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Outstanding summer programs for teens since 1982
Costa Rica Surf & Adventure for Teens
Travel to Costa Rica for an unforgettable summer experience of surf lessons and adventure with a new group of friends! You’ll spend 5 mornings and 1 afternoon out on the water learning the fundamentals of surfing from professionals who grew up riding the waves. On other days, you’ll be immersed in the adventure that Costa Rica naturally offers. From ziplining through the treetops, to venturing out to the Costa Rican tropical dry forest, or taking a local art class, you’ll be getting a true taste of Costa Rican culture. It won’t be long until you fall in love with the Pura Vida lifestyle!
Program Highlights
Master the art of catching waves with professional surf lessons.
Zip-line over the canopy in nearby Samara beach.
Fine-tune your surfing abilities and perfect your form.
Learn how to salsa at a Latin dance class.
Enjoy the refreshing waters of Puerto Carrillo.
Tap into your creativity at a hands-on local art class.
Tour a sea turtle conservation center.
Spot dolphins on an ocean tour along the pristine waters of the pacific.
Set out on a hike through the unique ecosystem of Costa Rica's tropical dry forest.
Surf Lessons & Itinerary
Samara Beach, Costa Rica
Get excited to catch some waves during professional surf lessons at Samara Beach. Your instructors will help you refine your technique, whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer. Feel the power of the ocean as you ride the waves in this surfer's paradise.
With our small group lessons, you’ll receive personalized attention and expert guidance in Costa Rica’s premier surf destination. Our comprehensive six-lesson program is designed to cater to all skill levels. Regardless of your level of experience, this program is an ideal starting point for improving your abilities, gaining confidence, and taking your surfing to the next level.
6 Professional Surf Lessons
Lesson 1 - Dive into the fundamentals with an initial assessment, crucial safety tips, wave-reading techniques, and hands-on practice on the beach. Then, take your newfound skills into the ocean for an unforgettable experience.
Lesson 2 - Hone your abilities in separate skill-level groups. We’ll focus on perfecting chest positioning, mastering the art of catching waves, and refining paddle techniques to prepare you for any swell that comes your way.
Lesson 3 - Build on the foundation laid in earlier sessions as you focus on advanced techniques and maneuvers specific to your skill level. Our experienced instructors will provide tailored guidance, helping you master more challenging waves and take your surfing to new heights.
Lessons 4 & 5 - Take your skills to the next level as you work on refining every element of your surfing technique. Dial in on the details with focused practice, personalized feedback and a video analysis from our expert instructors. You’ll work on fluid movement, balance, and positioning to enhance your ride and improve your wave selection, setting you up for maximum control on the water.
Lesson 6 - In your final surf session, put it all together as you take on larger waves with confidence and finesse. This lesson focuses on mastery. Apply everything you’ve learned in a way that feels natural and effortless. With a boost of individual guidance, you’ll feel ready to paddle out independently and tackle any surf with skill and style. End on a high note, cruising the waves with pride and the knowledge you’ve achieved your personal best!
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Feel the rush of zip-lining through the lush rainforest. Embark on a guided coffee tour to see how world-class beans are grown, harvested, and roasted. Immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture with a hands-on art class led by local artists, creating a piece inspired by the country's natural beauty. Visit a local turtle conservation project where you may even see turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Explore Costa Rica's tropical forest on a guided hike. Set sail on a dolphin-watching tour along the Pacific, spotting playful dolphins and marine life.
Accommodations
Liberia, Costa Rica
Enjoy your night at the Hampton Inn Liberia. This modern hotel features air conditioned rooms, internet access and a swimming pool to enjoy.
Puerto Carrillo, Costa Rica
Our group will stay at the Amira Hotel. Facilities include an outdoor pool, air conditioned rooms, internet access, and mountain views.
About This Program
What It's Like
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
Cultural Sensitivity
This program requires an open mind to experience a different culture, new foods and new surroundings.
Local Guide
A professional guide accompanies the group to assist, educate and immerse the students into the local culture.
Accommodations
Hotels.
Meals
Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
Activities
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Transportation
Chartered, air conditioned motor coach with a professional driver.
Group Size
Up to 28 participants.
Dietary Options
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
More Details
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
How are roommates assigned?
Giving everyone a chance to make new friends creates a cohesive group and the warmest and most welcoming social environments in our industry!
To promote this, many of our programs have a rooming rotation as follows:
We assign the rooms for the first and second stops. For the first stop, independent travelers room with other independent travelers and any friends who enrolled can room together. All participants will be assigned a different roommate for the second stop. After the first two stops, participants can choose their roommates.On our Pre-College Enrichment programs & Career Experiences, as well as select programs with extended stays, rooming is as follows:
We assign independent travelers with another independent traveler for the duration of your stay. Any friends who enrolled together can room together. If applicable, after the first two nights, participants can choose their roommates.Important notes:
- The rooming rotation is different on programs with only one or two stops, or with an extended period of time in the first location.
- Roommates are assigned based on gender identity. We welcome all genders, inclusive of those anywhere on the gender spectrum.
- Rooming is further outlined in your final information package in the late spring.