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An Introduction To Santa Teresa Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | January 12, 2026
Santa Teresa, easily my favourite surf spot. The town stretches along Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, with palm trees hiding surf camps and hotels just a short stroll from the sand.
Playa Santa Teresa is the main beach, with waves that has peaks for days that roll in throughout the warm day. On smaller days, it’s perfect for learners, with soft whitewater and calmer sections to practice turns.
Head a bit north to Playa Hermosa for a quieter lineup. The beach is wide and mellow, making it ideal for beginners, though there’s a hidden right-hand point by the rocks for more confident surfers.
Further south, Playa Carmen offer punchier waves with reefs and rocks shaping fast, hollow rides. These breaks reward good timing and board control, giving intermediate surfers a challenge with plenty of thrill.
With all these spots so close together, Santa Teresa surf makes it easy to chase waves, relax in town, and soak up the local pura vida lifestyle.
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Santa Teresa
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Peak Santa Teresa Surf Season | November to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Santa Teresa’s main surf season runs from May through October. During these months, Pacific swells bring consistent waves across Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen. Point breaks, reef breaks, and peaky beach waves offer lots of variety, with longer rides for more experienced surfers.
The swell during this period works best on west and southwest swells, and mornings often bring calm offshore winds, perfect for clean lines and fast rides. Intermediate and advanced surfers will find challenging sets and hollow waves that reward good timing and board control.
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Shoulder Santa Teresa Surf Season | April, May & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
April and November see slightly smaller swells, giving surfers a mix of rideable waves without the intensity of peak months. Playa Hermosa is a quieter option, ideal for beginners, while Santa Teresa and Mal Pais provide playful sets for intermediates.
This season offers warm water, fewer crowds, and plenty of opportunity to practice turns or explore different breaks along the coastline. It’s great for learners and those easing into longer rides.
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Low Santa Teresa Surf Season | June to September
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
During the low season, waves are gentler and smaller, perfect for learning and building confidence. Playa Hermosa is particularly beginner-friendly, with soft, forgiving beach breaks, while secondary swells offer safe options when the main waves are bigger.
The quieter months also mean more space in the water, calmer lineups, and a relaxed setting to enjoy surfing while taking in the tropical scenery and local culture.
Santa Teresa Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Santa Teresa Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–81°F)
What To Wear:
Swimwear only or a thin rash guard for sun protection.
Rainfall:
Dry and sunny, about 2 to 5 rainy days per month.
Santa Teresa Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–81°F)
What To Wear:
Swimwear, rash guard optional for sun and heat protection.
Rainfall:
Low in March, rising through April and May, around 4 to 10 rainy days per month.
Santa Teresa Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–81°F)
What To Wear:
Swimwear with a light rash guard for sun and light rain. Water stays warm.
Rainfall:
Regular afternoon showers, around 12 to 18 rainy days per month.
Santa Teresa Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–81°F)
What To Wear:
Swimwear and a rash guard, plus quick dry clothing for land.
Rainfall:
Very wet, often 18 to 25 rainy days per month, September and October are the wettest.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Santa Teresa
| Santa Teresa Surf Spots | Distance from Santa Teresa | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Playa Santa Teresa |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Peaky beach break, fast and playful |
All levels |
|
Playa Hermosa |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north |
1-4 foot |
Wide, mellow beach break, perfect for learning |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Playa Carmen / Mal Pais |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) south |
3-10 foot |
Powerful reef break, can be hollow |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Santa Teresa Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West-southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa Santa Teresa is the heart of surfing in the area, stretching along the main town road with palm trees and surf camps just steps away. The beach has peaky, rolling waves that pull power from west and southwest swells.
Smaller days offer soft, crumbly whitewater for beginners, while larger days produce hollow, punchy sections that intermediate surfers can enjoy. Low tide is particularly fun, forming faster, more hollow peaks that allow for longer rides and carving turns.
The lineup is rarely overcrowded, and with multiple takeoff points, everyone has space to catch waves. Surf schools run regular lessons here, and local vendors sell snacks and drinks, making it easy to spend a full day on the beach.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest or westerly
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa Hermosa sits just north of Santa Teresa and is a quieter alternative when the main beach gets busy. The beach is wide and flat, which softens the waves and produces a gentle primary break perfect for beginners.
On smaller swells, the waves are mellow and forgiving, making it an ideal practice spot for popping up, turning, and building confidence. A secondary right-hand point near the northern end can produce faster, more challenging waves when the swell is strong.
The lineup is relaxed, so learners can take their time without feeling rushed. Hermosa is also scenic, with coconut trees lining the shore and a few surf schools nearby for easy access.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West or southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa Carmen in Mal Pais is the spot for more experienced surfers looking for exciting reef and rock breaks. The waves are faster, more hollow, and more powerful than those to the north, giving longer rides along the rocky headland.
Takeoffs can be tricky, so it rewards surfers who are confident with timing and positioning. Left and right options are both possible depending on the swell, and the waves rarely close out, providing consistent rides.
It’s not a beginner-friendly beach, but intermediates can challenge themselves here when the conditions are right. With fewer crowds and stunning coastal scenery, Playa Carmen is perfect for surfers looking for a more adventurous, uncrowded experience.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Santa Teresa Surf Spots
| Santa Teresa Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Playa Santa Teresa |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa Hermosa |
Approx. 15-20 min. |
10 min. |
5 min. (Local bus or Taxi) |
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Playa Carmen / Mal Pais |
Approx. 30-35 min. |
15-20 min. |
5 min. (Local bus or Taxi) |
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Accommodation In Santa Teresa
Staying in Santa Teresa is simple with Trip.com. They offer a wide selection near Playa Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Carmen, suitable for solo travelers, groups, or couples.
For a surf-centered trip, Tripaneer organizes Costa Rica surf camps with lessons, coaching, surf gear, and social activities. These camps are great for sharpening skills, meeting other surfers, and enjoying the Santa Teresa surf culture.
If Santa Teresa isn’t quite your style, other top Costa Rican surf towns include Jaco with long beach breaks and a lively town, Puerto Viejo with mellow Caribbean waves and jungle vibes, and Tamarindo with consistent surf and a busy expat scene.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€20 to €40 |
$22 to $45 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€50 to €120 |
$55 to $130 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€150 to €300+ |
$160 to $320+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Santa Teresa Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Santa Teresa surf schools provide high quality coaching for surfers at every stage, from complete beginners to confident intermediate riders.
Mahalo Surf Club is known for its calm teaching style and strong focus on fundamentals, helping new surfers feel safe and confident in the water.
Tiqui Surf Academy offers a more performance focused approach, with structured sessions designed to improve technique, positioning, and wave reading.
The Girl and the Sea brings a welcoming, inclusive feel to surf coaching, with a strong emphasis on comfort, confidence, and enjoyment. It is especially popular with solo travelers and those looking for a friendly, social learning environment.
With these options available, Santa Teresa surf schools make it easy to learn, progress, and enjoy the laid-back surf culture of Costa Rica.
Santa Teresa Surf Camp
6 Day Santa Teresa Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Surf Camp Zeneidas
This 6-day surf and yoga retreat with Surf Camp Zeneidas in Santa Teresa mixes warm water surfing, daily movement, and relaxed beach living on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Designed for beginners, intermediates, and confident surfers, the program includes four guided surf sessions with certified local coaches plus free use of boards during lessons.
Daily yoga styles like Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Tantra support balance, strength, and recovery.
Guests stay at Surf Camp Zeneidas in calm beachfront homes set inside lush tropical gardens. Rooms are private and comfortable with air conditioning, Wi Fi, and modern bathrooms.
Shared spaces include hammocks, chill zones, a yoga deck, and a fire pit for relaxed evenings together. Breakfasts, dinners, and fresh fruit snacks are included, with meals served at nearby local restaurants.
This retreat suits solo travelers, couples, and friends who want an easy, social, and well balanced surf holiday. Find Out More
More Surf Camp Reads In Costa Rica
If you want to find more surf camp options, check out our 4 Cheap Santa Teresa Surf Camp options, and browse the surf camps on a budget.
Curious about what a surf camp actually is or if it’s worth the trip? Learn everything you need to know in our What Is A Surf Camp and Is A Surf Camp Worth It blog posts, where we break down the experience, costs, and benefits for surfers of all levels.
Santa Teresa Surfboard Hire
Santa Teresa surfboard hire is simple and convenient, with several good options located close to the main surf beaches.
Mahalo Surf Club offers a reliable selection of soft tops and fiberglass boards, making it a great choice for beginners.
Tiqui Surf Academy also rents a solid mix of boards, from easy learning shapes to more performance-oriented options, and their staff are helpful when it comes to picking the right board for the day’s swell.
With these rental spots nearby, it’s easy to travel light and still enjoy great sessions in Santa Teresa.
Santa Teresa Surf Report & Surf Cam
Keeping track of Santa Teresa surf is easy with a few simple tools. Surfline offers live cams and daily forecasts for Santa Teresa Beach, Playa Carmen, and Hermosa, helping you time your sessions around tides and swell. Surf-Forecast is also useful for a quick look at upcoming conditions.
For staying online, an eSIM from Drimsim eSIM or Yesim eSIM makes life easier. You can activate it before you arrive and skip the hassle of buying or swapping physical SIM cards.
How To Get To Santa Teresa Surf
- Juan Santamaría International Airport (San José Airport) (SJO) To Santa Teresa
Distance: 180km (112mi)
To reach Santa Teresa surf, the usual route is to fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José and then travel southwest to the Nicoya Peninsula.
Below is a guide with estimated times and transport options to help you choose the best way to get to Santa Teresa surf based on comfort and travel time.
Public Transport
Approx. 5-6 hrs.
Details:
From San José Airport, take a taxi or bus into central San José. From there, board a long-distance bus to Cobano, followed by a local bus or short taxi ride to Santa Teresa surf.
Buses run daily and are affordable, though transfers and waiting times can extend the journey, so checking schedules in advance is advised.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.
Details:
Shared and private shuttles operate daily between San José Airport and Santa Teresa surf. Shared shuttles make several hotel stops, while private transfers offer a more direct ride.
Booking a shuttle early through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups ensures a smoother arrival and avoids complicated travel connections after landing.
Costa Rica Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
If Santa Teresa and Costa Rica is the place for you, it’s smart to get your travel details sorted. Make sure your visa requirements are covered and have some colones or dollars on hand for small purchases. Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for local markets, taxis, and small cafes.
For advice on safety, drinking water, healthcare, emergencies, and other practical tips, our Costa Rica surf page has everything you need to make your trip smooth and stress-free.
Travel Insurance For Your Santa Teresa Surf Trip
Surf injuries or illness can easily affect your Santa Teresa plans, causing stress and extra expenses. VisitorsCoverage offers travel insurance that protects against medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellations, and loss or damage to surf gear.
The right coverage ensures your Costa Rica surf trip stays safe and fun, so you can enjoy Playa Santa Teresa, Playa Hermosa, and Playa Carmen without worry.
Discover Santa Teresa: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
Even when the surf isn’t pumping, Costa Rica has plenty to explore. Here are some highlights:
If you’re up to do some more exploring, check out GetYourGuide Costa Rica for some great day trip options and really take in the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Keep Exploring With More Costa Rica Surf Destinations
Written by Matt
Surfer for nearly 20 years and an environmental scientist for nine, Matt grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Australia and now calls Melbourne home. He’s all about finding surf towns you can reach without a car and writes simple surf guides to help you do the same.