Surf the Jungle
Private surf lessons, guiding, retreats, and jungle adventures in one of the most remote and beautiful corners of Costa Rica — locally owned, expert-led.
Who We Are
Born From the Ocean,
Rooted in Costa Rica
Matapalo Surf Experience is a locally owned and operated surf-focused business nestled in Cabo Matapalo — a remote paradise on the tip of the Osa Peninsula, just 25 minutes from Puerto Jimenez.
National Geographic once called the Osa Peninsula “the most biologically intense place on earth.” We call it home. Our certified instructors bring over 20 years of surfing and 15 years of teaching experience to every session.
The Team
Our Coaches
Costa Rica-born and raised, every one of our instructors shares a deep passion for the ocean, the sport, and passing that stoke on to you.
Aaron
Founder & Head Surf Instructor
Ronnie
Surf Instructor
Lance
Surf Instructor
Braulio
Surf Instructor
Erick
Surf Instructor
Jack
Surf Instructor
Meet the Founder
Aaron Garcia
I discovered my passion for surfing at 12 years old. I've competed in national contests and traveled to many other countries, surfing some of the best surf breaks on earth.
As a teenager, I began to work with local surf schools and developed my skills as an instructor. I have worked with people from all over the world, both individually and through retreats like RiseUp and specialty yoga retreats.
My goal is for people to come surf Matapalo, experience the jungle life, and enjoy all of the incredible things it has to offer.
— Aaron Garcia, founder and owner of Matapalo Surf Experience
What We Do
Your Perfect Waves Await
Whether you're paddling for the first time or chasing your best cutback, we've got an experience built for you.
Surf Coaching
One-on-one and small group lessons for all skill levels. We cover wave reading, surf etiquette, paddling technique, and pop-up mechanics. Our goal is to make every surfer — from first-timers to seasoned riders — feel confident, safe, and stoked in the water.
Jungle Adventures
Surf boat trips, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding on the beach, tree climbing, and wildlife exploration. Howler monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, dolphins, and humpback whales are regular neighbors here.
Partner Retreats
Planning a yoga retreat, wellness event, or group adventure? We work with retreat organizers to create fully custom packages combining surf, nature, and local culture for your group.
Matapalo Life
Where the Jungle Meets the Sea
“The most biologically intense place on earth.”— National Geographic, on the Osa Peninsula
What Makes Us Different
More Than a Surf Lesson
We're not a crowded surf school on a tourist beach. Matapalo is raw, remote, and real — a place where you can catch uncrowded waves, spot wildlife from the lineup, and fall asleep to the sound of the jungle.
- 🌊Waves for every level — gentle rollers for beginners, powerful points for advanced surfers
- 📸Photo and video analysis available so you can track your real progress
- 🐒Share the jungle with howler monkeys, toucans, dolphins, and humpback whales
- 🤙Small groups, personalized coaching, genuine pura vida hospitality
Guest Reviews
What People Are Saying
“True locals with an awesome vibe. They know every wave and every corner of Matapalo like no one else. Professional, welcoming, and the real surf spirit!”
“I don't have enough words to describe how fortunate I feel to have come across Matapalo Surf Experience. Not only is Matapalo one of the most magical parts of Costa Rica, the staff are genuinely the nicest people to connect with and adapt to your surfing level to make you enjoy and learn as much as possible. This was a life changing experience that we plan to make a yearly tradition.”
“First time surfing and this experience was phenomenal! Aaron, who is local to Matapalo, was a terrific instructor and got us all (age range 28–63) easily up on the boards in no time! Our group had a lot of success riding tons of waves! This exceeded expectations and we would 100% recommend to anyone looking for a first time surf experience!”
“Aaron, Taylor and the whole crew of instructors took really good care of us this past week. I am fairly new to the sport and surfed every day I was here with these folks. They were all sincere, caring, and a lot of fun. I progressed each day under their individualized coaching and enjoyed a lot of good rides. My wife has only tried a couple times before, she found the waves and the people sweet as well.”
“Don't think twice about booking time with Matapalo Surf Experience. From start to finish they have been exceptional to work with. I'm an intermediate surfer who hadn't been in the water in a couple years and Aaron was the best. They have very high quality boards which is hard to do in such a remote part of CR. They know the waves and area inside and out — I felt very safe and confident with them and most important caught great waves. Taylor was exceptional at coordinating. Definitely a trusted and highly valuable team that will make your trip one to remember.”
“We had a great week with Matapalo Surf Experience. We got taken to the best break for our level every day and all the instructors were reliable and had good attitudes. They got us into a lot of waves too! Lance gave us really helpful technical feedback too. Highly recommended. We'll all be back!”
Ready to Catch Your Wave?
Spaces are limited and this place fills up fast. Reach out today and let's plan your perfect Matapalo experience.
Get In Touch
Let's Make It Happen
Have questions about booking, retreat packages, or what to expect? Drop us a line — we love hearing from future surfers. Response time is quick and the stoke is always high.