South Swell Season 2025 — Why May to October Is the Best Time to Surf Costa Rica

Written by
Curtis Custer
-
April 22, 2025

I’m Curtis Custer, surfer of 50 years and part of the Sales Office here at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp. I’ve lived in Tamarindo for over a decade, and when it comes to scoring world-class waves with low crowds and tropical vibes—this time of year is it.

From May to October, Costa Rica’s north coast lights up with consistent south and southwest swells from the Southern Hemisphere. The jungle’s alive, the water’s warm, and the lineups are mellow.

With the first south swells already hitting in April, 2025’s Green Season is off to an epic start. I’ve put together this guide to explain why May through October is the best time to surf Costa Rica—and how to lock in 20% off your trip right now.

Why South Swell Season Rules

More swell, fewer people, perfect conditions

We call it the “Low Season” down here, but there’s nothing low about it. This time of year is when the real surf magic happens:

Consistent Surf: Long-period groundswells from the South Pacific fuel steady surf all along the Guanacaste coast.
Warmer Water: 82°F and no wetsuit required—just boardshorts and a smile.
Low Crowds: Lineups thin out, and it becomes a locals’ paradise.
Glass-Off Mornings: Offshore winds often groom the early morning surf. Some afternoons bring light rain showers that clean up the conditions—and when they do, it’s not uncommon for the waves to turn on again in the evening.
Jungle Vibes: Rain brings out the monkeys, parrots, iguanas, and more. Nature is full-on.

“If you’re a real surfer, this is when you want to be here. It’s probably one of the best-kept secrets in Costa Rica.”

The Waves Are Firing

The entire coast comes alive during the South Swell Season. Here are just a few of the spots lighting up:

Witch’s Rock: Long lefts & rights, plenty of offshore winds, epic energy.
Ollie’s Point: “Some of the best waves I’ve had in 13 years of living here.”
Avellanas & Little Hawaii: Glassy and hollow. Sometimes three barrel sections in a row.
Playa Grande: Wedge peaks, reeling rights and lefts.
Tamarindo Rivermouth: Multi-section setups and shifting peaks.
Pico Grande/Pico Pequeño: Town break that fires across long, fun rights and lefts.

“You’ve got your pick—and with surfers spread out across so many breaks, it rarely feels crowded.”

Photos: SICKOS April 2025 strike mission

More Than Just Waves

Between May and October, the jungle wakes up too. It’s not just about the surf:

Tropical birds from inland forests migrate to the coast.
Howler monkeys are everywhere.
Iguanas bask on warm rock walls.
Sea life comes alive offshore.

“The animals are less timid, and the jungle feels more alive. It’s a beautiful time to be here.”

Why Book a Trip May–October?

It’s not just a surf trip. It’s a completely different Costa Rica.

You’ll surf more and wait less. This time of year is known for long-period swells and empty lineups. You’ll get into more waves every session—and the vibe in the water is friendly and local.
The jungle is peaking. May–October is when Costa Rica turns its most vibrant. Picture bright green hills, cooler nights, and misty sunsets. If you love nature, this is the time.
The weather works in your favor. Mornings are typically sunny and glassy—prime surf conditions. Afternoon rains cool everything down and refresh the beach for golden-hour sessions.
Town slows down—in a good way. Fewer crowds in Tamarindo means no lines for restaurants, more quiet time on the beach, and that relaxed pace we all chase on vacation.
It’s a surfer’s Costa Rica. This is when the locals surf the most. It’s not overrun with tourists, and that gives your trip a more authentic, connected feel.

“May to October is when everything comes alive—and yet it feels like you have it all to yourself.”