Surf Camp in Dominical, Costa Rica: Week-Long Coaching on Uncrowded Waves

A typical week here is built around two things: time in the water and time in Dominical. Surf lessons run most mornings and are split by level, so complete beginners get beach instruction on the sand and whitewater before paddling out, while intermediates head straight to the lineup with a coach alongside. Advanced surfers are taken to a rotating set of local spots depending on swell and tide. Sessions usually last around two hours, with boards and rash guards provided from the camp's own surf shop.

Dominical itself is the reason people come back. The beach break here is powerful and consistent, but it's rarely crowded the way Tamarindo or Jacó get. Dominicalito, a short drive south, is calmer and better for longboarding and beginners on bigger days. Beyond the waves, the surrounding jungle is full of wildlife — monkeys, toucans, sloths — and the camp regularly organises side trips to nearby waterfalls and swimming holes.

What sets this camp apart from the bigger surf schools is the size and the local knowledge. Instructors like Ezequiel, Jordy and Falon are named repeatedly in reviews for being patient, funny and genuinely good teachers, and Cesar and Kaitlin handle logistics, bookings and recommendations personally. Guests routinely describe the week as feeling like travelling with friends rather than attending a class.

The camp offers flexible packages — you can book a full surf camp week with accommodation, or just daily lessons if you're already staying in town. Extra options like board rentals, rash guards, swimwear and sunscreen are all available from the on-site shop, and custom packages can be arranged on request.

Prices vary by length of stay, accommodation choice and season, so it's worth getting in touch directly to confirm what's available for your dates. Daily lessons can also be swapped in place of full camp packages if you'd rather build your own schedule. For anyone who wants a genuine Costa Rican surf town rather than a resort, this is about as close as it gets.

What's included

- Surf lessons with local instructors (level-split) - Board and rash guard use during lessons - Accommodation in Playa Dominical (package dependent) - Access to the camp's surf shop for gear and essentials - Recommendations and help organising excursions - Help booking transfers and local logistics

What's not included

- Flights to Costa Rica - Airport transfers (can be arranged, usually at extra cost) - Most meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner are generally paid separately at local spots) - Travel insurance - Personal expenses - Surfboard rentals outside of lesson times (available from the shop) - Optional excursions such as canyonning or waterfall tours