One of two Playa Hermosas in Costa Rica, this idyllic beach is located in Puntarenas and is just five kilometers south of Jaco.  It is considered to be one of the best surfing beaches in Costa Rica for both professionals and amateurs, who flock from all over the world.

Although a perfect surfing location, the waters here at Playa Hermosa are not suitable for swimming in due to the strong currents.  It consistently offers some of the best surfing breaks in the world and is a haven for both beginners and professionals, with the International Quicksilver Surf Championships being held there in August each year.  This competition sees surfers from every corner of the world coming to show off their surfing skills.

Playa Hermosa Central Pacific Costa Rica | Playa Hermosa Surf

The town here cannot accommodate vast amounts of people so it is quite common for surfers to stay in Jaco where the nightlife is far superior.  Hermosa does, however, have some luxurious hotels where tourists can stay if they want a quieter vacation than would otherwise be available in Jaco.  It is a quiet location during the week and the beach is perfect for lounging on and catching the sun’s rays.  For those wishing to escape the business of Jaco, the week days are the perfect time to ride the waves in Hermosa.

The consistent regional classic waves here will be perfect for surfers of all experiences.  There are superb beach breaks that peak on the right and the left and one of the most well known breaks here is in front of a large tree which is known as the ‘Almond Tree’ or ‘El Almendro’.

Waves here make sure that surfers experience powerful, fast, hollow rides and they are normally short, measuring under 50 meters although they have been known to reach up to 150 meters.  Swell direction is from the north west, west or south west and the wind comes from the south east, east or north east.  Waves can reach over ten feet in height and it is best to surf here on a mid tide.

Playa Hermosa is a well known beach and is very easy to find.  You can walk or cycle from Jaco as public transport is not very reliable.  This is definitely one beach that every surfer should visit!