Overview
Playa Hermosa is a strikingly scenic beach break on the Puntarenas coast, breaking over sand with both lefts and rights on offer. It catches almost as much swell as Dominical, and the northern end comes alive in a south swell with fast, hollow sections. Down near Punta Evita the waves run much smaller unless west-northwest swell is getting in, which is when the rights off the point may work.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from south through west, with west the best match. It's usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. Consistency is moderate, so it rewards a bit of patience rather than turning on every day.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast offshore wind. It works through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call, and it holds overhead as the tide pushes in.
Local Tips
The beach is approachable for beginners, though it becomes a wave for experienced surfers when it's really firing. The lineup is usually fairly quiet.
Access
Parking is paid and restricted, so it's worth planning where you'll leave the car.
