Surf localism in Costa Rica: exploring territoriality among Costa Rican and foreign resident surfers. Issue 3 (1st October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Usher, Lindsay E.; Gómez, Edwin
• Is Part Of: Journal of sport tourism. Volume 20:Issue 3/4(2016)
• Page Start: 195
• Page End: 216
• Publication Date: 2016-10-01
• Subjects: Surf tourism -- surfers -- territoriality -- localism -- Costa Rica; Sports and tourism -- Periodicals; 306.483
• DOI: 10.1080/14775085.2016.1164068
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-5085

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study examines the phenomenon of surf localism among local Costa Rican and foreign resident surfers in Pavones, Costa Rica, a well-known surf break considered the second longest left-breaking wave in the world. A multidisciplinary territoriality framework is used to explore the ways in which surfers expressed ownership, defined boundaries and regulated behavior in the surf break. Using an ethnographic approach, the first author engaged in participant observation in the surf and the community. She also conducted interviews with Costa Rican residents, resident foreigners and tourists. The findings indicate a number of differences between Costa Rican surfers and resident foreigners with regard to ownership, boundary definition and regulating behavior. Costa Rican surfers felt a greater sense of ownership for the surf break, but were less likely to start verbal or physical conflicts with other surfers than resident foreigners. Resident foreigners indicated feeling a right to the surf break, more so than ownership, and were more likely to verbally confront tourists who were not following surf etiquette. There was also evidence of a cyclical pattern of localism. Many participants blamed conflicts between surfers on increased crowding. The results also highlight the importance of constant destination monitoring in order to ensure a positive surfing experience for Costa Ricans, foreigners and tourists in a community highly reliant on surf tourism income.