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Sharing the art of surfing & chasing waves around the world

BASED IN SANTA TERESA, COSTA RICA

Meet Tavo

Born and raised on the Nicoya Peninsula, my earliest memories are of going to the beach with my mom and my brothers. I always loved the ocean, but once I hopped on a board, there was no looking back. My life has revolved around surfing, and chasing waves, ever since.

After nearly 20 years in the water, my goal is to surf with style and passion and to make the most of each and every wave.

As a surf coach, my focus is on helping my students improve their technique, confidence, and understanding of the ocean so that they can enjoy as many different waves as possible.

I have experience surfing a variety of boards - logs, mid-lengths, singlefins, twinnies, or thrusters - and I specialize in helping students learn to surf with a flowy, effortless style regardless of their board or the conditions.

Beyond becoming a better surfer, it is always my hope that my students will walk away with amazing new memories and a smile on their face.

Surf with me

TAVO’S FEATURE ON SURFER.COM

Bali’s Biggest Swell Of The Year & A Trip Of A Lifetime

Surf Retreats

We offer two types of surf retreats in Costa Rica - one for beginners who want to learn the basics of surfing and one for intermediate long boarders who are ready to fully commit to their progression.

At all of our retreats (4-7 days long) you’ll work with high-level instructors who provide expert guidance both in and out of the water, helping you improve your technique and take your surfing to the next level.

Every retreat includes daily surf sessions (option to add on extra daily sessions), video analysis and on-land training so that you can leave with real, measurable improvement.

Each retreat is all-inclusive, with high-end accommodations, exceptional meals, and a supportive, like-minded community. We’ll also take you on local adventures (horseback riding, waterfall tours, ATV trips, etc.) so you can enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica while taking your surfing to the next level.

Learn more

What People Are Saying

“Working with Tavo completely transformed my surfing. I normally short board but was interested in learning how to ride midlengths and long boards and after a few lessons with him I was confidently using both. It also helped improve my style on my short board because I had better body control and more awareness on the wave.”

— DENIKA S.

“Hands down THE BEST surf instructor in Santa Teresa. The classroom lessons on the beach before hitting the water were invaluable in giving me the proper tools to handle the waves once we were in the ocean. Patient and ridiculously skilled learning to surf with Tavo is a must while in Costa Rica.”

— ANTHONY S.

“A true surf master with style and passion. Gives clear instructions and helpful tips & tricks. If you want to make quick progress - he’s the right person!”

— DEBORA K.

“The best surf instructor in Santa Teresa! I improved so much in just a few lessons and now I’m way more confident in catching my own waves. Thanks for the help bro!”

— EDWARD C.

“Tavo is an exceptional surf instructor. He is patient, encouraging and makes his students feel safe and confident in the water. Most importantly, he has a true passion for surfing and the ability to share his techniques. He helped initiate my surf journey/obsession and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

— GABI M.

“If you want to longboard in Costa Rica this is the man to learn with! The best hands down!”

— CHELSEA C.