Playa Grande Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
Southwest
Wind
North-East, East
Surf Height
Head high to a few feet overhead
Tide
Mid
Playa Grande Surf Guide
Located in Las Baulas National Park, around 200 meters south of Las Palmeras, Playa Grande has the most power and best shape in the area, which makes it the main focus for many of the region’s surfers. A well-shaped and occasionally punchy set of sandbars in a beautiful natural setting, this is quintessential Costa Rica surfing. Left and right peaks dole out square tubes or rippable sections, depending on the tide and swell. It’s possible to roll into the double-up from the outside, or you can just sit under it and hunt barrels from takeoff. Either way, head-high to slightly overhead seems to be the ideal size for this fun beachbreak.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Beginner to advanced
Local Vibe
Doable
Locals are on it, as is anyone else in Tamarindo who can surf.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Expect crowds whenever Playa Grande is firing.
Spot Rating
Fun
A fun, punchy beachbreak with cracking tubes when it’s on.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
You’ll take waves on the head while paddling out, but the peak is pretty close to shore.
Water Quality
Fair
Playa Grande is in a national park, so pollution is at a minimum.
Hazards
Eggy crowds, strong currents, shallow sandbar.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Funboard, Longboard, Fish, Bodyboard, Skimming, Bodysurfing
Access
Walk (40 minutes), drive (20 minutes), or boat (5 minutes) from Tamarindo.
Bottom
Sand
Best Season
March through October have the most consistent swells, although the offseason has a better chance of all-day offshores
Do you have local knowledge about Playa Grande?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]