Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to get to Una Ola in Pavones?

There are several ways to reach Pavones, depending on your travel plans and preferences.

By Air: Many guests fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José, then take a domestic flight to Golfito (GLF). Una Ola can arrange transportation between Golfito Airport and our property. Round-trip Golfito transfers are included in our standard surf camp packages, while transfers for accommodation-only stays can be arranged separately.

By Rental Car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel to Pavones at your own pace and explore the surrounding area.

By Bus: Public buses are another option for reaching Pavones, particularly for budget-conscious travelers.

Guests are responsible for booking and paying for their own flights, rental vehicles, and bus tickets, but we're happy to provide advice on routes, connections, and scheduling.

We can also help arrange shuttle transportation from other locations, subject to availability. Shuttle pricing varies depending on the pickup location and travel arrangements, and we'll confirm the cost with you in advance.

Not sure which transportation option is best for you? Contact us! We're happy to advise on routes, connections, and scheduling to help make your journey to Pavones as straightforward as possible.

For detailed travel information, visit our Getting to Pavones page.

Can I bring my own surfboard on a domestic flight to Golfito?

Surfboards may be accepted on domestic flights to Golfito, subject to the airline's current baggage restrictions, aircraft capacity, and applicable fees.

We recommend confirming surfboard dimensions and baggage requirements directly with your airline before booking.

If traveling with your own board isn't practical, Una Ola has a selection of surfboards available for rent. We can also adjust your surf camp package if you won't need a board rental.

Do I need to bring cash to Pavones?

Yes, we recommend bringing some cash with you when visiting Pavones, as there are no banks or ATMs within approximately an hour's drive.

Most established shops and restaurants accept credit and debit cards, so you won't need cash for every purchase.

However, cash is generally required for smaller local services, independent tour guides, and activities arranged with local providers.

We recommend planning ahead and bringing enough cash for any excursions or local services you'd like to enjoy during your stay.

What happens if it rains during my stay?

Rain is a natural part of life in tropical Costa Rica, especially during the green season, but it doesn't have to interfere with your vacation!

Surfing is a water sport, so a little rain generally doesn't stop us from getting out and enjoying the waves. We continue surf lessons and coaching when conditions are safe, even when it's raining.

If thunderstorms bring thunder or lightning, we'll postpone surfing until conditions are safe again.

Rainy days can also be a wonderful opportunity to relax at Una Ola or enjoy some of the other experiences the Pavones area has to offer.

Do you offer private rooms, and does the price depend on the number of guests?

Yes! Una Ola offers private rooms as well as larger accommodations for couples, families, and small groups.

Our nightly accommodation rates are based on the room or suite, rather than the number of guests, as long as your group stays within the published occupancy limits.

If you have special accommodation requirements, please contact us. We're happy to discuss your needs and help you find the most suitable arrangements for your stay.

You can explore our rooms, sleeping arrangements, and occupancy details on our Accommodations page.

What amenities are available at Una Ola?

Una Ola offers comfortable beachfront accommodations with access to a swimming pool, shared outdoor living spaces, a communal kitchen, and fiber-optic WiFi.

Our accommodations include a variety of sleeping arrangements, with air conditioning available in designated bedrooms.

For details about individual rooms, sleeping arrangements, and amenities, visit our Accommodations page.

Is breakfast included with my stay?

Yes! A complimentary continental breakfast is included with all our surf camp packages, including Beginner Surf Camps and Surf Coaching/Guided Surfing Camps.

For accommodation-only stays, please contact us to confirm the available breakfast arrangements.

Guests also have access to our shared kitchen to prepare their own meals.

Are bicycles available for guests?

Yes! We have bicycles available for guests staying at Una Ola.

Complimentary bicycle use is included with our surf camp packages, while guests booking accommodations can rent bicycles, subject to availability.

Bicycles are a convenient way to explore Pavones, visit nearby restaurants and shops, or simply enjoy a ride around the neighborhood.

What's included in an Una Ola surf camp package?

Our surf camps are customized around your experience level, travel plans, and personal preferences.

A typical week-long surf camp package includes beachfront accommodations, daily continental breakfast, personalized surf coaching or guiding, surfboard rentals, round-trip transportation between Golfito Airport and Una Ola, as well as surf photography and video analysis (weather permitting).

Already bringing your own surfboard or arranging your own transportation? No problem! We'll adjust your package and pricing to reflect the services you actually need.

Our goal is to create a personalized surfing experience that works for you, without unnecessary extras.

Do your surf camps have fixed start dates?

No! Unlike traditional surf camps with fixed weekly schedules, our surf camps are completely customizable.

You can choose arrival and departure dates that work best for your travel plans. We'll help organize your surfing, coaching, and other activities around your individual needs, experience level, and preferences.

Just let us know when you'd like to visit, and we'll help you put together a personalized surf camp experience, subject to availability.

Are your surf camps suitable for complete beginners?

Absolutely! Our Beginner Surf Camps are designed for people who are new to surfing, including those who have never stepped on a surfboard before.

With a maximum of two students per instructor, you'll receive personalized surf instruction tailored to your experience, confidence, and progress.

We'll help you develop the fundamental skills you need to start surfing in a supportive, relaxed environment, progressing at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Do you offer surf camps for intermediate and advanced surfers?

Absolutely! Una Ola welcomes surfers of all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned surfers.

For intermediate and advanced surfers, we can customize your stay to include personalized surf coaching, guided surfing, or simply beachfront accommodations so you can explore the waves independently.

Whether you're looking to improve your technique, discover different surf breaks, or enjoy the freedom to surf on your own schedule, we'll help you create an experience that suits your goals.

What is the student-to-instructor ratio for surf lessons?

We maintain a maximum ratio of two students per instructor for our surf lessons, allowing us to provide personalized attention and coaching.

Whether you're catching your first waves or working on improving your technique, our small-group approach gives you plenty of individual guidance and feedback.

Are surf photos and video analysis included in your surf camps?

Yes! Photo and video analysis are included in all our surf camp packages, weather permitting. Our surf coaching programs also include these services as part of the personalized instruction and feedback we provide.

We use photos and video footage to help you better understand your surfing, identify areas for improvement, and refine your technique through personalized feedback.

We also love capturing moments from your sessions so you'll have photos and videos to remember your surfing adventures in Pavones.

Can I rent a surfboard if I'm not staying at Una Ola?

Yes! Surfboard rentals may be available to visitors staying elsewhere in Pavones, depending on availability.

Guests staying at Una Ola receive priority when selecting boards, but we're happy to rent available boards to other surfers as well.

Contact us to find out which surfboards are available during your visit.

Can you help arrange activities and excursions during our stay?

Absolutely! There's plenty to experience in and around Pavones beyond surfing.

Whether you're interested in fishing trips, horseback riding, waterfalls, wildlife tours, cultural experiences, or exploring the coastline by boat, we're happy to discuss the possibilities with you.

We work with local guides and service providers to help arrange activities based on your interests, schedule, and availability.

Many excursions are provided by independent local operators and have separate costs. Visit our Experiences page to discover more of what's available.

Is Pavones a safe place to visit?

Pavones is a small, welcoming coastal community where families live, work, and enjoy a relaxed way of life.

Like anywhere you travel, we recommend taking sensible precautions, such as keeping valuables secure, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas after dark.

Many visitors enjoy exploring Pavones on foot or by bicycle during the day. With a little common sense and awareness, you can feel comfortable discovering the area and experiencing its laid-back atmosphere.