â† Blog · Packing Guide

Surf Trip Packing List: What to Bring to Costa Rica

Everything you actually need for a surf trip to Tamarindo — and the things you can leave at home. Practical advice from people who live and surf here year-round.

May 6, 2026 · 8 min read · By Victor NuÃ±ez

Packing for a surf trip is different from packing for a regular beach vacation. You need less than you think — but the right things matter. Get the sunscreen wrong and you'll be peeling by day two. Forget the reef-safe label and you'll damage the ecosystem you came to enjoy.

This is the list we share with our students at Pura Vida Surf School before they arrive in Tamarindo. It covers everything from surf gear (most of which we provide) to documents, tech, and the daily essentials.

Good news: If you're booking surf lessons with us, you do NOT need to bring a surfboard, leash, or rash guard. All equipment is included. Pack light.

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Surf Gear

Provided by your school — no need to bring

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Surfboard (provided by school)

Included in all lessons at Pura Vida Surf School

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Leash (provided by school)

Included

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Rash guard (short or long sleeve)

Included — but bring your own if you prefer a specific fit

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Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+

Critical — regular sunscreen destroys coral reefs and is banned on many beaches

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Board shorts / bikini

Quick-dry fabric. Avoid cotton in the water.

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Surf wax (if renting your own board)

Optional if you're taking lessons — boards are already waxed

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Clothing

Tamarindo is hot and casual — pack light

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Light t-shirts and tanks

4–5 for a week-long trip

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Shorts

3–4 pairs. Quick-dry preferred.

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Light long-sleeve layer

For evenings or overnight AC

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Flip flops / sandals

You'll live in these

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One pair of closed shoes

For hiking or excursions

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Light rain jacket

Essential in rainy season (May–November)

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Health & Safety

Don't skip this section

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Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)

You will burn. Reapply every 2 hours in the water.

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After-sun lotion or aloe vera

For the inevitable sunburn on day 1

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Insect repellent (DEET-based)

Mosquitoes are present in rainy season

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Basic first aid kit

Band-aids, antiseptic, ibuprofen

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Motion sickness tablets

If prone — the dirt road into Tamarindo can be bumpy

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Prescription medications

Bring extras — pharmacies exist but stock varies

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Tech & Documents

Keep documents in a waterproof bag or hotel safe

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Passport (valid 6+ months)

Required for entry to Costa Rica

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Travel insurance documents

Medical evac coverage is strongly recommended

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Unlocked phone + local SIM or eSIM

Kolbi and Claro offer good coverage in Tamarindo

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Waterproof phone case or dry bag

Essential for beach days and boat trips

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GoPro or action camera

Your instructor can film your waves — check if your school offers this

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Universal travel adapter

Costa Rica uses US-style plugs (Type A/B) — no adapter needed from the US

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Portable charger / power bank

Beach days drain your battery fast

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Beach Essentials

Quality-of-life items you'll use every day

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Quick-dry towel (microfiber)

Packs small, dries fast — worth it

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Reusable water bottle

Tap water is drinkable in Tamarindo but bring a bottle for the beach

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Sunglasses (UV400)

Polarized lenses help on the water

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Rashguard (extra)

One for surfing, one for casual beach wear

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Small day backpack

For beach trips, market visits, and excursions

What to Leave at Home

âœ• Full wetsuit

Water is 26–29Â°C year-round. A rash guard is all you need.

âœ• Surfboard (if taking lessons)

All equipment is provided. Adding a board to your flight costs $100–$300 extra.

âœ• Non-reef-safe sunscreen

Illegal on some beaches and harmful to the reef. Buy reef-safe locally if needed.

âœ• Expensive jewelry

Sand, salt, and surf will ruin it. Leave it locked at home.

âœ• Hair dryer / styling tools

Tamarindo is a beach town. Embrace the salt hair look.

âœ• Heavy clothing

Temperature is 28–35Â°C. One light layer for evenings is enough.

Now Pack Your Bags and Book Your Lessons

All surf equipment is included in every lesson. Just show up with your swimsuit and sunscreen. We handle the rest.

Book a Surf Lesson in Tamarindo

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own surfboard to Costa Rica?

No. All surf schools in Tamarindo, including Pura Vida Surf School, provide surfboards as part of the lesson. If you're an experienced surfer who wants your own board, airlines allow boards as checked luggage — expect fees of $50–$150 each way.

What sunscreen should I use in Costa Rica?

Always use reef-safe sunscreen — oxybenzone and octinoxate are harmful to coral reefs and banned in some Costa Rican beaches. Choose mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. SPF 50+ is recommended.

Is tap water safe to drink in Tamarindo?

Generally yes — Tamarindo's tap water is treated and considered safe. However, some travelers with sensitive stomachs prefer bottled water for the first few days. Bottled water is cheap and widely available.

What should I wear to a surf lesson?

Board shorts or a bikini — and that's it. Your school provides the rash guard and leash. Wear quick-dry synthetic fabrics, never cotton. Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you arrive.

Do I need a visa for Costa Rica?

Citizens of the US, Canada, EU, UK, and most Western nations don't need a visa for stays up to 90 days. You need a valid passport (6+ months remaining) and proof of onward travel. Always verify entry requirements before your trip.

Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which option is right for you? Talk to our local surf team and we'll help you choose the perfect option.

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