Grab your surfboard and head for Jaco Beach, Costa Rica, one of the country’s most popular surfing spots.

There are several surf camps and independent instructors, as well as “surf and Spanish language” schools, in Jaco, Manuel Antonio and Guanacaste.

The consistent wave action along the main stretch of beach is one reason Jaco is such a good place to learn surfing.

Mellow waves are good for short or long surfboards, and there are no rocks.

This area features beach breaks that land on a sand bar) Near the river mouth, they tend to break bigger and faster

Playa Hermosa Surf Action

A short distance south of Jaco is Playa Hermosa, where you can step up to more challenging surfing. Hermosa has powerful, hollow waves. These barreling waves are not for beginners. Also, there are more powerful rip currents here than in front of the main beach.

At the Esto Rios south of Hermosa, you will discover a far less crowded beach with waves that are like those of Jaco, but a bit more powerful. This is near a beach place called the Back Yard, one of many hangouts in the area

Where to Stay and Party

There are plenty of cheap places to stay, such as Cabinas Gaby, on the north end and a few minutes walk from the beach. Also some high end resorts and a Best Western hotel. Some surfers rave about a hotel called Olas, which means waves.

The main drag in town is crammed with places where surfers party into the night. Food ranges from cheap to pricey, with a wide variety of places to eat.