Surfing in Guanacaste
7 surfing spots in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The colours show each month: the stronger, the better for surfing.
Updated November 2026 · weather data 2022–2026
In short
- Best waves in Guanacaste: April–October (around 1.4 m, water 30°C, no wetsuit).
- Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: March–May, July–October (around 1.4 m, water 30°C, no wetsuit).
- Top picks: Ollie's Point – Potrero Grande, Playa Avellanas & Playa Negra – Guanacaste.
- For beginners: Nosara – Playa Guiones & Tamarindo.
Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in Guanacaste
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 1.4 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 32°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 1.5 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 33°C |
| MarchMar | 1.3 m | 29°C | no wetsuit | 34°C |
| AprilApr | 1.4 m | 30°C | no wetsuit | 34°C |
| MayMay | 1.4 m | 31°C | no wetsuit | 32°C |
| JuneJun | 1.5 m | 30°C | no wetsuit | 30°C |
| JulyJul | 1.4 m | 30°C | no wetsuit | 31°C |
| AugustAug | 1.4 m | 30°C | no wetsuit | 31°C |
| SeptemberSep | 1.4 m | 30°C | no wetsuit | 30°C |
| OctoberOct | 1.4 m | 29°C | no wetsuit | 29°C |
| NovemberNov | 1.4 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 29°C |
| DecemberDec | 1.3 m | 28°C | no wetsuit | 31°C |
Averages of the 7 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in Guanacaste?
Best waves in Guanacaste: April–October (around 1.4 m, water 30°C, no wetsuit). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: March–May, July–October (around 1.4 m, water 30°C, no wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in Guanacaste?
It depends on the month: about 31°C water in May (no wetsuit) and about 28°C in February (no wetsuit).
Is Guanacaste good for beginners?
Yes, these spots suit beginners: Nosara – Playa Guiones & Tamarindo.
Which airport is closest?
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), 39 km from Ollie's Point – Potrero Grande; Nosara Airport (NOB), 35 km from Playa Avellanas.