Osa & the far south · Costa Rica
Surfing Drake's Bay
A reef break in Osa & the far south, Costa Rica, for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Drake Bay is on the edge of Corcovado National Park, reached by boat from Sierpe or by a rough jungle road. There are several breaks around the bay, including an offshore reef, all of which need a good south-west swell and some local knowledge.
The lodges are expensive and the logistics take planning. Most people come for the rainforest and the wildlife, and the surf is a bonus. When it works, the lineups are empty.
Lodges in the bay can arrange boat trips to the breaks.
When to surf
Drake's Bay
Drake's Bay is at its best from May to November. Conditions it likes: Swell S-SW.
December to April: Good
Short dry season, cleaner, sunnier, but smaller than the summer swell
May to July: Prime
Green season S-SW groundswell fires Dominical and the points; offshore mornings
August to October: Prime
Peak, most consistent S-SW swell, and the wettest, greenest months
Nov: Quiet
Transition, heavy rains and swell easing into the dry season
The year across Central Puntarenas
Waves near Drake's Bay
Getting there
Where to stay: This is remote, expensive, expedition territory, reach Drake Bay by boat from Sierpe or a rough drive. Book lodges well ahead and bring everything for the rivermouth spots (Sierpe, Rio Claro), which need boats, camping gear and self-sufficiency. Not a casual surf mission.
Transport, costs, where to stay and the rest of the waves in the area are in the Osa & the far south guide.
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