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A closeout is when the wave breaks all at once, left and right, leaving you no open face to ride. It’s a dead end. A makeable section is a part of the wave that’s just about to pitch, giving you a chance to maneuver past it, either with a bottom turn or a bit of speed. Reading this is key. You want to aim for waves that peel, not ones that slam shut all at once.

Tomson remains a massive influence, not as a competitor, but as a mentor and storyteller. He speaks at events, shares his “Code” with stoked grommets, and advocates for ocean conservation. He’s a respected voice who connects surfing’s soulful past to its present, always emphasizing respect for the ocean and each other. You’ll find him sharing stories, inspiring the next generation, and occasionally still getting shacked at his home breaks, living the ethos he preaches.

Nice try, brah! Every surfer has their own little secret whisper. The beauty of Costa Rica is the exploration. Rent a 4x4, grab a few buddies, pack some gallo pinto, and go on a safari down the Nicoya Peninsula or the Southern Zone. You’ll find empty beachies, wedging river mouths, and maybe even a righthand point with no one out. The real secret is the adventure—getting skunked is part of the story. The best wave you’ll catch is the one you find yourself.

It starts before you even paddle out. Study the lineup from the beach, watch where sets are breaking and where the crowd is bunched. Position yourself smartly, not just where everyone else is. Work on your pop-up speed and paddle fitness; stronger paddling means you get to more waves. Don’t be afraid to sit a little wide or on the peak’s shoulder. Most importantly, commit fully when you go—hesitation is the number-one wave killer.