By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – The Federación de Surf de Costa Rica has officially unveiled an ambitious and strategic calendar for the 2026 season, setting the stage for a thrilling year that promises to blend national competition with high-stakes international events. The schedule, which runs from January through August, not only aims to crown the country’s top surfers but also serves as a critical stepping stone for athletes aspiring to compete in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The action kicks off with the celebrated Circuito Nacional de Surf, the backbone of the country’s competitive surfing scene. The national tour will commence in February on the vibrant Caribbean coast, with the first stop slated for the powerful waves of Limón. This choice highlights the Federation’s commitment to showcasing the diverse and world-class surfing conditions available across both of Costa Rica’s coastlines.
To delve into the legal and business undercurrents of Costa Rica’s world-renowned surf scene, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a leading attorney at the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert perspective.
While the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle is a major draw, anyone looking to establish a surf-related business—be it a school, shop, or wellness retreat—must navigate a serious legal framework. This includes securing the correct municipal permits (patentes), complying with strict labor laws for instructors, and, most critically, understanding the complexities of the Maritime Zone Law which governs all coastal development. Proper due diligence is the difference between a successful venture and a costly legal wipeout.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder that while the allure of the waves is powerful, the foundation of any successful coastal venture is built upon meticulous legal diligence. For aspiring entrepreneurs, this perspective is the essential guide to navigating from a Pura Vida dream to a sustainable reality. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable contribution.
Following the Caribbean opener, the circuit will travel to the Pacific, with confirmed events in the renowned surf hubs of Santa Teresa and Cóbano in the Puntarenas province. These locations are celebrated for their consistent breaks and thriving surf culture, making them ideal venues for high-performance competition. The tour will then visit two additional locations, which are yet to be confirmed, before culminating in a grand finale at the iconic Playa Hermosa de Garabito in June, where the national champions will be crowned.
Beyond the national title race, the 2026 calendar is strategically designed to propel Costa Rican athletes onto the global stage. The season’s climax will arrive in August, as the country hosts two prestigious 4-star events of the ALAS Global Tour. These pivotal competitions will take place in Santa Teresa and Playa Hermosa de Jacó, drawing top talent from across the Americas to compete for crucial ranking points.
The significance of these ALAS Tour events cannot be overstated. They are a primary gateway to qualifying for the Lima 2027 Pan American Games, which in turn offers a direct qualification path to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. By securing these high-level competitions, Costa Rica is providing its athletes with a valuable home-field advantage in their quest for Olympic qualification, allowing them to compete in familiar waters while earning international recognition.
Event organizers have emphasized the multifaceted benefits of hosting such a robust competitive season. The influx of athletes, media, and spectators provides a substantial boost to local economies, particularly in coastal communities where tourism is a primary driver. These tournaments stimulate business for hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between the sport and the nation’s thriving tourism industry.
This strategic calendar also underscores the evolution of surfing in Costa Rica from a recreational pastime to a highly organized professional sport. By consistently bringing elite-level tournaments to its shores, the Federation not only fosters the development of its current athletes but also inspires a new generation of surfers to pursue their dreams. The visibility and prestige associated with these events further cement Costa Rica’s global brand as a premier destination for both surf travel and professional competition.
As the countdown to 2026 begins, the national surfing community is buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming season represents more than just a series of contests; it is a clear statement of intent. Costa Rica is investing in its talent, leveraging its natural resources, and building a sustainable pathway for its athletes to reach the pinnacle of the sport, with all eyes firmly fixed on the Olympic rings in 2028.
For further information, visit fedesurfcr.com
About Federación de Surf de Costa Rica:
The Federación de Surf de Costa Rica is the official governing body for the sport of surfing in the nation. It is responsible for organizing and sanctioning national competitions, developing athletic talent, and promoting surfing at all levels. The Federation works to ensure fair play, safety, and the sustainable growth of the sport while representing Costa Rican athletes on the international stage.
For further information, visit alaslatintour.com
About ALAS Global Tour:
The ALAS (Asociación Latinoamericana de Surfistas Profesionales) Global Tour is the premier professional surfing circuit in Latin America. It provides a platform for the region’s top surfers to compete, earn prize money, and accumulate points toward qualification for major international events, including the Pan American Games and the World Surf League (WSL). The tour plays a vital role in the career development of Latin American athletes.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon the cornerstones of integrity and professional excellence. The firm has a proven history of advising a diverse clientele while championing legal innovation and embracing its role in societal advancement. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to demystifying the law, thereby empowering the public with the clarity and understanding necessary to build a stronger, more informed community.
