Surf Playa Negra

Compared to its more famous neighbor Tamarindo, Playa Negra feels worlds away from the tourist crowds and beach hawkers. Due to the lack of tourist infrastructure in the surrounding area, the beach is often deserted except for surfers and guests of Hotel Playa Negra. If you're looking for something off the beaten path, this is your spot.

Playa Negra is about ~2 hours from Liberia airport, ~45 minutes from Tamarindo and ~10 minutes from Playa Avellana in the north. If you're driving, you can put Hotel Playa Negra into your GPS as that's the most recognizable marker and also overlooks the surf break (there's very little signage on these roads). One thing to note, you'll end up on some dirt roads on your way to the beach so it's best to attempt with a 4WD vehicle. Low clearance 2WD taxis from Tamarindo can make it in the dry season but the local drivers know these roads. Save yourself the headache. Either take a taxi or rent a 4WD vehicle.

Once you get to the beach, you have a couple options for surfing. Looking out from Hotel Playa Negra at the beach, the famous reef break will be on your right. Despite the isolated location, the lineup can get somewhat crowded on good days (10-12 surfers) but nothing compared to what you'd see in California or other spots in the US. You can't miss the perfect rights but remember the wave is suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers. If you're less experienced, there are some smaller breaks to your left that are more forgiving and better to tackle (or head up to Avellana). Make sure you surf with a friend, as there are no lifeguards or emergency services nearby.

For non-surfers, kick back with a pina colada at Hotel Playa Negra, explore the nearby tidepools, take a dip in the clear warm waters or soak up some rays on the dark sand beach. At the end of the day, head over to Kontiki for some incredible pizza and beers.