Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Enfrente de Economy Rental Car Playa Tamarindo, Tamarindo Costa Rica
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About
#5 of 124 Specialty lodging in Tamarindo
Location
4.8
Cleanliness
4.3
Service
4.6
Value
4.4
Travelers' Choice
Costa Rica’s most popular surf camp since 2001! It could be because of our location on one of the world’s most renowned and diverse surf spots, because of our professional ISA certified bilingual instructors, or because we simply know how to live the pura vida Costa Rica lifestyle. Nestled right on one of Guanacaste’s most pristine beaches at the corner of the Tamarindo Estuary, the wind and tidal conditions create separate and distinct wave breaks on one single stretch of shoreline. That is why we have access to waves for all surfing levels right in our front yard! Aside from Tamarindo beach, we are just a short boat or car ride away from a wide array of other types of surf breaks. Whether you are a family with three children of different ages that have never surfed before, or you are World Title holder looking for some fun and fast barrels, we’ve got you covered. WE HANDLE EVERYTHING! Our all inclusive surf packages include airport transportation, accommodations, surfing, surfboards, optional classroom seminars, daily breakfast, and so much more.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Free breakfast
Beach
Free airport transportation
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Coffee shop
Restaurant
Airport transportation
Shuttle bus service
Shops
Laundry service
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Room features
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Private bathrooms
Walk-in shower
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Great View
Ocean View
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Location
93Great for walkers
Grade: 93 out of 100
32Restaurantswithin 0.3 miles
6Attractionswithin 0.3 miles
Contact
Enfrente de Economy Rental Car Playa Tamarindo, Tamarindo Costa Rica
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I absolutely LOVED my experience with Witch’s Rock Surf Camp!! As a solo traveler, I was a bit nervous & anxious about what to expect. Every part of the trip was incredibly thought out. I never felt alone & everyone I met was incredibly open & friendly. Mateo was an AMAZING instructor who made every lesson fun & exciting & always made me feel safe. His passion for the sport truly shines in his instructing abilities.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 4 days ago
Ohhh Kimberly you just made our day!!!! So very grateful to receive reviews like this. We feel that the CAMP vibe works for all types of travellers, families, groups and solo travellers as the point is to connect with each other and with the the help of our friendly staff and superb instructors we know we have a special little spot here in beautiful Costa Rica. Thank you for sharing and pura Vida !!!!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Great place and nice staff. Beware of the people on the beach renting chairs. They are not trustworthy and charge excess amount of money for use of the chairs/umbrellas. The surf and the instructors are amazing and friendly.
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Date of stay: March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 1 week ago
Thanks for the review and glad to know that you enjoyed the program and the instructors. The beach chair guys are completely separate from our operations and act independently on the public beach so we have no comment on their operations or business. Pura Vida
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was my first time in Costa Rica and the staff at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp made it memorable. Mao was an awesome surf guide and took us to many different places. Unfortunately, Witch’s Rock was not breaking when we went, but that would be impossible to know as there are no surf cams there. The free breakfast was great and the restaurant had decent food for dinner. Being able to watch Endless Summer I/II with Robert August narrating was a big highlight! Go talk to him because he is hilarious. They will also help you book other activities like scuba diving and work that around your surf schedule. People on my trip in the Beginner and Intermediate classes had good things to say about the instruction. Recommendation: The one thing that they could improve upon is maybe doing a group between Intermediate and Advanced. I felt like I could have used more coaching on positioning on the waves and board selection, or working on my riding/turning skills on shorter boards, but the Intermediate class felt too basic.…
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip: I recommend going Saturday to Saturday for the full experience and free Liberia Airport pickup.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 2 weeks ago
Hi Ryan, Thank you so much for the 5 Star review and we are stoked that you enjoyed the experience of the camp, especially Robert he's a real treat to have around and such a great story teller. Regards to the Intermediate and Advanced groups, we are always trying to cover this grey area as Intermediate is a large group of fundamentals to cover with a varying range of skill within this group, but we take on all comments which we are glad to receive and will look into expanding the intermediate group. Thanks again and we look forward to hosting you again. Pura Vida from all the staff at WRSC !!!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had a fantastic experience at Witch's Rock. All 4 of us were beginner surfers and we stayed at the main resort. Having the accommodations right on the beach provided an amazing view as well as convenient access for sunrise/sunset beach walks and surfing. Overall the facilities are nice and the staff do an excellent job of keeping it clean. Having 2 restaurants with very good food on the premises provided convenience in addition to great ocean views. The surf instructor for my wife and I, Valay, was amazing. She was fun and helpful and encouraging. She was everything we needed to get us up on our boards day one and have fun. We stayed in the Beachfront Studio which was exceedingly cute, had an all glass front for beautiful ocean views and our own little private porch. The only downside to this room is it's proximity to trees that are the homes for squirrels and iguanas. With that being said, the roof of the studio is steel and these creatures don't necessarily sleep when the rest of us do. The 1st night was the worst and the last night was the least worst, but every night we were awoken at least 2x. The 1st night we initially had no idea what these horrendous sounds were, it kinda freaked us out and we weren't initially convinced that it wasn't something inside. The staff did offer us a room at their sister hotel just a short distance away but we couldn't give up the view. If you are considering Witch's Rock Surf Camp, especially if you are a beginner, this is the place to be. You will surf right out in front of the building. Downtown Tamarindo is only a 4 or 5 minute walk with many shops and restaurants and a small grocery store. Overall an amazing life adventure!…
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you so much for the 5 star review, Stoked to hear that you made the most of the facilities that we have onsite and that you made a connection with Valy,who is a joy to have on our team. Yes the Flora and Fauna as beautiful as it is in all of its abundance that we have in this beautiful country, it can keep one awake at night. We understand how that can be an issue so we appreciate the feedback and shall be looking into ways to try to insulate the noise. We hope to host you in the future and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Thank you.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Absolutely incredible experience. Our intermediate group was amazing. Made some good friends with other people in our group which Jair was our guide. Do yourself a mega favour if you are intermediate or expert and ask for Jair. He is humble, I don’t want to say more than you will be beside yourself when you hear about him, see his skills on the water, his enthusiasm with his group and the way that he positively interacts and teaches his students. Witch’s Rock is an incredible surf camp. We did not stay at the hotel, but I have heard that it is fun and the rooms are being upgraded. Without a doubt this is the place to take your surf camp when in Tamarindo. The boat and van tours take you through a journey of the local villages off the beaten path and to the best breaks imaginable for your skill level.…
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 2 weeks ago
Wow Sean, Thank you for such an amazing review we really appreciate that you took the time to write to us. I will for sure let Jair know how impressed you were with him and we could not be more grateful for his passion and effort that he puts into his teaching he is a real benefit for the camp and we are very proud to have him on our team. Glad you enjoyed the trips and seeing real Costa Rica, we hope to see back with us again soon. Pura Vida from all of us here at WRSC
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My wife and I are at the end of two weeks at the surf camp. This is our third trip there and by far the best. Thank you to Daniela at Witches Rock for reminding us we had money held from a previous trip where COVID forced us to leave early. We can’t say enough great things about Jair, our coach. He is always positive and upbeat but also a truly great teacher. We learned more with him in a short time than with others in months. He is the best coach in any sport I’ve ever been around. Also, a big thanks to Stuart, our cameraman and all of the drivers and boat captains, Pru Pru is number one. Thanks again to everyone for a great trip and looking forward to having Jair as a coach again. Shawn and April Owen.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: Ask for Jair.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 2 weeks ago
Dear Shawn and April I shared your review with our staff and we are so happy that you had a great trip and we are so grateful for your review. We are super blessed with a great staff and location. Just remember to to make a request with reservations for your instructor and we shall make sure you get the experience that you want during your stay with us. Thanks Again and hope to see you soon.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This was a great place to be. I have been more than once and would recommend it to anyone. What makes Witch's Rock the best are the instructors. They are highly professional, enthusiastic and entertaining, and are always willing to help. I hope that they are as appreciated by their employers as they are by their students because they make the place. I would go back whenever I could, but now that I have the surf bug, I may have to spread myself out, unfortunately!
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Date of stay: February 2023
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you for the great review and we appreciate that you took the time to write it. We would not have the success that we have had over the years with out appreciating all of our employees that make this experience what it is, we encourage them to be themselves and not just to be a faceless employee. Glad to hear you got the Surfing bug, get out there and share the stoke and we shall be looking forward to hosting you here again in the future. Pura Vida from all of the staff here at WRSC
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Had a great time and caught some amazing waves. David the instructor was awesome to be with. This was my 2nd time a Witchs Rock surf camp in 12 yrs. Lots of great changes. The new Brewery and the additional hotel Pueblo Dorado. Small room but perfect for a couple or solo vacation like me. Pura Vida!
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 3 weeks ago
Hey Dwayne, we are very grateful for your review and the 5 stars make it even better, glad you enjoyed the changes and your time with David we will let him know that you mentioned him. We would love to have you back here soon so don't hesitate to contact us if you need any info at all on any future trips. Thank you and take care.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My husband and I visited Witches Rock with our two teenage children and we all had an absolutely amazing time! This is an outstanding, well-organized, friendly, and knowledgable surf camp. Myself and two children were taught by Christofer. I was a little unsure about how I was going to be at surfing but he was so patient and kind that I felt very comfortable trying to surf after a very short amount of time. He inspired me and didn’t presume or pressure me. Typically I over-analyze and do things the hard way, but with Christofer I was more able to just try out his suggestions to improve and have fun. He is very knowledgeable and technical and the video analyses and feedback were very very helpful (and surprisingly fun to watch) . He was the perfect instructor for me and my children also said he was ‘really good’ - high praise from my children. The room in the hotel was good and situated well - the hotel is right on the beach and across the street from the board pick up. We also loved the seminars and the strength and flexibility training where we got to practice our balance and pop ups on boards inside. My husband was instructed by Fish who, like Christofer was also very sincere, knowledgeable, professional, fun, and patient. We enjoyed our lessons very much because of how much we enjoyed our time with them. All of the surf instructors who ran the seminars were also very friendly and knowledgeable. The staff at the restaurant, cleaners, driver, and front desk were also amazingly nice and professional. The food in the restaurant was also very good and we loved eating by the water. I highly recommend staying at Witches Rock and doing the surf camp.…
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 3 weeks ago
Thank you soooo much for the 5 star review, we are very stoked that you had a great experience and we will be sure to pass this review over to the surf instructors we are very blessed with a great team. We have a very solid work force, we want them to be themselves and connect with our guests so the next time you come back it feels like a second home. Where you can share our passion for surfing, love of this beautiful country and its people. We can not wait to host you again and hope to see you soon. Pura Vida from all the staff at WRSC
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
There are many great beaches with great surf camps in Costa Rica. This is not one of them. Hanging out with Robert was amazing. Other than that, this place was a disappointment. Our room was fine with a great view, which we paid extra for. When we arrived, the room was flooded, so we spent the first night in a different room. Ours was repaired and cleaned the next morning. The housekeeping staff was pleasant and efficient. The food was generally good but a bit inconsistent, and the menu became somewhat redundant after a week. The fact that the restaurants are serving both guests at the surf camp and the general public seemed strange to me. I have stayed at several surf camps, both in Costa Rica and other countries, and have not seen this before. I thought it detracted from the "camp" feel. The surfboard choices were great and the guy running the board room, HD, is terrific, easily the bright spot of the place. The waves in front of the hotel were not good while we were there, so we went by van or boat to another beach, which was fun. They seemed to work to find us some better waves. The surf coaching is where things really fell apart. We had only one coach for the five of us, but it didn't really matter because he did almost no coaching in the water. He told us that if we wanted coaching we should sit near him. When I did, he either turned and took a wave or just paddled away. (Tip for surf guides - you can't take more waves than your guests get.) I think he was knowledgeable, but just chose not to do his job. We learned later that the surf coaches and management were in the middle of a labor dispute. These things happen, I guess, but it was disappointing that they let it affect our experience. The week wasn't a complete fail, but we won't be back.…
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, General Manager at Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Responded 3 weeks ago
Michael We are very sad to hear that you had this experience and after reading your account the only real problem I see is that you had was your instruction. Which we whole heartedly apologize for! The Coach in question will be brought to one side to discuss why there was a brake down of the program that we have trained and educated our staff to provide that has kept us open and popular for 20 years now. Like all hotels, we have operational issues and we felt we dealt with the flooding of the room efficiently and professionally, also when we advertise the camp it only includes breakfast and we encourage our guests to go out to explore new restaurants and the other sights of Tamarindo, we have never really had any negative feedback that our restaurants are open to the public. Back to your coaching it definitely seems that we failed you there with the in water coaching but hope that our Video analysis and the board balance program, that we use for muscle memory, working on your core strength, balance and Popup added something to your experience. when I asked and researched your trip, we heard nothing from you while you were here. No complaints to the front desk or our reservations team so that makes it very hard for us to work out a problem in real time, as we would of happily worked with you to get the best experience out of your trip with us, this is not an excuse as I mentioned earlier our instructor did not deliver, but its hard for us to act upon something that has already happened. I am disappointed that you have brought up the very private matter of an internal labour dispute, which was not the reason you had this bad experience, it was ONE individual that was not doing his job. We appreciate the review, good luck and Pura Vida
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ALSO KNOWN AS
witch`s rock surf camp hotel tamarindo, witchs rock surf camp tamarindo, witchs rock surf camp hotel
LOCATION
Costa RicaProvince of GuanacasteTamarindo
NUMBER OF ROOMS
18
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Claim Your ListingWITCH'S ROCK SURF CAMP - Updated 2023 Prices & Hostel Reviews (Tamarindo, Costa Rica)
Frequently Asked Questions about Witch's Rock Surf Camp
Which popular attractions are close to Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
Nearby attractions include Azul Profundo Boutique (0.2 miles), Con Mucho Gusto (0.3 miles), and The Crazy Monkey Bar (0.1 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
What food & drink options are available at Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
Conveniently located restaurants include Wabi Sabi Sushi, Santa Rita Cafe, and El Pelicano Restaurante.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Witch's Rock Surf Camp have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Witch's Rock Surf Camp offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does Witch's Rock Surf Camp have airport transportation?
Yes, Witch's Rock Surf Camp offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is Witch's Rock Surf Camp located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.5 miles away from the center of Tamarindo.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Witch's Rock Surf Camp?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
Does Witch's Rock Surf Camp have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the ocean view available here.