Surfing in Uvita, Costa Rica: Surf Camps, Lessons, and Beach Guide
In this guide to Costa Rica, we will be cover Uvita, a beautiful surfing town that has surf camps, lessons, and multiple beaches to surf on. Get a little introduction with this video;
Introduction to Surfing in Uvita
Uvita is a world famous destination for surfers and nature lovers. This town provides a unique mix of calm water and consistent waves. Most people come here because the surf is approachable and the scenery is spectacular. The mountains meet the sea here in a way that creates a peaceful atmosphere for every session.
The breaks in Uvita are ideal for those who want to improve their skills without the intensity found at bigger wave spots. Because many of the waves break over sand, the conditions are very safe. You will often see scarlet macaws and pelicans flying over the lineup. It is a place where you can connect with the ocean and enjoy a true jungle experience.
Best Season to Surf in Uvita
- The Green Season: May to October. This period brings the most consistent swells. The waves are usually clean and offer plenty of power. You can expect sunny mornings with rain typically arriving in the afternoon.
- Beginner Recommendation – Dry Season: December to March. This is the best time for beginners. The waves are smaller and very easy to ride. The weather is sunny every day and the water is very clear.
- General Recommendation – The Transition Months: April and November. These months offer a great balance. You get the benefit of growing swells with plenty of sunshine and the jungle looks very lush.
Surf Spots
Playa Uvita: This is the primary beach inside the national park. It has very gentle waves and a flat sandy bottom. It is perfect for people who are just starting out.
Playa Chaman: A favorite spot for surf schools. It has consistent rolling waves that work well at mid tide. The waves here have a nice momentum that helps beginners stand up easily.
Playa Colonia: This spot is also known as Chaman south. It offers slightly more energy and is great for intermediate surfers who want to practice turns on open faces.
Punta Uvita: This spot is at the Whale Tail. When the swell is large it creates a long right hand point break. It is a very rare and beautiful wave that only appears during specific conditions.
Playa Hermosa: Not to be confused with the Playa Hermosa de Osa not the one near Santa Teresa, but this is the one near Ovita. It is a long strand of beach perfect for beginners to start their starting lessons for surfing.
Dominical: Just up the coast about 30 minutes you find this popular surfing region. To learn more about here I recommend checking out my Surfing in Dominical guide to get the whole extensive overview.
Surf Schools and Lessons
This school is led by experienced local instructors. They focus on safety and making sure every student has a great time. They are experts at reading the tides in the national park to find the best waves for your level.
Surf Camp
Uvita Surf Camp provides a complete experience for travelers. They offer accommodation and daily surf guiding. It is a great way to meet other surfers and explore the different beaches in the area with people who know the coast well.
How to get to Uvita
The drive from San José takes about three and a half hours. The highway is in excellent condition and easy to follow. You can also take a public bus from the Tracopa terminal in the city. Another option is a domestic flight to Quepos which is only forty five minutes away from Uvita by car. A 4×4 vehicle is not required for the main town but it is helpful for reaching the waterfalls in the hills.
General Costs and Considerations
Uvita is an affordable destination with many options for food and lodging. Expect to spend between fifty and ninety dollars a day. Keep in mind that there is a fee to enter the Marino Ballena National Park where the main surf spots are located. Most places in town accept credit cards but having some local cash is always a good idea for small shops.
Travel Advisories
The sun in the southern zone is very strong so make sure to wear plenty of sunblock. Always be aware of the tide when visiting the Whale Tail so you do not get stranded when the water rises. The area is very safe for families and solo travelers. Respect the local wildlife and follow the park rules to help keep the environment pristine.
Other things to do in Uvita
- Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see the humpback whales that visit the bay to raise their calves.
- Uvita Waterfall: Visit this local spot to slide down a natural rock formation into a fresh pool of water.
- Marino Ballena National Park: Walk along the coast to the very end of the Whale Tail at low tide for incredible views.
Conclusion on Uvita
Uvita is a special place that offers a friendly and beautiful introduction to surfing. It is a destination where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica while catching great waves. Whether you are staying at a surf camp or just taking a single lesson the experience will be memorable. It is definitely a trip worth taking.
Uvita: Frequently Asked Questions
Languages Spoken
Spanish is the primary language. English is widely spoken by hotel staff, surf instructors, and guides due to the high volume of international tourism.
Water Temperature & Gear
The water is a tropical 28°C (82°F) year-round.
- Wetsuit: Not needed.
- Gear: A rash guard is essential for sun protection and to prevent board rash during the longer paddles typical of the Whale Tail area.
Currency & Payments
Both US Dollars (USD) and Colones (CRC) are accepted.
- Cards: Widely accepted at restaurants and supermarkets.
- ATMs: Available in the Uvita town center at major banks (BCR and Banco Nacional).
- National Park: Entrance fees for the Marino Ballena National Park (where the best surf is) are often best paid by card or exact cash.
Other Blogs on Costa Rica
I have written exstensively about Costa Rica, if you are interested in learning more about all the spots and towns to surf in, check out my master blog post Surfing in Costa Rica.