Playa Junquillal Surf Spot Guide

Playa Junquillal has good waves to the right and to the left, it is a beach break.

It breaks best at higher tides. The bottom is sandy.

This surf spot needs swell from the North and the Northwest. The best conditions are from December till March, when consistent swells and favorable offshore winds create ideal waves for all skill levels. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry, making it a perfect time to enjoy long sessions on the water and take in the beautiful, uncrowded coastline.

Nestled along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Playa Junquillal (pronounced "hoon-key-al") stands as a hidden gem in Guanacaste Province. This remote paradise offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist spots, situated just south of Tamarindo and north of Nosara. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to experience authentic Costa Rican coastal beauty without the crowds.

Playa Junquillal features excellent surf conditions with beach breaks that create good waves both to the right and left, working best during higher tides over its sandy bottom. The surf spot receives optimal swells from the North and Northwest, with December through March delivering the most consistent waves. During this peak season, favorable offshore winds combine with regular swells to create ideal conditions for surfers of all skill levels.

While reaching this secluded beach requires some effort—either by rental car, taxi, private shuttle from Liberia, or local buses from Santa Cruz—the journey rewards visitors with uncrowded waves and pristine shorelines. Unlike its more developed neighbor Tamarindo, Junquillal maintains its untouched charm, allowing surfers to enjoy excellent waves on a beautiful beach.

Surfing Conditions at Playa Junquillal

Playa Junquillal offers excellent surfing opportunities along Costa Rica's Pacific coast. This beach break produces both right and left waves, making it versatile for different surfing styles.

The surf spot works best during higher tides over its sandy bottom. When conditions align perfectly, surfers can enjoy quality waves that cater to various skill levels.

The prime surfing season runs from December through March. During these months, consistent swells from the North and Northwest combine with favorable offshore winds to create ideal surfing conditions.

Despite being less crowded than nearby Tamarindo, Playa Junquillal delivers reliable waves that attract dedicated surfers seeking quality sessions without the crowds. The beach's relative seclusion contributes to its appeal.

Access and Practical Information

Playa Junquillal is located approximately 78 km from Liberia International Airport, with a travel time of about 2 hours. The road to Junquillal has been paved in recent years, making it accessible for standard 2WD vehicles even during the rainy season.

For travelers coming from San Jose, expect a longer journey of approximately 5 hours covering 255 km on well-maintained roads. A rental car is highly recommended for visiting this remote beach area, providing flexibility to explore nearby attractions.

Public transportation options include buses from Santa Cruz to Playa Junquillal, travelers should arrive early as schedules can be unpredictable.

For those not wishing to drive, private shuttles from Liberia are available. Taxis are also available but may be expensive for the distance.

Playa Junquillal is recognized with the Ecological Blue Flag award, highlighting its commitment to environmental sustainability. This makes it an excellent choice for a Costa Rica vacation focused on eco-tourism.

Nearby Surf Spots

Playa Junquillal's location on Costa Rica's Pacific coast provides surfers with easy access to several renowned surf spots in the Guanacaste region. Just north of Junquillal lies Playa Negra, approximately 15 minutes away by car, famous for its powerful right-hand reef break that attracts intermediate to advanced surfers.

Playa Avellanas, often called "Little Hawaii," is located about 25 minutes north and offers multiple breaks suitable for various skill levels. Its consistent waves make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Further north, approximately 30-40 minutes from Junquillal, is Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica's most popular surf destinations. This vibrant beach town features waves appropriate for beginners and experienced surfers, plus numerous surf schools and rental shops.

Playa Grande, just north of Tamarindo, provides more challenging conditions with powerful beach breaks. It's less crowded and offers a more serene surfing experience.

South of Junquillal, surfers can explore Nosara, about an hour's drive away. This area includes Playa Guiones, known for its consistent waves and yoga-surf community.

Surfing is one of the main attractions at Playa Junquillal, especially during the peak season from December to March when consistent swells create ideal waves. The beach break offers both right and left waves that work best at higher tides.

For those looking to explore other nearby surf spots, Playa Negra is just 6 km away, while Playa Avellanas sits about 9 km from Junquillal. Both locations are known for their world-class surfing conditions.

Conservation efforts are prominent in the region, with sea turtle hatcheries protecting the local wildlife. The nearby Ostional Wildlife Refuge offers educational experiences for environmentally conscious travelers.

Accommodation options range from camping sites to luxury vacation rentals.

Playa Junquillal proudly holds the Ecological Blue Flag certification, highlighting its commitment to environmental standards and clean beaches. This makes it an ideal destination for eco-conscious Costa Rica vacations.

For transportation, having a rental car is recommended as public transit options are limited in this secluded paradise.

Photos of Playa Junquillal