Jul 30 (edited) • Surfing
Surfbreak Profile: Ostional
Ostional – Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Break Type: Rivermouth beachbreak | Direction: Predominantly rights, some lefts
Bottom: Sand & rock | Tide: Mid to high best
Swell Window: SW–W
Season: May–Oct (wet season) for size, Nov–Apr (dry) for clean mornings
Wave Size: 3–10 ft
Best Time of Day: Early mornings—light offshore trades
Overview:
Ostional is a powerful, lesser-known black sand beachbreak north of Playa Guiones, set beside a protected wildlife refuge famous for sea turtle arribadas. It packs more punch than its southern neighbor, with hollower, faster waves and smaller crowds. When it’s on, it’s fast, fun and can get world class.
When It Works:
The rainy season (May–October) is prime for swell. That's when long-period SW energy lights up the main peak with solid head-high to double overhead surf. The dry season (Nov–April) brings smaller, cleaner surf ideal for more approachable sessions. Mornings are glassy or offshore; winds often turn onshore by late morning.
Swell & Conditions:
Ostional thrives on SW and W swells, with a direct window into the South Pacific. It prefers mid to high tide—low tide can get too fast and dumpy. Sandbars shift around the rivermouth, but there are frequent barrels when it's working and fast shoulders. Rights are more common, but good lefts break on the north end.
Safety & Crowd:
Ostional is more advanced than nearby Guiones. The wave breaks faster and with more force—paddle-outs can be tough, especially on larger days. Rip currents and rocky sections demand awareness. That said, the lineup is usually uncrowded, with a core crew of locals and respectful travelers. The vibe is raw but friendly.
Skill & Craft Suitability:
Not ideal for beginners. Better suited for intermediates stepping up to punchier surf, or advanced surfers chasing power without a crowd. SUPs can manage the wave in smaller conditions, but the takeoffs get steep and tricky quickly—paddle fitness and awareness are key.
Best For:
✅ Intermediate-to-advanced shortboarders
✅ Barrel hunters on a budget
✅ Rivermouth fans
✅ Surfers avoiding crowds
❌ Not ideal for beginners or soft-top fun
Vibe Check:
Rustic, wild, and raw—Ostional has a stripped-back charm. No surf schools, no frills, just surf and nature. The town is small and peaceful, mostly known for its turtle sanctuary. Bring what you need and respect the environment. Pura Vida!
Tell us what you love about Osti and any good stories you have about surfing the wave 🤙
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Surfbreak Profile: Ostional
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