Coordinates 9.610495 -85.145998

Mar Azul is a surf spot located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, near Mal País and south of Playa Carmen, close to Santa Teresa. The spot is known for its rocky bottom with coral reef and is best surfed at medium to high tide. The surf spot provides left waves. Mar Azul is suitable for intermediate surfers, with wave lengths ranging from 50 to 150 meters. The wave is inconsistent and lumpy, requiring a solid swell and a full tide to work well. The takeoff is technical over rocks, with a fatter middle section and sometimes a link to an inside section, especially on smaller swells. On bigger swells, the wave can close out onto the second rock point by the camping beach. The spot is usually empty, offering a quiet session, but always respect the locals and check the surf etiquette when the spot is crowded. Access is straightforward, but it is recommended to paddle out the long way around rather than going in off the rocks on the point. There is a bar and hotel right at the spot, and the area is close to restaurants and a bank. Mar Azul is about 4 km south from Mal País, in the direction of Cabo Blanco Reserve; take the first track on the right at the end of the road at the bar/camping Mar Azul. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for access. When the swell is too big or messy at Mal País or Playa Carmen, Mar Azul can offer rideable waves. The area is also known for tide pools and unique rock formations, which can be explored at low tide. Nearby surf spots include Sunset Reef, Playa Carmen, Santa Teresa, Playa los Cedros, and Playa Coyote. Always check your skills before paddling out, be sure that the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. For the latest surf forecast, report, map, and webcam, check local resources before heading out. Check out the good surf at Mar Azul in the next 7 days, the webcams, the full forecast report, or see the spot on the surf map.

Best tide at Mar Azul

Medium, High

Check the full tide table

Tides have a significant impact on wave quality at certain surf spots like Mar Azul, causing conditions to vary throughout the tidal cycle. As the tide moves between high and low, the water depth over the seabed changes, affecting how the waves break. At these spots, high tide usually produce softer, slower waves, while low tide can generate faster, steeper waves. Some spots have specific tide stages when they work best, offering optimal conditions only at certain times of the day.

Near spots

There are 36 surf spots within a range of 100 km from Mar Azul. Use this section to find alternative spots that may be less crowded, better suited for your surfing skills, or offer a better forecast report for the next 7 days. Each spot includes detailed surf reports, forecast updates, and webcam views to help you plan. Whether you're seeking less crowded alternatives or simply exploring a region, the list of nearby surf spots is an essential tool.

See all 36 surf spots