Costa Rica

Pavones

The tranquil town of Pavones sits on the Golfo Dulce, located on Costa Rica’s south Pacific coast. Known as having one of the longest left point breaks in the world, this remote village has been attracting dedicated surfers for years.

With a rocky coastline flanked by pristine jungle, Pavones and its neighboring community of Punta Banco have experienced relatively little development. They offer wide, palm-lined beaches with spectacular scenery and – more importantly – legendary surf. The area’s dirt roads, slow pace and remote location make Pavones a magnetic alternative to the booming beach towns of Jaco and Tamarindo.

There is no doubt that this surf town waxes and wanes with the waves. Every available hammock and cabin fills up when the swell comes in.  On a slow, south swell, the left point break has been recorded to last up to three minutes. Hawaiian-style tubes are ideal for seasoned surfers, while the smaller waves closer to shore are suited to beginners and boogie-boarders. The largest waves come during the rainy season, from April through October.

While many flock to Pavones for the unbeatable surf, other outdoor activities such as sport fishing, kayaking, bird and wildlife watching, and horseback riding are also available. Dense rainforests and an abundance of wildlife create enjoyable hiking opportunities, either by the beach and up the Rio Claro or at the Tiskita Biological Reserve.

Although Pavones has a party atmosphere, it also attracts a more mature crowd. Modern conveniences like Internet have arrived, but as of yet there is no ATM, and the closest bank is in Golfito.

Getting Around:

Because Pavones is so spread out, a rental car is the most convenient mode of local transport.  However, several hotels also rent bikes for meandering around town.  For less than $.50, the same bus that runs from Golfito to Pavones can be taken for the short distance between Rio Claro and Punta Banco.

There are no taxi companies in Pavones, but visitors will find pirate cabs (unverifiable, private drivers that do not work for any specific company) by the bus stop on the beach. Taxi: Tel. 8826-0800

Sample Taxi Fares:
Pavones to Punta Banco: $10
Pavones to Golfito: $60-70
Pavones to Zancudo: $40-50

Pavones Snapshot

Summary: Palm-lined beach, world class surfing and a lively party atmosphere.
Landscape: Beaches, Rainforest
Attractions: Guaymi Indigenous Reserve, Punto Rio Claro Wildlife Refuge, Waterfalls, Wildlife
Activities: Bird & Wildlife Watching, Stand-up Paddle Surfing, Surfing
Caters to: Budget Travelers, Surfers, Wildlife Enthusiasts

Pavones Travel Guide