Tico Mae Retreats sits right on Sámara beach and offers beginner surf lessons with attentive instructors who help first-timers stand up quickly, followed by coffee and hammock time. The shop projects a tranquil, local vibe and friendly, service-oriented staff.

Marea Surf Shop Cafe in Sámara combines a small surf shop with a café, offering a limited selection of boards, parts and gear plus board repair services. Staff provide local surf-spot knowledge and helpful service, and the café draws locals and visitors with coffee, smoothies and bowls, though seating can be limited and service sometimes low-key.

Pato's Surf School delivers beginner-friendly lessons with patient, experienced instructors who coach both kids and adults and focus on quick, steady progress. They offer a good selection of boards, typically include free rentals for several days after lessons, and staff provide friendly service and helpful local beach knowledge.

Choco's Surf School offers beginner- and family-friendly lessons plus board rentals, with options to continue using boards throughout the week and package deals that include multiple one-hour rentals. Instructors are patient and personable, share local knowledge and activity recommendations, and the operation also runs a women's surf camp.

Costa Rica Surf Trip offers surf lessons and a range of board options with knowledgeable local guides who handle rentals, transfers and custom itineraries. The team is responsive, provides safe, skill-appropriate instruction and deep local spot knowledge, and arranges alternatives when weather disrupts plans.