Safari Surf School

Nosara, Costa Rica

Overview

Nosara, Costa Rica, nestled along the Pacific coast, is a haven for anyone looking for an easy tropical getaway. With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant wildlife, Nosara offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The town’s laid-back atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to sustainability, makes it a beloved destination for eco-conscious travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Safari Surf School stands as an integral part of the vibrant Nosara community. Founded by Tim and Marsi Marsh, Safari Surf is the world’s 1 sustainable certified surf school and has been embraced by the Nosara community for over 25 years.

At Safari Surf every guest is welcomed into a world where personalized attention and genuine hospitality create unforgettable experiences. Jeffery Baltodano, the ultimate Nosara host, and the team of experienced instructors go above and beyond to tailor each lesson to the individual needs and skill levels of every guest, ensuring that everyone feels empowered and supported in their surfing endeavors.

Unique Accommodations

Accommodations

Olas Verdes Hotel

Olas Verdes, Safari Surf’s partner hotel, is where the office and lessons are based, and it’s our top recommendation for lodging. Opening its doors in November 2015, Olas Verdes made history as the first Platinum L.E.E.D. certified hotel in Central America. Its spacious rooms, stunning pool, and tropical backdrop create a natural Costa Rican atmosphere. Surrounded by native flora and tribes of Howler Monkeys, all 17 rooms offer views of the pool or the neighboring wildlife refuge. Some rooms can be combined to form 2-, 3-, or 4-bedroom suites. A brief, private 2-minute stroll along a jungle path through the refuge leads to the sandy shores of Playa Guiones. At El Manglar Restaurant, located on the premises, guests can indulge in delicious culinary options to replenish their energy after a rewarding surf session.

Sunset Shack Hotel

The Sunset Shack Hotel, in the heart of Playa Guiones, is a relaxing 8-room boutique hotel centrally located amidst the shops, restaurants, and beach. Owned by the same individuals as the Harmony Hotel, meticulous attention to detail and top-notch customer service are hallmarks here. The on-site restaurant focuses on plant-based fare alongside fresh seafood, aligning perfectly with their commitment to health and wellness. Sunset Shack is a 10 minute walk from Safari Surf headquarters or 5 minutes by bike, ATV, or golf cart.

Surf & Seasons

The Surf

Safari Surf School 

WaterWays’ partnership with Safari Surf School was inspired by the desire to offer a world-class beginner surfing experience. Safari’s top-notch surf instruction coupled with their focus on personalized experiences, aligns perfectly with our values of delivering trips our guests will want to take again and again.

Each lesson begins with a warm welcome from knowledgeable instructors who guide guests through the fundamentals of surfing, from proper paddling techniques to mastering the art of catching waves. Every instructor is a lifelong surfer as well as ISA and Lifeguard certified. There’s a maximum of 3 surfers of similar ability per instructor and every group receives private instruction with all equipment included. Boards waxed, rash guards on, and it’s time to hit the waves through the private beach path to Playa Guiones.

As guests venture into the warm Costa Rican water, they receive individualized coaching tailored to their skill level and goals. Whether it’s your first time on a board or you’re looking to refine your skills, Safari Surf School’s patient and encouraging instructors are dedicated to helping you progress at your own pace. 1 day of post surf video analysis is included helps surfers improve even more before the next sesson. 

Safari Surf School’s hope is that guests leave feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to continue their surfing journey long after they’ve left the shores of Nosara.

Synopsis:

Costa Rica experiences a tropical climate with two primary seasons: the dry season (known as verano) and the wet season (known as invierno). 

The dry season typically runs from December to April, characterized by sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for beach vacations and outdoor activities. 

The wet season spans from May to November, bringing increased rainfall and lush green landscapes, particularly in the rainforests. Although these months can receive a lot of rain, rain showers usually start in the late afternoon, often raining through the night. Mornings and early afternoons often have sunny skies and perfect peeling surf.

Costa Rica is a year-round surf destination with water temps in the low 80’s and air temperatures in the mid to high 80’s year round.

Activities

Activities

Nosara caters to all interests, offering a diverse array of activities beyond water sports, making it an ideal destination for any group. Below, you’ll discover a selection of activities that Safari Surf can organize, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone.

  • Deep Sea Fishing Whale & Dolphin Watching 
  • Costa Rica Snorkeling Tour (seasonal)
  • Nosara Sunset Boat Tour
  • Yoga
  • Golf Cart Rental
  • Mountain Bike Rental
  • Spa/Massage
  • Miss Sky Canopy Zipline Tour (5 hours)
  • Horseback Tour (Beach & Jungle)
  • Beach or River Fishing with Local Guide (3 hours)
  • Kayak Tour (3 hours)
  • SUP Tour (3 hours)
  • Nosara Wildlife Refuge Tour
  • ATV Tour – Coffee Farm or Waterfalls (3 to 5 hours)
  • LaGarta Lodge Wildlife Tour (2.5 hours with guide) 
  • Sea Turtles / Arriabada

Pricing

2024 Rates

Safari Surf School – Olas Verdes Hotel

  • 6 Nights Luxury Suite Accommodations
  • 8 Private Group Surf Lessons (1.5 hrs each) incl Surfboard
  • 1 Video Analysis
  • Breakfast Daily
  • 3 Hosted Dinners 
  • 1 Extra Activity (choices below)
  • 7 Day Beach Cruiser Rental
  • Round Trip Airport Transfers (Liberia)
  • 13% Hotel Taxes

Extra Activities List

Choose one of the following activities included in your package (additional available upon request)

  • Daily Yoga at Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort (5 sessions)
  • 1 Hour Massage
  • 1 Zipline Tour (5 hours)
  • 1 Horseback Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 Kayak Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 SUP Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 ATV Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 Mountain Bike Tour
  • Nosara Biological Hike with Guide
  • Beach/River Fishing w/ Guide (3-4 hours)

Package Notes:

  1. Arrive and depart any day
  2. 5 Night minimum suggested, inquire for shorter stays
  3. Pricing based on Green Season and do change during High and Holiday Seasons
  4. Packages are customizable based on groups wishes
  5. Private home rentals for larger groups also available

Safari Surf School – Sunset Shack Hotel

  • 6 Nights Sunset Shack Garden Room Accommodations
  • 8 Private Group Surf Lessons (1.5 hrs each) incl Surfboard
  • 1 Video Analysis
  • Breakfast Daily
  • 3 Hosted Dinners 
  • 1 Extra Activity (choices below)
  • 7 Day Beach Cruiser Rental
  • Round Trip Airport Transfers (Liberia)
  • 13% Hotel Taxes

Extra Activities List

Choose one of the following activities included in your package (additional available upon request)

  • Daily Yoga at Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort (5 sessions)
  • 1 Hour Massage
  • 1 Zipline Tour (5 hours)
  • 1 Horseback Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 Kayak Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 SUP Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 ATV Tour (3 hours)
  • 1 Mountain Bike Tour
  • Nosara Biological Hike with Guide
  • Beach/River Fishing w/ Guide (3-4 hours)

Package Notes:

  1. Arrive and depart any day
  2. 5 Night minimum suggested, inquire for shorter stays
  3. Pricing based on Green Season and do change during High and Holiday Seasons
  4. Packages are customizable based on groups wishes
  5. Private home rentals for larger groups also available