Jesús Agustín Zabala Gorrin
Surfing Pioneer in Costa Rica
Origin and Migration
Jesús Agustín Zabala Gorrin is a Venezuelan entrepreneur and surf instructor who migrated to Costa Rica over two decades ago, settling on the Nicoya Peninsula, specifically in the Santa Teresa – Playa Hermosa area. His arrival in Costa Rica marked the beginning of a success story that would transform the surf scene in the region.
Business Journey
He began his entrepreneurial journey by founding “Matíza,” his first venture into the Costa Rican surf world. However, it was with the creation of Take Off Surf School that he found his true calling and gained recognition as one of the most important surf figures on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Take Off Surf School: A Legacy of Excellence
For more than 14 years, Jesús has led Take Off Surf School in Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa, turning it into a respected institution in the Costa Rican surfing world. The school has stood out especially for its Kids Surf Camp, which has become the most well-known surf camp for children on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Commitment to Community and Values
Take Off Surf School is more than a conventional surf school. It is committed to:
- Promoting positive values among children and youth
- Providing high-quality surf lessons
- Supporting the local community
- Protecting the environment
International Recognition
His reputation has crossed borders, attracting high-profile international visitors. The quality of his instruction and the excellence of his services have earned him the trust of several well-known public figures and influential clients, who have chosen him as their personal surf instructor during their visits to Costa Rica.
Philosophy and Vision
Jesús Zabala founded his school with the dream of sharing his love for surfing and creating a place where people could experience the true essence of Costa Rica’s “pura vida.” His approach goes beyond just teaching surf; he aims to create transformative experiences that connect students with the ocean and nature.
Current Legacy
Today, Take Off Surf School continues to operate as a top destination for surf adventures in Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa, maintaining its nearly two-decade-long commitment to excellence in surf instruction and creating a fun and safe environment for surfers of all levels.
The story of Jesús Agustín Zabala Gorrin represents the entrepreneurial spirit of immigrants who have found in Costa Rica not only a new home, but also the opportunity to contribute significantly to the country’s tourism and sports development—particularly in the field of surfing on the Nicoya Peninsula and now also in Central America through his growing presence in El Salvador.