Aerial view of Santa Teresa coastline, Costa Rica

Surf Trip Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

PLAN YOUR SURF TRIP

Santa Teresa has everything to offer

Santa Teresa is one of those places where you want to stay a lifetime. A small coastal village of 7km of white sand that lives to the rhythm of the tides, located in the south of the Nicoya Peninsula with tropical trees flowing into the Pacific Ocean.

Perfect conditions for surfers of all levels, combined with incredible nature, great food, and a vibrant community make Santa Teresa one of our favorite destinations.

Surfing at Santa Teresa beach Tropical forest meeting the ocean in Costa Rica Surf coaching session at Santa Teresa Sunset surf at Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa surf trip highlights

Epic Surf Spots

Local knowledge of the best breaks, adapted to your skill level and the conditions.

Amazing Eats

We know the best restaurants and hidden gems in Santa Teresa.

Local Tips & Tricks

Yoga, surf lessons, skate lessons, quad rental, snorkeling, tours, and more.

Tropical Setting

Warm water, jungle-backed beaches, and a relaxed town rhythm on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Surfing in Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa offers consistent beach breaks, warm water, and experienced local instructors for travelers who want to progress while exploring the area.

Good to know

  • Consistent waves for beginner, intermediate, and advanced surfers
  • Warm water and tropical weather through the main surf season
  • Local surf schools and instructors available in town
  • Board rentals and equipment options available locally

Plan ahead

  • Book flights and local transportation early during peak season
  • Travel insurance is strongly recommended
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a reliable rash guard

Main season runs from November to March.

How to get to Santa Teresa

How to get here: Traveling from San José to Santa Teresa in Costa Rica offers several options.

By Car / 4x4

5-6 hours

$20-30 USD ferry + rental/fuel

4x4 recommended due to unpaved roads

By Bus & Ferry

6-7 hours

$15-20 USD

Most economical option, multiple transfers required

Shuttle

5-6 hours

$50-60 USD shared

Airport/area pickup, comfortable and stress-free

Domestic Flight

45 min flight + 45 min road

$80-120 USD + taxi

Fastest option via Sansa Airlines or Aerobell

Taxi / Uber

5-6 hours

$150-300 USD

Includes ferry crossing

Water Taxi (via Jaco)

~4 hours

$40-50 USD water taxi

Weather-dependent, scenic route

Travel information for your Costa Rica surf trip

  • Luckily, all citizens of the world can come and visit Costa Rica
  • Valid passport required
  • Travel insurance required
  • A transportation ticket (plane, bus...) proving that you will leave the territory before your visa expires

Plan your Costa Rica surf trip

Contact us for Santa Teresa surf trip questions, local guidance, and travel recommendations.