Playa Hermosa

Surf Guide

Often referred to as the most consistent beachbreak in Costa Rica, Playa Hermosa is indeed a classic setup: four miles of scalloped black sand, fairly deep water offshore, and open exposure to just about any swell except northwest, though it shows its true face on a solid south. It's also one of the closest and most accessible beaches to San Jose, so you can expect crowds. Fortunately, four miles is a pretty long way -- especially with shifting A-frames and a strong side current -- so you can generally find an uncrowded peak somewhere on its stretch. As you head south toward Tulin, the crowds start to thin out. This is where you can go to escape the glamour-seekers at the main beach. Drive farther toward Esterillos for more of a wide open experience.