Learning to Surf in Central or South America - ideas please.

Hello, I am from Canada and I am curious if Costa Rica has good waves for a beginner. I am a water baby & have done almost all water sports but surfing and can't wait to get started. I am taking a holiday in September when I graduate from my nursing program and in need of some good locations to learn that are not too expensive to travel (i.e.. Australia-too expensive) so I was thinking more along the lines of Costa Rica, Ecuador.....any suggestions?
I am quite athletic and aggressive when learning a new skill/sport so I am not afraid to dive right into it. Any advice you can offer about location, training, and the actual gear itself would be truly appreciated....
I am quite athletic and aggressive when learning a new skill/sport so I am not afraid to dive right into it. Any advice you can offer about location, training, and the actual gear itself would be truly appreciated....