range of excellent surf camps, and you can find more details on our dedicated Jaco surf page.
Puerto Viejo Surfboard Hire
Puerto Viejo surfboard hire options provide everything you need to catch waves without the hassle of bringing your own gear.
Puerto Viejo Surf and Tours provides a variety of boards for hire, located near some of the best local breaks. Surf The Jungle also offers a range of well-maintained surfboards, ensuring you have everything you need to explore the area’s famous surf spots with ease.
No matter your style or skill level, Puerto Viejo surfboard hire makes it simple to stay wave-ready while exploring the area’s vibrant surf scene.
Puerto Viejo Surf Report & Surf Cam
Knowing Costa Rica surf conditions can make even a good day great. Surf-Forecast has swell and tide details, while Surfline offers real-time views of the breaks via paid live cams. These resources are essential for planning your surf sessions.
Staying connected on your trip is with a Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, active the moment you land. No need to bother with local SIM cards, and searching for unreliable Wi-Fi. With Drimsim and Yesim, surf conditions and Puerto Viejo surf moments can be checked and shared anywhere without a hassle.
How To Get To Puerto Viejo Surf
- Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) To Puerto Viejo
Distance: 215km (133mi)
To reach Puerto Viejo surf, the most convenient route is to fly into San Jose Airport (SJO) and then take a local bus to your destination.
Below is a quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Puerto Viejo based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 5-6 hrs.
Details:
There is no direct bus from the airport to Puerto Viejo surf, so you must first take a taxi or ride-share ($5–$15 USD) to the Atlántico Norte Terminal in downtown San José. From there, MEPE buses run several times daily to Puerto Viejo, taking approximately 4.5–5.5 hours depending on traffic.
These buses are comfortable & affordable, with space for luggage, but they may stop in Limón before continuing to Puerto Viejo. It’s advisable to check schedules in advance & arrive early, as buses can fill up quickly. While this is the most budget-friendly option, it requires an extra transfer & a long ride.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 4.5-6 hrs.
Details:
Shuttle companies such as Interbus, Caribe Shuttle, & Easy Ride offer shared & private transfers from Juan Santamaría International Airport to Puerto Viejo surf. Shared shuttles run on fixed schedules & may include stops in Limón or along the coast, slightly increasing travel time.
Pre-book a shuttle ride through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have your transport waiting upon arrival. This option lets you skip the lines & get from the airport to the beach quickly & comfortably, perfect for tired travelers.
Costa Rica Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
With its warm waters and beautiful beaches, surfing in Costa Rica can be a magnificent experience, but it does come with a bit of preparation. Bring along some Costa Rican Colones, especially for the smaller towns. The main language spoken here is Spanish, although a bit of English goes a long way in the surf regions.
Our Costa Rica surf page takes you through the 7 basics, including visa requirements, emergency contacts, and health advice so your trip can remain hassle-free.
Travel Insurance For Your Jaco Surf Trip
Although you might have everything planned and sorted for that great trip, a lot many things might go wrong even before you step into the water or get into a surf adventure. Sudden cancellations due to unprecedented reasons, injuries, lost boards, all these can take the finesse out of your loving Costa Rica surf trip.
VisitorsCoverage gives you insurance options to ensure you stick to your plans before you board until you touch down. Your trip is safe and sound by amazing protection, so go ahead and enjoy it without actually worrying about what might go wrong.
Discover Puerto Viejo: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Puerto Viejo, there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Below are 4 recommended activities to make the most of your time.