Pavones
Pavones is one of the longest left-hand point breaks in the world—a legendary wave in remote southern Costa Rica that can run for 800+ meters when conditions align. Getting here requires a serious commitment (6+ hour drive from San Jose on rough roads), but the payoff is tropical perfection with jungle-clad hills as your backdrop. The wave needs long-period SW swells to really connect, and when it does, you'll understand why people relocate their lives to this tiny village.
Pavones surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 230°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.2m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 18s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: 6hr drive from San Jose. Last 2hrs rough road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Pavones?
The Pavones profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Pavones?
The Pavones profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 135°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Pavones?
The Pavones scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 230°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3.5m, and a reference period of 18s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Pavones?
The main season at Pavones is Apr-Oct. Long-period S-SW swells. Rainy season best.
How do I get to Pavones?
The spot profile lists SJO as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 360 minutes. 6hr drive from San Jose. Last 2hrs rough road.
What kind of wave is Pavones?
Pavones is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Long-period S-SW swells. Rainy season best.
Getting There
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Plan a trip around Pavones
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