Located in lush Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa, Outer Reef Costa Rica is a welcoming base for surfers and adventurers alike, set just a short walk from world class waves in one of Costa Rica’s most vibrant surf regions.
With consistent warm water surf available year round, the camp blends tropical beauty, community energy and the relaxed “pura vida” spirit that defines the area. Whether you’re catching your first wave or progressing your skills, Santa Teresa offers an inviting mix of surf, nature and cultural charm that makes every stay feel like a true Costa Rican adventure.
full week or a shorter escape
At Outer Reef Santa Teresa, packages are designed to fit different lengths of stay while keeping the same relaxed balance of surf, movement and downtime. Whether you are here for a full week or a shorter escape, each option offers a simple, well structured way to enjoy Santa Teresa
Our surf house
Our surf house in Santa Teresa offers a relaxed and welcoming place to stay, just a short walk from the beach. It is designed for surfers and travellers who want comfort, easy access to the waves and a friendly, social atmosphere, while still feeling at home.
With shared spaces, tropical surroundings and a familiar house feel, the camp is a great base for enjoying the surf, the local area and the laid back rhythm of Costa Rica. A range of accommodation options is available to suit different budgets and travel styles.
Private Rooms
Private rooms are ideal for guests looking for more space and privacy while still being part of the camp atmosphere. These rooms are well suited to couples or small families who want a quieter place to relax after time in the ocean.
Each private room includes:
Shared Rooms
Shared rooms are a social and affordable option, perfect for friends travelling together, families or solo travellers who enjoy meeting new people. These rooms offer a relaxed, communal feel while keeping comfort in mind.
Each shared room includes:
This option is ideal if you want to stay close to the action, enjoy the camp’s social side and keep costs down without sacrificing comfort.
Life at Outer Reef Costa Rica is shaped by surfing, nature and the easy rhythm of pura vida. Located within walking distance of Playa Hermosa, the camp offers a relaxed balance of surf sessions, shared meals and time to unwind in a tropical setting.
Days often begin with breakfast and a surf session, followed by time to rest, explore or join yoga and other activities. Evenings are social but unforced, with shared dinners, sunsets on the beach and space to connect with other travellers. Santa Teresa’s welcoming atmosphere and strong surf culture make it easy to settle in and feel part of the community.
Food is an important part of camp life. Meals are freshly prepared using local ingredients, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Breakfast is served daily, dinners are shared on selected evenings, and lunch is available from the a la carte menu.
Need to know
Santa Teresa is known for its vibrant yet laid back surf scene. Beachfront bars, local cafes and sunset gatherings create a social and welcoming atmosphere. Playa Hermosa itself is a popular meeting point, offering consistent waves, warm water and a friendly crowd.
Surfboards are available to rent for guests who want to surf independently outside of lessons. A range of board shapes and sizes is offered. Yoga mats are provided for yoga sessions, and all surf lessons include the necessary equipment.
Costa Rica offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Beyond surfing, guests can explore waterfalls, jungle trails and coastal paths, or take part in activities such as zip lining, rafting and guided hikes. These experiences are a great way to see more of the area and connect with the surrounding nature.
Transfers
Transfers can be arranged to and from the camp to make travel straightforward. Pick ups are available from San Jose Airport, Liberia Airport, Tamarindo and Cobano Airport. Transfers are organised per vehicle for up to 4 people and include ferry crossings where required.
Surfing in Santa Teresa is defined by consistency, warm water and reliable beach breaks. With waves available year round and Playa Hermosa just a short walk away, the area offers ideal conditions for learning, progressing or simply enjoying time in the ocean. Surf coaching is designed to be supportive and flexible, adapting daily to conditions and group level.
Surf lessons take place at Playa Hermosa, within walking distance of the camp. Sessions last 90 minutes and are run in small groups with a maximum ratio of 1 instructor to 3 students, allowing for close supervision and plenty of time in the water.
Lessons are adjusted daily based on tides and conditions, with a focus on safety, enjoyment and steady progression. All surf sessions include the use of soft top boards, leashes and lycra rash vests.
Surf sessions are led by experienced local instructors who know Playa Hermosa and the surrounding coastline well. Their approach is calm, supportive and confidence focused, helping surfers of all levels feel comfortable in the water.
Small group sizes allow instructors to give personalised feedback and adapt sessions to individual needs.
Progression is built step by step, starting with understanding the surf environment and developing strong foundations. Coaching covers surf safety and etiquette, identifying safe entry points, paddling technique, standing up and finding the correct stance.
As confidence grows, surfers work on wave selection, timing and control. Support continues throughout the stay, with instructors adapting sessions to conditions and each surfer’s level.
All surf lessons include soft top surfboards, leashes and lycra rash vests. Boards are selected to suit the surfer’s level and daily conditions.
For free surf, boards are available to rent by the day. Water temperatures range between 25 and 30 degrees, so wetsuits are not required.
BEGINNER SURFERSanta Teresa is an excellent place to start surfing. Warm water and consistent beach breaks create a comfortable environment for beginners. Coaching focuses on safety, confidence and enjoyment, helping first time surfers catch waves and feel relaxed in the ocean.
INTERMEDIATE SURFERIntermediate surfers benefit from Playa Hermosa’s reliable conditions, allowing time to practise wave selection, timing and control. Coaching supports surfers in becoming more consistent and confident across a range of conditions.
ADVANCED SURFERAdvanced surfers can take advantage of Santa Teresa’s consistent waves and warm water to enjoy free surf sessions and explore nearby breaks. This level suits confident surfers who want to focus on wave quality, flow and surfing independently.
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