Surfers in Costa Rica find faith and community in the ocean and spirituality.

On a quiet beach in Costa Rica, surfers are not only in search of the perfect wave but also encounter a spiritual message inviting them to explore their faith. Chandler Brownlee, a 52-year-old former Baptist minister, represents a new vision of how to connect the passion for surfing with the quest for spirituality. Armed with a Bible and a friendly approach, he aims to reach surfers from around the world, showing that a relationship with God can be as exhilarating as riding a wave. Brownlee, a father of three daughters and a real estate agent in Florida, joins an international group known as Christian Surfers. This organization, which combines religious devotion with surf culture, has expanded to over 35 countries, including a new delegation in Pavones, Costa Rica, which has become a meeting point for surfers and believers. With a population of approximately 4,000 people, Pavones is home to one of the largest left-hand waves in the world, attracting surfers eager to experience its beauty and challenge. Brownlee and his companions have a simple mission: to be a bridge between nature and faith. Through their unconventional approach, they seek to attract those who, while enjoying the adrenaline of surfing, feel empty inside. "Even if you catch the perfect wave, you might still feel empty inside," Brownlee reflects, inviting surfers to consider a deeper experience through God. However, the group is aware of the delicate line they must walk. For many, the idea of an evangelical missionary can be intimidating, especially in an environment where surfing is associated with a carefree lifestyle. Therefore, the motto of Christian Surfers is clear: to be a "bridge from the beach to the church." The strategy is to move away from traditional proselytizing, focusing on creating genuine friendships and sharing experiences in the water. To connect with surfers, Brownlee and his group avoid typical church settings and engage with the local culture. The "Surfer's Bible" they distribute features a friendly design, free of religious symbols that might scare off those unfamiliar with the Christian faith. Instead of conventional sermons, the community gathers to share burgers, watch surf videos, and discuss scriptures in a relaxed and accessible manner. An example of this approach is the Leon family, who have made Costa Rica their home and tirelessly work to strengthen the presence of Christian Surfers in the region. Kyle and Dennis Leon have found a way to integrate their devotion to God with their love for surfing, creating a space where young people can explore their spirituality without pressure or judgment. "This isn’t scary," Kyle says, referring to their home. "You don’t need to believe to belong. But you can belong before you believe." The young people attending meetings at the Leon home not only learn about surfing and faith but also form friendships in a welcoming environment. During one of these gatherings, biblical lessons were discussed in a context that resonated with the love for the sport. Comparing biblical figures to well-known surfers helped the youth see that their passion for surfing and their spiritual quest are not mutually exclusive. As the group enjoyed a casual dinner, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie. This type of fellowship allows for discussions about faith in a more enjoyable way, moving away from the rigidity often associated with religious practices. The connection with nature and surfing becomes a powerful tool for opening dialogue about spirituality. As the evening progressed, Dennis Leon pointed out that many of the young people present have not yet accepted Jesus. However, their approach is not to force beliefs but to establish an environment where they can feel comfortable exploring their faith at their own pace. "They feel less pressure coming here than to a church," Dennis explains, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space for spiritual exploration. The Christian Surfers movement continues to grow and evolve, and its impact is felt in communities around the world. By combining a love for surfing with a message of hope and community, they demonstrate that faith can be as dynamic and vibrant as the waves they ride. In a world where spiritual connections are often lost in daily routines, these Christian surfers offer a breath of fresh air, reminding us that the search for the perfect wave can indeed be a path toward a greater connection with the divine.