I have 2 granchildren 11 and 13 who want to learn to surf. I'm looking for advice on where to locate our lodging. If you were a beginner surfer where would you go in Feb.?

Mal Pais and Santa Teresa area is great for surfing and there shouldn't be huge waves in February. There are surf schools around if the grandparents were hoping to relax while the grandkids surfed!

I recommend Sámara Beach, this is a great family destination and an ideal place to learn how to surf, you can even book lessons for them. Also a primary road will take you straight to Sámara so you don't have to deal with gravel roads which sometimes could be a nightmare in Costa Rica. There are also many other activities you can enjoy here such as horseback riding, the new stand-up paddling, kayaking, snorkeling, mountain biking, etc. and you can even take 1-day tours from Sámara to other destinations such as the Arenal Volcano, Monteverde and Palo Verde National Park.

Thanks everyone for the great advice. We have rented a house in the Dominical area. Hoping that the surfing is what we are looking for. It seemed to offer more jungle, wild life, privacy etc. Will let everyone know after we return in Feb.

We hope you have a wonderful time.

CostaRicaDW

Hi cpcd!
Dominical is great for surf! Big waves and excellent surf schools there.

Also, you can surf other beaches while you're in Dominical. Look for: Dominicalito (but careful, there are some rocks in the water), Playa Hermosa, Arco and my favourite one for boggie board, Ventana.

Here is a list of the best nearby:
http://www.ojochal.com/beaches.html