Malpais and its more famous neighbor Santa Teresa occupy the sun-baked southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, offering a constellation of breaks that range from mellow beach break walls to punchy reef points. The main right-hand point at the southern end provides the region's most defined wave, reeling along rocky outcrops with occasional barrel sections. The area's remote location—accessible by rough roads or ferry—has cultivated a distinct bohemian surf culture. Development has arrived, but the consistent waves and spectacular sunsets continue to draw surfers seeking the quintessential Costa Rican surf village experience.
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Drive or ferry from mainland.
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Year-round. Rainy season best.
☀️ Pura vida showcase • Consistent beach peaks • Yoga surf fusion
🇨🇷 Most consistent break • Heavy hollow tubes • Black sand power
🌅 7km of beach break • Yoga surf fusion • Costa Rica consistency
🧘 Yoga surf paradise • Mellow beach breaks • Pura vida wellness
🖤 Guanacaste's premier left • Consistent reef quality • Urchin territory
🐷 Beach pigs fame • Lola's legendary • Quality upgrade