School of the World Surf Camp

School of the World has run learning vacations in Jacó, on Costa Rica's central Pacific coast, since 1997, combining surfing with Spanish classes, yoga, photography and video. It presents itself as one of the longest-established surf schools in the country.

Beginners learn paddling, standing and turning as well as wave selection. Intermediate and advanced surfers can refine their skills at the area's breaks, notably Playa Jacó and Playa Hermosa. A "Surf Intensive" programme, for advanced surfers only, offers four hours of one-on-one coaching with the head instructor at the best spot of the day.

Instructors have completed international surf-instructor and ocean-lifesaver training. Accommodation can be a shared room, a private room or a homestay.