SURFING HOWLER
COSTA RICA
May 2019
Surf Trek with CHE
SECRET
SPOT
Laird Hamilton
Chooses Costa Rica
Free copy
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CO N T E N T S Costa Rica Surf Trip Cover Story
Surfing Costa Rica
MOON PHASES
May 4 New Moon
1 - Cover photo by Marcel Freitez, Shaka Media 4 - Moon, Sun and Tide Chart 6 - Cover Story: Surf Trek to a Secret Surf Spot 10 - Surf Profile: Brisa Hennessy 12 - Surf Legend: Laird Hamilton - Health & Fitness
DINING GUIDE HOWLER
6 BRISA HENNESSY
May 11 1st Quarter
GoodTimes Great Food
Surf Profile
May 18 howlermag.com/dini
Full Moon
ngguide
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15 Restaurants
10
16 - Playa Grande - Bula Bula 17 - Playa Grande - El Oasis Chill Out and Lodge 17 - Playa Grande - Pots & Bowls 17 - Playa Grande - Rip Jack Inn 17 - Villarreal - Black Stallion 18 - Huacas - New York Pizzeria 18 - Huacas - Soda Guaymy 18 - Huacas - La Playita Restaurante 19 - Tamarindo / Langosta - El Barco 19 - Flamingo - Vaca Loka Italian Restaurant 19 - Flamingo - Marie’s Restaurant 20 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar 20 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: Banana Wind Cafe 20 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe 21 - Brasilito - Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant 22 - Surfside / Potrero - Nasu Restaurant 22 - Surfside / Potrero - The Beach House 23 - Las Catalinas - Sentido Norte
LAIRD HAMILTON Surf Legend
12 4
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May 26
3rd Quarter
SUNRISE May 1 May 31
5:22 am 5:17 am
SUNSET
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May 1 May 31
5:50 pm 5:57 pm
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TIDE CHART
May 01 - May 31, 2019
DAY
HIGH TIDES
LOW TIDES
HIGH TIDES
LOW TIDES
HIGH TIDES
1 Wed
12:20am 7.10'
6:25am 1.56'
12:45pm 7.72'
6:56pm 1.37'
2 Thurs
1:08am 7.45'
7:07am 1.25'
1:25pm 8.16'
7:38pm 0.88'
3 Fri
1:50am 7.81'
7:47am 0.94'
2:05pm 8.58'
8:16pm 0.42'
4 Sat
2:28am 8.14'
8:25am 0.65'
2:41pm 8.94'
8:54pm 0.04'
5 Sun
3:06am 8.39'
9:01am 0.43'
3:17pm 9.20'
9:30pm -0.23'
6 Mon
3:44am 8.55'
9:39am 0.30'
3:55pm 9.33'
10:08pm -0.36'
7 Tues
4:24am 8.61'
10:19am 0.28'
4:35pm 9.32'
10:48pm -0.34'
8 Wed
5:04am 8.56'
11:01am 0.37'
5:17pm 9.16'
11:30pm -0.18'
9 Thurs
5:48am 8.43'
11:45am 0.56'
6:03pm 8.86'
10 Fri
12:16am 0.09'
6:36am 8.25'
12:35pm 0.83'
6:53pm 8.48'
11 Sat
1:08am 0.42'
7:32am 8.07'
1:33pm 1.10'
7:51pm 8.10'
12 Sun
2:06am 0.73'
8:32am 7.98'
2:39pm 1.27'
8:59pm 7.83'
13 Mon
3:10am 0.93'
9:40am 8.06'
3:49pm 1.25'
10:09pm 7.77'
14 Tues
4:16am 0.95'
10:46am 8.33'
4:59pm 0.99'
11:15pm 7.93'
15 Wed
5:22am 0.78'
11:48am 8.74'
6:03pm 0.57'
16 Thurs
12:17am 8.24'
6:22am 0.51'
12:44pm 9.19'
7:01pm 0.11'
17 Fri
1:13am 8.59'
7:16am 0.23'
1:36pm 9.57'
7:53pm -0.29'
18 Sat
2:05am 8.89'
8:06am 0.03'
2:24pm 9.81'
8:39pm -0.55'
19 Sun
2:53am 9.08'
8:52am -0.04'
3:10pm 9.88'
9:25pm -0.63'
20 Mon
3:39am 9.12'
9:38am 0.05'
3:54pm 9.75'
10:09pm -0.54'
21 Tues
4:25am 9.00'
10:22am 0.28'
4:38pm 9.45'
10:51pm -0.29'
22 Wed
5:09am 8.76'
11:06am 0.64'
5:22pm 9.02'
11:35pm 0.08'
23 Thurs
5:55am 8.44'
11:52am 1.07'
6:06pm 8.50'
24 Fri
12:19am 0.53'
6:41am 8.07'
12:38pm 1.52'
6:52pm 7.97'
25 Sat
1:05am 0.99'
7:31am 7.73'
1:30pm 1.91'
7:44pm 7.48'
26 Sun
1:53am 1.42'
8:25am 7.47'
2:24pm 2.20'
8:38pm 7.10'
27 Mon
2:47am 1.76'
9:19am 7.35'
3:24pm 2.31'
9:38pm 6.89'
28 Tues
3:41am 1.95'
10:15am 7.39'
4:24pm 2.22'
10:38pm 6.87'
29 Wed
4:37am 1.99'
11:07am 7.58'
5:20pm 1.95'
11:34pm 7.03'
30 Thurs
5:29am 1.88'
11:55am 7.89'
6:10pm 1.56'
6:17am 1.66'
12:41pm 8.27'
6:56pm 1.11'
31 Fri
12:24am 7.30'
SURF EAT STRETCH SLEEP REPEAT #gogrande
We h a v e y o u c o v e r e d . Free 2 hr
Board Rental with surf lesson
simply mention
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Sunset
Happy hour
Daily, 4-6 2x1 cocktails 1000c beers Discount bocas menu
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SURFING COSTA RICA
by Juan Diego Evangelista
THE SECRET
SURF SP0T
SURF TREK with CHE
LIVED I UP TO
have wanted to surf this secret spot ever since I saw the waves breaking on Google Earth. After careful study, I learned that one particular area had waves that was a point break when there is a big south swell coming up. I was captivated. I discovered that when there's a big south swell, there are waves off this one point. Located in an area of Costa Rica known for great surf, but also not an easy place to get to, which could be anywhere depending upon time of year and road conditions, not Tamarindo or Jaco. This hidden treasure is hard to get to in the best conditions, but this spot is best to arrive via a boat ride from the main camping spot. You could probably make it there without a boat, but it would
EXPECTATIONS It felt like the place and the board knew each other, as they were so in sync. 6
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Photo: Nahuel Sebastian Pini Steffich
be one hell of a walk and even longer paddle. That’s how the 11 of us got together and planned this family weekend trip, one that included camping at a nearby known surf spot and a boat trip to the secret spot for some amazing waves. It was six adults and five kids — all under the age of 7 — who went along for the adventure.
Off to a bad start
delay, then driving to the campsite — we arrived 20 minutes before the boat. The first day of camping, we remained at the main campsite break and took the children to see the sharks, crocodiles and even jaguar footprints. Of course, we surfed, and it did not disappoint; there were 6- to 8-foot waves. The surf session included a rescue mission, as we discovered an injured pelican that had
Things started off badly. The kids and some adults took the boat from the main tourist town, provided by a well known captain, while the rest of us piled in my car for the drive to the campsite. Not far into the journey, the back wheels of the car locked up, and we almost flipped over. I called Jordi Galloway, who was going on the boat with the others, and caught him before he had left. He went and got my truck and brought it to us so we could take the damaged car to the mechanic. Eventually, we were on the road again, and amazingly — even with the
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 7
SURFING COSTA RICA
a hook stuck in its beak. After we removed the hook, the pelican stayed by our boat like a child and even came when we called him. That was an experience catching waves with a pelican. Next day, a group of us made the boat ride to this hidden treasure. I had already logged over 200 visits to local spot, nearly every weekend in past years. So, after seeing the satellite pictures of this spot while looking around the area for new, uncrowded places to surf, I had previously made a few exploratory visits to check out the place. I already knew that the point break there would spit fast, hollow rights with this south swell already in motion. Interestingly, when we arrived that day the water seemed very calm, and my friends were worried that nothing would happen. Then five minutes in, it started pumping.
First one in
Of course, I was so excited, I was first in the water. Going down the line on my first wave, I didn’t pull back soon enough and ended in the shallow part, hitting the rocks hard, scraping up my ribs. (A few days later, I found out that I had actually broken a rib.) But I was not deterred. Nor was anyone else in our group which included Jordi Galloway, Marco Briceno and my wife, Mareike. In fact, she got the best wave of the day. The waters around the area are filled with marine life including dolphins, whales and turtles. I used my lighter 9’0 x 22 .5 x 3 board and had a great session. It felt like the
place and the board knew each other, as they were so in sync. There were a couple of challenges though. The waves swarm down each side of the larger area and meet in the middle, which happened to be the end of the line for us who were surfing the southend. At one point, I snapped my leash and the board was blown into the opposite current. Retrieving it was not fun in the rocks.
Beauty of surfing
Some of the others were a little afraid of the sharks, but I felt pretty confident, even as scraped up as I was. So I took some ibuprofen and jumped back in, embracing the beauty of surfing with my friends and my wife. We stayed riding those waves as long as we could until the tide changed and the spot was no longer working. Our boat returned to the campsite and we enjoyed another session there. Later, my kids and I walked in the shallow shore break, alongside a shark followed us for about 200 meters. After another night camping, we all returned home — via boat or truck — with me making a stop at the mechanic to pick up my nowrepaired car. It didn't matter that the trip started out rough, spending time camping is always a great time. And getting to do a session in the now "Che-marked" waves of this secret spot, was totally worth it. In fact, I've already scouted satellite images for our next epic surf trip. I'll keep you posted!
Photos courtesy of CHEBOARDS
8
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FACTORY & SURF SHOP Custom + Stock Boards Ding Repair Tamarindo www.cheboards.com +506 8556 2910
Cheboards
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SURFING COSTA RICA
BRISA HENNESSY Ripping at 3 years old
SURF PROFILE
‘To have my name, number and the Costa Rican flag on my jersey, getting to surf against my heroes — it still feels pretty surreal.’
by Ellen Zoe Golden
W Athlete: Brisa Hennessy Sport: Surfing Age: 19 About: Power with style that she uses to wipe clean all competitors Sponsors: Rip Curl, ProLite, Vertra, T&C Surfboards, Makani McDonald board shaper, Ricante, Future Fins
Photographer: WSL/Damien Poullenot
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hen Brisa Hennessy dipped her toes and board in the waters of Queensland, Australia last month, she accomplished something no Tico — male or female — has ever done. She is the first Costa Rican to compete on the World Surf League’s (WSL) Championship Tour (CT). Before that first date, for the Boost Mobile Pro Gold Coast, Hennessy had ended up in the Top 7 of the Qualifying Series circuit last year. A double qualification by another surfer moved her to number 6 and a rookie slot for the 2019 CT. Now, she is surfing among the best, including world title holder Stephanie Gilmore (Australia), as well as heavyweights Lakey Peterson (United States) and Carissa Moore (Hawaii), to name a few. In Queensland, Hennessy beat Hawaiian royalty Coco Ho. Brisa admits that she's admired these women her whole life and couldn't wait to be among them. “I look up to Coco Ho and Paige Hareb a lot and it was pretty scary,” she explained. “Everyone howlermag.com
is unique and inspiring in so many different ways, which has made me grow as a surfer and person. I needed to bring out my surfing and get the best waves.” To get a heat win in any CT event does a lot for a surfer’s confidence, Brisa added. “It doesn’t happen too often for a rookie, so I will take it. To have my name, number and the Costa Rican flag on my jersey, getting to surf against my heroes — it still feels pretty surreal. It was a highlight to make round 2 heat and seeing the Costa Rican flag flown for the first time ever on the WSL world stage.” Hennessy’s outstanding skills as a surfer have garnered attention at the WSL’s highest level. Deputy Commissioner Jessi Miley-Dyer raved, “It's exciting to see Brisa join the Championship Tour after such a successful Pro Junior and Qualifying Series career. Having her as the first Costa Rican to join the Tour is incredible. The way Brisa carries herself both in and out of the water is exceptional, and she's already proved herself against the world's best at events.”
Native pride
The CT is just the latest in a career of accolades that has included a gold as an International Surfing Association Junior World Champion from Hawaii, where Hennessy lived for years. Yet, it’s her new role for Costa Rica that is her favorite badge of honor. “I was born in Matapalo on the Osa Peninsula. My parents ran a surf school, so I practically was born in the ocean, with the beautiful surfing lifestyle. I grew up there until my ninth
birthday,” she said. “What a blessing to be born in a place this beautiful. Costa Rica is where I fell in love with the ocean, the surf and I stood up on my first wave when I was 3 years old. I am honored to be the first Costa Rican on the Championship Tour and represent a place so close to my heart.” Also on her mind is the possibility of being one of the Costa Rican surfers eligible to participate in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. She got closer to that goal with a Women’s gold medal at the Olympic qualifier last year, the Pan American Games held in Punto Rocas, Peru. To prepare for this phase of her career, Hennessy based herself in Fiji before leaving for the Championship Tour, getting in shape with workout routines designed by trainer Ingrid Sieple. In the water, she’s coached by Glenn Hall, a retired CT competitor who was Matt Wilkinson’s personal coach while he was a title contender. As for Hennessy's focus during this phase of her surfing, two things are clear to her. First, she wants to have a good time. “For me, I want to perform and show my surfing. If I’m doing that, I'm having fun and being in the present moment. That’s when it all comes together.” Brisa’s second priority is to continue representing her country. “Costa Rica has the biggest and most special place in my heart. I was so fortunate to have grown up there and to have fallen in love with surfing and the ocean. Hopefully, I can make everyone proud by living each day with a beautiful pura vida heart and way of life.”
Odry’s Massage Massage Pedicure
Manicure Waxing
Tamarindo - main intersection, above Tamarindo Transfer & Tours Daily, 9am-6, call for appointment, walk-ins welcome 2653-0939 ordrys.massage@hotmail.com
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SURFING COSTA RICA
Laird Hamilton
SURF LEGEND
Surf Legend Chooses Costa Rica Destination to Promote Health and Fitness by Jenn Parker
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M
ost of us would probably agree that surfing is the best activity to maintain your surfing fitness. But is it enough? What about the times you can't be out in the water? If you have ever not surfed for a few weeks or even months and then gone back in the water, you know the feeling of being out of surf shape, even if you are still in great regular shape. So, is there a way to train and stay on top of your surf game even when you are not surfing regularly? Is it possible to prepare for an upcoming surf trip when you don’t have waves at your disposal? What if surfing is not your thing, but you wouldn’t mind looking and feeling more like a surfer?
Who better to show us how it’s done than Laird Hamilton, named by Surfer Magazine as “the sport’s most complete surfer.” He is a living surf legend, having pushed the boundaries of big wave surfing and helped to pioneer the sport of stand up paddle boarding and hydrofoil boarding. Hamilton has also become a fitness and wellness icon. In better shape than most surfers half his age, the 55-year-old powerhouse charger is essentially the poster child for an all-around healthy lifestyle that surfers can embrace anytime, anywhere. It just so happens that Costa Rica is where Hamilton will soon be sharing his tips and techniques firsthand during howlermag.com
the XPT Experience, a three-day wellness retreat geared to all kinds of athletes and fitness enthusiasts including surfers. When Las Catalinas hosts the event June 20-22, it will be the first time XPT Experience participants will have an opportunity to surf, train and learn from Laird Hamilton himself. It will also be a first for him. “I have never surfed in Costa Rica, and I can’t wait to paddle out,” he said when asked about the retreat location. “I have always heard of great spots like Pavones, Witch’s Rock, and Ollie’s Point and especially Playa Grande, where we will be surfing for the Experience. I’m looking forward to that adventure.”
Training photos courtesy of XPT
Keys to Staying in Surfing Shape
T
o perform at our best in the ocean, a combination of flexibility, endurance, strength and balance is the key to maintain good surfing form. Surfing fitness also requires proper nutrition, sufficient hydration and a rested body. Exercises that promote flexibility, core stability and the ability to flow from one movement to another will help keep your muscles limber and lubricated. Yoga, swimming, and cross-training that focuses on your specific surf muscles (triceps, biceps, deltoids, trapezius, abdominal muscles, latissimus dorsi, obliques, pectoralis major, quadriceps, gluteals and gastrocnemius) can be beneficial during dry spells. A clean diet rich in lean protein, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts, as well as at least two liters of water a day, is vital. Basically, surfing is a whole lifestyle, and the best way to stay in at least semi-surf shape when you are not consistently surfing is to maintain the other components of the lifestyle.
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 13
SURFING COSTA RICA
Photo: Joel Guy
Ideal fit for XPT
A weekend like this in Costa Rica could change your life!
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With Costa Rica long recognized as a surf and wellness destination, deciding to host the three-day “fitness vacation” here seemed like a no-brainer for Hamilton and his wife, pro-volleyball player and wellness guru Gabrielle Reece. The celebrated sports couple created the XPT Experience in early 2016 as a way to share their exercise and lifestyle philosophy to promote balanced and healthy lifestyles. “Costa Rica will be the perfect place to bring our XPT curriculum and to explore new activities such as underwater ocean training and surfing,” Hamilton said. “It's an adventure our whole team is looking forward to.” Las Catalinas, north of Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo, was hand-chosen by Laird and Gabrielle for a variety of reasons. As a carfree beachfront community on one of northern Guanacaste’s most picturesque coastlines, it was designed to promote a healthy, active, and sustainable lifestyle. People from all around the world come here to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities ranging from yoga to snorkeling and scuba diving. There are some surf breaks to the north and south, as well as
three uncrowded and pristine beaches. The bay is protected and typically very calm for paddle boarding and ocean strength training. There are also 40 kilometers of mountain biking and hiking trails through Las Catalinas, where the panoramic views will take your breath away! With diet and nutrition being significant components of the XPT way of life, Costa Rica is also ideal for enjoying an easily accessible, colorful and delicious selection of fresh, locally sourced food. Laird and Gabrielle promote a paleo-based diet. Above all, Costa Rica is a place that naturally inspires spending more time outdoors and in nature. It is difficult to stay inside and inactive in such a lively and mesmerizing destination. It’s a place where even non-surfers can take a page from Laird Hamilton’s playbook in connecting with a more physically active and healthy self. It may be easier here than anywhere else to attain or maintain that best version of yourself. Say goodbye to gyms and hello to ocean, sand, and mountain fitness. A weekend like this in Costa Rica could change your life! howlermag.com
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DINING GUIDE
Good Times Great Food
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DINING GUIDE
PALM BEACH
Palm Beach, next to the estuary Hours Breakfast available all day long: 7:30am-2:30pm Lunch: 11am-3pm Dinner: 5:30pm-9pm Phone: 2653-0975 frontdesk@hotelbulabula.com Specialties
Daily:
Sunset happy hour 50% off appetizers 4-6pm
Monday:
Mexican all-you-can-eat buffet 5:30-8:30pm
Wednesday:
Italian All you care to eat buffet 5:30-8:30pm
Specialty coffees and espresso
The Great Waltini's - Bula Bula: American Fusion Cuisine Enjoy casual fine dining and experience “a fusion of the Americas” in a tranquil and inviting setting. At the Great Waltini’s, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in an attractive dining area or choose to sit under the stars and enjoy your meal on the garden patio. Choose from houseaged steaks, seafood dishes, and down-home fare. Top with cocktails and desserts — the complete experience. Located in beautiful Palm Beach Estates next to the estuary. We are easily accessible from Tamarindo via boat taxi (complimentary with dinner reservations). Pickup time are 5, 5:30 and 6 pm. Please call before 2pm to reserve boat taxi (2653-0975). Happy hour – includes domestic beer, well drinks, famous giant Bula margaritas and appetizer specials.
MENU SELECTIONS Ahi Tuna
Annie's Salad
Double Cut Pork Chop
Hand Carved Turkey
Blackened Shrimp Salad
Aged Filet Mignon
Mahi-Mahi
Baked Lasagna
St. Louis Style Pork Ribs
Mixed Seafood Combo
Aged New York Steak
8 oz filet prepared tropical, blackened, sautéed or fried Oven roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and house made gravy 8 oz filet prepared tropical, blackened, sautéed or fried Tuna, mahi-mahi, jumbo shrimp, calamari, and mussels in a white wine saffron sauce
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Blackened chicken breast with avocado over crisp greens and fresh vegetables Blackened jumbo shrimp, sliced avocado over fresh lettuce and fresh vegetables Italian sausage, beef and pork, tomato, ricotta, mozzarella and romano cheese
10 oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce 10 oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce Baked tender and served with our famous tropical Bula Bula BBQ sauce
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Hours Fri - Sun, 4pm-10pm Phone: 2249-6166, 8496-2221
El Oasis Chill Out
and Lodge
Authentic Asian Food
Main road to Playa Grande
Enjoy traditional Vietnamese and Thai cuisine in a tropical garden setting.
Hours Daily, 8am - 5pm
Specialties Smiles and Good Vibes private Asian Chef Service, Pho, Free delivery to Playa Grande and Matapalo
MENU SELECTIONS
Appetizers
Spring rolls, rainbow salad and nems
Entrees Pad Thai, bun nems bowl, Cantonese rice, stir fried wok
PLAYA GRANDE
Playa Grande Proper Hours Daily, 8am - 9:30pm Breakfast, 8-11am Lunch, 11am-5pm Dinner, 5-9pm Happy-Hour 4-6pm Sunday Brunch 8am-2pm Phone: 2653-0480 ripjackinn.com
Pots & Bowls:
Rip Jack Inn Tree Top Dining
A diverse menu that includes fresh local seafood as well as tasty treats from the land, crisp salads, veggie bowls, local dishes and options for kids! Specialties Smoothie bar, fresh & frozen cocktails, bocas menu, vegetarian menu available, gluten free options, full service for retreats and weddings.
MENU SELECTIONS
Phone: 4701-2394 potsandbowls@gmail.com
Coffee Shop and Plants
Fresh, healthy and fun. Focus on homemade ingredients. Different dietary options: gluten free lactose free - vegan. Specialties Coffee, plants and pots Costa Rican boutique Workshops
MENU SELECTIONS Choco-Banana NiceCream
Peanut butter, cacao, almond milk, granola, bee pollen, nibs
$9
Tuna Poke $14 Sushi rice, avocado, edamame, wakame, mango
8 min. drive from Tamarindo, 2km south Villarreal Hours By reservation Phone: 8869-9765 Specialties Zipline and BBQ buffet for only $85.
Black Stallion:
Rustic Outdoor BBQ
Dine with the stars of Guanacaste on a private ranch. Enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet with sides. Wine, beer and sangria included! Call for reservations. Available for private parties and events.
MENU SELECTIONS
Grilled Mahi
Mixed BBQ Buffet
$45
Greek Chicken
Seafood Buffet
$45
Served with a yogurt cilantro lime sauce, mixed veggies and grilled polenta Grilled chicken breast with a creamy caper sauce served with roasted mediterranean vegetables & cauliflower rice
Baby back ribs, chorizo and chicken, sides included A delicious array of seafood and sides dishes
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 17
VILLARREAL
PLAYA GRANDE
Main road to Playa Grande, 20 meters after Wil-Mart
PLAYA GRANDE
DINING GUIDE
HUACAS
New York Pizzeria 200m west of the Brasilito/ Huacas crossroads, Huacas www.nypizzeriahuacas.com @nypizzeriahuacas Hours Daily, 5pm-10:30pm Tues-Sun 3pm-11pm Phone: 2653-6296 8729-5640
Pizzeria
New York Pizzeria is your go-to pizza spot in Guanacaste, for an authentic New York style pizza. Dine-in or take-out available Enjoy! Specialties Authentic New York style pizza Freshly made breadsticks
MENU SELECTIONS
Huacas - Main road, north side half way between Super Compro and intersection to Brasilito Hours Daily, 6am - 9pm Phone: 7028-3264 8911-2191 jimemurillo98@hotmail.com
Soda Guaymy
Typical Costa Rican Food If you want great quality typical Costa Rican food and an ice cold beer, Soda Guaymy's delivers! And its as economical as it gets!
MENU SELECTIONS
Meat Lover's Pizza
Casados
House Special Pizza
Rice with shrimp or chicken
Pepperoni, ham, salami, bacon, and ground beef
Pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, onions, and sweet peppers
HUACAS 3km south of Huacas, road to Tamarindo Hours Daily, 7am-9pm Breakfast 7am-10am
Fish, chicken and beef served with rice, beans and whatever is fresh A traditional favorite: "Arroz con camerones o pollo
La Playita: Poolside Dining Located at the Seis Playas Hotel, La Playita Restaurant & Bar is open to hotel guests and the public, and is known for it's friendly and inviting environment. It is the ideal setting for sharing good food and drinks with family and friends, or a romantic dinner poolside while enjoying the convenient distance to our six local beaches.
MENU SELECTIONS
Phone: 2653-6818 info@seisplayashotel.com
Broken Yolk Sandwich
$12
Pasta
Specialties Food cooked "to your taste!" — con mucho gusto Friday Night Texas Barbecue
Breakfast Quesadilla
$12
Open Grill
BLT La Playita
$10
Fried egg, bacon or ham and cheese on toast, served with seasonal fruit Eggs, tomato, onion, sweet pepper and cheese, served with seasonal fruit Always a favorite for a light bite to eat: bacon, lettuce and tomato
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$14
Build your own pasta bowl, with a mixed salad
From $16
Pork tenderloin, chicken breast, ribeye, New York strip, beef tenderloin & catch of the day
Pineapple FlambĂŠ
$4
Our most popular dessert served hot with vanilla ice cream
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HUACAS
DINING GUIDE
Hours Daily, noon to 9:30pm Mon, 7-9pm, Live Marimba Wed, 7-9pm, Avellino Fri, 7-9pm, Live Marimba Phone: 2653-0075 restaurante @hotelcapitansuizo.com Specialties Healthy dishes made from scratch with local and fresh products All taxes included in price
PLAYA FLAMINGO
Flamingo - 100m south of road to Potrero Hours Daily, 5:30pm-10:30pm Closed Wednesday Phone: 8532-8613
El Barco Del Capitán: European-Tico Fusion, Beachfront Restaurant
El Barco del Capitán is nestled in a beautiful tropical garden within the Hotel Capitán Suizo and offers a modern, healthy and fresh cuisine. Our chef, Jujo Molina, has created the dishes inspired by his European heritage and the incredible products available in Costa Rica. Using our homegrown ingredients from our organic garden, we strive to offer an environmentally friendly menu and an authentic experience to our guests.
Tacos Carne (Lunch)
$15
Tartar Capitan (Dinner)
$13
$15
Linguini (Dinner)
$23
Lomito (Dinner)
$28
Beef in tortillas with mixed cabbage salad, guacamole and tamarindo sauce
The Veggie (Lunch)
Tuna and mango tartar with capers and a cilantro, ginger and soy dressing
Grilled portobello, tomato, zucchini, chilealmonds-garlic sauce, homemade bun
Calamari, jumbo shrimps, mussels, Spanish chorizo, cherry tomatoes, white wine
Calamari Crujientes (Snack) $13
Crispy calamari with homemade green pesto and a honey, red onion escabèche
200gr of tenderloin with a tamarind sauce over Swiss Roësti and vegetables
La Plaza, Playa Flamingo
Vaca Loka:
Italian Restaurant True Italian cuisine. Pasta like you are in Roma! Fresh bruschetta served when you arrive. Buon appetito!
Marie's:
Hours: Daily, 7am-9:30pm
Local and International
Phone: 2554-4136 Specialties Check out @mariescostar for weekly special event nights
The place in Flamingo for delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails with great service. Live music and weekly Monday Morning Market
Present ad for complimentary Passion Fruit Mimosa with breakfast, lunch or dinner entree purchase.
Specialties Pizza, pasta, meat, fish
MENU SELECTIONS House Lasagna
MENU SELECTIONS
MENU SELECTIONS c6.500
Ribeye c6.500
Eggs Benedict
c4.200
Chicken Caesar Wrap
c4.600
Fish Tacos c7.000 HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 19
PLAYA FLAMINGO
Hotel Capitán Suizo, Playa Tamarindo
TAMARINDO/LANGOSTA
DINING GUIDE
DINING GUIDE
PLAYA FLAMINGO
SOMEWHERE OMEWHERE BAR AR Margaritaville Beach Resort, Playa Flamingo Hours Daily from 4pm to 11pm Happy hour: 4:30-6:30 Phone: 2654-4444, ext. 3264 Specialties Nachos, tacos, burgers, salads and sandwiches
World Famous Margaritas!
5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill: Drinks and Casual Dining
Best place on the Gold Coast to take in panoramic oceanfront views and multi-screen sports TV while enjoying hand-crafted cocktails and a delicious casual dining menu. You will want to return again and again for juicy cheeseburgers and mouthwatering tacos, not to mention the perfect margaritas and other specialty cocktails. Enjoy a beautiful sunset view during the daily Happy Hour 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday nights feature live entertainment with the best of the area's local bands and musical talent.
Fri. May 3 - Charly Lopez, 8-10 Sat. May 4 - José Vega, 8-10 Fri. May 10 - Charly Lopez, 8-10 Sat. May 11 - José Vega, 8-10 Fri. May 17- Charly Lopez, 8-10 Sat. May 18 - José Vega, 8-10 Fri. May 24 - Charly Lopez, 8-10 Sat. May 25 - José Vega, 8-10
More to come
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A perfect blend of Costa Rican and international cuisine that includes freshly caught local fish and grass-fed beef. Enjoy the oceanfront sea breeze on the outdoor patio or dine inside in air-conditioned comfort.
An Italian bistro with a tropical view. Choose from a selection of pizzas, pastas and paninis, or build your own dish with a variety of fresh, delicious ingredients.
Hours Daily 6:30am to 9:30pm breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hours Daily 5pm to 11:30pm Pizza only from 9:30pm
Phone: 2654-4444 ext. 3269
Phone: 2654-4444 ext. 3268
Specialties Fresh fish, grass-fed beef, international buffets, kids menu
Specialties Specialty artisanal pizza oven; design your own pizzas and pastas
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BRASILITO
DINING GUIDE
Main corner, Brasilito Hours Mon-Fri, 11am-midnight Sat-Sun, 10am-midnight Phone: +506 4702-0826 costarica@ lucysretiredsurfers.com LucysCostaRica Specialties Only for the brave: Our infamous scorpion shot
Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant: Coastal Cuisine Beachfront restaurant and bar serving unique coastal fusion dishes and cocktails featuring the freshest ingredients in Guanacaste! Lucy’s is more than just a restaurant, it’s a lifestyle. With locations in some of the most tubular spots around the world (New Orleans, Key West, Costa Rica and Aruba), we know how to have a good time. Let the sea breeze and sound of the waves remind you that when you’re here, you’re always on vacation. At Lucy’s we’re serious about our grub – we’ve got all your classic favorites like burgers and nachos, as well as our signature coastal bites with a touch of Pacific flair. Our one-of-a-kind drinks are the perfect way to cool down after a long day at the beach, and we keep them flowing all day (and night!) long. Lucy's’ daily food & drink specials are boat-to-table and will give you something new to try every day, and with live music, a radical bar scene, and six large-screen TVs, Lucy’s is Guanacaste's hottest new bar and restaurant!
MENU SELECTIONS Shaka Ceviche
c5,500
The Juicy Lucy
Avocado Fritas
c5,500
Bacon Brie Chicken Sandwich
Cheese Quesadilla
c5,000
Tsunami Tuna Salad
Serious Nachos
c6,700
Blackened Fish Tacos c6,000
Delicious fresh local fish and shrimp in a citrus marinade topped with avocado
Beer-battered avocado slices served with black bean salsa and homemade ranch
Flour tortilla overflowing with melted cheese, served with pico and guacamole
Fully loaded nachos topped with beans, pico, sour cream, and our rockin’ guac
c7,500
Our famous 8 oz. burger served on a brioche bun with Lucy’s special sauce
Grilled marinated chicken breast topped with bacon, brie, tomato, and spinach
c6,500
Freshly seared yellowfin served over spring mix with fresh fruit and feta
Blackened local fish topped with mangopineapple slaw and avocado crema
Pao Pao Shrimp Tacos c6,500 Fried or grilled shrimp tossed in a sassy pao pao sauce, topped with cabbage slaw
Flank Steak Tacos
c6,500
Marinated flank steak topped with jalapeño chimichurri and queso fresco
Whole Red Snapper Casado c8,000 Served with island rice, black beans, and a side salad
N’awlins Surf n’ Turf c10,000 Marinated flank steak served with head-on Cajun BBQ shrimp and roasted potatoes
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 21
DINING GUIDE
SURFSIDE / POTRERO
1 km east of Banco Nacional in Flamingo Hours Daily, 6:30am-9:30pm Phone: 2654-4671, 2654-5340 Specialties Fresh seafood and pasta
NASU: Creative Tropical Cuisine Welcome to Nasu Restaurant, tropical creative cuisine. Join us oceanside, where the freshest catch is prepared every day by our acclaimed chef. Enjoy the culinary treasures of Costa Rica, where tradition and innovation meet.
MENU SELECTIONS NASU Salad
Shrimp Spicy Tacos
SURFSIDE / POTRERO
Potrero, 800m north of Banco Nacional Hours Daily, 11am -10pm Kitchen closes 9pm
$14
$16
Cheesecake
$8
$25
Grilled lobster, garlic buttered baby-potatoes with with rosemary and mixed vegetables
Keylime Pie
Special dessert of the chef
$8
MENU SELECTIONS Grilled Scallops
c10000
Shrimp Ceviche
c10500
Catch of the Day
c19000
Bang Bang Shrimp
c10000
Seafood Platter
c19000
Grilled Lobster Tails - Market Price
Grilled in a bath of Cacique liquor, lime and garlic
Fresh mahi mahi, grilled jumbo shrimp, sautĂŠed calamari, with rice pilaf and grilled vegetables
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Homemade cheesecake with blueberry topping
Private residence on the beach transformed into a quaint restaurant and bar. Renowned for its fresh seafood, this private residence on the beach was transformed into a quaint restaurant and bar. Come and enjoy incredible food with awesome sunsets and views of the Pacific Ocean.
With tropical salsa, grilled vegetables & potatoes or rice
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Served with garlic buttered baby-potatoes and carrots
The Beach House: Beachfront Dining
Phone: 2654-6203 Specialties Fresh seafood Epic sunset view Call for reservations
Grilled Octopus
Flour tortilla, breaded shrimp, mango coleslaw and spicy mayonnaise
Pacific Lobster All taxes included in price
$10
Lettuce mix, avocado, hearts of palm, blackberries, orange and passion fruit dressing
Peruvian style marinated shrimp, red pepper and onion, tomato and cilantro with plantain chips Crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy shrimp in cornmeal breading with tangy Thai chili sauce
Two roasted lobster tails in wine-garlic butter sauce with grilled vegetables and rosemary potatoes
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LAS CATALINAS
DINING GUIDE
At Casa Chameleon, 4km north of the Potrero soccer field Hours Daily, 7am-10pm No children under 12 years Phone: 2103-1200 concierge@ casachameleonhotels.com Specialties Fresh fish, sunset cocktails, "boquitas" menu
Sentido Norte: Fine Dining Sentido Norte, a restaurant and bar at Casa Chameleon, proudly offers an adult fine-dining experience that celebrates the best of Costa Rican cuisine. Your drive through winding roads above the quaint beach town of Las Catalinas is rewarded by an unforgettable but affordable taste of luxury. Just a few steps uphill from the bright and welcoming entrance, your table awaits in a gorgeous, open-air perch framed by a panoramic view of the Pacific. A design motif incorporating responsibly-sourced teak adds a sense of warmth and well-being to the romantically lit atmosphere. All food and drinks are inspired by the country’s bountiful abundance, combining uniquely local and native ingredients in the glass and on the plate.
MENU SELECTIONS Overnight Oats
$8
Casa Chameleon Burger $19
Guacamole and Salsa
$12
French Toast
$12
Ceviche $14
Moules Frities
$26
Knife & Fork Tortillas
$14
Grilled Chicken Wrap
$17
Grilled Skirt Steak
$32
Chicharrón or vegan huevos rancheros
With greens, avocado & tomato, spicy aioli
Vegan Omelettes
$14
Vegan Bowl
$19
Mushroom Lamb Risotto $33
With almond milk, yogurt, fruit, cashews, local honey or tapa dulce
With sweet plantains and coconut milk cream
With asparagus, mushrooms and caramelized onion
Angus burger with arugula, Swiss or goat cheese and aioli Fresh fish ceviche, leche de tigre, homemade "chilero"
Quinoa, mushroom and squash picadillo salad, spicy garbanzo beans
Hearts of palm ceviche, avocado & tomato Wok sautéed with garlic butter and chardonnay broth
Skirt steak, chimichurri sauce, salad, french fries
Slowly braised with porcini, portobello and crimini mushrooms
Prices shown include 13% tax and 10% service / Prices subject to change
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