For surfers, Costa Rica is an undisputed paradise. With miles of largely uninhabited coastline and world-renowned waves, this Central American gem has become the ultimate destination for wave riders across the globe. From beginners hoping to take their first surfing steps to advanced boardriders looking to shred epic breaks, Costa Rica caters to every skill level.
Considering its stunning natural environment and reputation as an eco-tourism destination, it should come as no surprise that Costa Rica boasts several exceptional surf camps. These operations minimise environmental impact by reducing waste, recycling and using renewable energy sources, as well as regularly organising beach cleanups.
By choosing a sustainable surf camp in Costa Rica, you can not only score incredible waves but also help to preserve the wildlife-rich rainforests and hidden beaches of this Central American gem.
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Olas Verdes Hotel, Nosara
Nestled on the pristine coastline of Guanacaste, Olas Verdes is a hidden eco-paradise for the enlightened traveler. Step into a world where sustainability meets serenity at this eco-friendly Costa Rica surf resort. Once you settle in, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush tropical forests, epic surf breaks and a vibrant community dedicated to protecting the planet. This award-winning boutique hotel seamlessly blends into its natural setting, with solar panels installed atop the thatched roof casitas and native species flourishing in the gardens.
Beyond the grounds, Nosara beckons - a laid-back town that fiercely protects its environment. Once threatened by deforestation, the community banded together to reforest the coastline and establish protected areas, such as the Ostional-Nosara National Wildlife Refuge. Today, howler monkeys swing through the trees as surfers ride crisp barrels at the world-class beach break of Playa Guiones. When staying at Olas Verdes Hotel, you can rest assured you’re supporting local families and helping protect this slice of paradise.
"Best experience in Costa Rica!" - Sophie (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly surf camps in Costa Rica
Ventura Santa Teresa, Santa Teresa
Ventura Santa Teresa is the ideal spot for surfers looking for a vibrant community atmosphere. Just a short walk from the beach, this eco-conscious hotel lets guests fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the coast while still being close to all the action. The Aroma restaurant offers up healthy and delicious meals in a laid-back setting, with the gallo pinto being a local favorite.
The rooms at Ventura are modern and tidy, featuring work desks for digital nomads and kitchenettes (in the suites) for those who prefer to cook for themselves. Each room is designed as a peaceful retreat after days spent exploring this tropical paradise and riding the waves of Santa Teresa.
Aside from its stunning location, Ventura Santa Teresa is dedicated to preserving the ecological wonders of the Nicoya Peninsula through various sustainability projects. Certified as an ocean-friendly business by the Nicoya Waterkeeper organisation, the hotel has installed a cutting-edge Bionest wastewater treatment system and has future plans for a solar energy setup off the grid. Additionally, the hotel collaborates with Raw Botanicals to offer guests 100% organic bath and body products.
"Loved my stay at Ventura Santa Teresa! The place is really well located, close to all the shops, restaurants, and to the beach. The rooms are very clean and modern, well equipped. The restaurant downstairs serves delicious meals all day long (highly recommend the tacos!).” - Laura (read more reviews here)
Dreamsea Costa Rica, Tamarindo
Nestled within Tamarindo's lush forests, Dreamseea is a remote surf camp that offers a taste of the authentic Costa Rican lifestyle. It’s a place to connect with nature through surfing, yoga and adventure while learning about sustainability within the community. Whether you're an experienced surfer or looking to catch your first wave, Dreamsea Costa Rica provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to live in harmony with nature and enjoy endless surf under the Costa Rican sun.
At this sustainable Costa Rica surf camp, you can start your days with yoga classes led by knowledgeable instructors while listening to the sounds of native birds and howler monkeys. During your stay, you’ll meet inspiring people from incredibly diverse backgrounds united by a simple philosophy: “It’s about the people.” The kitchen goes above and beyond to make sure you get the nutrients you need to keep your energy up for long days of surfing and adventure.
"Just book it!" - Graciela (read more reviews here)
Sustainable surf camps in Costa Rica
Bodhi Surf + Yoga, Bahia Ballena-Uvita
Four friends with a shared vision came together in 2010 to create something extraordinary in the pristine wilderness of Bahia Ballena-Uvita. Their goal was to build a responsible tourism company focused on facilitating world-class surfing and yoga instruction while preserving the untouched beauty around them. Recognising the power they held to drive positive change, they built their business as a force for good - locally and globally.
Today, Bodhi Surf + Yoga is redefining the typical beach vacation as one of Costa Rica’s top eco-friendly surf resorts. As a proud B Corp and 1% for the Planet member, they walk the walk when it comes to responsible tourism and giving back to the local community. Guests rave about the comfortable eco-lodge accommodation and the farm-to-table meals, as well as the welcoming community vibe. Whether you're a novice or an expert, every surf and yoga session includes theory, demos, practice and feedback so you can progress your skills.
Rancho Delicioso, Nicoya Peninsula
Rancho Delicioso is a thriving eco-village in Costa Rica that offers the perfect fusion of surfing, sustainability, and serenity. With world-class waves just minutes away and acres of lush farmland bursting with life, this retreat offers an unforgettable experience. The vision of this sustainable Costa Rica surf retreat is to attract like-minded, eco-conscious artists and yogis who feel the call of the land.
Each day starts with invigorating yoga beneath the rising sun. Then grab your board and head out to discover the endless breaks and picture-perfect barrels that surfers travel across the globe to ride. When you’re not enjoying the aquamarine waters, you can immerse yourself in the farming lifestyle, learn hands-on permaculture techniques and discover the world of natural building. Come nightfall, you can experience the nightlife of Montezuma in Pura Vida style.
Staying at a sustainable surf camp in Costa Rica
Considering Costa Rica's stunning natural landscapes and its well-established reputation as a leading eco-tourism destination, it should come as little surprise that the country is also home to a thriving network of exceptional, environmentally-conscious surf camps. These specialised operations go to great lengths to minimise their environmental impact, carefully managing their waste, embracing renewable energy source and regularly organising beach cleanups. By choosing to stay at a sustainable surf camp in Costa Rica, you can not only score incredible waves and have the surfing experience of a lifetime, but also take pride in the knowledge that you are directly contributing to the protection and preservation of the country's natural ecosystems.
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