Beginner-Friendly Surf Camps in Costa Rica with Shaka Costa Rica: What to Expect, What to Pack, and a Multi-Day Progression

Playa Hermosa in Santa Teresa offers perfect beginner waves at Shaka Costa Rica, where certified instructors guide first-time surfers through safe, fun lessons.  Shaka Costa Rica surf camp focuses on building confidence with small groups and personalized coaching.  Discover what to expect, essential packing tips, and a sample multi-day progression tailored for beginners in Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa.

Why Shaka Costa Rica in Playa Hermosa is Ideal for Beginners

Shaka Costa Rica provides quick walkable access to gentle, consistent waves in Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa, making it a top choice for beginner surf camps in Costa Rica. Instructors maintain 3:1 student ratios for hands-on feedback, including personalized attention to refine pop-ups, balance, and functionality, creating strong core fundamentals for your progression.  Programs blend surfing with yoga for recovery, immersing guests in Santa Teresa's vibrant coastal vibe.

Playa Hermosa's sandy beach break suit novices, with calmer mornings ideal for learning before crowds arrive. Our location allows us to choose the best wave conditions for your level.  Shaka Costa Rica emphasizes safety, equipping students with top notch gear and covering ocean awareness from day one.

What to Expect on Day 1 at Shaka Costa Rica

Day 1 at Shaka Costa Rica always starts with a safety briefing on rip currents, board handling, and beach etiquette. Coaches will assess each guests prior experience, and create a plan for their maximum progression. Day 1 focuses on proper ocean awareness, board handling, and the basics of a functional stance so that guests can begin their surfing journey the right way.  Coaching happens in incremental steps, focusing on consistency and muscle memory.  In-water feedback helps guests correct mistakes in the moment, while empowering them to recognizing their body positioning’s affect on the board.  

Day 1 is all about consistent muscle memory and repetition. 

Day 2 Progression: Building Momentum at Shaka Costa Rica

Day 2 advances to board mechanics, focusing on faster pop-ups, stance stability, and introductory turns.  Instructors teach trimming vs carving turns, speed generation vs stalling, angled take-offs, seated turns and paddle techniques.

By end of day, beginners link maneuvers on small to medium whitewater waves, marking a key advancement. Shaka Costa Rica's structured drills accelerate skill gains in a safe and effective manner allowing guests to comfortably practice on their own outside of scheduled classes. 

Day 3: Wave Breakthroughs with Shaka Costa Rica

Day 3 targets consistent waves, wave selection, and linking all the prior techniques to fully enjoy Playa Hermosa. Coaches provide water-based feedback, and depending on each guests progression will either continue to focus on consistency from the prior lessons, or begin to introduce cutbacks and rail engagement in larger ‘green waves’.  In-session and post-session analysis highlight personal strengths and what areas need adjustment.

Guests continue their multi-day stay focusing on techniques specific to their progression.  Coaches continually analysis the guests and adapt lessons to their needs. Progression isn’t the same for everyone, with some advancing faster than others. Surfing doesn’t have a specific “progression timeline” and guests should focus more on consistency rather than simply “advancing”.  Guests leave their stay knowing that our dedicated instructors have set them up with the tools required to continue their surfing journey.  Many returning to Shaka yearly to advance further, honing in on their skillset.  This progression positions Shaka Costa Rica as a leading surfing school for beginners.

Essential Packing List for Shaka Costa Rica Beginner Surf Camps

Pack rash guards (long/short sleeve, or use one of ours), boardshorts or swimsuits, water bottle, and reef-safe SPF 50+ sunscreen for Playa Hermosa’s tropical sessions.  Shaka Costa Rica’s surf packages offer a simple all-inclusive way to begin surfing.  Our easy booking process, top notch instructors, private accommodations, chef prepared meals, and on-site concierge service takes all the guess work out of planning your beginner surf trip. 

Shaka Costa Rica Camp Highlights and Booking

Easily book your Shaka Costa Rica beginner surf camp today to enjoy the warm tropical water, or simply reach out for help creating the trip of your dreams.  We love talking to you!  Contact via WhatsApp or email for custom itineraries matching your dates. Start your surfing journey in Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa with Shaka Costa Rica!

Costa Rica Moto Tours & Retreats | Shaka + Enduro CR

Shaka partners with Enduro Costa Rica for the ultimate adventure experience

If you’re an adventure seeker dreaming of an unforgettable Costa Rican experience, Shaka is thrilled to announce our new partnership with Enduro Costa Rica — the country’s premier provider of guided motorcycle tours along the breathtaking Nicoya Peninsula.

What Is Enduro Costa Rica?

Enduro Costa Rica is an owner-operated company offering top-quality moto tours through the diverse landscapes of the Southern Nicoya. Their carefully curated routes are designed for riders of all levels, whether you’re looking for smooth, flowing single-tracks or challenging, rocky terrain.

Every adventure is customized based on weather conditions, season, rider skill level, and personal preferences. You can choose from single-day or multi-day tours that take you deep into Costa Rica’s most scenic and rugged trails. If you’re ready to experience the thrill of off-road riding while surrounded by nature, Enduro Costa Rica delivers an experience unlike any other.

How Does Shaka Costa Rica Fit In?

At Shaka Costa Rica, we share Enduro’s passion for adventure and hospitality. Located near the stunning beaches of Playa Hermosa and Santa Teresa, our retreat center is known for creating meaningful, active, and restorative travel experiences.

This season, we’ve partnered with Enduro Costa Rica to offer accommodation and retreat experiences for their guests. Together, we’re curating unforgettable moto retreats that combine the thrill of off-road adventures with the relaxation and comfort of Shaka’s wellness-focused environment.

Guests can enjoy:

• Peaceful private accommodations

• Chef-prepared meals

• Optional yoga sessions, surf lessons, massages, and more

Whether you’re joining one of Shaka’s retreats or adding on a moto tour, we’ll ensure every detail of your stay and ride is seamless and memorable.

How to Plan the Costa Rican Trip of Your Dreams

Ready to create your perfect Costa Rica adventure?

1. Visit Enduro Costa Rica’s website to explore their tour options.

2. Connect directly with Rob, Enduro’s owner and expert guide, who will help design a tour tailored to your riding style and goals.

3. Reach out to the Shaka team if you’ve already booked a surf and yoga retreat and want to add thrilling moto excursions. Together, we’ll craft a travel experience that’s pure Pura Vida!

Adventure Awaits

Enduro riding, surfing, yoga, and incredible food — it doesn’t get better than this. Discover the best of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula with Shaka and Enduro Costa Rica, and create the adventure of a lifetime.

Discover the Perfect Surf Package at Shaka Costa Rica: Ultimate Surf vs. Custom Escape

At Shaka Costa Rica, we believe your surf retreat should be effortless, inspiring, and tailored to your style. Nestled on the beautiful Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa, our boutique eco surf retreat offers a warm community vibe while respecting your privacy. We take the guesswork out of planning your perfect Costa Rican adventure with two thoughtfully designed packages: the Ultimate Surf Retreat and the Custom Escape.  Let’s explore which one is right for you: 

Ultimate Surf Retreat: Maximize Your Surf Experience

Our Ultimate Surf Retreat is ideal for travelers eager to dive deep into surfing—whether you’re a complete beginner ready to catch your first wave or an intermediate surfer looking to sharpen your skills. This all-inclusive package covers everything you need for a seamless surf vacation:

• Comfortable eco-friendly private accommodations

• Delicious, healthy meals included

• Daily yoga sessions to enhance flexibility and balance

• Unlimited surfboard use

• Daily expert surf coaching tailored to your level

This package is perfect if you want to immerse yourself fully in the surf lifestyle, connect with fellow surfers, and enjoy a balanced mix of activity and relaxation without any extra planning.

Custom Escape: Craft Your Own Adventure

If you prefer more flexibility, our Custom Escape offers room and meals with the freedom to customize your vacation. This a la carte option is perfect for:

• Travelers curious about trying surfing without committing to everyday lessons

• Travelers wanting a more intensive surf package, opting for multiple daily lessons

• Advanced surfers who don’t need coaching but want access to a vibrant surf community

• Digital nomads seeking a relaxed environment with like-minded travelers

• Those who want to mix surfing with other activities like ATV tours, horseback riding, or waterfall visits

Add-ons such as surf lessons, yoga, and board rentals are available to tailor your stay exactly how you want it.

Which Package Is Right for You?

• Choose the Ultimate Surf Retreat if you want a hassle-free, all-in-one surf retreat focused on improving your surfing skills and enjoying a supportive community atmosphere.

• Opt for the Custom Escape if you prefer having full control in designing your own adventure, mix activities, or simply relax while soaking in the surf culture at your own pace.

Ready to Ride the Waves?

At Shaka Costa Rica, we’re here to make your surf vacation unforgettable and stress-free. Whether you want to fully commit to surfing or create a personalized getaway, our packages offer the perfect balance of community, privacy, and adventure.

Book your stay now and start planning your dream surf retreat in Costa Rica!
Click for paradise!

Additional Tips for Your Trip

• Best time of year: Dec-April is sunnier/hotter, more crowds. April-Sept is sun/rain, less crowds and lush jungle. Both offer their magical upsides  

• Arrival info: Easiest option - Fly into SJO airport, then take a domestic flight to Cobano followed by a taxi to Playa Hermosa

• Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen and a sense of adventure!

By choosing Shaka, you’re not just booking a stay—you’re joining a vibrant surf community in one of the world’s most beautiful surf destinations. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Why Costa Rica’s Green Season Might Be the Best Time for Your Surf Trip

Planning a surf trip to Costa Rica? Don’t sleep on the green season. While many travelers default to the dry season (December–April), those in the know are starting to catch on: May through September offers some of the best surf, most vibrant nature, and most authentic travel experiences in Costa Rica.

Here’s why this lesser-known window might be your ticket to an unforgettable surf retreat—and why “rainy season” is seriously overdue for a rebrand.

What Is Costa Rica’s Green Season?

From May to September, Costa Rica enters what locals call the green season. Yes, it rains—but not how you might expect. Think sunny mornings, afternoon jungle showers, and dramatic golden hour skies. It’s nature at full volume: everything is greener, quieter, and more alive.

In surf towns like Santa Teresa, this is when the rhythm slows down just enough to feel like you’re part of the landscape—not just passing through it.

1. The Surf Is Consistent, Clean & Uncrowded

This is the sweet spot for surfers, especially if you’re beyond the total beginner stage or looking to level up your skills.

- Consistent south swells hit the Pacific coast during this season, creating dreamy waves up and down beaches like Playa Hermosa and Playa Carmen.

- Smaller crowds in the water mean more time on waves and personalized attention from instructors.

- Warm water, glassy conditions, and less wind in the mornings = ideal for surf lessons or solo sessions.

“The waves during green season were better than any surf trip I’ve taken before. Plus, there were days I felt like I had the beach to myself.” – Chris, former guest

2. The Jungle Comes Alive

This is why they call it the green season. Costa Rica’s forests, wildlife, and coastline come to life in May–September:

- Expect lush greenery, waterfalls in full flow, and vibrant wildlife sightings

- Turtle nesting season peaks during the green months

- Sunsets after tropical showers are next-level — fiery, dramatic, unforgettable

-It’s a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s playground.

3. A Slower, More Connected Vibe

Green season draws a different kind of traveler: adventurous, curious, community-minded. It’s less about the scene and more about the connection—to nature, to others, and to yourself.

At Shaka, this means:

- Smaller groups and more space to breathe

- Longer conversations around the dinner table

- More intention in how each day unfolds

“I came for the surf, but it was the people, the pace, and the peaceful energy that made me want to stay longer.” – Marissa, solo traveler

4. It Doesn't Rain All Day (We Promise)

Let’s clear this up: it doesn’t rain nonstop.

Typical green season days look like this:
- Sunny mornings (perfect for surfing and exploring)
- Cloud build-up and brief showers in the afternoon
- Clearing skies and magical evenings
-You’ll get plenty of beach time—just bring a light rain jacket and a flexible spirit.

5. It’s the Perfect Time for Digital Detox & Deep Reset

There’s something about being tucked into the jungle, with waves crashing nearby and monkeys in the trees, that resets your whole nervous system.

Whether you’re:
- Burned out from city life
- Working remote and need a change of scenery
- Traveling solo and ready for new energy

Green season offers the kind of soul-deep calm you didn’t know you needed.

6. Support Local, Travel Consciously

Traveling during green season supports the local economy in a more balanced way. You’re showing up during a time when small businesses, guides, and local farms rely more heavily on sustainable, year-round travelers—not just the high-season crowds.

And with fewer people around, your impact is gentler on the environment, too.

Real Guest Reviews from Green Season

“I came in July not knowing what to expect. It turned out to be one of the most peaceful and transformative weeks of my life.” — Amanda, New York

“I was a little nervous about the weather, but it honestly made the trip more beautiful. The jungle felt alive, the surf was amazing, and the people made it unforgettable.” — Luis, California

“Green season in Costa Rica felt like a secret I was lucky enough to stumble on. I’ll be back next year.” — Sophie, UK

Check out more on our TripAdvisor page → Click Here

Who Green Season Travel is Perfect For

- Adventurous travelers who don’t mind a little rain for a lot of beauty

- Surfers looking for consistent waves and uncrowded breaks

- Digital nomads seeking a scenic, slower-paced escape

- Solo travelers and couples wanting meaningful connection and community

- Nature lovers and photographers chasing epic light and wildlife

Final Thoughts: This Is the Hidden Season You’ll Want to Return To

Green season in Costa Rica isn’t just “okay if that’s when you can go.”
It might actually be the best time to visit—if you’re looking for something real, raw, and ridiculously beautiful.

If you’re ready to surf, connect, and explore during the most underrated time of year, we’ve got your spot waiting.

Explore our surf retreats HERE and start planning your green season adventure.

You Asked, We Listened: Shaka finally has a pool!

We're thrilled to announce the latest addition to Shaka: a stunning pool! We know, we know… it’s long overdue— but better late than never, right?

Nestled in our lush surroundings, the pool is meant to be a tranquil haven for our guests. Whether you’re looking to take a refreshing dip before hitting the waves, cool off after a successful surf session, or simply unwind with a good book (and a beer), our pool offers the perfect escape.

But that's not all—it’s also a fantastic space for honing your surf skills! We’ll be incorporating paddle technique classes, turtle roll demonstrations, and even duck dive practice into our surf coaching..

The pool is here for you to relax, recharge, and refine your skills, adding a whole new dimension to your Shaka experience.

We can’t wait for you to enjoy this exciting new addition on your next visit!