• Summary

• How to go to Isla Chacahua

• Where to stay

• Surf spots

• When to go

• Things to know

Summary

With its pristine beaches, consistent waves, and laid-back atmosphere, Isla Chacahua is still a hidden gem in the surfing world. 

Chacahua is a little piece of paradise that kept its authenticity through the growing surfing tourism in Mexico and this village will charm you instantly whether you are a beginner or advanced surfer.

A surfing paradise off the beaten path

Located a few hours from Puerto Escondido, a popular surf town in the state of Oaxaca, Isla Chacahua is much less crowded due to its remote location. In fact, the only way to get to Chacahua is by boat which makes the journey extremely exciting!

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know on how to get to Chacahua, where to stay, when to go and many more little hints!

How to get to Chacahua

Getting to Isla Chacahua is not as difficult as it seems. Here are the steps. In total you can make it from Puerto Escondido in about 3 hours and for 200 pesos.

1. From Puerto Escondido, grab a collectivo to Rio Grande which will cost you around 70 pesos. You can go to the TUR station and get your ticket from there.

2. Take a taxi or collectivo to El Zapotalito. this will cost you between 25 to 50 pesos.

3. Take a boat to Chacahua. There are 2 options. The scenic route which will take you through the lagoon and drop you straight in Chacahua square. This will cost between 800 to 1200 pesos per boat. The second option is to take to collectivo boat (50 pesos) and then the collectivo camioneta (50 pesos).

Where to stay on Isla Chacahua

On Isla Chacahua, there aren’t any proper hotels. Most places to stay are cabanas or homestays and almost all of them are very close to the beach. A private room will cost you anywhere from 500 to 2000 pesos per night which is about US$25 to US$100. You can also just rent a hammock for about 50 pesos per night and still under the stars at one of the homestays. During the low season, you can pretty much just show up and look around for a place to stay. During high season, from November to May, it is much safer to book in advance as things do fill up.

Make sure you stay somewhere near the town center as this is where all shops and restaurants are located.

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Isla Chacahua!

Surf Spots in Chacahua

Playa Chacahua

This is the main surf spot in the area and is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Right next to the jetty is a sort of point break with 3-4 peaks along the beach. Beginners can catch some mellow waves on the inside while more experiences surfers can go straight out the back for steeper and more powerful waves.

The Other Side

Across the lagoon is another surf spot which usually picks up more size than Playa Chacahua. You need to catch a “lancha” to go across the lagoon which will cost around 20 pesos. Some people also paddle across but you have to be careful with the current. Also keep in mind that after a certain time, boats stop running and you will find yourself stuck on the other side.

Best Time to Surf Chacahua

The best time to surf Chacahua is during the rainy season, from May to October. During this period, the Pacific Ocean produces consistent swells, offering excellent conditions for surfing. The crowds are also smaller during that period so you can catch waves almost by yourself. Be aware that during the rainy season, some restaurants might be closed but everything is still running smooth.

During the dry season, from November to April, you will find sunny weather, smaller but still consistent waves and the town will have much more life and buzz around it.

Things to know

• Bring some cash! There are no ATM’s on the island and some places will charge you up to 10% fees to cash out.
• There are a lot of surfboard rentals along the beach for about 150 pesos per hour or 300 pesos for the day.

The post Isla Chacahua, Mexico appeared first on My Wave Finder.

• Summary

• When to go

• Where to stay

• Surf spots

• How to get to Saladita

Summary

Playa Saladita is a small Mexican surfing village located in the state of Guerrero, about an hour away from Zihuatanejo. If you’re a surfer seeking perfect waves in Mexico, look no further than Playa Saladita. This hidden gem offers consistent and world-class waves in a very laidback atmosphere. Playa Saladita is mainly known as a longboard spot, but many short boarders also manage to catch some great rides at the point. 

On an average day, you can find yourself riding a wave for more than 1 minute from the point to shore!

The perfect surfing destination in Mexico

La Saladita is still very rustic and authentic compared to other popular surf towns on the Mexican Pacific coast like Puerto Escondido or Sayulita. You will find a few beachside restaurants, lovely homestays or hotels with amazing sunset views and a few places to rent surfboards.

Playa Saladita is an absolute wave magnet and there will rarely be a day without anything to surf. It is one of the best kept secrets on the Pacific coast of Mexico so congratulations if you are looking to surf down here!

Another thing that makes La Saladita really stand out from other surf towns is the great vibe that you can feel in and out of the water. Surfers really look after each other, locals are welcoming and the atmosphere is just magical.

When to surf Playa Saladita

The best time to surf Playa Saladita is during the wet season, which typically runs from May to October. During this period, you can expect consistent swells and smaller crowds, creating ideal conditions for surfing. The waves are also great in Saladita from November to April with sunny weather, clear water and smaller swells. The dry season is also when crowds get much denser with many surfers coming from Canada and the United States.

• Best Season: May to October (wet season)
  Consistent south swells, fewer crowds, and great conditions.

• Dry Season: November to April
  Smaller swells, perfect for beginners, but much busier with surfers from the U.S. and Canada.

Where to Stay in Playa Saladita

Playa Saladita offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. Some of them are right on the beach such as Casa Esmeralda which also offers a great range of surfboard rentals.

You can also find some cheaper options a little further away from the wave and everything is still within walking distance. 

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Saladita!

Surf spots near Playa Saladita

Saladita

Saladita is the main break in Playa Saladita. It is a long and mellow left point break that works almost every day and throughout all tide conditions. Early morning is best for lighter winds but that is also when most of the crowd shows up. Saladita is a perfect wave for long boarders of all skill levels. The reef is not too sharp and as the wave tends to be quite soft, there are not that many risks of cuts and injuries.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SSW
• Optimal wind direction : ENE

The Ranch

El Rancho or The Ranch is usually bigger than Saladita and also slightly more powerful, yet still a fairly gentle wave. It is about 30 minutes north of Saladita so you will need to have a car or hire a taxi. The Ranch is typically less crowded than Saladita but on good days, things can get packed. Luckily there are at least 3 different take-off spots which helps spreading the crowd a little.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SSW
• Optimal wind direction : ENE

How to get to Playa Saladita

The best way to get to Playa Saladita is to fly to Zihuatanejo airport and rent a car or get a taxi to Playa Saladita which is about 45 minutes away.

A taxi from Zihuatanejo to Saladita will cost you roughly 1200 pesos. If you want to get around from La Saladita to other spots like The Ranch, you might want to consider renting a car or try hitchhiking which comes with its risks.

Cash is king!

Keep in mind that there are no ATM’s in La Saladita so make sure to bring some cash either from Zihuatanejo or Los Llanos. You might also want to stop for groceries in Zihuatanejo because there is only one small supermarket in Saladita which tends to be more expensive. You will be able to find a lot of surfboard rentals so you don’t necessarily have to bring your own board.

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Summary

Playa Venao is a secluded surfing destination located in the Azuero Peninsula of Panama. This beautiful and unspoiled beach is known for its consistent, year-round waves, making it a popular surf spot for surfers of all levels.

While it is a bit of a remote location, the journey will be well worth it. The bay of Playa Venao is a swell magnet that makes it a perfect surfing destination all year long.

Also read : Surfing Guide to Bocas del Toro, Panama

Playa Venao stretches for over 2.5 miles and is surrounded by lush tropical forests, giving it a truly exotic feel. The waves at Playa Venao include both lefts and rights, mostly breaking on a safe sandy bottom which is perfect for beginners and learners.

When to go

The best time to surf Playa Venao, Panama is from April to October with bigger and more consistent swells. However, even through the low season which runs from November to March, waves still roll into the bay making it a perfect time for beginners to catch their first few waves.

Where to stay in Playa Venao

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Playa Venao

Surf Camps in Playa Venao

Find a surf camp in Playa Venao, starting at US$3000

Getting to Playa Venao

Playa Venao is about 5 to 6 hours by car from Panama City. The easiest way to get there is to rent a car and drive. Roads are mostly paved and in good condition.

You can also take a bus from Panama City to Las Tablas (4.5 hours), then grab a taxi to Playa Venao (1.5 hours). This is a cheaper option but much slower.

For a quicker trip, domestic flights to Pedasí (50 minutes) are available, followed by a 40-minute drive to Playa Venao.

Some surf camps and hotels also offer private or shared shuttles from Panama City.

Surf spots in Playa Venao

Playa Venao

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : NNW

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Summary

The British Virgin Islands are a group of  islands located in the Caribbean Sea, and they offer a great surfing destination for both beginner and advanced surfers. The four major islands are Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and Anegada. The islands are exposed to a variety of swells coming from the Atlantic ocean and the Caribbean Sea, mostly through the winter months. Tortola remains the most popular surfing destination in the British Virgin Islands.

Read our surfing guide to Barbados

In general, the surf culture in the British Virgin Islands is very laid-back and welcoming, and there are a number of surf schools and rental shops on the islands that can help you get started or improve your skills. The water is typically warm and crystal clear, and the beaches are beautiful and uncrowded, making for a great surfing experience.

Cane Garden Bay is a popular spot for beginners and intermediate surfers, as it has a sandy bottom and gentle, long-period swells that provide a forgiving ride. Apple Bay is another spot that is popular with intermediate surfers, as it has a mix of sand and reef breaks that offer a range of conditions. Josiah’s Bay is a more advanced spot, with powerful reef breaks that can provide challenging and rewarding surf.

When to go

The best time to surf the British Virgin Islands is during the winter months, from November to April, which is when swells are more consistent and bigger in size. The summer months tend to be flat and inconsistent.

Where to stay

Tortola remains the best island to visit on a surf trip to the British Virgin Island. Furthermore, Cane Garden Bay is a perfect place to settle with a perfect point break right in the bay.

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Tortola!

Best surf hotels in British Virgin Islands

Quito’s Luxury Inn

The Lighthouse Villas

Surf spots in British Virgin Islands

Cane Garden Bay

Cane Garden Bay is a consistent, high-quality surf spot on the island of Tortola. The waves at Cane Garden Bay are typically long and rolling, with a moderate level of power. There are several different breaks in the bay, including a right-hand point break and a left-hand reef break, which provide a variety of wave types for surfers to enjoy.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Sand and reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : N
• Optimal wind direction : E

Apple Bay

Apple Bay is a reef break offering left and right waves. It’s known for producing faster, more powerful surf and is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. Apple Bay works best during the winter when north swells are frequent.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : N
• Optimal wind direction : E

Josiah’s Bay

Josiah’s Bay is a punchy A-frame reef break that works mostly through the winter months.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : N
• Optimal wind direction : NE

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Summary

St. Maarten, a stunning Caribbean island in the Lesser Antilles, is a hidden gem for surfing enthusiasts. Divided into two territories, Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint-Martin, this island offers diverse surf conditions with access to both the Caribbean and Atlantic coastlines. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced surfer, St. Maarten’s surf scene caters to every skill level, with crystal-clear waters and welcoming beach vibes.

With popular surf spots like Mullet Bay, Guana Bay, and Simpson Bay, you’ll find a wide range of wave types, from mellow, beginner-friendly breaks to more challenging waves for experienced surfers. If you’re seeking an island getaway combined with top-tier surf, St. Maarten is your ideal destination.

When to go

The best time to surf St. Maarten and Saint-Martin is from November to April, while swells are more consistent and waves are bigger in size. During the summer months, waves tend to be flat and inconsistent.

Where to stay

A great place to stay on a surf trip to St. Maarten is Orient Bay due to its proximity to several surf spots exposed to the Atlantic swells. For instance, Galion Beach is right next to Orient Bay and the St. Maarten surf club is also located in Orient Bay.

Best surf hotels in St. Maarten

Esmeralda Resort

Orient Beach Hotel

La Playa Orient Bay

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in St. Maarten!

Surf spots in St. Maarten and Saint-Martin

Kim Sha Beach (Simpson Bay)

Simpson Bay is a sheltered bay on the western side of the island that can produce some nice waves when the conditions are right. Waves come from the Caribbean Sea and will have a shorter period while not being as consistent as other surf spots exposed to the Atlantic.

• Wave Direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Sand
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Optimal Swell Direction: Caribbean
• Optimal Wind Direction: E

Mullet Bay

Mullet Bay is a popular spot for surfers in St. Maarten, with a long, right-hand point break that can produce some excellent waves. The surf here is generally best in the winter months, when the swells are larger. Mullet Bay is located just north of Simpson Bay.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand and reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Guana Bay

Guana Bay is another good spot for surfing in St. Maarten, with a mix of reef and beach breaks that can produce some fun waves. This spot is generally more sheltered than some of the other surf spots on the island, so it can be a good option when the winds are strong.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand and reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : E
• Optimal wind direction : W

Galion Beach

Right next to Orient Beach, Galion Beach is a consistent reef break that catches most swells coming from the east. It is a great place for surfers of all skill levels.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : E
• Optimal wind direction : SW

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Guatemala is a hidden gem for surfers, with a range of great surf spots along both its Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The country is known for its consistent waves, warm water, and beautiful scenery, making it an excellent destination for surfers of all levels.

On the Pacific coast, you’ll find powerful waves, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The region is home to a mix of beach breaks and point breaks, offering everything from long, mellow rides to hollow and challenging waves. On the other hand, the Caribbean coast tends to be more sheltered, with smaller, more manageable waves, perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers.

In addition to the popular spots, there are also some lesser-known breaks across both coasts that can offer exciting surf when conditions align.

Also read our surfing guide to El Salvador

When to Surf Guatemala

The best time to surf in Guatemala is during the rainy season from May to November, when the waves are at their most consistent and powerful. The summer months typically offer the best surf conditions, with swells rolling in and providing great opportunities for riders of all abilities.

Best Surf Season in Guatemala:

• May to November: Peak surf season with the biggest and most consistent waves.

• December to April: Although swells can be smaller and less consistent, the waves are still surfable, making it a good option for beginners and those looking for fewer crowds.

Where to stay

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Guatemela!

Best surf hotels in Guatemala

Swell Surf & Lifestyle Hotel (El Paredon)

The Container Hotel (Iztapa)

Surf spots in Guatemala

El Paredon

El Paredon is one of the most popular surf destinations in Guatemala, known for its long, rideable beach breaks. With both left and right-hand waves, El Paredon is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers, offering plenty of action for those looking to push their limits.

• Wave direction: Right and left
• Bottom: Sand
• Best tide: High
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction: SW
• Optimal wind direction: N

Iztapa

Iztapa is another famous surf spot on the Pacific coast, offering consistent waves suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. The beach has a mix of sand-bottomed breaks, with both left and right waves, and works well with any tide.

• Wave direction: Right and left
• Bottom: Sand
• Best tide: Any
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction: SW
• Optimal wind direction: N

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Puerto Vallarta, located on Mexico’s stunning Pacific coast, is a vibrant surf destination that caters to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner catching your first wave or an experienced surfer chasing more powerful swells, Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding region offer a variety of surf breaks and year-round waves.

Some of the best surf spots near Puerto Vallarta include Sayulita, Punta Mita, La Lancha, and San Pancho, each providing unique conditions from mellow beach breaks to more challenging reef setups. The town itself is known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and great accommodation options, making it an ideal base for a surf trip that blends adventure with relaxation.

When to go

The best time to surf Puerto Vallarta is from November to March, when the waves are at their best and most consistent. However, there are waves to be found all year long in Puerto Vallarta.

Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Puerto Vallarta!

Best hotels for surfers in Puerto Vallarta

Villa del Palmar Beach Resort

Luna Liquida Hotel Boutique

Surf spots near Puerto Vallarta

San Pancho

San Pancho (San Francisco) offers more powerful and faster waves compared to Sayulita, making it a great option for intermediate and advanced surfers. It can handle a bit more size and works best at low to mid tide.

• Wave direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Reef
• Best tide: Low to mid
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction: SW
• Optimal wind direction: E

Sayulita

Sayulita is one of Mexico’s most famous surf towns, known for its relaxed vibe and beginner-friendly waves. The main beach offers gentle left and right-hand waves, perfect for longboarding and surf lessons.

• Wave direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Reef and sand
• Best tide: Any
• Skill level: Any
• Optimal swell direction: SW
• Optimal wind direction: E

La Lancha

Located near Punta Mita, La Lancha is a beautiful, uncrowded beach with fun, mellow waves that suit surfers of all levels. It’s a great spot for beginners but can also offer longer rides for intermediate surfers.

• Wave direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Sand
• Best tide: Any
• Skill level: Any
• Optimal swell direction: SW
• Optimal wind direction: E

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Summary

Salina Cruz is an emerging surf haven on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, about 250 km southeast of Puerto Escondido. Known for its endless right-hand point breaks and consistent swell, Salina Cruz is quickly becoming one of the top surf destinations in Mexico.

The area is home to world-class waves like Punta Conejo and Punta Chivo, offering long, peeling rights that work best on solid south and southwest swells. Whether you’re an experienced surfer chasing barrels or an intermediate rider looking to progress, Salina Cruz has waves for everyone.

With fewer crowds compared to Puerto Escondido and reliable offshore winds, this surf town is perfect for those seeking a more exclusive surf experience.

When to Surf Salina Cruz

The best time to surf Salina Cruz, Mexico is from April to October for consistent waves and sizable swells. However, surfing is totally possible all year long with smaller waves breaking from November to March.

Where to stay in Salina Cruz

Hotel Calli and One Salina Cruz are two great hotels in the area. 

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Salina Cruz!

Surf spots in Salina Cruz

Punta Conejo

The most famous wave in Salina Cruz, Punta Conejo is a perfect, long right-hand point break that can deliver rides over 200 meters on a solid swell. Works best on south to southwest swells with offshore northerly winds.

• Wave direction: Right
• Bottom: Sand and rocks
• Best tide: Any
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction: SSW
• Optimal wind direction: N

Punta Chivo

Another iconic right-hand point break with fast, powerful sections and occasional barrels. Works best with north swells and southerly winds.

• Wave direction: Right
• Bottom: Sand and rocks
• Best tide: Any
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction: N
• Optimal wind direction: SSW

Getting to Salina Cruz

The nearest major airport is Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (HUX), about a 3-hour drive from Salina Cruz. You can also fly into Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM) or Oaxaca City (OAX) and arrange ground transportation.

Surf camps usually offer airport pick-ups and 4×4 transportation to the best surf spots.

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Summary

Playa Dominical is one of Costa Rica’s most consistent and underrated surf destinations, perfect for surfers looking to escape the crowds often found in places like Jaco or Tamarindo. Located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, about 1.5 hours south of Jaco, Dominical offers year-round surf with reliable beach breaks and a laid-back surf town vibe.

The waves at Playa Dominical cater to all skill levels, with more powerful waves during the rainy season and smaller, friendlier surf during the dry season. Whether you’re chasing big barrels or looking for beginner-friendly conditions, Playa Dominical is a solid surf trip choice.

When to surf Dominical

Surfing conditions in Playa Dominical are great throughout the year. However, waves get bigger and more consistent from April to October, during the rainy season, and tend to become smaller through dry season.

Therefore, the best time to surf Playa Dominical for beginners is most likely from November to March and for advanced surfers, from April to October.

Surf Camps in Dominical, Costa Rica

Find a Surf Camp in Playa Dominical, Starts at US$599

• 5 surf lessons
• Unlimited board rental
• 2 therapeutic massage at Alegria Spa
• 1 Adventure tour and 1 DSS souvenir
• 2 photo and video analysis
• 7 nights accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Daily breakfast

Where to stay in Playa Dominical

There are many great places to stay in Dominical which can be hostels, hotels or surf camps. Oxygen Jungle Villas is a great higher end resort and Golden Pineapple Villas is also very nice and modern.

Surf Spots in Playa Dominical

Playa Dominical

Playa Dominical is a long, open beach break that offers both rights and lefts with plenty of room to spread out. It’s known for its consistent surf and can handle decent size swells. It’s suitable for all skill levels depending on the size of the day.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SSW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Playa Dominicalito

Playa Dominicalito is a small bay located at the southern end of Dominical and is usually more sheltered to southern swells, offering gentle waves for surfers of all levels.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : E

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Summary

Playa Colorado is a world-class surf destination on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, located between Popoyo and Playa Gigante. Known for its consistent offshore winds and perfectly shaped barrels, Playa Colorado is one of the best surf spots in Nicaragua. The waves here break almost every day, making it a top pick for surfers looking for reliable conditions and less crowded lineups compared to nearby Costa Rica.

While Playa Colorado is best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers due to its powerful and hollow waves, there are also nearby spots like Playa Amarillo and Playa Gigante that are more beginner-friendly on smaller swells.

If you’re dreaming of perfect barrels on a tropical beach with warm water and offshore winds all day, Playa Colorado should definitely be on your surf trip list.

When to go

The best time to surf Playa Colorado, Nicaragua is from April to October, during the rainy season in Nicaragua. That is when swells are more consistent and winds become lighter, yet still offshore everyday.

Where to stay in Playa Colorado, Nicaragua

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Playa Colorado!

Surf Spots in Playa Colorado

Playa Colorado

Playa Colorado is the main break, known for its punchy barrels and fast walls. With consistent offshore winds, this beach break offers ideal surfing conditions almost every day. It’s a dream wave for barrel hunters and experienced surfers.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid-tide
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : E
• Optimal wind direction : SW

Panga Drops

North of Playa Colorado is a horseshoe reef break called Panga Drops which offers a nice A-frame wave that is usually bigger in size than Colorados. Panga Drops isn’t as hollow but is a powerful wave that is suitable for intermediate or advanced surfers. 

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : E
• Optimal wind direction : SW

Playa Amarillo

A mellow, sandy beach break perfect for beginners and intermediates. Playa Amarillo offers smaller, softer waves and rarely gets crowded, making it ideal for learning or warming up.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : E
• Optimal wind direction : SW

Playa Gigante

Just south of Playa Colorado is Playa Gigante which will often have softer and smaller waves, suitable for beginners.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : E
• Optimal wind direction : SW

Getting to Playa Colorado

The easiest way to reach Playa Colorado is by flying into Managua International Airport. From there:

• Private taxi: ~US$100 (2-3 hours)

• Public bus: Budget-friendly, but takes significantly longer

• Shuttle services: Available from major tourist hubs like San Juan del Sur and Rivas

You can also fly into Liberia, Costa Rica and cross the border by shuttle if combining with a Costa Rican surf trip.

Safety/Things to know

• Currents: Can be strong, especially near the rocks and on big swell days. Surf within your limits.

• Respect locals: Playa Colorado is gaining popularity, but local surfers still have priority.

• Stingrays & sharks: Shuffle your feet when entering the water to avoid stingrays. Shark sightings are rare but possible.

• Offshore winds: Offshore winds are present almost every day, but can be quite strong in the dry season.

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