A simple definition of surfing is to ride the surf on a board. I would add “as much as possible.” If you are of the same mind, then Dale Dagger’s Surf Lodge is for you. Sure you can piecemeal a cheaper trip, but your freedom, time, and enjoyment will not be maximized. First off, the staff’s kindness, knowledge, and service will make you feel comfortable, as if you were at home. The food is delicious and nutritious blending the traditional and the foreign. The accommodations are quaint and clean. If you have any concerns, Mike, the owner, is personable and reasonable. Now to why you are here: the surfing. You will be at mercy of the ocean. Depending on the swell, tide, and wind different spots will be firing while others may be okay to flat. At Dale Dagger’s Surf Lodge, the boat access alone will save you time and money. My group and I were able to choose from different local spots based on actually viewing them. Most other places will limit your boat trips to a number and/or specific location. Each trip will cost you around $100 bucks or more per trip. You could rent a car, but there is the cost plus your navigational skills and time. In general, boat travel will cut your travel time in half. There are number of famous breaks (e.g. Colorado’s, Panga Drops) within 5-20 minutes boat ride from the lodge. If the swell is right, then a 40 minute boat ride is available for Lance’s Left or Playgrounds. When you get to the surf spot, Ramon, Elvin or Mike will put you in line to catch a lot of waves. Afterwards, you will want to take a siesta at the lodge. The best surfer is the one having the most fun. Whether your a beginner or a ripper, the staff at Dale Dagger’s Surf Lodge will set you up for fun-loving time - ocean willing or not.

If you are wanting to surf Nica, this is the place to stay. Unlimited boat access to all the point and beach breaks is the best and only way to go. Mike and his crew of local surf guides have the spots dialed in and will get you the best waves for the trip and your ability level. The surf guides are super knowledgeable and are not worried about their wave count, they are focused on getting you waves. What really sets the surf lodge apart is the exceptional service delivered by all the staff. As you walk off the boat you are treated to a hot home cooked meal that is delicious. Clean towels are waiting for you and your room has been cleaned and bed made. All you have to do is have a Tona, take a nap, then jump back on the boat and start it all over again.......

Not only does this lodge draw me back yearly over the past 10 years, but my friends and I feel like part of the community when we stay here. Mike and his staff make everyone feel welcome, from helping arrange airport transportation to letting guest help design the meals (especially if you help catch the meals!). While the Lodge primarily caters to surfers, offering twice daily boat trips to the best local surf spots, the possibility exists for hiking, paddle-boarding, and fishing. Centrally located in Playa Gigante, the lodge is on the beach and you can walk anywhere in town in minutes. Food is over the top and I always end up gaining weight on my trips. Great common room with a large TV with a great library of DVDs and books. Such a special place and not pretentious at all!