Matapalo

Surf Guide

Just south of the largest mangrove in Central America and Drake's Bay is the Osa Peninsula and the Golfo Dulce, home of Matapalo, an occasionally brilliant right-hander on the far end of brilliant countryside. As you may know, on the other side of el Golfo Dulce is the world-class lefthander Pavones, as well as a couple other goofyfoot dreams. So, naturally, on the other side of el Golfo, the situation will be mirror-imaged. Unfortunately, Matapalo does not enjoy the consistency that Pavones does (which isn't saying much since Pavones is quite inconsistent itself). And if you're a traveler that prefers all the comforts of modern Western living with your surf destinations, then this remote jungle outpost -- with its lack of electricity and other general amenities -- is not for you. But if you're into roughing it and have patience and time to burn, you will be rewarded with right-hand bliss. There are a few different options at Matapalo: Playa Matapalo, Backwash and Pan Dulce. Each are moody right-handers that vary in quality and size depending on swell. What swell you ask? South-West is the ticket. The particulars of that South-West, however, we'll let you figure out on your own. Click here to download Surfline's South Costa Rica Surf Guide pdf.