Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Best Surf Schools in Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa sits on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula and has earned a reputation as one of the most beautiful surf towns in Central America. The town…
Why surf in Santa Teresa?
The waves in Santa Teresa are consistently more powerful than Tamarindo or Nosara, making it better suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. That said, several beaches within a short distance offer mellow conditions for beginners. The scenery is dramatic, the community is welcoming, and the surf culture here runs deep.
Is Santa Teresa right for you?
Great for
- •Intermediate surfers
- •Advanced surfers
- •Solo travelers
- •Surf progression trips
Not ideal for
- •First-time surfers (main break is fast)
- •Families with very young children
- •Budget travelers (premium pricing)
Santa Teresa is for surfers ready to commit. The waves are powerful, the vibe is international-bohemian, and the surf culture here is deeper than anywhere else on the peninsula. If you've already learned the basics and want to push your surfing in a genuinely beautiful setting, this is it. Several calmer spots exist nearby for beginners, but the town's identity is built around more serious surf.
Surf schools in Santa Teresa
2 schools listed · how listings work
Kina Surf School
ListedDel Soul Surf School
ListedBook surf lessons in Santa Teresa
9 experiences bookable via our partner Viator
Things to do in Santa Teresa besides surfing
Rest-day ideas and afternoon plans - bookable through our partner Viator.
Montezuma waterfalls trip
NatureCross the hill to Montezuma's three-tier waterfalls and swimming holes - the peninsula's best-known freshwater swim.
Find this on ViatorCabo Blanco nature reserve
NatureCosta Rica's oldest protected area sits at the peninsula's wild tip - a jungle hike ending on an empty white-sand beach.
Find this on ViatorATV & dirt-road exploring
AdventureThe coast road south of town turns to dirt fast. ATVs are how locals and visitors alike reach the quieter coves.
Find this on ViatorYoga & wellness
WellnessSanta Teresa's studio scene rivals Nosara's - sunset classes with Pacific views are a daily ritual here.
Find this on ViatorIsla Tortuga snorkeling
On the waterBoat trips round the peninsula's tip to Isla Tortuga's clear, calm water - snorkeling, beach time, and a very good lunch.
Find this on ViatorInshore fishing
On the waterLocal pangas run inshore fishing trips from Mal País - roosterfish and snapper, often with your catch cooked that night.
Find this on ViatorExplore more surf destinations
Near Santa Teresa
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Frequently asked questions
The main break in Santa Teresa is fast and powerful, making it better suited for intermediate surfers. However, there are calmer spots nearby (like Playa Carmen) where beginners can learn safely. Ask your surf school about appropriate spots for your level.
Guide last reviewed July 2026. Spotted something out of date? Let us know.
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Quick facts
- Country
- Costa Rica
- Region
- Nicoya Peninsula
- Vibe
- Bohemian surf village
- Best season
- April - October
- Water temp
- 80°F / 27°C
- Wave type
- Beach break, powerful and fast
- Price level
- Premium ($$$)