Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The dirt road into Avellanas rattles your rental car for three kilometers, shaking loose the polish of Tamarindo. Dust coats your windshield. Howler monkeys bellow from the canopy overhead. Then the forest opens and you're staring at a beach that runs nearly two kilometers, stitched together by a half-dozen different wave peaks that light up depending on swell direction and tide. Lola's on the Beach serves pork tacos under a palapa roof, the kind of place where surfers prop their boards in the sand and order by pointing. The pig is rubbed with achiote and slow-roasted; you eat with your fingers and watch the sets roll in. At high tide, the Avellanas estuary floods the southern end, turning the sand into a shallow lagoon where stingrays glide and herons stalk the shallows. Sunset here is a ceremony. The western sky bruises purple and tangerine, and the silhouette of every surfer paddling back in becomes a cutout against the light. Families spread blankets. Someone always brings a cooler. The air cools just enough to remind you that this stretch of coast, for all its fame, still belongs more to the pelicans than to us.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Playa Avellanas.
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Playa Avellanas is primarily a surf beach with strong waves and currents, making it more suitable for experienced ocean swimmers and surfers than casual bathers. Families can enjoy the long stretch of sand for beach activities, but young children should be closely supervised near the water. Certain sections and times may offer calmer conditions, particularly at low tide in protected areas. There are no lifeguards on duty. The beach's natural, undeveloped character means you should bring your own safety equipment and be self-reliant regarding ocean safety.
The dry season (December-April) provides the most consistent sunny weather and is popular with tourists and surfers alike. However, the shoulder and wet season months (May-November) offer excellent surf conditions, fewer crowds, and the famous 'Little Saturday' phenomenon—when surf is often best mid-week. Early mornings any time of year provide the best surf and a more peaceful atmosphere. Sunsets are spectacular year-round, making late afternoon a prime time to visit Lola's beach bar. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends when locals from nearby towns visit.
Playa Avellanas is about 20-30 minutes south of Tamarindo by car. From Tamarindo, head south toward Playa Negra, then follow signs to Avellanas. The road includes both paved sections and rough, washboard dirt roads that can be challenging during rainy season—a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended. Some sections may have river crossings that become impassable in heavy rain. Many visitors rent ATVs or cars in Tamarindo. Taxi services are available but relatively expensive for the distance. There's no public beach shuttle service.
Lola's on the Beach is the iconic gathering spot at Playa Avellanas, famous for its laid-back vibe, pork tacos, and beachfront tables under palm trees. Beyond Lola's, dining options are limited to a few small sodas and the restaurant at JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort nearby. Accommodation ranges from surf camps and budget cabinas to the luxury JW Marriott. Many properties are vacation rentals scattered in the surrounding hills. The area maintains a rustic, undeveloped feel, so come prepared or plan to drive to neighboring towns for more options.
Playa Avellanas is renowned for having multiple surf breaks along its lengthy coastline, offering variety for different skill levels and tide conditions. The beach produces both beach breaks and some reef/point sections, with waves that work across various swells and tides. It's less crowded than some nearby breaks, giving surfers more space. The famous 'Little Saturday' break is particularly well-known among experienced surfers. Long stretches of sand mean you can often find your own peak. The consistent waves and beautiful setting have made it a favorite among surf travelers for decades.
