Neighborhood – Surf Hotel

Our Community

Surf Hotel sits directly on South Main’s central square: a riverside community hub and gathering place in all seasons. Our vision for a world-class hospitality experience is rooted in the culture of this lively, colorful neighborhood, where independent coffee shops, restaurants and boutiques are frequented by locals and visitors alike. This charming setting is also a gateway to the outdoors, from the surfable rapids mere steps from our door, to the legendary 14’ers you can view from our balconies.

EXPLORE SOUTH MAIN

Minutes from everything.
Miles from anywhere.

The town of Buena Vista sits at the heart of the Upper Arkansas River Valley, ringed by the famous Collegiate Peaks. Over the past decade, this friendly mountain town has evolved from a camping, hiking and rafting paradise into a multidimensional destination.

In the summer, the streets overflow with backpackers, road trippers, music lovers and wedding guests, while winter visitors fill their days skiing at nearby resorts and soaking at local hot springs. From shopping and dining, to live music, family-friendly outings and extreme sports, Buena Vista truly has a wealth of activities for every kind of traveler.

Year-Round Adventure

Buena Vista enjoys relatively mild weather year-round, despite our proximity to alpine environments. In winter, you may hear locals boast about mountain biking in the morning and skiing in the afternoon, while summers allow for sun-drenched dips in the river and shady, cooler ascents up nearby 14’ers.

Rafting

For decades, the Arkansas River has been one of Colorado’s most sought-after rafting destinations for beginners and seasoned river runners. Our most famous stretches of whitewater include Brown’s Canyon National Monument and The Numbers—both are just a short drive from town.

Surfing

If you thought the hotel’s name was just a playful nod to the river, you’re in for a treat. There are actual surfable waves just steps from our door, and adventurous souls (with the proper equipment!) are welcome to give it a go.

Fly Fishing

The Arkansas River is one of the state’s most beloved fishing destinations—you’ll often spot locals casting their flies as you walk along the riverfront. Fly fishing is particularly common in these parts, and we are happy to introduce you to our favorite local guides.

BV River Park

For those into team sports—like tennis, pickleball, volleyball or soccer—there’s no better spot than this waterfront park. Visitors also enjoy access to an expansive dog run and several bouldering features.

Skiing

Buena Vista’s central location is less than an hour’s drive from two of the best independent, family-friendly mountains in the state—Monarch and Cooper—as well as the Tennessee Pass Nordic Center. For those seeking a larger resort, Copper, Breckenridge, Keystone, Beaver Creek and Vail can all be reached in just 90 minutes.

Hiking

Whether you’re seeking a riverside stroll or a more ambitious leg-burner, Buena Vista truly has something for every kind of hiker. Most famously, the nearby Collegiate Peaks rank among the state’s most ambitious 14,000+ foot climbs, while the low-key, (and kid-friendly) Barbara Whipple trail system sits just across the river from the hotel.

Mountain Biking

Thanks to our “banana belt” climate—theoretically named for the lack of frosty temperatures—you can bike almost every day of the year in BV. Our local Singletrack Coalition does an amazing job of mapping the countless trails near the hotel, so you can simply head outside and get rolling.