About Arelys Z-J

Meet Arelys Zúñiga: Breaking Barriers in Surfboard Crafting and Real Estate in Pavones, Costa Rica

Arelys Zúñiga was born in Golfito, Costa Rica, and grew up by the beach in Pilón, part of the beautiful Pavones area. Surrounded by nature, waves, and the peaceful “pura vida” lifestyle of the Southern Pacific Coast, she developed a deep love for the ocean and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. In 2009, together with her husband, she founded Pavones Surf Shop, a project born out of passion, hard work, and dedication to surfing.

For several years, Arelys focused on the legal and administrative side of the business, making sure everything ran smoothly and by the book. But her interest didn’t stop there. She was always curious about what happened inside the surfboard factory, and little by little, she started learning the craft. From watching Randy closely to helping with blank cutting and small tasks, she humbly worked her way into the production side.

By 2016, Arelys had officially become the shop’s main laminator and hot coater. That’s right—a Costa Rican woman, mother, and entrepreneur mastering a craft that for years was dominated by men. Today, she’s also taken on the creative challenge of painting surfboards, which has become a new passion for her. She loves seeing each board come to life and pours her heart into every step of the process.

But that’s not all. In addition to continuing her vital role at Pavones Surf Shop and handling the legal side of the business, Arelys is now a  local real estate agent, helping people find their dream home or ideal investment in this slice of Costa Rican paradise. Her deep knowledge of the area, her business experience, and her genuine connection to the community make her a trusted and valuable resource for anyone looking to buy or sell property in Pavones, Pilón, or nearby.

And perhaps most importantly, Arelys is a full-time wife and mother, a role she proudly describes as her greatest source of inspiration. Her love for her family and her land fuels her drive to always give her best—whether it’s in the surf shop, with her clients, or at home.

We truly believe that Arelys is the first Costa Rican woman to become a professional glasser, and possibly one of the very few in all of Central America. Her journey is a powerful example of perseverance, passion, and female empowerment—an inspiration to other women who dare to follow their dreams.

If you’re looking for someone authentic, reliable, and deeply rooted in Pavones, Arelys Zúñiga is the one to guide you, whether you’re buying a surfboard or a piece of paradise.