Playa Grande, located in Guanacaste and just a short distance from Tamarindo, is a popular surf spot nestled within Las Baulas National Park. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers a unique mix of powerful waves and a relaxed vibe. It's about a 40-minute walk, a 20-minute drive, or a quick 5-minute boat ride from Tamarindo, making it easily accessible for surfers looking for a solid session.

The waves at Playa Grande can pack quite a punch, especially with the right swell. It typically handles swell sizes from 5 ft to 8 ft (1.5 m to 2.4 m) and picks up the SouthWest swell well, but it can also work with NorthWest swells. You’ll find both left and right peaks breaking over sandy bottoms, providing a mix of rippable sections and fun tubes. Mid to high tide seems to be the sweet spot, with head-high to slightly overhead waves being the most enjoyable. Be prepared to paddle out, as you might catch some waves on the head, but the good news is the peaks are pretty close to shore.

In terms of crowd, expect plenty of fellow surfers, especially when conditions are firing. The local vibe is lively, with locals and Tamarindo surfers eager to get in on the action. The best times to surf here are from March through October for the most consistent swells, but the offseason can offer some great offshores as well. Various board types work well here, from shortboards to longboards, so you can choose your ride based on your skill level, whether you’re a beginner or looking for fun with a fish or a bodyboard.