Meet the Costa Rican Surf Guide Who Tames Snakes—and Billionaires

I knew from the minute we connected on the phone that he was a real one, exactly the type of person I was looking for in my past role as a trip developer for Thermal Travel. We were looking for someone who embodied the Pura Vida lifestyle and could offer unique experiences for small groups in Southern Costa Rica, and he came highly recommended by ace photographer Ez Rivero. 

When I asked Ez he said, “Yeah, I know this one guy that could be great. Dude, he’s like a jungle whisperer…he handles snakes and scorpions. Amazing surfer too, super stylish and coaches one of the best surfers in the country. I’ll ask if I can connect you two.” 

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I had never before heard of a snake-charming surf guide. I was intrigued. Little did I know just how much my life would change upon meeting Mayköl Espinoza. From the very first call, I knew he was different. While Spanish is his native tongue, he speaks perfect English that is equal parts professional guide and equal parts jah mon. It’s safe to say we have been good friends ever since.

Surf Guides in Costa Rica

If you’re already a competent surfer, do you need a surf guide in Costa Rica? No, the locals have been sharing their waves for decades. Should you get a surf guide in Costa Rica? Absolutely, even if you don’t go with Mayköl, there are heaps of locals like Aaron, Tavo, Tosh, and Beto Munoz (to name a few) who will undoubtedly improve your surfing experience in Costa Rica.

 Chad Nelson, CEO of Surfrider Foundation, spent time with Mayköl last year and has this to say, "Beyond being a ripping surfer who helped us find great waves, he is a total naturalist who shared a ton about the local wildlife, introduced us to new fruits, and shared his local perspective on what is happening in Costa Rica. Our trip was a much richer experience thanks to him."

This could be said about any place — hiring a guide is a form of respect. It means that you’re supporting a local and that means a lot. If the vibes are right, not only do you have a better experience in the surf, you have a far better trip all around. That doesn’t mean that because you paid someone that you get priority over everyone else, but it does mean that you are there as a guest and not just some random gringo (there’s more than enough entitled gringos out there, don’t be one of them).

Nelson went on to say, "As a youngster, I used to believe that local surf guides were only for people who didn’t know how to surf.  But I have learned through many positive experiences that hiring local surf guides has lots of benefits beyond just finding great waves. Local guides enrich your trip. You learn more about the local culture, history, and perspectives, they take you to places you might not otherwise go, introduce you to other locals, and you can feel good that you are contributing directly to the local economy. Local guides are also the eyes and ears of a place who have a vested interest in protecting them, so they are natural surf conservationists."

Beyond all that, you get the intel on who is who in the lineup (who to not drop in on or annoy), as well as where to paddle out, when to check other waves, and, if they’re good, you’ll become a better surfer. 

Mayköl (pronounced Michael) is very good. Whether you’re a first-time beginner or an aspiring pro, he knows how to teach and give the right feedback. Personally, he prefers retro twin fins and the kind of surfing done by guys like Asher Pacey and he knows how to find a barrel whenever there's a chance. 

From living on the beach to working with the elite

As one of his friends described, “Man, he’s on another level. He can work with anyone. It could be the president of a giant company or a group of little kids. Doesn’t matter, they all love him.” 

It wasn’t always a steady stream of clients and opportunities. You don’t just become a legendary surf guide overnight. His education started young, around age 12, when he started as an apprentice to an American biologist who offered nature tours in the Osa Peninsula.  For those who don’t know, the Osa is home to the second-highest biodiversity index in the world, after the Amazon Rainforest. 

One of only four tropical fjordlands in the world, the lush green jungle and turquoise blue waters of the Golfo Dulce are teeming with life. In his youth, Mayköl spent years living on the beach in the Osa, living off cup of noodles, fish, and the occasional iguana. A visit to the Osa with him is sure to reward you with plenty of sightings of monkeys and scarlet macaws, as well as the chance to see boa constrictors, toucans, jaguars, pumas, scorpions, poison dart frogs, and sloths. If you get lucky, you can even see whales and dolphins in the Golfo Dulce. 

As Costa Rica has boomed with increasing numbers of visitors, Mayköl and other talented ticos have been ready to receive the opportunities to both show guests a wonderful time and keep them out of harm’s way, both on land and in the water. 

Years ago, he was offered an opportunity to work with a luxury surf trip provider on the condition that he cut his hair and wear a collared shirt. After consulting with his sister, he replied to them, “I’ll wear the shirt but I won’t be cutting my hair.” 

Today, Mayköl works as a surf guide and instructor, as well as an educator for a local school. He’s available for individual surf lessons or full-service packages that will cater to your specific needs, regardless of your skill level or group size. 

You can reach out to him on Instagram, or book him through Thermal Travel, or ask for him through the House of Somos hotel in Santa Teresa, or Osa Clandestina in Matapalo.

Related: This Costa Rican Hotel Is Backing World-Class Surfboard Shapers