Tico’s Surf School Playa Sámara

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Description

Tico’s Surf School in Playa Sámara, Costa Rica, is one of those rare places that feels like a mix between a beach hangout and a genuine learning experience. It’s family-run, and that warmth really shows the moment you walk up to their beachfront spot. You’ll probably see a few sandy boards leaning against the palm trees, instructors chatting with students, and that easy-going Pura Vida vibe that makes Sámara so special. The school has earned its reputation as one of the top surf schools in the region, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. The instructors aren’t just pros—they’re locals who grew up riding these waves, and they teach with a mix of patience, humor, and passion that’s contagious.

Whether you’re a total beginner who’s never touched a surfboard or someone who’s already comfortable catching smaller waves, Tico’s Surf School offers lessons that actually meet you where you are. They don’t rush you or make you feel like you’re part of a conveyor belt of tourists. Instead, they focus on making sure you feel safe, confident, and stoked (yes, that’s the right word) by the end of your session. And the best part? It’s right on the main stretch of Playa Sámara, so you can literally walk out of the ocean and grab a smoothie or taco within minutes.

The school’s approach is all about creating a positive, inclusive environment. It’s LGBTQ+ friendly and a safe space for all travelers. The instructors are ISA-certified and trained lifeguards, so even if the waves look a little intimidating, you’re in good hands. They offer lessons in English, Spanish, and German, which makes it easy for international visitors to feel comfortable and understood. And if you’re traveling with family, they’ve got lessons for kids too—watching a little one stand up on a board for the first time is pure magic.

There’s something deeply satisfying about learning to surf here. Maybe it’s the calm, horseshoe-shaped bay that keeps the waves friendly for beginners. Or maybe it’s the sense of community that Tico’s Surf School has built over the years. Either way, it’s not just about surfing—it’s about connecting with the ocean, the people, and that slow, sun-soaked rhythm of life that defines Sámara.

Key Features

• Private and group surf lessons for all skill levels, including kids and beginners
• ISA-certified instructors and professional lifeguards ensuring safety and fun
• Surfboard rentals, surf photography, and kayaking options available
• Beach chair rentals for relaxing after your session
• Lessons offered in English, Spanish, and German
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and restrooms for inclusivity
• LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender-safe environment
• Free street parking and convenient beachfront location
• Family-run business with a warm, local touch

What really stands out is how Tico’s Surf School balances professionalism with that laid-back Costa Rican charm. They’ve managed to create a space that feels both safe and adventurous. It’s not uncommon to see repeat visitors—people who came once, fell in love with the experience, and now return every year. That says a lot about the kind of memories this place creates.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask locals, they’ll tell you there’s pretty much no bad time to surf in Sámara. But if you want the sweet spot, aim for the dry season, roughly from December to April. The weather is sunny, the water is warm, and the waves are just right for beginners. During these months, the bay’s gentle swell makes it ideal for learning, and you’ll get those golden sunsets that seem to last forever.

That said, the green season (May through November) has its own charm. Sure, you might get a few afternoon rain showers, but the mornings are often glassy and calm—perfect for surfing. Plus, the crowds thin out a bit, and everything feels more relaxed. Personally, I love visiting around June or July. The ocean feels alive, the jungle is lush, and you can still catch great waves without having to dodge too many boards in the lineup.

If you’re planning a trip specifically to learn surfing, check in advance about tide times—Tico’s instructors are great at scheduling lessons around the best conditions, but it’s still good to know when the waves will be most forgiving. And don’t worry too much about the weather; even on cloudy days, Sámara somehow manages to look beautiful.

How to Get There

Getting to Playa Sámara is part of the adventure. The beach town sits on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, about two hours from Liberia International Airport. You can rent a car at the airport and enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills, small villages, and stretches of coastline that’ll make you want to stop every few miles for photos. The roads are mostly paved, though a few sections might get bumpy—nothing a small SUV can’t handle.

If driving isn’t your thing, there are shuttle services that run daily from San José and Liberia straight to Sámara. They’re affordable, comfortable, and a good way to meet other travelers heading in the same direction. Once you arrive in town, Tico’s Surf School is easy to find—it’s right on the main beach, close to cafés, restaurants, and small shops. You can literally walk there barefoot if you’re staying nearby.

For those who love a bit of local flavor, consider taking the local bus from Nicoya. It’s slower, sure, but it gives you a real sense of Costa Rican life. You’ll pass by fruit stands, kids heading to school, and maybe even spot a few howler monkeys along the way. Just remember to bring some cash for the fare.

Tips for Visiting

First and foremost—don’t overthink it. Surfing looks harder than it is, especially when you have the right people teaching you. Tico’s instructors have this uncanny ability to make you feel like you’ve been surfing for years, even if you wipe out half the time (which, trust me, you will). And that’s okay. Falling is part of the fun.

Bring plenty of sunscreen, ideally reef-safe, because the Costa Rican sun doesn’t mess around. A rash guard or long-sleeve surf shirt is also a good idea to protect your skin from both the sun and the board. If you wear contact lenses, consider bringing goggles or sunglasses with a strap—you’ll thank yourself later.

If you’re traveling with family, book a group session. It’s hilarious and heartwarming to watch everyone cheer each other on. And if you’re solo, don’t worry—you’ll meet other travelers instantly. There’s something about sharing the same ocean that breaks the ice faster than any small talk ever could.

After your lesson, take some time to explore Playa Sámara. The town has a laid-back, almost bohemian feel. Grab a smoothie from a beach shack, rent a kayak to paddle out to Isla Chora, or just stretch out on a chair and watch the waves roll in. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the local beach bonfires at sunset.

One thing I always tell people: don’t rush your experience here. Sámara isn’t the kind of place you check off a list—it’s the kind of place you sink into. Spend a few days, take multiple lessons, and let yourself get into the rhythm of it all. You’ll be surprised by how much progress you make when you stop trying so hard and just let the ocean do its thing.

And finally, a small but important tip—bring cash. While Tico’s Surf School accepts cards, some of the nearby cafés and vendors don’t. Having a few colones on hand makes life easier (and helps you snag that post-surf coconut water without hassle).

Tico’s Surf School isn’t just about learning to surf—it’s about embracing the pura vida way of life. It’s about laughter, saltwater, sunburns that turn into tan lines, and stories you’ll tell long after you’ve gone home. Whether you’re chasing your first wave or just looking for a slice of Costa Rican magic, this little surf school by the sea delivers every single time.

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