Tivives

Tivives is a surf spot located in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, about 8 kilometers from the port of Caldera and near the Esparza canton. The beach stretches for around 3.6 kilometers and features dark sand. The surf spot is a beach break that connects to a river mouth, with the best conditions happening during swells from the south and southwest. The spot provides both left and right waves. The main peaks include a left point at the headlands on the south end and a long left at the river mouth. The wave size ranges from about 0.6 meters to 3 meters (2ft to 10ft), but when the swell gets over 10ft, the waves tend to close out. The best wind direction is from the northeast, and the spot works on all tides. The bottom is sand, and the length of the ride is between 50 and 150 meters. The surf spot is generally empty, but always respect the locals and check the surf etiquette, especially if the spot gets crowded. Currents and undertow are strong, so you will need to paddle a lot, even when sitting in the lineup. Powerful sets can come in with 5 or 6 big waves, so be careful. Pollution can be present, and the area is known for wildlife like crocodiles and sharks, especially near the Valor reefs. Always check your skills before paddling out, be sure that the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. If the surf is not good, you can cross the rivermouth to Mini Valor, which sometimes has hollow waves and tubes. To get to Tivives, head towards Jaco, but instead of turning right, go straight for about 8 miles, look for the Tivives sign, then take a left on a gravel road for about 4 miles. Ask the guard for permission to enter and let him know you are going to surf. For the latest surf forecast, report, map, and webcam, check online resources. Near spots include Bajamar, Corralillo, El Hoyo, Caldera, and Dona Ana.