Tamarindo

Tamarindo surfing offers something for everybody. Right out front of the surf camp, it's relatively flat, sandy bottom produces an extremely gentle, slow wave, which is why most of the surf lessons are offered there.

The river, known as the estuary, is a more challenging ride, with it rights peeling on the south side and lefts peeling on the north side.

Just across the rivermouth is Casitas, a faster left that generally breaks at mid to high tide.

Just to the south, Pico Pequeño produces a faster right. You'll have a tough time finding a wave here, though, since it's a packed locals' break. With the right swell, though, you can paddle out past them to Pico Grande.

Surfing skill level: Beginner to Intermediate