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Nosara | Tagged Posts

2019
22
November
Considering Costa Rica or Panama for Family Surf Lessons in February?

Question:

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Rikki

Good Morning. I am just dreaming of a warm getaway with my family in February. I would love to go somewhere where my kids can take surf lessons and surf for reasonable cost during the week. When we were in NZ surf lessons were anywhere from $35 to $50NZ for 2 hours for kids/teenagers. I am thinking maybe Costa Rica, Panama or open to other suggestions. We do not need an all inclusive. We like the idea of smaller hotels so we can discover the town and find our own special local restaurants. Thank you!

Humans say...

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Melissa

Sayulita, mexico!

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Yareli

Bucerias or Sayulita, Nayarit Mexico. Small town with lots of good food.

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Bev

Sayulita is a great little spot for surfing .

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RM

Nicaragua, super affordable, less touristy, tons of surf options and all levels of surf as well, Sayulita as beautiful as it is you will be bombarded with surfers and tourists

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Linda

Rancho Chilamate, San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua is a great place to stay.

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Kat

Hawaii? Oahu has great surf I hear esp in Feb!

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Sarah

Our kids did great surfing in Costa Rica. We rented an air bnb in Tamarindo. 3 years ago I was able to get one an 8 minute walk to the beach for $89US/night. Nothing fancy but worked great for us. I shopped small surf ships and found someone for a great price. Private lessons for just us and the kids did great.

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Stacey

This is my recommendation too. Tamarindo has enough of a town to explore, is walkable, the surf is perfect for lessons and it’s a gradual sandy bottom. Lessons are easy to find and board rentals are cheap. We vrbo’d as well. Inexpensive option! Have fun!

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Steph

Try Sayulita Mexico

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Tammi

Maui

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Arlene

Check out Roatan Honduras mostly scuba diving and snorkeling no surfing still worth a look

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Lynda

Arlene I would agree. Loved Roatan - it’s great but no surfing.

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Kristen

Costa Rica. They have lots of really nice beach breaks good for beginners. Nicaragua is awesome too but more point breaks and rocks. Can get messy.

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Rikki

Thank you everyone for your suggestions.

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Len

you can't go wrong with costa rica, but also consider el salvador.

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Caroline

Nosara, Costa Rica is magnificent. Stay away from Sayulita until they fix their sewage problem - last year they were spewing their sewage straight into the ocean at the surf break and all of us got really sick.

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Lynda

Caroline I heard that too. And too many tourists for me.

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Erin

Loved Nosara. I’ve done CR, Panama and El Salvador. CR my favourite. Kids surfed in Panama.

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Rikki

Just wondering if Sayulita is still a recommendation currently or more about Tamarindo. thanks

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Lynda

Rikki T Neukom I’d do Tamarindo. You can get into the jungle too. Sayulita just too many people.

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Neill

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. It fits your description to a tee. Better weather, warmer water than Sayulita, and way more authentic. Last year surf lessons were 300 pesos for 90 minutes, likely less if you sign up for the week

Profile picture of Marcia

Marcia

San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua. Just as beautiful as Costa Rica but waaaaay cheaper!


A.I. says...

AI Profile Pic

The Perfect Family Surf Getaway: Finding the Right Destination

Are you dreaming of a warm, sun-drenched escape with your family this February? Look no further! With the winter blues setting in, it's the perfect time to plan a surf-centric adventure where your kids can learn the art of catching waves while creating unforgettable memories.

Costa Rica: A Surfer's Paradise

Costa Rica has long been a favorite among surfers and beach lovers alike. With its stunning Pacific coastline, abundant surf breaks, and laid-back "pura vida" vibe, it's an ideal destination for families seeking surf lessons at reasonable prices.

In regions like the Nicoya Peninsula and the Southern Pacific coast, you'll find numerous surf camps and schools offering group and private lessons for all skill levels, with rates typically ranging from $30 to $50 per person for a two-hour session. Tamarindo, Jaco, and Dominical are particularly popular surf towns, each with its unique charm and vibrant local communities.

Panama: The Underrated Gem

Panama may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a surf getaway, but its pristine beaches and consistent waves make it a hidden gem worth exploring. Areas like Bocas del Toro, Santa Catalina, and Playa Venao offer excellent surf conditions and a variety of surf schools catering to families.

Surf lessons in Panama can range from $25 to $45 per person for a two-hour session, making it an affordable option for those on a budget. Plus, the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine will add an extra layer of adventure to your family's experience.

The Beauty of Smaller Hotels and Local Flavors

One of the joys of a surf-centric vacation is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems beyond the typical tourist hotspots. By opting for smaller, locally-owned hotels or vacation rentals, you'll have the freedom to explore the charming towns, mingle with locals, and savor authentic regional cuisine.

Many surf towns in Costa Rica and Panama offer a variety of accommodations, from boutique hotels to cozy beach bungalows, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your family's needs and budget. And with the money you'll save by avoiding all-inclusive resorts, you can splurge on unforgettable experiences, like sampling local street food or participating in cultural activities.

So, pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure, and get ready to create lasting memories with your loved ones on the perfect family surf getaway!



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