Where Are the Best Surf Spots in December?

If you’ve ever stared out the window in December, wondering why you willingly live somewhere that requires a full winter getup to take the bins out, this is your sign.

December is prime time to head south, chase winter sun and trade icy car windshields for crystal clear waters. 

Surfers across the northern hemisphere start hunting for the best places to surf in December, imagining (ok… drooling about) perfect waves, consistent swells and a surf trip that feels like a warm reset button.

Because surfing in the sun beats hibernating in the cold

You’ll find plenty of lists recommending exotic surfing destinations, far-flung reef passes and remote islands.

But if you ask most intermediate surfers, beginner surfers and advanced surfers what they actually want this time of year, you’d hear the same things:

• Consistent but mellow waves
• Warm water temperatures
• Breaks that offer space to grow
• Sessions don’t punish you for being holiday plump (Christmas leftovers… are we right?)

And that’s exactly why Central America shines brighter than anywhere else on the December surf map. Sure, Northern Europe feels romantic with its stormy seas and heavy waves. Australia and South Africa offer legendary surf, but long travel times. Other popular spots get crowded fast.

Meanwhile, Central America just casually rolls out flawless beach breaks, friendly locals, natural beauty and rideable waves from sunrise to sunset.

It’s paradise without the pretense.

And since Rise Up runs a surf and yoga retreats in both Nicaragua and Costa Rica, two of the best surfing destinations for December, let’s break down why this region delivers the best surf, the best vibes and the most memorable December surf trip you’ll ever take.

Here are the best places to surf: December edition.

Why December and Central America are made for each other

December is the start of the dry season across much of Central America.

Rain eases off, air temperature rises and offshore winds calm the Pacific Coast into long, clean lines. Powerful swells from the north roll down the coastline. But these winter swells won’t be overwhelming by the time they reach us.

You get the perfect sweet spot: enough push to excite experienced surfers but still plenty of forgiving rides for beginners and those somewhere in between.

Travel gets easier too. Roads dry out, breaks open up and smaller crowds mean more space and more chances to score hidden gems without feeling rushed or squeezed. 

It’s surfing in December at its best.

Slow mornings, warm water, rideable waves and days that blend surf sessions with hammock or pool time. Did we mention we know where all the best beaches are?

If you’re chasing consistent swells, warm water and a fun progression-focused environment, Central America is the great spot you’re looking for.

Nicaragua: Offshores, wild beauty and waves with oomph

If you dream of a December surf trip where you paddle out in board shorts instead of a wetsuit and the wind is grooming the swell into smooth lines, Nicaragua is your place.

The country is famous for its lake-driven offshore winds that often blow all day. This means clean waves at low tide, high tide and everything between. Better yet, it also means fewer blown-out afternoons and more surf sessions stacked back-to-back.

Did someone say super speedy surf progression? Yes… we did.

Rise Up’s Nicaragua surf and yoga retreats sit on a quiet stretch of Pacific Coast where the beach breaks serve up smooth, fun walls. Think playful mornings, punchier afternoons and zero pressure if you want to try something new.

Beginner surfers get mellow waves that make popping up feel natural. Intermediate surfers find shape and space to work on turns. Advanced surfers get enough push to stay entertained without needing to hunt down heavier waves.

Here’s why Nicaragua rules in December:

• Offshores that last for hours
• Consistent waves that are perfect for progression
• Natural beauty with wild beaches and empty lineups
• Easy airport transfers that get you surfing fast
• A surf vibe that’s friendly, rarely crowded

There’s something grounding about surfing in Nicaragua. Maybe it’s the raw coastline. Maybe it’s the pace of life. Maybe it’s sitting around after dinner telling stories with people who were strangers two days ago.

It feels like the kind of place surfers return to again and again. To say it’s a good spot to escape the winter blues is the understatement of the century.

Costa Rica: Caribbean charm, leg-burning rides and Pura Vida

Now it’s time to slide over to Costa Rica and the energy shifts.

December also marks the beginning of its dry season in the land of Pura Vida. And the Pacific side, where we run our retreats, starts churning out the cleanest waves of the year.

Expect warm water, smooth longboard and shortboard-friendly takeoffs, crystal clear waters and set after set rolling in with enviable consistency. It’s pretty much paradise on earth.

Costa Rica is one of the best surfing destinations for beginners and intermediate surfers because the waves strike that sweet balance of power and gentleness.

You get shape without being overwhelmed, push without being punished. There are quality waves up and down the coast. Even advanced surfers love the long walls.

It’s the kind of surfing that builds confidence fast. So what makes Costa Rica a December favorite?

• Smooth, predictable waves for every skill level
• A relaxed surf capital vibe with lots of hidden gems
• Beach breaks with warm water and vibrant scenery
• Locals who embody pura vida in everything they do
• The ideal mix of surf yoga, rest and play
• A great opportunity to travel alone

Rise Up’s Costa Rica locations put you directly on the beach, which means you fall asleep to the sound of waves and then wake up already excited for the first session.

Days unfold slowly but satisfyingly with morning yoga, coaching, swims, surf drills and sunsets that make you forget what day it is.

Central America vs the rest of the world in December

Let’s compare. Northern Europe? Cold, stormy and great for moody photos… not so great for learners.

Indo? Windy, wet season conditions. The US West Coast? Thick suits and icy winds. Australia? Amazing, but a long haul and many popular spots get crowded quickly.

Central America offers warm water, consistent swells, friendly surf culture and conditions that welcome surfers instead of testing their survival instincts. Add in shorter travel times for most northern hemisphere visitors, straightforward airport transfers and comfortable accommodations and your December surf trip becomes a joy instead of a mission.

It’s no wonder surfers of all abilities rate Central America as one of the best surf spots for winter.

We sure do.

How to choose between Costa Rica and Nicaragua

Both are fantastic and both have that winter sun magic. It just depends on what you want from your surf trip.

Choose Nicaragua if you love:

• Empty beaches and a raw adventurous feel
• All day offshores and consistent waves
• Space to progress without crowds
• Slightly more rugged natural beauty

Choose Costa Rica if you want:

• Smooth, playful waves that are great for progression
• A gentle, friendly vibe that melts stress
• Accessible beach breaks for every skill level
• A retreat that blends surf yoga and relaxation

Some surfers alternate between the two year after year. Others return to the same place because it feels like home. There’s no wrong choice here. Only good waves are waiting.

We encourage you to dip your toes into both locations. After that, you can make up your mind!

FAQ: Surfing in December in Central America

Q. Is December a good time for beginner surfers?

Yes. Both Costa Rica and Nicaragua offer mellow waves, warm water and consistent conditions that help beginners progress quickly.

Q. What should I pack for a December surf trip?

Board shorts or a bikini, a rashguard for sun protection, reef safe sunscreen and something lightweight for evenings. No thick wetties needed. Check our surf trip packing list for more info.

Q. Are the waves too powerful for intermediate surfers?

Not at all. December brings bigger swells, but they’re usually friendly, predictable and perfect for intermediates who want to build skills.

Q. How warm is the water temperature?

Warm enough for long sessions without thinking about it. You’ll leave your fullsuit at home.

Q. Do the breaks get crowded?

Compared to other global surf destinations, December in Central America stays surprisingly relaxed, especially in the quieter areas where Rise Up runs retreats.

Q. Are airport transfers easy?

Yes. We arrange them for all guests so your trip feels simple from the moment you land.

Final thoughts

Surfing in December doesn’t need to be a cold water challenge.

Head south and you’ll discover warm beaches, consistent waves, natural beauty and two countries offering some of the best surf spots of winter.

Costa Rica and Nicaragua deliver perfect waves for every skill level, welcoming locals, uncrowded lineups and that unmistakable surf trip glow you carry home with you. All the way back to the blizzardy, frigid north!