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Pavones is perfect for nature lovers and surfers. It is just the right place for pure relaxation or tropical adventure. If you are up for some tropical adventure then one of our local residents is now offering a variety guided activities. See her menu here on this page. She grew up in Canada but has lived in the area for over two decades. Her excitement and love for nature and Pavones is contagious. Tours available in English or Spanish.

The Story Behind Robby Naish’s Costa Rica Surf Escape Surfer Robby Naish visited Pavones, a famous destination for wave seekers. Watch this well produced five minute video of Pavones. “for sure the longest [wave] I’ve ever had…can’t wait to come back” -Robby Naish (La Ponderosa guest – May 2011)

Surfing the Distance – Robby Naish Surfs Pavones, Costa Rica The most frequent question asked by guests at the hotel is… “how long can you ride a wave here?” Surfer Robby Naish and a Redbull film crew were guests at La Ponderosa in May of 2011. They used a GPS to measure the wave and produced this video of one ride. They show a map of the ride at the end of the video. This one ride lasts two minutes and fifteen seconds. The distance is over one kilometer.

Lily Mayfield has been visiting Pavones and photographing the residents, the many scenic spaces, and the local businesses for years. See the series, de Pavones on Lily’s website Lily Mayfield Photography . “de Pavones” will be on display in Chicago, January 2012. de Pavones Series Artist Statement by Lily Mayfield The photographs in this series reflect my interest in the rural surfing community of Pavones, Costa Rica, a small town home to the world’s second longest wave. Even with its attraction for surfers, Pavones remains a rural community, untouched by the typical chain hotels and restaurants you might expect to find in a tourist-driven Costa Rican town with views of the Pacific Ocean. There are many reasons for its protected state: its location near the southern tip of Costa Rica, far from the capitol city of San Jose; the dirt roads into and through Pavones discourage some less adventurous travelers; its lack of connection with the modern world. Until 2008, there were no phone lines, and thus no Internet in Pavones. Due to this recent introduction of modern technology, the town is changing rapidly. My photographs of Pavones attempt to create a portrait of a place, focusing primarily on its people. I am interested in both the older locals who are a manifestation of the traditional way of life in a rural community, and the younger generation who more rapidly accept change and reflect these changes in their accessories and clothing. Through my continued visits to the community, I hope to create a document of an ever-changing rural surf town.

Here is a list of things you may want to pack for your trip to Pavones. Before packing check with your regional and international airlines for their baggage and surfboard fees and restrictions. Money in USD or colones. THERE ARE NO ATM’s in Pavones but everyone will take USD. Valid passport with at least 3 months remaining before expiring. SHOES: For beach, river walks, tide pools bring secure fitting sandals with good traction, neoprene water shoes or reef booties. For our trails or walking on the gravel roads bring a closed-toed hiking/ running/ walking shoes & socks. Super-light weight ultra-casual clothes. Small flashlight or headlamp with batteries, there are only a few street lights and it gets DARK. Light rain jacket and/ or Umbrella. Beach towel, beach blanket and/or sarong. Your favorite books or games for downtime. We also have a small selection available on-site for guests to borrow and enjoy during their stay. Yoga clothes for warm weather if you would like to attend a yoga class. Bathing suits and board shorts. 3 or more, so you always have a dry one. Rash guard/ UV water shirt. Sunscreen … high SPF, waterproof, sport type sunscreen. Also some after sun or sun burn treatment. On some occasions you might want bug repellent. In our opinion a Natural Insect Repellent like Repel brand LEMON EUCALYPTUS or All Terrain Herbal Armor works fine. Sun hats, sunglasses and one long sleeve shirt for sun. One pair of pants/jeans if you want to horseback ride. Any medications necessary for known medical conditions. First-Aid … band-aids, itch cream, antiseptic for scrapes, headache/ pain pills, allergy pills… Motion sickness tablets for bumpy curvy roads, small planes or boat rides (if you are prone to motion sickness). For surfers: travel ding-repair kit, extra fins, fin screws & leashes, tools for fins, warm water wax and booties (if you have sensitive feet). For birdwatchers and wildlife observers: binoculars and pocket guide for Costa Rica wildlife. Water bottle or thermos. In the dining room you will find a hot and cold purified, filtered water dispenser. Beach bag or small backpack for excursions with ziploc bags for electronics. La Ponderosa is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) destination, as we do not have a bar on-site. Each room is equipped with a mini-fridge for your convenience. We recommend picking up your favorite drinks at one of the local mini-supermarkets in Pavones town center, or at the airport duty-free shop upon your arrival in Costa Rica.

People often ask what will the weather or waves be like. It can be hard to predict tropical weather but... Dry Season (December – April) This is our sunniest time of year, especially on the Pacific coast where we’re located. You can expect clear skies, warm temperatures, and very little rain — perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures. Rainy Season (May – November) During these months, we get more frequent rainfall, especially in the afternoons or evenings. Mornings are often sunny, and the lush, vibrant green landscapes are absolutely beautiful. It's also the time of year with more surfers around. Our Region – Pavones Here in Pavones (southern Pacific coast), the climate stays warm year-round with daytime highs typically in the 80s°F (27–32°C). Rainy season brings out the rich greenery and epic surf, while dry season offers classic tropical beach vibes. If you want to study up on surf CHECK OUT THIS PAGE

GOOGLE PAVONES RESTUARANTS Buen Provecho! Enjoy! Bon Appetit! Bom proveito! Buon appetito!