[New] SWELLS Make Costa Rica a Leading Surf Destination

by Ryan Waldron

Waves are nothing more than traveling vessels of energy. Born from strong winds blowing in all corners of the planet, ocean waves traverse thousands of miles through open water just to come crashing down for our enjoyment. Aside from the visual aesthetics of watching perfectly peeling waves, an experienced surfer can also obtain detailed information about a wave’s origin just by observing a few specific qualities in the surf zone.

In terms of surf destinations, Costa Rica certainly ranks among the leaders worldwide. With the all-year consistency of water conditions, variety of surf spots, perfect climate, and overall wave quality, it’s almost impossible not to score the best waves of your life here. Swells are a key factor. Let’s look at Costa Rica’s swell producers, when each of these events occurs and some Howler insider tips to aid your search for the next perfect wave.

South Pacific swells (March – December)

These are the swells that provide Costa Rica with consistent surf throughout most of the year, making it a year-round surf destination. Because there are no significant land masses blocking the howling winds of the south Pacific, major storms can swirl at the low latitudes for several days, giving us extended swell events (three to five days) with long-period wave energy (14 to 22 seconds).

Although you can catch these SPAC swells throughout the year, your best chance for catching “The Big One” is between June and September. During these months, surfers can expect a diurnal wind pattern each day with offshore winds in the morning, light onshore breezes during the day, and an evening glass-off for sunset. South Pacific swells can come from a range of directions and angles — 170° to 240°.

Insider tip: To light up Tamarindo, the swell needs to be greater than 210°. Beaches with direct south exposure receive more of this swell energy. Playa Grande is an example.

Tropical storm swells (July – November)

Costa Rica has never been known for hurricanes until Hurricane Otto passed over in November 2016 and Tropical Storm Nate in October 2017. During the peak months of the Pacific hurricane season, tropical cyclones off the coast of Mexico will send a quick shot of medium-period swell (10 to 14 seconds) in our direction.

This only happens a few times a year, but when a nice pulse of northwesterly hurricane swell impacts the region, most beaches can expect fun, peaky waves along the coast. Furthermore, hidden nooks and crannies that you would never think to check will light up unexpectedly with the unique swell angle (280° to 310°). The wind this time of year can be a bit more unpredictable, but there is usually a favorable window in the morning, and sometimes during the day with a passing shower. When all the elements align, these can be some of the best swell events of the year.

Insider tip: Head to a beach break with a wide swell window that can pick up northerly and southerly swells for peaky, powerful waves. Avellanas is an example.

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