Isla Herradura Surf Spot Guide

Playa Herradura itself doesn’t offer any waves for surfing.

This place is popular amongst tico families. When you look out to the sea, slightly to the left, you will see Isla Herradura. Isla Herradura is not a consistent wave. The biggest chances that this wave is pumping are during bigger swells, up to 12 feet.

The bottom of this left point break is rocky. The swell has to come from the South or better from the Northwest. To reach this surf spot it is the easiest to take a boat, but it’s possible to paddle there from the beach.

Wave Conditions and Swell

Isla Herradura features a left point break with rides that can be long when the swell is strong. The wave usually becomes surfable during bigger swells, especially in the rainy season from May to mid-December.

The bay itself is mostly sheltered, so waves do not always break inside. When a big swell arrives, the island’s reef can produce powerful waves best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Offshore winds from the east or northeast create the cleanest conditions.

This surf spot is inconsistent, timing a visit with a proper swell is important for finding good conditions!

Access and Costs

Getting to Isla Herradura’s surf spot typically requires a short boat ride. The current local rate is US$15,- per person each way. This means a round trip for one surf session costs US$30,- total per person, paid to the boat captain.

Walking from the main beach takes about 25 minutes. The path includes sections along the sand but also goes over rocks, especially when the tide is up. The rocky stretches can be a bit painful. Surfboards can be stressful to carry over the rocks, so some surfers prefer the boat despite the extra cost.

Bringing enough cash for transport and maybe parking is advised, as card payments are not accepted for the boat ride.

Nearby Alternative Surf Spots

If Isla Herradura is working, Playa Escondida, a point further north, often has good waves too. Playa Escondida is known for consistent quality waves that break over the reef to the left and the right, it is for experienced surfers!

Reaching Playa Escondida by boat costs more than going to Isla Herradura because the distance is longer.

Having backup spots in mind is helpful, especially since Isla Herradura can be inconsistent. Local knowledge from boat captains or surfers can help find the best waves on any given day.

Local Amenities and Parking

Surfers can park their cars near the beach. There are also guarded parking lots provided by local businesses. The daily rate for secure parking is Colones 3000,- (about US$6,-).

Several restaurants line the beach, making it easy to find drinks, snacks, and basic meals between or after surf sessions.

Photos of Isla Herradura