When you travel to far-off lands in search of waves, one thing always comes into play: the locals. After 30 years traveling to Costa Rica, I’ve met many. Some rip, some just surf, but they all have fun and, unlike us East Coasters, ALWAYS have waves to ride.

When you are out at any beach surfing in Costa Rica, the excitement of enjoying the waves is evident in all the locals’ smiles. When the waves are going off, all the locals will be ripping it up, laughing, yelling, pushing each other into the biggest waves, and simply having the time of their lives. Sometimes you may meet the grumpy, overprotective guy who tries to vibe you about paddling out at a certain break, but once you show the locals respect — and give them the waves they want — you will usually have zero problems. And as they realize you can actually surf, a friendship will more than likely follow.

I’ve made many lifelong friends with the locals in Costa Rica, and even see them at other breaks around the world. It’s always so cool to see them outside of their country, and especially when surfing here in Central Florida on my home turf. That way, I get to give them a little slice of the hospitality they’ve been showing me for three decades.

The caliber of surfing is getting so high around the world that it’s a must to be a fully rounded power surfer these days. And Costa Rica is putting out some of the best. Paddle out on a good day, watch a local tico or tica absolutely rip a wave to shreds, and you know you’re in good company and can't wait for your turn to do the same. There are plenty of hot spots where Costa Rican locals congregate, and during this year’s trip, my eyes were opened to some new local surfers that absolutely ripped. Both the guys and the girls are pushing to get tubed, do lip bashes and cutbacks as well as I’ve seen anywhere, all while smiling and having the best time in the world.

If you get a chance to visit Costa Rica, which I highly recommend, say hello to the locals and give them a wave or two. I can guarantee they will return the favor in a Pura Vida fashion that can only be found in one place: Costa Rica.