Playa Santa Teresa - surf spot statistics

Playa Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, is a consistent surf destination with year-round swell activity, primarily dominated by powerful ground swells. The best months for surfing are typically from November to April, when conditions are most favorable. During this period, ground swells are predominant (92-100% occurrence), and wind conditions improve, especially in December and January, where good wind conditions reach around 60%. Swell size during these months averages between 0.9m to 1.2m, offering manageable yet fun waves suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. The peak swell size occurs from May to October, averaging 1.4-1.5m, but this period also brings more frequent onshore winds, with bad wind conditions peaking at 60-64% from April to September. March and April see the largest swells of the high season (1.1-1.2m), but wind quality deteriorates, making late November to February the optimal window—great swell consistency, decent wind, and slightly smaller, cleaner waves. If you prefer bigger, more powerful surf and can handle less ideal winds, September offers the largest swells (1.5m), though wind conditions are poor (64% bad winds). For surfers prioritizing clean conditions, December and January strike the best balance between swell size, consistency, and favorable winds.

February in Playa Santa Teresa offers solid surf conditions with a consistent, mid-sized swell averaging 1.0m and a favorable period of 14.2s, ensuring well-formed and powerful waves. The majority of swells come from the SSW (32.59% at 0.5-1m, 21.75% at 1-1.5m) and SW (25.90% at 0.5-1m, 9.41% at 1-1.5m), providing clean, rideable waves that suit intermediate to advanced surfers. Larger sets occasionally reach 1.5-2m but are rare (0.34% SSW, minimal elsewhere). Wind conditions are ideal for surfing 57% of the time, with the most common offshore or light winds coming from the NNE to NE (6.09-12.71% at 10-20kph) during mornings, while afternoons may see moderate onshore SW breezes (4.79% at 10-20kph). Overall, February delivers reliable swell, good shape, and manageable winds, making it a prime time for surfers seeking quality waves.