Surfing in Jacó for Beginners: Lessons, Boards and Where to Start
A sandy bottom, long rolling waves and warm water all year. Here is how to catch your first wave in Jacó, and what to know before you paddle out.
The short version
- Jacó's beach break has a sandy bottom and long, rolling waves, which makes it one of the easier places in Costa Rica to learn.
- Start at the south end of the beach, where the waves are usually gentler, but not right by the river mouth.
- December to April brings smaller waves, and early mornings are usually cleaner, with lighter wind.
- Take a lesson with a local surfer first, then rent a board from the hotel by the day or the week.
- Leave Playa Hermosa, just south of town, to experienced surfers.
Why Jacó is a good place to learn
Jacó's beach break breaks over sand, not rock or reef, so a fall is soft. The waves tend to be long and rolling rather than steep, there are waves most days of the year, and the water stays around 27 to 29°C (81 to 84°F), so you can stay in for hours.
Where on the beach to start
The south end of the beach usually has the gentlest waves and the most people learning. Right by the river mouth at the far south end the currents get stronger, so start a little north of it. The north end tends to have faster, more powerful waves, better once you can stand up and turn.
When to go
From December to April the waves are smaller and cleaner, the easiest time of year to learn. From May to October the south swells bring bigger surf, which experienced surfers love. Whatever the month, go early: mornings usually have cleaner waves and lighter wind. Beginners often do best around low tide, practicing in the white water close to shore. More on the seasons in our guide to the best time to visit Jacó.
Take a lesson first
A lesson is the quickest way to stand up. Lessons last two hours and come with a board and a local surfer who grew up on this beach and knows its currents. Beginners are welcome, and groups can book longer coaching blocks.
Planning a whole trip around it? Our surf packages combine a stay with lessons, from a long weekend to a full surf week.
Renting a board
Once you are ready to go out on your own, the hotel rents surfboards by the day or by the week, to guests and visitors alike. That includes a set of custom art boards painted to match our stairwell mural. Ask at the front desk.
Staying safe
- Rip currents are common at Jacó. Watch for warning flags, and ask your instructor or the front desk about the day's conditions.
- If a current pulls you out, paddle parallel to the shore until you are out of it, then head back in.
- Surf with someone, and stay where you can stand until you feel confident.
- Leave Playa Hermosa, just south of town, to experienced surfers: it is a World Surfing Reserve with powerful waves and strong currents.
- Wear sunscreen and a rash guard: the sun is strong all year.
Questions travelers ask
Is Jacó good for beginner surfers?
Yes. The beach break has a sandy bottom and long, rolling waves, and the south end of the beach is usually gentlest.
How long is a surf lesson in Jacó?
Two hours, with a board included.
Can I rent a surfboard at the hotel?
Yes, by the day or by the week, whether or not you are staying with us. Ask at the front desk.
What is the best month to learn to surf in Jacó?
December to April, when the waves are smaller and cleaner.
Can beginners surf at Playa Hermosa?
It is best avoided. Its waves are powerful, with strong currents, and suit experienced surfers.
