Surfer attacked by crocodile in Costa Rica

An American surfer survived a crocodile attack at a beach in Costa Rica after his friend fought off the reptile with his bare hands.

The man was crossing a river at Tamarindo Beach with the friend when the croc attacked on Friday.

SEE ALSO: Tourist, 72, fights off crocodile with spanners

SEE ALSO: Terrifying video shows how high crocodiles can jump

He was in a serious but stable condition after being taken to a hospital in Liberia.

Pat McNulty, a certified trained lifeguard in Tamarindo, told the Associated Press: "He was bitten several times in the leg as well as the head.

"They were able to get him free, swim him to safety and then trained lifeguards responded ... and we administered first aid and called an ambulance."

McNulty accompanied the victim to hospital and said he remained conscious after the attack.

He added: "His friend saved his life and then we the lifeguards helped keep him alive.

"It was a very traumatic scene and all individuals attending him did a tremendous job."

Meanwhile, local media reported that the surfer suffered partial amputation to his right ankle.

Tamarindo is a popular resort on the Nicoya Peninsula, attracting many surfers and tourists to its shores.