Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Surfing the Peninsula
Ever since surf legend Robert August started riding waves all those decades
ago, surfers have descended to this rugged peninsula in search of the per-
fect wave. The result is a string of epic beach towns - with excellent facilities
and good vibrations - blossoming all along the spectacular coastline.
Playa Grande
Playa Grande is across the river and a world away from Tamarindo. It doubles as a na-
tional park that protects leatherback turtle nesting grounds, which means the wide
beach, which rambles for miles, is damn near pristine. The wave shapes up beautifully
with head-high sets year-round, and the local expat residents have opened up some
truly tasty kitchens and comfy inns.
Playas Avellanas & Negra
South of Tamarindo, you'll find two of the most celebrated surf spots on the peninsula,
though the nearby villages still retain that appealing atmosphere of rusticity and re-
moteness. Playa Avellanas is an understated yet elegant place to nest, within reach of
white-sand beaches and a break that is kind to beginners. Nearby, the surf swells big
and gnarly at Playa Negra, breaking on beautiful dark sand. To dodge the crowds, seek
out the still-hidden waves tucked between all the big names.
