Black Beach

Black Beach is a surf spot located in the Caribbean region of Costa Rica, near the town of Cahuita. Also known as Playa Negra, this spot is recognized for its dark volcanic sand and consistent surf conditions. The bottom is mainly sand with some reef, and the waves break at all tides, making it accessible for surfers at any time. The surf spot provides both left and right waves. Swell comes from the north and northeast, while the wind is generally from the southwest. The waves are usually small and good for beginners, but during bigger swells, they can get hollow and break further out, especially near the creek inlet about 1 kilometer from the main access. At high tide, a rock ledge can produce left-breaking waves when the swell is overhead. The length of the ride is typically less than 50 meters. The spot is not crowded, with only a few surfers in the water most of the time. Nearby surf spots include Salsa Brava, Playa Cocles, Punta Uva, Playa Grande, and Manzanillo. You can walk along the beach or take a path through the park to reach the best waves, and you might see monkeys along the way, so keep an eye on your belongings. Parking is available along the beach, but it’s best not to leave valuables in your car. There are places to eat and stay nearby, and you can find a hut restaurant serving jerk chicken. When checking the surf forecast, report, map, or webcam for Black Beach, always respect the locals, especially if the spot gets busy. Make sure to follow surf etiquette when the lineup is crowded. Check your skills before paddling out, be sure that the spot and conditions match your level. Watch out for sea urchins and sharp reef at the south end of the beach.