Surfing in Puerto Viejo

Introduction

Puerto Viejo has certainly most known for being home to what has been called the heaviest wave in Costa Rica: Salsa Brava. Salsa, although fickle, has definitely earned this reputation offering a thick "sauce" breaking over a shallow reef. The wave is very competitive and certainly, for experts only. More intermediate surfers can check out the beach break just south at Playa Cocles.

The Caribbean coast is quite different than the Pacific as you will find it is not as nearly built up and the culture/atmosphere is even more laid back than other parts of Costa Rica.

Getting There

Drive 2 hours east from San José until you reach Limon and take a right and continue for one hour until you reach Puerto Viejo

Breaks

Puerto Viejo is an ideal location for laid back surfers and travelers looking to avoid the more commercialized Pacific coast.

Isla Uvita - Access by boat onlY

This island located off the coast of Limon offers an excellent, yet, dangerous left that breaks on a reef. This is most powerful left in Costa Rica with three sections and facing a coral reef. Best days offer waves with 10 ft faces and is accessible only by boat from Limon.

Black Beach

Offers a great beach break with waves year round. Best conditions in the early morning with swell from the south or east at almost any tide (L&S).

Salsa Brava

A thick Hawaiian style wave that builds in deep water and breaks over a shallow reef. Offers both lefts and rights, however the right is generally faster, with a steep entry. This is most powerful wave in Costa Rica and the best conditions with an easterly swell which can produce up to triple overhead surf.

Playa Cocles

This beach break offers a more consistent break with lefts and rights breaking close to the beach. This wave tends to jack up with a big swell due to the steep beach entry ...beware of currents. Best conditions in the early morning before the winds blow it out. However, you can surf here all day as the wind often improves the lack of form.

Places to Stay

There are a variety of accommodations in Puerto Viejo, however, we recommend heading just south to Cocles.

Villas del Caribe

The Villas del Caribe consist of twelve fully equipped villas located amidst a coconut grove, on the beach and combine maximum enjoyment of nature with utmost comfort, cleanliness and safety. more >

Casa Camarona Lodge

The Casa Camarona offers eighteen guest rooms that are beautifully appointed in the rustic style of the Costa Rican Caribbean. more >

El Pizote Lodge

Set about 10 walking minutes west of the town Puerto Viejo on a quiet backroad, just across from the black beach. All rooms are spacious and have two double beds, ceiling fans and hot water. more >

Sia tami Lodge

A rustic but amiable lodge of 10 houses build in the most authentic Caribbean style, respecting the environment and integrating perfectly in the idyllic landscape. more >

Places to Eat

Mi Sam

Located in the heart of Puerto Viejo offering the best of local cuisine. We recommend, believe it or not, the “rice & beans”. Very good food with great prices.

Tamara

Another great option for affordable local food with large portions and great prices.

Stanford

Located right in front of Salsa Brava, offering excellent seafood and great views.

Maxim

Located in Manzanillo, south of Puerto Viejo, one of the best restaurants in the area. Great seafood, lobster and a variety of other local dishes.

Things to Do

This Caribbean getaway is home to reggae music, "smoking" nightlife and an overall, unique experience for surfers, backpackers and "eco" tourists. Get yer jam on.

Other Adventures

• Rafting Pacuare River - Includes transport, breakfast, lunch, equipment.
• Snorkeling In Cahuita - Explore the underwater wildlife in pristine conditions. Includes transportation, boat, fruits & beverages, bilingual guide, equipment. Min. 2 pax.
• Canopy Tour in Puerto Viejo - 4 hours of cable rides in a lush tropical setting. Includes transportation, guide, equipment, fruits & water.
• Indian Reserve - Includes transportation, beverages & bilingual guide.
• Tour To Tortuguero - Includes roundtrip transportation by car from hotel to Puerto Moin, roundtrip transportation by boat to Tortuguero, 1 night stay in Cabinas Tortuguero, breakfast, tour to the National Park, park fee & bilingual guide.
• Tortuguero Jungle Kayaking - Includes transportation by bus & boat, bilingual guide, all meals, equipment, accommodations in Mawamba Lodge.

Things to Avoid

None. It's really laid back.