Punta Burica Surf Spot Guide

This is maybe as remote as it gets in Costa Rica.

There are several reef point breaks at Punta Burica. The best surfing conditions are during low upcoming tide. The waves can become big and powerful here. If that is not adventures enough for you try to get out to Isla Burica. You need to find a boat to get there. You can ask fishermen if they can take you there.

Adventure and Travel Experience

Reaching Punta Burica on the Pacific coast near the Panama border brings a sense of remoteness and raw natural beauty, appealing to surfers searching for less-crowded spots and genuine adventure. The region’s isolation, challenging access, and proximity to unique attractions make it a destination for those willing to leave the beaten path.

Access to Punta Burica

Getting to Punta Burica requires planning and a willingness to tackle off-the-beaten-track travel. Most visitors drive from Pavones. The route involves rough, often unpaved roads that may be difficult in the rainy season. Reliable four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended, and travel times can easily stretch to several hours.

There are no large towns close to Punta Burica, and amenities are limited. Supplies and fuel should be sourced in advance! But that is the idea of an adventures surf trip to a remote location . Border formalities are also relevant, as the area lies close to the Panama–Costa Rica border, requiring travelers to carry documentation.

Geography and Location

Punta Burica lies on a remote peninsula jutting into the Pacific, with dense jungle and rugged coastline defining the landscape. Its geographical isolation, far from urban centers, preserves the wild atmosphere and low surfer numbers. The coastline features empty beaches, rocky outcrops, and long stretches of rainforest meeting the ocean, offering a striking backdrop for waves.

The peninsula marks the southernmost tip of Costa Rica’s Pacific side, lying just north of the Panamanian border. The nearest major settlement on the Costa Rican side is

Pavones, while Puerto Armuelles is the main Panamanian hub. The location’s remoteness helps protect the region’s quiet character, attracting surfers who prioritize uncrowded and pristine environments.

Nearby Points of Interest

Surfers visiting Punta Burica can explore several nearby attractions. Pavones, known for its long left-hand wave, is a popular surf destination located north of the peninsula. This small town also offers basic amenities.

On the Panamanian side, Puerto Armuelles is the closest base, offering markets, accommodations, and access to more urban conveniences before heading to Burica.

Photos of Punta Burica