When he’s not dancing across his longboard with effortless style at home in Santa Teresa, pro surfer Tavo Rio is chasing barrels around the globe. (He’s so obsessed, he recently sold his vintage Toyota Landruiser to pursue huge waves in Indo.) A go-to surf instructor and guide at House of Somos, he can help you perfect your pop-up or walk your toes to nose. Here, he shares intel on how to navigate the region’s best surf beaches.
Santa Teresa
The town’s main beach has a powerful beach break and is prized for its long rides. Early risers are rewarded with favorable winds, but really any tide is great. Even if you sleep in, you can still score empty waves at midday (just remember to lather up in sunscreen). A sunset surf here under a pink sky is one of my favorite ways to end the day.
Playa Hermosa
I was born in Playa Hermosa and learned to surf here. The forgiving, rolling waves at this beach are perfect for beginners and longboarders. Waves break along the entire beach so it’s easy to find an uncrowded peak.
Playa Carmen/Malpais
Consistent waves and sandy-bottom beach make this one of the most popular places to paddle out in Santa Teresa. The waves of this beach are the cleanest and most rideable with a southwest swell and mid-to-high-tide.
— Tavo
