With year-round swell, warm Pacific waters, and a laid-back but elevated vibe, surfing Santa Teresa attracts surfers of all levels, from first-time riders to seasoned pros.
If you’re staying at Fermata Hotel, you’ll be perfectly positioned to tap into the area’s surf culture. And with expert instructors from Chorotegas Surf School on hand, you’re in good company whether you’re surfing Santa Teresa just learning to pop up for the first time, working on your turns and carving, or dialing in your style through video analysis. We also run surf trips to nearby breaks like Playa Manzanillo, Cabuya, and more, so you can experience the full range of what the region has to offer.
With miles of coastline and diverse breaks, surfing Santa Teresa means having access to waves that suit every style and skill level. Here are five of the best-known surf spots in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica:
1. La Lora, Playa Santa Teresa
This central beach is the heart of the surf scene, and steps away from Fermata Hotel. Known for its powerful beach breaks, it’s best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Expect clean rights and lefts, fast sections, and consistent swells. Conditions are typically best at low to mid tide. On good days, this beach delivers long rides and plenty of opportunity to sharpen your technique.
2. Playa Carmen
Located just south of Playa Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen is a popular choice for those starting out. It’s a sandy-bottom beach break with long, rolling waves and forgiving whitewater — perfect for practicing takeoffs, turns, and building confidence. Both lefts and rights break here, and the area tends to be more mellow than its neighbors.
3. Playa Hermosa
Just north of town, Playa Hermosa is known for its wide, open beach, uncrowded lineup, and consistently fun waves. It’s ideal for both beginners and intermediates, with soft, rolling peaks and room to spread out. The backdrop here is pure magic. Tropical jungle spills right onto the sand, making it one of the most scenic surf spots in the area.
4. Malpaís
Malpaís sits on the southern edge of the Santa Teresa region and is best known for its point breaks and reef setups. This spot offers more technical surfing with faster, hollower waves and steeper takeoffs, especially during bigger swells. It’s not recommended for beginners, but experienced surfers will appreciate the variety and challenge. The reef bottom requires caution, but the rewards are worth it.
5. Suck Rock (Rocamar)
One of the most talked-about breaks in Santa Teresa, Suck Rock is located near the northern end of Playa Santa Teresa. It’s a fast, powerful right-hand point break that works best on a solid swell and at high tide. Known for steep drops and fast barrels, this spot is best left to advanced surfers who are confident in heavy conditions.
Whether you’re easing into your first surf session or chasing your next challenge, surfing Santa Teresa offers something for everyone. And with Chorotegas Surf School guiding you—beginner lessons, intermediate coaching, video feedback, and surf trips—you’ll make the most of every wave.
Ready to surf, unwind, and explore? Contact us to book your stay at Fermata Hotel and we’ll take care of the rest.
