Surf's up in Costa Rica
2010-06-02
Surfers are always looking for a secluded spot where they can spend a day on the waves. For those who want to hang ten this summer, Costa Rica is a great destination for surf and sun.
Costa Rica, which literally means "rich coast," is known for its beautiful beaches. The country is somewhat rare in that its east coast borders the Atlantic and the west coast borders the Pacific. Getting from one side to the other is just a day's trip, so surfers can say they've surfed both oceans and get there pretty easily.
The "Gold Coast" area on the Pacific side is popular, but travelers might want to check out the town of Puerto Viejo on the Atlantic side instead. Rooms here are cheaper and the only beachgoers are locals and those who've heard of the secluded area.
An 11-mile stretch of beach is perfect for surfing. It's also home to a legendary wave: Salsa Brava (Wild Sauce). Locals say that it's the most powerful wave in Costa Rica.