You came for the surf. You stayed for the transformation. But what happens after your week at Kalon ends?
For many guests, that post-retreat glow turns into a desire for more, more waves, more slow mornings, more time with the ocean. Luckily, Costa Rica is full of secret surf towns that feel like hidden chapters waiting to be explored.
While Kalon offers the luxury, structure, and coaching that levels up your skills and mindset, there’s something special about renting a board, grabbing a smoothie, and surfing at your own rhythm in a tucked-away coastal town.
Whether you’re chasing emptier lineups, boho beach vibes, or remote breaks with soul, here are five secret surf towns in Costa Rica to explore after Kalon.
1. Playa Hermosa de Santa Teresa (Nicoya Peninsula)
Not to be confused with the more famous Playa Hermosa in Jaco.
The Vibe: Laid-back jungle surf paradise meets boutique boho escape.
Why Go:
Santa Teresa gets the spotlight, but Playa Hermosa is where surfers in-the-know escape the crowds. This small town offers a more serene, untouched version of its neighbor with consistent beach breaks, uncrowded waves, and wild natural beauty.
You’ll find small eco-lodges, yoga studios nestled in the trees, and local cafés where breakfast lasts till 2pm. Perfect for those looking to keep the wellness vibe flowing post-Kalon.
Best For: Intermediate surfers, solo travelers, and couples who want to unwind with intention.
2. Pavones (Southern Pacific Coast)
The Vibe: Off-the-grid surf mecca with serious wave cred.
Why Go:
If you’ve built up some confidence during your Kalon week and are craving a new kind of surf adventure, Pavones is the move. Known for one of the longest left-hand waves in the world, this tiny town sits near the border of Panama and is a rite of passage for surfers chasing epic rides.
No frills here, just pure surf, lush rainforest, and a community of wave-obsessed locals and wanderers. Bring your patience (and your bug spray), but trust us, it’s worth it.
Best For: Advanced surfers, minimalists, and those looking for something raw and real.
3. Playa Negra (Guanacaste Province)
The Vibe: Old-school surf town charm with a growing wellness twist.
Why Go:
This lesser-known gem is just far enough from the party-centric Tamarindo scene to feel peaceful, but close enough if you want a night out. Playa Negra is known for its consistent reef break, walkable black-sand beaches, and relaxed pace.
Plus, its growing community of digital nomads and surf yogis makes it a great place to meet others continuing their Costa Rica journey. If you’re craving a casual post-retreat chapter with options for both solo reflection and social connection, this is your town.
Best For: Intermediate surfers, creatives, and digital nomads looking for balance.
4. Dominical (South Pacific Coast)
The Vibe: Eco-surf town meets sleepy jungle village.
Why Go:
Dominical has managed to keep its charm while still offering quality surf, local markets, and stunning waterfall hikes. Think: sunrise surf followed by a jungle trek to a waterfall and a cold coconut by lunch.
The breaks here are more suited for intermediate to advanced surfers, but beginners can still enjoy the mellow vibe and neighboring beaches. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and that’s exactly what you want after Kalon.
Best For: Nature lovers, adventurous couples, and surfers easing into the pura vida lifestyle.
5. Playa Avellanas (Hidden Between Nosara & Tamarindo)
The Vibe: Dreamy, dusty, and still under-the-radar (for now).
Why Go:
Locals call it “Little Hawaii,” and while it’s growing in popularity, Playa Avellanas still flies under the radar compared to its glitzy neighbors. There’s a quiet wildness to it, golden beaches, hidden pathways, and a handful of low-key surf lodges and wood-fired pizza joints. (Yes, Lola’s is worth the hype.)
Surf-wise, it offers a variety of waves for all levels, making it a great transition if you’re fresh off Kalon’s coaching and want to keep progressing in a chill environment.
Best For: Families, beginner-to-intermediate surfers, and anyone allergic to overdevelopment.
How to Travel Between Kalon & These Secret Spots
Kalon Surf is located near Dominical, which gives you the perfect jump-off point for exploring Costa Rica’s less-touristy treasures. Here are some general travel tips:
Rental Car: The best way to explore remote surf towns is by 4×4. Bonus: freedom, road trip vibes, and detour-friendly adventures.
Domestic Flights: For spots like Pavones or Santa Teresa, consider a domestic flight via Sansa Airlines to save time.
Extended Stay Ideas: Want to surf and volunteer? Mix in some eco-tourism. Want to keep working while traveling? Some of these towns are remote-work friendly.
Kalon’s team is always happy to help you map out your post-retreat route based on your comfort level, surf skills, and dream destinations.
Why Go Beyond Kalon?
We designed Kalon to be the kind of place you never want to leave, but part of what we teach is how to keep the momentum going.
By extending your trip and exploring these secret surf towns, you:
- Reinforce the habits and confidence you built during the retreat
- Explore different styles of surfing and self-guided growth
- Stay connected to nature, mindfulness, and slower living
- Keep that “I feel like a different person” energy going a little longer
It’s not just about more waves, it’s about more life between the waves.
Your Kalon experience doesn’t have to end after one week. Use your surf retreat as a launchpad into Costa Rica’s most soulful, untouched surf towns. Whether you’re craving solitude, adventure, or inspiration, the next chapter of your journey is just a wave away.
Book your Kalon Surf retreat and let us help you design your post-retreat escape.
