Transportation from San Jose and SJO Airport to Esterillos Costa Rica
Private transfer pick up at any time for $187 one-way
Playa Esterillos unfolds as an expansive stretch of gilded sands, gracefully positioned on the southern fringe of Playa Hermosa. A mere stone’s throw from Jaco, within the Central Pacific region of Costa Rica, this coastal gem delineates its character through three distinct facets. To the east lies Esterillos Este, at the heart rests Esterillos Centro, and embracing the western expanse is Esterillos Oeste, affectionately known as Bejuco among the locals. At the beach’s northern terminus, a quaint fishing village weaves its existence, while a river inlet graces the southern fringes, adding a touch of natural allure.
This pristine haven has artfully sidestepped the clutches of modern development, preserving its ethereal charm as a sanctuary of sublime beauty. Esterillos’ pristine shores remain largely untouched, cradled by lush, verdant backdrops that paint an exquisite canvas. Particularly, Esterillos Oeste, or Bejuco, is emerging as a coveted haven for surf enthusiasts across all skill levels.
The contours of Playa Esterillos mimic a gentle banana curve, offering a theater of surfing escapades. The waves, though gentle and shallow, exude a playful charisma, enticing surfers into their dance. When the ocean mirrors a serene calmness undisturbed by the wind, surfers encounter a symphony of smooth, glossy waves. The consistent beach break presents a harmonious blend of right and left waves, cascading over a sandy expanse adorned with rocks. While the waves typically reach up to 150 meters on an ordinary day, the coast has witnessed impressive peaks, towering up to 7 feet. Optimal surfing conditions grace the shores during the months of June to August and January to March.
Among the triad, Esterillos Oeste reigns supreme, capturing the hearts of longboarders and novices alike. The beach break here unfurls hollow and barrel waves, offering an ideal terrain for those navigating the waves on a longboard. The magic unfolds when swells grace the shores from the South and Southwest, particularly during mid to high tides. The waves here are gentle, providing a gradual ascent that caters to surfers of varying expertise.
Esterillos Este, by contrast, boasts faster and more formidable waves, breaking gracefully over sandy expanses during the incoming tide. Although less frequented, it’s a hidden gem for those seeking a more dynamic surfing experience. Meanwhile, the central segment, Esterillos Centro, positioned in front of La Felicidad hotel, caters to the seasoned surfers. Its powerful waves, reminiscent of Playa Hermosa, present an exhilarating challenge with impressive rights and lefts, stretching from 50 to 150 meters, and occasionally extending to a staggering 300 meters on auspicious days.
However, amidst the allure, caution is warranted. Playa Esterillos harbors its share of dangers, from the elusive stingrays to the stealthy presence of crocodiles. During the rainy season, these formidable reptiles have been spotted gracefully navigating the ocean waters, adding an extra layer of intrigue and caution to the surfers’ haven.
Surf Camps
There are no surf camps located in Playa Esterillos but you will find many surf camps located in its close proximity. Surf schools such as Costa Rica Wave House, Playa Hermosa Beach Hotel and Surf Camp, Hermosa Surf Vacationsand Fischer Bros Surf Camp are quite popular.
