Santa Teresa is one of Costa Rica’s most loved surf destinations, with warm water, consistent waves and breaks for every level. From beginner-friendly beaches to powerful peaks and point breaks, there is almost always somewhere to surf.
The Baya House is located just 200 metres from the beach and about a two-minute walk from La Lora, one of Santa Teresa’s most iconic surf breaks.
01 — Find your wave
Our home break. La Lora is one of Santa Teresa’s most iconic surf spots, with multiple peaks offering both lefts and rights. Expect faster, more powerful waves, particularly when a good south swell arrives.
A long, beautiful sandy beach with generally softer and more forgiving waves. One of the best places in the area to learn to surf, and great for longboarding.
A sandy beach break with several peaks and generally gentler waves than La Lora. Popular with surf schools and great for building confidence.
Cabuya is a right-hand point break and a great option for beginner and intermediate surfers when conditions are right. It’s a fun surf trip south of Santa Teresa and a nice alternative to the local beach breaks.
Mar Azul is a left-hand point break in Mal País. It can be a fun option for beginner and intermediate surfers when conditions are suitable and offers a different experience from Santa Teresa’s beach breaks.
Rocamar is an advanced reef break with powerful waves and should only be surfed by experienced, confident surfers. This is not a beginner or intermediate surf spot.
02 — Where to surf in Santa Teresa
Playa Hermosa · Playa Carmen
Playa Hermosa · Playa Carmen · Cabuya · Mar Azul
La Lora · Playa Carmen · Playa Hermosa · Cabuya · Mar Azul
La Lora · Rocamar
Surf conditions change every day. Swell size and direction, wind, tides and sandbars can completely change a surf break. Ask a local instructor about the best spot for your ability and the conditions that day.
03 — When to come
Generally smaller surf, sunny weather and cleaner conditions. A great time for newer surfers.
Larger south swells become more frequent, bringing bigger and more powerful surf.
Early morning is often the best time to surf before the wind picks up. Being two minutes from La Lora means Baya House guests can easily walk down and check the waves first thing in the morning.
Surf lessons Santa Teresa Costa Rica
Get out on the water with The Baya House surf coaches. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to join us — all levels are welcome.
1 lesson · $75
3 lessons · $180
Each lesson includes a board and approximately two hours of teaching: a warm-up, guidance on reading waves, and local knowledge. Your coach will choose the best beach for your level and the conditions that day.
04 — Surf etiquette
Wake up, check the waves and walk to La Lora in minutes. The Baya House puts you in the heart of North Santa Teresa, close to the surf, cafés, restaurants and everything you need — no car required.
