Discover Your First Waves: Top Vacation Spots for Beginner Surfers in Latin America

Are you looking for a sun-soaked getaway where you can trade your flip-flops for a surfboard? Latin America offers an incredible selection of beginner-friendly surf destinations, pairing mellow waves with beautiful beaches, solid surf schools, and vibrant local culture. Whether you're a total novice or just brushing up on fundamentals, here are the top spots that make learning to surf not only accessible—but unforgettable.

1. Sayulita, Mexico – A Vibrant Surf Town for True Beginners

Nestled along Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, Sayulita is considered one of the quintessential places to learn surfing in the region. Its sandbar beach break is calm, consistent, and literally right in town—perfect for quick sessions between exploring the vibrant streets. With countless surf camps and equipment rentals lining the shore, it’s tailor-made for beginners.

When it comes to instruction, Sayulita has excellent surf camps with certified instructors, massive board collections, and housing options ranging from shared dorms to private suites. Keep in mind, Sayulita gets busy, especially during winter holidays and summer vacations. For fewer crowds, consider shoulder seasons like March–April or September–October.

2. Tamarindo, Costa Rica – Consistent Waves & All the Amenities

Costa Rica’s surf hotspot, Tamarindo, is a favorite for beginners. The main beach break in town is sandy, protected, and teeming with whitewater waves—perfect for learning to stand. The surf season spans year-round: summer offers warmer water and chest-high green waves, while winter remains manageable for newcomers.

Tamarindo is also full of surf schools and beginner-friendly camps. Many offer day lessons, video analysis, surf trips to nearby breaks, unlimited board rentals, and accommodations ranging from dorms to private villas. Beyond surfing, Tamarindo delivers zip-lining, wildlife tours, waterfalls, and a lively nightlife scene—ideal for balancing surf practice with adventure.

3. El Tunco, El Salvador – Surf “City” with Laid-Back Culture

El Tunco, in La Libertad, El Salvador, is a buzzing surf community known as “Surf City.” It's packed with gentle waves, surf schools, and progression-friendly breaks—an ideal spot for first-timers. Local surf tours and camps are plentiful, offering beginner-centric instruction with lodging right near the beach.

While El Salvador has had security challenges in the past, many surfers report trouble-free visits, and the government has worked hard to make surf tourism safer. The culture is laid-back, the waves are consistent, and the cost of living is very affordable compared to other surf towns in Central America.

4. Playa Maderas, Nicaragua – Peaceful & Progression-Friendly

Just beyond San Juan del Sur lies Playa Maderas, a quieter spot with mellow A-frame breaks that let surfers learn both frontside and backside turns. The atmosphere here is more artsy and relaxed, making it perfect for those who want to learn without the distraction of a big party scene.

The area offers a mix of surf hostels, boutique eco-lodges, and casual surf camps. It’s a beautiful place to improve your skills while soaking up Nicaragua’s rustic, natural charm.

5. Popoyo, Nicaragua – Consistent and Growing in Popularity

Popoyo may be better known for intermediate-to-advanced surfing, but its Beginner Bay offers protected, gentle waves that are perfect for learners. Swells are nearly constant, offering reliable surf every day of the year.

In recent years, more all-inclusive surf camps have appeared in Popoyo, ranging from simple, affordable stays to upscale retreats with pools, yoga, and gourmet food. That mix makes Popoyo a rising star for both budget-conscious beginners and those looking for a touch of luxury alongside their lessons.

6. Salina Cruz, Mexico – Quiet & Authentic

Tucked away in Oaxaca, near Puerto Escondido, Salina Cruz is home to surf camps that emphasize intimate, authentic experiences. This region is far less crowded than better-known surf towns, making it ideal for beginners who want space to practice without the pressure of competing for waves.

Surf camps here often include housing, meals, transport, and personalized instruction, creating an immersive surf retreat. With uncrowded beaches and consistent beginner-friendly waves, Salina Cruz is a fantastic option for those who want to avoid tourist-heavy towns.