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8 sustainable surf resorts in Costa Rica for an eco-conscious stay

ByEcoOceanEscapes

Planning an eco-conscious surf trip to Central America? Discover 8 sustainable surf resorts in Costa Rica to keep your environmental footprint to a minimum.

For us, Costa Rica is a paradise. With miles of largely uninhabited coastline and world-class waves, this Central American gem has become one of our favourite surf destinations.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first surfing steps or an advanced surfer wanting to shred epic breaks, Costa Rica caters to every skill level.

Considering its stunning natural environment and reputation as an eco-tourism destination, it should come as no surprise that Costa Rica delivers when it comes to sustainable surf resorts.

These operations minimise environmental impact by reducing waste, recycling and using renewable energy sources, as well as regularly organising beach cleanups.

In this article, we’ll highlight 8 of the best sustainable surf resorts in Costa Rica for an eco-conscious trip. By staying at these properties, you can score incredible waves while helping to preserve the wildlife-rich rainforests and hidden beaches of this Central American gem.

Sustainable surf camps in Costa Rica: An aerial view of a beach in Costa Rica
Sustainable surf camps in Costa Rica: An aerial view of a beach in Costa Rica

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Olas Verdes Hotel, Nosara

Located on the coast of Guanacaste, Olas Verdes is an eco-paradise where sustainability meets serenity. It’s surrounded by tropical forests, epic surf breaks and a community dedicated to protecting the planet.

This award-winning boutique hotel seamlessly blends into its natural setting. Among its sustainable initiatives, it has solar panels installed atop its thatched-roof casitas and native species flourishing in its gardens. 

Beyond the grounds, Nosara beckons – a laid-back town that fiercely protects its environment. Once threatened by deforestation, the community banded together to reforest the coastline and establish protected areas, such as the Ostional-Nosara National Wildlife Refuge.

Today, howler monkeys swing through the trees as surfers ride waves at the world-class beach break of Playa Guiones.

When staying at Olas Verdes Hotel, you can rest assured you’re supporting local families and helping protect this slice of paradise.

“Best experience in Costa Rica!” – Sophie (read more reviews here)

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One of the stylish rooms at the Olas Verdes Hotel, a sustainable surf resort in Nosara, Costa Rica
One of the stylish rooms at the Olas Verdes Hotel, a sustainable surf resort in Nosara, Costa Rica (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Ventura Santa Teresa, Santa Teresa

Ventura Santa Teresa is the ideal spot for surfers looking for a lively community atmosphere. Just a short walk from the beach, this eco-conscious hotel allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the coast while still being close to all the action.

The rooms at Ventura are modern and tidy, featuring work desks for digital nomads and kitchenettes (in the suites) for those who prefer to cook for themselves. Each room is designed as a peaceful retreat after days spent riding the waves of Santa Teresa.

The Aroma restaurant offers up healthy and delicious meals in a laid-back setting, with the gallo pinto being a local favourite.

Aside from its stunning location, Ventura Santa Teresa is dedicated to preserving the ecological wonders of the Nicoya Peninsula through various sustainability projects.

Certified as an ocean-friendly business by the Nicoya Waterkeeper organisation, the hotel has installed a cutting-edge Bionest wastewater treatment system. It also has future plans for a solar energy setup off the grid.

Additionally, the hotel collaborates with Raw Botanicals to offer guests 100% organic bath and body products.

“The rooms are very clean and modern, well equipped. The restaurant downstairs serves delicious meals all day long (highly recommend the tacos!).” – Laura (read more reviews here)

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Heading to Santa Teresa? Discover more inspiring eco-resorts for surfers in Santa Teresa.

A courtyard plunge pool at Ventura Santa Teresa, a sustainable surf resort in Costa Rica
A courtyard plunge pool at Ventura Santa Teresa, a sustainable surf resort in Costa Rica (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Dreamsea Costa Rica, Tamarindo

Nestled within Tamarindo’s forest, Dreamsea is an affordable surf camp that offers a taste of the Costa Rican lifestyle. It’s a place to connect with nature through surfing, yoga and adventure while learning about sustainability within the community.

Whether you’re an experienced surfer or looking to catch your first wave, Dreamsea Costa Rica provides is ideal. It provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to live in harmony with nature and enjoy endless surf under the Costa Rican sun. 

At this sustainable Costa Rican surf camp, you can start your days with yoga classes led by knowledgeable instructors. It’s a great way to bliss out while listening to the sounds of native birds and howler monkeys.

During your stay, you’ll meet inspiring people from diverse backgrounds, all united by Dreamsea’s philosophy: “It’s about the people.”

The kitchen goes above and beyond to ensure you get the nutrients you need to keep your energy up for long days out in the water.

“Just book it!” – Graciela (read more reviews here)

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Heading to Tamarindo? Discover more inspiring eco-resorts for surfers in Tamarindo.

Hotel Nantipa, Santa Teresa

Nantipa is a highly-rated boutique hotel located right on the beach, making it ideal for surfers wanting a high-end stay.

The name “Nantipa” means “Blue” in Chorotegan, reflecting the ocean views and revitalising atmosphere that fills the entire property.

Alongside the beautiful bungalows, suites and villas at this eco-conscious hotel in Santa Teresa, there is an open-air restaurant that features cuisine inspired by Costa Rica. Most of the meals are prepared using ingredients sourced from local suppliers.

At the Numu wellness center, you can indulge in holistic treatments and experiences designed to help you reconnect with your inner strength. It’s a great way to revitalise after a day of surfing.

From its inception, Nantipa has been developed with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and the conservation of local resources. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability includes ongoing projects aimed at reducing waste and supporting the community of the Nicoya Peninsula.

“Like a dream and counting the days til I return. Pura Vida!” – Stuart (read more reviews here)

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The inviting dining space at Hotel Nantipa, an eco-friendly hotel in Santa Teresa
The inviting dining space at Hotel Nantipa, an eco-friendly hotel in Santa Teresa (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Bodhi Surf + Yoga, Bahia Ballena-Uvita

Four friends with a shared vision came together in 2010 to create something extraordinary in Bahia Ballena-Uvita. Their goal was to build a responsible tourism company focused on facilitating world-class surfing and yoga instruction. All while preserving the untouched beauty around them.

Recognising the power they held to drive positive change, they built their business as a force for good – locally and globally.

Today, Bodhi Surf + Yoga is redefining the typical beach vacation as one of Costa Rica’s top eco-friendly surf resorts. As a proud B Corp and 1% for the Planet member, they walk the walk when it comes to responsible tourism and giving back to the local community.

Guests rave about the eco-lodge accommodation and the farm-to-table meals, as well as the welcoming community vibe.

Whether you’re a novice or an expert, every surf and yoga session includes theory, demos, practice and feedback so you can progress your skills.

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Want to dive during your Costa Rica surf trip? Discover some of the best places for scuba diving in Costa Rica.

Sun loungers surround the outdoor pool at Bodhi Surf + Yoga in Costa Rica
Sun loungers surround the outdoor pool at Bodhi Surf + Yoga in Costa Rica (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel, Tamarindo

Nestled in tropical gardens away from the hustle and bustle of Tamarindo’s main street is this adults-only hotel. It offers a peaceful retreat for surfers visiting Tamarindo.

Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel boasts 46 bright and spacious rooms, along with a welcoming pool and a secluded garden offering ocean views.

Begin each day with a generous breakfast buffet that will fuel you up for a day in the water. In the evenings, treat yourself to a three-course gourmet dinner at the sophisticated Plumeria Restaurant.

This eco-conscious hotel in Tamarindo is dedicated to sustainable practices that reduce its ecological footprint. Initiatives include solar panels to power the hotel, collection of recyclable materials and a wastewater treatment facility.

Jardin del Eden also takes pride in collaborating with local artisans, sourcing organic eggs and maintaining vegetable gardens to provide fresh produce for its restaurant.

“Dreamy resort, exceptional stay. You won’t want to leave.” – Marlene (read more reviews here)

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The lush grounds of Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel, an eco-friendly resort in Tamarindo
The lush grounds of Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel, an eco-friendly resort in Tamarindo (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Rancho Delicioso, Nicoya Peninsula

Rancho Delicioso is a thriving eco-village in Costa Rica that offers the perfect fusion of surfing, sustainability and serenity.

With world-class waves just minutes away and acres of farmland bursting with life, this retreat offers an unforgettable experience. The vision of this sustainable Costa Rica surf retreat is to attract like-minded, eco-conscious artists and yogis.

Each day starts with yoga illuminated by the rising sun. Then grab your board and head out to discover the endless breaks that surfers flock to the Nicoya Peninsula for.

When you’re not enjoying the aquamarine waters, immerse yourself in the farming lifestyle, learn hands-on permaculture techniques and discover the world of natural building. Come nightfall, you can experience the nightlife of Montezuma in Pura Vida style. 

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Pura Selva Eco Tree House, Tamarindo

This Tamarindo treehouse hotel perfectly combines modern amenities with the wild charm of Costa Rica and is ideal for surfers.

The distinctive lodgings at Pura Selva are perched high above the ground. As a result, they provide spectacular views of the undulating hills and tree canopy that extends into the distance.

Built with sustainable materials, these treehouses are crafted to minimise their ecological footprint. We particularly love the outdoor showers where you can bathe while being serenaded by the sounds of the forest.

The resort’s dedication to sustainability is a big part of its attraction. Efforts like conserving water, reducing waste, and utiliing renewable energy all play a part in its eco-friendly philosophy.

Just remember that there is no air conditioning available, and due to the jungle environment, you might encounter some insects! Nevertheless, this remains one of the top eco-conscious hotels in Tamarindo for surfers who love being immersed in nature.

“Unique and absolutely beautiful. Will keep this on our short list of great places in Costa Rica!” – Amie (read more reviews here)

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One of the sustainably built treehouses at Pura Selva Eco Tree House in Tamarindo
One of the sustainably built treehouses at Pura Selva Eco Tree House in Tamarindo (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Staying at a sustainable surf camp in Costa Rica

Considering Costa Rica’s reputation as a leading eco-tourism destination, it should come as little surprise that the country is also home to a thriving network of environmentally-conscious surf camps.

These properties go to great lengths to minimise their environmental impact, carefully managing their waste, embracing renewable energy source and regularly organising beach cleanups.

By choosing to stay at a sustainable surf camp in Costa Rica, you can not only score incredible waves and have the surfing experience of a lifetime. But also take pride in the knowledge that you are directly contributing to the protection and preservation of the country’s natural ecosystems.

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About the authors

We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.

Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.  

Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans. 

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