Playa Hermosa
Playa Hermosa (Costa Rica) is one of Central America's most consistent and powerful beach breaks—a 7km stretch of black sand that catches virtually every Pacific swell. The waves here are heavy and hollow, breaking with surprising intensity over shifting sandbars. It's just south of Jaco, making it easily accessible from San Jose. The beach hosts WSL events and has produced some of Costa Rica's best surfers. Powerful, punchy, and always working—this is Costa Rica's reliable beachbreak.
Playa Hermosa surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (210°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 250°
- Size range
- 1m - 4m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 3.3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 0° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.8m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
6/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Playa Hermosa?
The Playa Hermosa profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.8m 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 Playa Hermosa?
The Playa Hermosa profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 0° to 90°. 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 Playa Hermosa?
The Playa Hermosa scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 250°), a swell-height range of 1m to 4m, and a reference period of 16s. 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 Playa Hermosa?
The main season at Playa Hermosa is Apr-Oct. Rainy season = swell season. Best May-Oct.
How do I get to Playa Hermosa?
The spot profile lists SJO as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 90 minutes.
What kind of wave is Playa Hermosa?
Playa Hermosa is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Rainy season = swell season. Best May-Oct.
Getting There
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