Beginner's Surf Guide to Central America
Central America is a fantastic destination for beginner surfers, with warm waters, consistent waves, and a laid-back surf culture. This guide covers the top 10 beginner-friendly surf spots in Central America, providing details on the best times to visit, recommended surf camps, surf lesson prices, and comprehensive flight information from major airports in Europe, the U.S., Canada, and Brazil.
1. El Tunco, El Salvador
Why It's Great: A vibrant surf town with consistent waves and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. El Tunco is known for its easy access to beginner waves and a welcoming surf community.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
Surf Camps:
Puro Surf Hotel & Performance Academy: $800 - $1,200 USD per week.located in El Zonte, offering a beautifull location surf lessons, yoga.
La Guitarra Surf Camp: $500 - $700 USD per week.
Laola Surfcamp: $600 - $1100 USD per week, located in front of the famous El Sunzal wave, offering the best location to surf El Sunzal wave and private surf lessons, yoga, and cultural experiences.
Surf Lesson Price: $25 - $40 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe
London (LHR) – British Airways, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $650 - $1,100 USD, 12-14 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Avianca – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,100 USD, 13-15 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Avianca – $650 - $1,100 USD, 12-14 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 15-17 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Avianca – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 15-17 hours
From United States
New York (JFK) – Delta, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, Avianca – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, Avianca – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, Avianca – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, Avianca – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 8-10 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, Avianca – $550 - $850 USD, 9-11 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 8-10 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, Avianca – $600 - $900 USD, 9-11 hours
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Why It's Great: Known as the "surf capital" of Costa Rica, Tamarindo offers long, sandy beaches with gentle waves, perfect for beginners. The town has a lively surf culture and plenty of surf schools.
Best Time to Visit: December to April.
Surf Camps:
Witch’s Rock Surf Camp: $1,200 - $1,800 USD per week.
Tamarindo Surf Academy: $700 - $1,000 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $40 - $60 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
Flights from Europe
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
Flights from the United States
New York (JFK) – Delta, United – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, United – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, United – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Flights from Brazil
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, United – $650 - $1,000 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, United – $700 - $1,100 USD, 11-13 hours
3. Playa Maderas, Nicaragua
Why It's Great: A peaceful beach known for its consistent, gentle waves, making it ideal for beginners looking to practice in a serene environment.
Best Time to Visit: November to April.
Surf Camps:
Maderas Village: $700 - $1,200 USD per week.
Buena Vista Surf Club: $600 - $900 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $20 - $35 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
Flights from Europe
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $800 - $1,400 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $800 - $1,400 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $800 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $800 - $1,400 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $800 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 16-18 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $600 USD, 3-5 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, Avianca – $550 - $850 USD, 8-10 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 10-12 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, Avianca – $650 - $1,100 USD, 9-11 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 9-11 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, Avianca – $650 - $1,100 USD, 9-11 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, Avianca – $800 - $1,300 USD, 11-13 hours
4. Santa Catalina, Panama
Why It's Great: A tranquil destination with slow, gentle waves, ideal for beginners. Santa Catalina offers a peaceful setting away from the hustle and bustle, perfect for learning and relaxing.
Best Time to Visit: December to April.
Surf Camps:
Santa Catalina Surf Camp: $600 - $900 USD per week.
Surfers Paradise Hotel & Surf: $500 - $700 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $25 - $45 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 11-13 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 11-13 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, Avianca – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, Avianca – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, Avianca – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, Avianca – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 8-10 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, Avianca – $550 - $850 USD, 9-11 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 8-10 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, Avianca – $600 - $900 USD, 9-11 hours
5. Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Why It's Great: A laid-back Caribbean surf town with gentle waves, ideal for beginners. The town offers a vibrant cultural experience along with its surf offerings.
Best Time to Visit: March to November.
Surf Camps:
Caribe Surf School: $600 - $900 USD per week.
Hotel Banana Azul: $800 - $1,100 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $35 - $50 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, United – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, United – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, United – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, United – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, United – $650 - $1,000 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, United – $700 - $1,100 USD, 11-13 hours
6. Malpais, Costa Rica
Why It's Great: A secluded and uncrowded surf spot with consistent beach breaks, perfect for beginners seeking a quieter experience.
Best Time to Visit: December to April.
Surf Camps:
Del Mar Surf Camp: $1,000 - $1,500 USD per week.
Malpais Surf Camp: $600 - $900 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $35 - $55 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, United – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, United – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, United – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, United – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, United – $650 - $1,000 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, United – $700 - $1,100 USD, 11-13 hours
7. Nosara, Costa Rica
Why It's Great: A laid-back surf town that blends surfing and yoga, with a long, gentle beach break at Playa Guiones perfect for beginners.
Best Time to Visit: November to April.
Surf Camps:
Safari Surf School: $1,200 - $1,800 USD per week.
Coconut Harry’s Surf School: $800 - $1,200 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $40 - $60 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, United – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, United – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, United – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, United – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, United – $650 - $1,000 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, United – $700 - $1,100 USD, 11-13 hours
8. Playa Venao, Panama
Why It's Great: A crescent-shaped bay offering gentle, rolling waves perfect for beginners, combined with a vibrant local scene.
Best Time to Visit: December to April.
Surf Camps:
Selina Playa Venao: $700 - $1,000 USD per week.
Eco Venao: $600 - $900 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $25 - $45 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 11-13 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 11-13 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 12-14 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, Avianca – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Avianca – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, Avianca – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, Avianca – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, Avianca – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 8-10 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, Avianca – $550 - $850 USD, 9-11 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 8-10 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, Avianca – $600 - $900 USD, 9-11 hours
9. Popoyo, Nicaragua
Why It's Great: Offers a variety of waves, with Playa Santana being particularly friendly for beginners. A laid-back atmosphere with access to natural hot springs.
Best Time to Visit: November to April.
Surf Camps:
Popoyo Surf Lodge: $500 - $800 USD per week.
Magnific Rock: $700 - $1,100 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $20 - $35 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $800 - $1,400 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $800 - $1,400 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $800 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $800 - $1,400 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $800 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $850 - $1,400 USD, 16-18 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, Avianca – $350 - $600 USD, 3-5 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Avianca – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, Avianca – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, Avianca – $550 - $850 USD, 8-10 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Avianca – $500 - $800 USD, 7-9 hours
From Canada
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, Avianca – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 10-12 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, Avianca – $650 - $1,100 USD, 9-11 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 9-11 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, Avianca – $650 - $1,100 USD, 9-11 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, Avianca – $750 - $1,200 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, Avianca – $700 - $1,200 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, Avianca – $800 - $1,300 USD, 11-13 hours
10. Dominical, Costa Rica
Why It's Great: A small surf town with consistent waves and a bohemian vibe, perfect for beginners and those looking to immerse themselves in the surf culture.
Best Time to Visit: November to April.
Surf Camps:
Dominical Surf School: $600 - $900 USD per week.
Tortilla Flats Surf Camp: $500 - $800 USD per week.
Surf Lesson Price: $30 - $50 USD per lesson.
Flight Information:
From Europe:
London (LHR) – British Airways, KLM – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Paris (CDG) – Air France, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Madrid (MAD) – Iberia, Avianca – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Barcelona (BCN) – Vueling, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Rome (FCO) – ITA Airways, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Lisbon (LIS) – TAP Portugal, Iberia – $650 - $1,200 USD, 13-15 hours
Copenhagen (CPH) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Stockholm (ARN) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
Dublin (DUB) – Aer Lingus, Iberia – $700 - $1,300 USD, 14-16 hours
Vienna (VIE) – Austrian Airlines, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 15-17 hours
Brussels (BRU) – Brussels Airlines, Iberia – $700 - $1,200 USD, 14-16 hours
Oslo (OSL) – SAS, Iberia – $750 - $1,300 USD, 16-18 hours
From the U.S.:
New York (JFK) – Delta, United – $300 - $600 USD, 5-6 hours
Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, United – $250 - $500 USD, 2-3 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Houston (IAH) – United, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 3-4 hours
Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Chicago (ORD) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 4-6 hours
Dallas (DFW) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
San Francisco (SFO) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Boston (BOS) – JetBlue, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Washington D.C. (IAD) – United, Delta – $350 - $650 USD, 4-5 hours
Orlando (MCO) – Spirit, Delta – $300 - $600 USD, 4-5 hours
Philadelphia (PHL) – American Airlines, United – $350 - $650 USD, 5-6 hours
Denver (DEN) – United, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
Seattle (SEA) – Delta, United – $450 - $750 USD, 6-8 hours
Las Vegas (LAS) – Southwest, Delta – $400 - $700 USD, 5-7 hours
From Canada:
Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada, United – $500 - $900 USD, 7-9 hours
Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 9-11 hours
Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
Calgary (YYC) – WestJet, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 8-10 hours
Ottawa (YOW) – Air Canada, United – $550 - $950 USD, 8-10 hours
From Brazil:
São Paulo (GRU) – LATAM, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Rio de Janeiro (GIG) – GOL, United – $650 - $1,000 USD, 11-13 hours
Brasília (BSB) – Avianca Brazil, United – $600 - $1,000 USD, 10-12 hours
Salvador (SSA) – GOL, United – $700 - $1,100 USD, 11-13 hours
This guide provides all the information you need to plan your perfect surf trip, from choosing the right surf camp to finding the best flights from your city.
Here's a quick caricatural random of what to expect from each country:
Costa Rica
Summary: Costa Rica is known for its excellent waves and a well-established surf culture. It’s a great destination with consistent surf, but it can be expensive and has a very touristy vibe.
Vibe: Pura vida, eco-friendly, and popular with international surfers.
Best For: Those who want reliable waves and don’t mind paying a bit more for comfort and amenities.
Panama
Summary: Panama is perfect for surfers who want to explore and discover new breaks. It’s a great destination for adventurers looking to find uncrowded waves.
Vibe: Adventurous, with a mix of tropical beaches and jungle settings.
Best For: Surfers who enjoy exploring and prefer less crowded surf spots.
El Salvador
Summary: El Salvador offers the most consistent surf in Central America, making it the safest bet for reliable waves year-round.
Vibe: Local, laid-back, and increasingly popular with international surfers.
Best For: Surfers looking for consistency and high-quality waves without the touristy crowd.
Nicaragua
Summary: Nicaragua is known for its powerful beach breaks and is one of the more affordable surf destinations in the region.
Vibe: Rugged, off-the-beaten-path, and budget-friendly.
Best For: Surfers who want powerful waves and a more rustic, inexpensive experience.
Mexico
Summary: Mexico offers a wide variety of great waves, but the distance between breaks can be long. It’s an amazing country with a rich surf culture.
Vibe: Diverse, with everything from mellow beach towns to bustling cities.
Best For: Surfers who want variety and don’t mind traveling between spots to find the best waves.
And to end this post we want to give a warm welcome to Beginner Surfers "the kooks"
Welcome to the surf community! This beeing said becoming a surfer is about much more than just wearing cool clothes or posting that perfect sunset shot on Instagram and beeing vegetarian It’s about:
Interacting with Locals: The best way to learn is by connecting with the people who know the waves best. Respect the locals and take the time to learn from them.
Discovering New Places: Surfing takes you to some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the world. Embrace the adventure of exploring new surf spots and cultures.
Sharing the Love of Surfing: Surfing is a community activity. Share your stoke with others, whether it’s by teaching someone new, sharing a wave, or just enjoying the ocean together.
Leaving Places Better Than You Found Them: Always respect the environment. Clean up after yourself and leave no trace. Be a steward of the ocean and the beaches.
Living in the Present Moment: Surfing teaches you to live in the now. Whether you’re riding a wave or sitting in the lineup, appreciate the moment and the beauty of being in the ocean.
Enjoy your journey into the world of surfing, and remember that the true essence of being a surfer is about connecting with the ocean, the environment, and the people you meet along the way. Happy surfing!
Σχόλια