Surf Destination for July

[noodles83]

Hola folks!

I will be travelling in July to Central America, Costa Rica and/or Panama and I wanna sign up for a surf camp for 1 week.
I am a total beginner, this would be the first time on a board, but I can't wait to make this dream real.

I was wondering if anyone has any advice or suggestion for a good surf destination in July for a beginner in one of those two countries I mentioned.

To summarise what I am looking for:
1. Country: Costa Rica or Panama
2. Time: mid July
3. Level: for beginners
4. Nice to have: destination with a surf and chill vibe, not touristy AF

There are so many places andI am really confused at the moment... so any recommendation also for a surf camp is more than welcome!

Thanks!

[Big H]

Costa Rica is popular.....a friend of mine recommends Nica.....same friend got fired on while on the waves from the beach in El Salvador. I traveled as a non surfer through Costa Rica and Nicaragua and would recommend Nica over Costa if you speak Spanish. That's all I got.

[Big H]

Panamanians I know have an edge......that is not an easy place to live. The culture seems a lot closer to the Caribbean where I used to live. Chill vibe if you are white I'd say you're better off in Costa.....not being racist, just real. Costa is more geared to tourism, but at the same time creates a space for tourists so that they can be comfortable. From what I know firsthand about Panama and Panamanians, and from what I've read, you'll probably be more comfortable in Costa.

[noodles83]

Thanks for your suggestions.
The culture it's not a problem to me. I ve been backpacking a lot as solo traveler, lately I was in Cuba and Colombia and I have basic knowledge of Spanish. I am Italian.

What can you guys tell me about some place in Costa for beginners? I ve read about Santa Teresa and Tamarindo. Are they good for beginners in July?