Want to get your SUP game on? There’s a new school in the surfing hotbed of Nosara, Costa Rica, geared up for just that.
Founded by Pacuare Outdoor Center owner Tom Ranieri, the new Tropical SUP Surf Academy is based in Nosara’s Playa Pelada on the Nicoya Peninsula, complete with accommodations in the beachside Casa Dos Mares.
Led by Jose Ruiz Avelas—who took second-place at Costa Rica’s SUP Nationals and spent five years at Nosara Paddlesurf, on of the top SUP schools in the world—the school offers five-day camps for all abilities, complete with multiple daily surf sessions, video analysis, a complete equipment quiver and more. The main season for the new Nosara school is November to August.
“Perfect waves, a world-class coach, and just being in Nosara, Costa Rica, makes this SUP camp arguably one of the top places to learn how to SUP surf anywhere,” says Ranieri. “I’m excited for people that thought they might have missed the boat on surfing. SUP surfing is possible for almost anyone and learning from a professional coach like Jose is going to make a lot of dreams come true. It’s a chance to introduce a great lifestyle to guests who we know will keep coming back for many years to come.”
The school also offers outings on the nearby Nosara River, where students can work on flatwater fundamentals before heading to the ocean, for everything from mellower beginner waves to those perfect for intermediate and advanced paddlers.
The school has more than 20 boards in its line-up, including those from Avelas’s sponsor, Infinity.
“It’s probably one of the best places you can learn to SUP surf anywhere,” says Avelas. “We look forward to helping people learn the sport and sharing our beautiful location.”
Info: www.pacuareoutdoorcenter.com
Other Things to Do in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a tiny nation with an area comparable to that of Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes of North America. Once you travel and set foot on its soil, you will feel you have entered another world, which is precisely what the country wants to give tourists. Costa Rica offers many activities to discover and enjoy for outdoor lovers.
So, are you wondering how you can enjoy Costa Rica in a way you probably haven’t thought of? If so, then read on for five water-based activities you can do in Costa Rica!
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a fun activity for the whole family, but it’s also romantic for couples. The calm waters of Playas del Coco allow you to share this experience with your loved one. You can snorkel at the Playa Hermosa estuary, where the tide brings in all sorts of marine animals you can admire.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
If you like being out in the sea and doing some exercise at the same time, then stand-up paddleboarding in Costa Rica is right up your alley! This activity is perfect for people of any age and physical condition since it consists of paddling while standing on a board and looking around at your environment.
Paddling is an excellent option for couples who want to try something new together or groups of friends looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy the water. The Gulf of Papagayo offers calm waters where even beginners can enjoy this fun activity.
Waterfall Rappelling
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines exercise, stunning scenery, and an adrenaline rush, waterfall rappelling is for you. Many companies offer tours where visitors can climb down waterfalls during the dry season, which is from December to April.
One of the most popular spots is Rio Blanco National Park near Liberia, which is home to more than 30 waterfalls. Water rappelling is an excellent activity for families to try out and do adventurous activities together.
Surfing
Costa Rica is one of the top destinations for surfing lovers around the globe. Hermosa Beach is one of the top spots for surfing on the Pacific Coast, thanks to its consistent waves and an ideal location close to San José, which is just two hours away! Hermosa Beach is also ideal for beginners because its waters are calm enough. Yet, it also has some great spots for more experienced surfers.
Parasailing
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of Costa Rica’s coastline, parasailing is for you. Parasailing on the Manuel Antonio coastline lets you glide through the sky while attached to a boat. Depending on how fast the boat moves, you can use parasails for speed or a leisurely cruise. This is an excellent activity for couples or groups of adults who are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime activity in a tropical country!
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon trip to Costa Rica or a family-friendly adventure, these five water-based activities will amaze everyone in your party. Book your Costa Rica itinerary with the help of professionals and add a few water excursions before you travel to Costa Rica. Working with a travel agency can ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
Eugene,
Do you offer “day schools” for SUP. My brother is a very good and long time surfer and I would go to Nosara with him. I have SUP’ed on flat water for many years and have been in the ocean twice and ridden a wave once. So, I am a beginner.
I would need instruction and wondering if you offer programs that don’t include the entire package? Thanks for a reply.
Paul Kirwin