Known as one of the most vibrant communities in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific, has developed an important surfing hub thanks to its strategic location just 2 hours south of the bustling city of San Jose, and its coastal gems for those who dance on the waves.
In this coastal haven, the waves ebb and flow between the gentle hum of a 1-foot lullaby and the crescendo of a wild 10-foot symphony. A left break off the jetty, pure and pristine, invites surfers to a dreamlike waltz, a graceful ride extending for precious yards. Size may not rival Dominical, yet the intimacy of the experience resonates with every surfer there.
Contrary to apprehensions, Quepos’ harbor didn’t transform the waves to shells of their former selves. To the contrary, the consensus seems to be that waves there unveil a cleaner, faster, and altogether superior ride.
Timing, as in all surfing destinations, is paramount, however. April, May, and June unveil a symphony of swells, a celestial dance initiated by the Southern Hemisphere’s winter. As Quepos remains cloaked in its eternal summer, offshore winds whisper serenades throughout the day.
Quepos Rivermouth unveils a long left breaker, best performed during lower tides. For the audacious spirits, Playitas at the north end of Manuel Antonio composes a high tide opus, weaving rights and lefts into a tale of adventure. Further South, Dominical beckons high tide seekers to another diverse experience in a bohemian town. Isla Damas, a whispered secret accessible by boat or jetski, gifts surfers an entrancing barreling left. Venture north, and Esterillos Oeste, unveils big, slopey waves that break a half mile from the shore. Here, SUPs, longboarders, and shortboarders are all invited to partake in the flow that unfolds at both high and low tide.
Quepos invites surfers to join its eternal Pacific dance. So, with board in hand, ride the wave, you can embrace the permanent charm of this alluring town, a place where the surf’s poetry awaits and prevails.
