Paddling Out…Finding Joy

Talk Story • February 20, 2018

By: Rebecca Gullott

I first discovered Costa Rica in 2010 when, after leaving my career at age 35 to pursue a graduate degree in a new field, I traveled solo to Nosara to pursue my life-long desire of learning to surf. After returning from that trip, I changed how I lived my life. Costa Rica, the pace, the culture, the people, the beauty, the giant grasshoppers, somehow made me feel different, happier than I’d ever been. My approach to living was forever altered. I didn’t quit everything to travel the world with nothing but a backpack and a surfboard. My priorities simply changed. New goals erupted from within. Achievement was redefined. The active pursuit of joy became far more prominent than it had ever been in my life. I was more determined in all things, more patient, more supportive of others, and more confident in myself. The feeling I experienced on that first trip to Costa Rica riding waves and laughing in the water with amazing new friends was more invigorating than I could have imagined. Since then, I’ve returned every year to explore surf breaks along the country’s Pacific Coast from Avellanas to Punta Banco.

It wasn’t until 2017 that I finally made my way to Tamarindo when a friend suggested I join her for a week at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp. It was worth the wait! On the hour-long jaunt from Liberia, I met a group from across the US and Canada who met at Witch’s Rock years ago and have returned every Thanksgiving week since, expanding in number year-by-year. If this group was any indication of the typical Tamarindo crowd, it would be a fun trip for sure. After meeting up with my friend for a quick dip in the Pueblo Dorado pool, we had a relaxing dinner at Eat at Joe’s complete with fantastic craft beer and sushi then it was off to bed early to be bright-eyed for our week’s surfing adventure.

The next morning, after the cup of Costa Rican coffee I’d so been looking forward to, we met our intermediate surf tour group and our instructor, Shanti. Having left my board at home, I chose from a large cache of boards of all different shapes and dimensions and we paddled out to catch our boat to Playa Grande. At this point I knew for sure the was going to be a week to remember. Grande was one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever surfed. It truly felt like paradise. Even if I had not caught a single wave that day I would have thoroughly enjoyed myself…but I did and it felt glorious. Our group was pretty well matched but still Shanti observed us and aligned his instruction with each of our needs. Over the years, I’ve found that there are two very important qualities a surf instructor should have, aside from knowing how to surf. They should know the ocean and instill in you feeling safety in the water. They should also have a demeanor that makes you want to catch that next wave whether you just got tossed like a rag doll in a washing machine or rode triumphantly across the face and stylishly kicked out at the end. Shanti possessed both qualities and from listening to students in other groups, it sounded like all the Witch’s Rock instructors were well-equipped on all levels.

From my first ride, I heard cheers from the group; a gift I gladly returned upon each of my new friends’ successful waves. Regular improvement in each surfer’s riding was evident throughout the week. It’s a special kind of people you meet as a recreational wave chaser. These fellow soul surfers are definitely one of the main reasons I keep surfing my way through this decade. My new Witch’s Rock crew was no exception. From the first surf session and long chatty breakfast that followed right through to the last happy hour, I was grateful to this group of comrades with whom I shared a week of joy.

It isn’t just the wonderful people that keep me surfing. I’ll never be an awe-inspiring wave-rider; but I still work with instructors like Shanti to steadily improve my skill and ability to read the ocean. Nothing in this world makes me feel so humbled and so powerful at the same time. I am humbled because my appreciation of and harmony with nature is never greater than when I’m paddling through the ocean on my board. I am powerful because I’ve committed to working hard to improve at this sport that thrills me and brings me such joy.

 

Is Tamarindo Safe? A Clear, Data-Driven Guide to Visiting Costa Rica

By Witch Rocks Surf Camp • August 5, 2026
Yes — Tamarindo is considered one of the safest beach towns in Costa Rica for tourists. Most incidents involve petty theft, while violent crime affecting visitors is rare. With basic precautions, it’s a very safe destination for surfers, families, and solo travelers. Costa Rica has long been known as one of the most stable, welcoming countries in Latin America. Yet online discussions, headlines, and occasional embassy alerts often raise the same question for travelers: Is Costa Rica safe — and is Tamarindo safe to visit? This guide separates facts from perception , explains why safety concerns are often misunderstood , and looks specifically at Tamarindo through the lens that actually matters: the real experience of travelers on the ground . At Witch’s Rock Surf Camp, we’ve hosted thousands of travelers, families, and solo surfers in Tamarindo since 2001 — giving us a real, on-the-ground perspective of what safety actually looks like here. Understanding Safety the Right Way: Tourist Reality vs Headlines When people search “Is Costa Rica safe?”, they are often shown national crime statistics without context. This creates confusion. Here’s the key point: 👉 Tourist safety is not measured by national crime averages — it’s measured by what happens in tourist areas. National crime data includes: Drug-trafficking activity Gang-related violence Urban neighborhoods far from tourism Domestic and local disputes unrelated to visitors These factors do not reflect the reality of beach towns, surf destinations, or established tourist communities like Tamarindo. The same logic applies everywhere: Crime in parts of Los Angeles does not define safety in Malibu Crime in New York City does not define safety in the Hamptons Crime in Mexico City does not define safety in Cozumel Tamarindo must be evaluated as a tourist destination — not as a national statistic. Is Tamarindo Safe Compared to Other Popular Destinations? When Tamarindo is compared properly — city to city, destination to destination — the picture becomes clear.

Top 5 Best Surf Spots in Costa Rica’s Pacific Region

By Witch Rocks Surf Camp • August 5, 2026
If you’re searching for the best surf spots on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, then you’re in the right place. Picture this – warm sun, crystal-clear water, and world-class waves calling out to surfers from near and far. Costa Rica consistently ranks as one of the best surf destinations in the world.
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Best Time to Surf in Costa Rica: Seasons, Weather, and Tides Explained

By Witch Rocks Surf Camp • August 5, 2026
If you are dreaming about a surf trip to Costa Rica you are probably asking yourself one big question. When is the best time to surf. The real answer is that Costa Rica has surf all year.
Witch’s Rock

Witch’s Rock & Ollie’s Point: A Guide to Costa Rica’s World Class Breaks

By Joe Walsh • August 5, 2026
Witch’s Rock, the wave from which we derive our namesake, popularized by The Endless Summer II most definitely lives up to the hype. If you’ve seen the movie, you know what this wave can do during a swell. Simply put, it’s a leg burning barrel. Witch’s Rock handles swell very well, it gets big, and it gets hollow. What

At What Age Can Kids Start Surfing?

By Witch's Rock - Costa Rica Surf Camp • May 25, 2026
Most kids can start learning to surf between ages 4 and 7, depending on their comfort in the water, balance, confidence, and excitement about trying something new. At Witch’s Rock Surf Camp in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, we’ve taught surfing to children as young as 5 years old using beginner-friendly waves, personalized instruction, and a safe […] The post At What Age Can Kids Start Surfing? appeared first on Witch's Rock Surf Camp.

Costa Rica vs El Salvador: Best Surf Destination Guide

By Witch's Rock - Costa Rica Surf Camp • March 23, 2026
Trying to choose between Costa Rica and El Salvador for your surf trip? Both offer world-class waves, but the experience is very different depending on your level and travel style. Costa Rica: More versatile, beginner-friendly, and easier to travel El Salvador: High-performance waves, best for experienced surfers When it comes to surf, scenery, and adventure, […]

Costa Rica Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

By Witch's Rock - Costa Rica Surf Camp • March 19, 2026
Planning your first trip to Costa Rica? You’re in for an unforgettable experience filled with warm water, incredible waves, and a laid-back lifestyle known as “Pura Vida.” To help you make the most of your trip, here are essential travel tips every first-time visitor should know. 1. Understand the “Pura Vida” Lifestyle Costa Rica moves […]

What Does Pura Vida Mean in Costa Rica?

By Witch's Rock - Costa Rica Surf Camp • March 19, 2026
If you’ve ever traveled to Costa Rica — or even researched it — you’ve probably heard the phrase “Pura Vida.” But what does it actually mean? More than just a saying, “Pura Vida” is the heartbeat of Costa Rican culture. It reflects a way of life centered around positivity, simplicity, and appreciation. The Literal Meaning […]

How to Prepare for a Surf Trip to Costa Rica

By Joe Walsh • March 17, 2026
Planning a surf trip to Costa Rica is exciting — but the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one comes down to preparation. From fitness and mindset to packing and expectations, arriving ready to surf will help you make the most of every session. 1. Understand What Surfing in Costa Rica Is Really […] The post How to Prepare for a Surf Trip to Costa Rica appeared first on Witch's Rock Surf Camp.