Surfing

Pavones is famous for one of the longest waves in the world, thanks to the mouth of the Río Claro. The most consistent waves are from April to September, and that's when the surfing crowd heads down here from the Central Pacific beaches. But even at the crest of its surfing season, Pavones is tranquility central compared with the surfing hot spots farther north.

Clear River Sports & Adventures. Down by the beach, this outfit rents surfboards from $15 per day. Bicycles rent for $10 per day, with discounts for longer rentals. There's Wi-Fi access, a library, and rooms for surfers for $15 per person per night. This outfit also arranges local tours. Main street, north of soccer field, Pavones, Puntarenas. 8629–2508; www.pavonesclearriver.com.

Sea Kings Surf Shop. You can buy top-of-the-line surfboards and other gear here, along with heavy-duty sunscreen, board wax, and the latest in surfer wear. You can also rent surfboards for $15 per day and boogie boards for $10. Main street, near Café de la Suerte, Pavones, Puntarenas, 60704. 2776–2015; www.facebook.com/SeaKingsSurfShop.