Summary

Surfing in Colombia is a unique and exciting experience for surfers of all skill levels. Colombia has exposure to both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, providing a wide range of surf spots and waves, from beginner-friendly breaks to challenging spots for experienced surfers.

One of the best surf spots in Colombia is Juanchaco, located on the Pacific coast, in front of a surfing village of the same name. The wave is awesome but requires a boat to access it.

On the Caribbean coast, the town of Santa Marta is known for its excellent surf spots, including Playa Blanca, which is a great spot for beginner and intermediate surfers. La Boquilla is another popular surf spot in Santa Marta, offering a consistent break and fun waves.

Colombia offers a diverse range of waves and surf spots, making it a great destination for surfers of all levels. With its warm water, consistent swell, and friendly local surf community, Colombia is a must-visit destination for surfers looking to experience the thrill of riding the waves in a new and exotic location.

When to go

The best time to surf in Colombia is from May to October for the Pacific coast and from November to March for the Caribbean side. Therefore, at any given moment throughout the year, you should be able to find a wave to surf in Colombia.

Where to stay

The Pacific coastline of Colombia is still a pretty rugged area with a lot of nature and parks. Therefore, there aren’t that many hotels on the coast. Nuqui is a great place to stay on a surf trip to Colombia with many surf spots around the area and some vacation rentals as well as hotels to chose from in the likes of Pacific Lodge Nuqui or Hotel Piedra Piedra Lodge

You can also find a surf camp in Colombia, which provides accommodation and access to surf spots.

Surf spots in Colombia

El Valle

El Valle is a remote surf spot located on Colombia’s Pacific coast, known for its powerful beach breaks and uncrowded waves. The waves break both left and right over a sandy bottom, offering solid rides for intermediate and advanced surfers. When south swells combine with light northeast winds, El Valle can produce some of the best waves in the area.

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

Playa Guachalito

Playa Guachalito is a more accessible and forgiving surf spot, making it a great option for surfers of all levels. The sandy beach break offers both left and right waves that work best on southwest swells with easterly winds. The beautiful, lush jungle backdrop and mellow vibes make it an excellent destination for a relaxed surf session.

• Wave Direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Sand
• Best Tide: Any
• Skill Level: All levels
• Optimal Swell Direction: Southwest
• Optimal Wind Direction: East

Juan Tornillo

Juan Tornillo is a consistent beach break suited for intermediate and advanced surfers looking for punchy, fast waves. It offers peaks with both left and right rides that can get heavy on solid southwest swells. The sandy bottom keeps it approachable, but the wave power and shape are best suited for surfers with some experience.

• Wave Direction: Left and right
• Bottom: Sand
• Best Tide: Any
• Skill Level: Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal Swell Direction: Southwest
• Optimal Wind Direction: Northeast

Juanchaco

Juanchaco is a powerful, secluded right-hand reef break that’s best reserved for advanced surfers. When north swells meet favorable southeast winds, Juanchaco can deliver long, hollow waves that challenge even experienced riders. Its isolation and intensity make it one of Colombia’s most rewarding yet demanding surf spots.

• Wave Direction: Right
• Bottom: Reef
• Best Tide: Any
• Skill Level: Advanced
• Optimal Swell Direction: North
• Optimal Wind Direction: Southeast

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Summary

Peniche is a popular surf town in Portugal known for its strong surf culture and perfect beaches. The region is home to some of the best surf spots in Europe, with waves suitable for surfers of all levels.

The surf in Peniche can be quite varied, depending on the location and the time of year. During the winter months, the waves tend to be larger and more powerful, making it a popular destination for experienced surfers looking for a challenge. In summer, waves are usually smaller and more manageable, making it a good surfing destination for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Peniche is home to a number of famous surf spots, including Supertubos, Lagide and Consolação. Supertubos is a powerful beach break known for its hollow barrels and is considered one of the best surf spots in Europe. Baleal is a more laid-back surf town with a mix of beach breaks and reef breaks, while Consolação is a long, sandy beach with consistent, reliable waves.

Overall, surfing in Peniche is an exciting and rewarding experience, with a variety of waves and surf spots to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there’s something for everyone in this surf-rich region of Portugal.

When to go

The best time to surf in Peniche, Portugal is from September to November when early winter swells start rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean and water is still warm from the summer months. In winter, surfing conditions can be very big and powerful which mostly suits very experienced surfers.

For beginners, the summer months, from May to August will offer small and gentle waves allowing your first steps to be a bit easier.

Where to stay in Peniche

When surfing Peniche, you can stay either within Peniche or in Baleal which is 10 minutes up the coast. Peniche is closer to Supertubos while Baleal is closer to beginner-friendly surf spots like Cantinho and Gigi.

MH Peniche is one of the best hotels in Peniche and that is where a lot of Championship Tour surfers stay during the contest. Ilheu 25 Peniche is another great higher-end option.

In Baleal, Casa das Marés has one of the best location possible, right on the island of Baleal.

Surf camps in Peniche

Find a surf camp in Peniche, starting at US$261

• 5 days of surf lessons
• 2 video sessions with analysis
• Highly experienced surf teacher
• Guided visit to the Peniche coastal area
• Surfboard and wetsuit rental
• 7 nights’ accommodation

Surf spots in Peniche

Supertubos

Sometimes referred to as the European Pipeline, Supertubos is an A-frame beach break offering hollow and powerful lefts and rights. Works mostly through the winter months on a decent westerly swell.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : N

Praia do Baleal

Baleal is a great spot for beginners and intermediate surfers being sheltered on each ends of the bay by the headpoints of Peniche and Baleal.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : SE

Almagreira

Almagreira is a short drive away from Baleal and is a great beach break which is usually less crowded than Baleal.

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

Cantinho Da Baia

Cantinho Da Baia is just at the beginning of the bay of Baleal, in front of the popular beachside bars Tribo and Danau. During summer, when the north winds are frequent, Cantinho is often the cleanest surf spots in Peniche due to cross shore winds.

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

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Summary

Cascais is one of Portugal’s most iconic coastal towns, located just 30 minutes from Lisbon. Known for its beautiful beaches, charming town center, and vibrant surf scene, Cascais is a favorite among both tourists and surfers alike.

With a variety of surf spots catering to all skill levels, from mellow beach breaks to more challenging waves, Cascais is an ideal destination for a surf trip that combines great waves, culture, and nightlife.

When to go

The best time to surf Cascais, near Lisbon in Portugal is from September to December when swells start getting more consistent and sizable. For beginners, the summer months will offer good, small waves and allow them to gently make their way into surfing.

Surf Camps in Cascais

Find the perfect Surf Camp in Cascais, starting at US$199

• 2 yoga sessions
• 6 two-hour surf lessons
• Surfing materials like board and wetsuit
• Video or photo coaching in the middle of the week
• Transport to the beach with the best waves around
• Daily delicious buffet breakfast
• 7 nights’ accommodation

Best Surf Hotels in Cascais, Portugal

Best Value: Eurostars Cascais and Casa Vela Guest House

High-end: Intercontinental Cascais-Estoril and The Albatroz Hotel

Surf Spots near Cascais

Praia do Guincho

One of Portugal’s most famous beach breaks. Praia do Guincho is known for its powerful waves, exposure to Atlantic swells, and beautiful natural setting. It’s great for all skill levels, but conditions can get challenging when the swell is up.

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

Sao Pedro

A semi-exposed point break offering longer right-handers. Works best on mid to high tide with SW swells. Less crowded than Carcavelos and a good alternative when conditions line up.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Sand and rocks
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Intermediate and Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : N

Carcavelos

Often considered one of Portugal’s best urban beach breaks, Carcavelos is popular for its fast, punchy waves and great accessibility. The sandbars here create fun peaks with both lefts and rights.

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

Getting there

Cascais is just 30 to 40 minutes by car or train from Lisbon. It’s one of the easiest surf destinations to access in Portugal.

Transportation options:

• By train: The Linha de Cascais train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station takes about 40 minutes and drops you in the town center.

• By car: A 30-minute drive along the scenic A5 highway.

• By taxi or rideshare: ~€30–€40 from Lisbon Airport.

Safety/things to know

• Crowds: Popular surf spots like Carcavelos and Guincho can get crowded, especially on weekends and during summer.

• Localism: Exists at some breaks like Carcavelos — always respect the lineup and local surfers.

• Water temperature: Ranges from 15°C to 20°C (3/2mm wetsuit most of the year, 4/3mm in winter).

• Wind: Offshore winds typically come from the east — keep this in mind when checking forecasts.

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Summary

Surfing in Jaco, Costa Rica is a top choice for surfers looking for consistent waves, warm water, and vibrant nightlife. Located on the Pacific Coast in the Puntarenas Province, Jaco is one of Costa Rica’s most popular surf towns, and for good reason.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer, Jaco offers a range of surf spots, easy access, and a lively atmosphere, making it one of the best surf destinations in Central America.

Why Surf Jaco, Costa Rica?

• Consistent surf all year round

• Great for all skill levels

• Close to San Jose (1.5-2 hours by car)

• Lively town with restaurants, bars, and nightlife

• Multiple surf beaches nearby to spread the crowds

Jaco is often described as a bit Americanized compared to other Costa Rican surf towns, but it still retains a strong local vibe, especially in the surf scene. The abundance of surf shops, surf camps, and rental options makes it super easy to score waves, even if you show up without gear.

When to go

The best time to surf Jaco, Costa Rica is from April to October for bigger and more consistent surfing conditions. However, waves are great at any time of the year in Costa Rica making it one of the most consistent surfing destinations in the world.

Surf Camps in Jaco

Find a Surf Camp in Jaco, Starting at US$415

• For surfers of all levels
• 4 surf lessons (2 hours duration)
• Surf equipment, board rental is included 
• Daily breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners
• One natural drink or soda per meal
• 5 nights accommodation

Surf Spots in Jaco

Playa Jaco

Playa Jaco is the main surf beach, perfect for learning to surf or enjoying mellow sessions. It offers long sandy stretches with plenty of room for everyone.

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

Playa Hermosa

Not to be confused with other Playa Hermosa beaches in Costa Rica, this Playa Hermosa near Jaco is known for heavier, faster waves and is a magnet for more advanced surfers.

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

Getting there

Jaco is one of Costa Rica’s most accessible surf towns.

• From San Jose: ~1.5 to 2 hours by car via Route 27

• Public Transportation: Direct buses leave regularly from San Jose’s Tracopa terminal

• Shuttle Services: Convenient, air-conditioned shuttles available from the airport

  
  

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Summary

Pavones is still one of Costa Rica’s most amazing surf town. Being more remote than the typical surfing destinations in the country, Pavones is also arguably Costa Rica’s overall best surf spot. When conditions align, this incredibly long and beautiful left-hand wave is known for being one of the longest waves on Earth. 

Pavones is a small and charming laidback town in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle. While some people come here to relax and rejuvenate, most visitors are here to surf its amazing point break.

On a good south-southwest swell, Pavones becomes this unique wave providing rides well over a few hundred meters long. Even when conditions are not perfect and the different peaks don’t connect, Pavones is still a really fun place to surf. There are also a few other spots nearby, accessible by land or by boat, to stay wet even on a less than perfect day.

Pavones will charm you with its simplicity, away from all resorts and big touristic developments. It remains raw and authentic with a few restaurants, homestays and cafes.

When to go

The best time to surf Pavones, Costa Rica is from April to October which is when swells are bigger and more consistent. However, it is totally possible to surf Pavones all year long as Costa Rica receives decent waves throughout the year.

Where to stay in Pavones

Pavones Point is an absolutely gorgeous hotel right next to the wave!

La Ponderosa Beach and Jungle Reserve 

Tiskita Jungle Lodge

Getting there

The best way to get to Pavones is by taking a domestic flight to Golfito, most likely from San Jose, the main international airport in Costa Rica. From there, you can use public transportation or a taxi to Pavones.

Surf spots in Pavones

Pavones

This is the main point break in Pavones. On a good day, you can ride this hefty long wave for more than one mile…

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Rocks
• Best tide : Low
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SSW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

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Summary

Santa Teresa is a small and beautiful surf town located on the south western end of the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica. Santa Teresa is known for having raw and natural beaches as well as some very consistent beach breaks. 

This popular surf town has been for the last few years one of the surfers’ favorite place to stop on a surf trip to Costa Rica for its unique vibe and relaxed atmosphere. It is where the real Pura Vida can be experienced.

Whether you are a beginner looking to make your first steps on a wave or an expert seeking barrels, Santa Teresa has some great surf for everyone.

When to go

The best time to surf Santa Teresa, Costa Rica is from April to October for bigger and more consistent waves. However, beginners will have an easier time learning to surf in Santa Teresa from November to March with smaller, yet still pretty consistent conditions

Best Surf Hotels in Santa Teresa

Best Value : Believe Surf and Yoga Lodge and Nautilus Surf Villas

High-end : Fuego Lodge

Getting there

The best way to get to Santa Teresa is by local public transportation. If budget is not an issue, you can hire a taxi or private driver. Otherwise, buses run down to Santa Teresa. You can also catch the ferry from Puntarenas.

Surf spots in Santa Teresa

Playa Santa Teresa

This is Santa Teresa’s main beach break. It works almost every day and is better with an easterly wind around low tide. You will find great gentle waves which are perfect for surfers of any skill level.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Low
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : W
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Playa Hermosa

The next beach north from Playa Santa Teresa is Playa Hermosa, another greatly exposed and consistent beach break which will tend to be a bit less crowded than Santa Teresa.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Low
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

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Summary

If you’re searching for uncrowded waves, consistent swells, and year-round sunshine, surfing in Senegal might just be your next dream trip. Nestled at the westernmost point of Africa, Dakar offers a unique surf experience that combines powerful Atlantic swells with vibrant local culture.

Senegal was first introduced to the global surf community through the iconic film The Endless Summer in 1966. Despite this, it remains off the beaten path for most surfers due to the region’s occasional political instability and limited surf tourism infrastructure. This means fewer crowds, pristine waves, and the chance to score world-class surf almost to yourself.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for mellow breaks or an advanced surfer chasing hollow reef setups, Dakar’s coastline delivers.

When to go

The best time to surf Dakar, Senegal depends on what kind of conditions you are looking for. May to November is more suitable for beginners with warmer temperatures and gentle waves while from December to April, Senegal receives some bigger North Atlantic swells making the conditions a bit more challenging.

Surf spots in Dakar

N’gor rights

The famous surf spot featured in Endless Summer which is also the most consistent reef break around Dakar. A punchy right-hander working at any stages of the tide. Unless, waves are small, this spot is not suitable for beginners.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : S

Ouakam

Another pretty heavy reef break that produces hollow lefts and rights. Doesn’t work as consistently as N’gor, but when it does, it is epic.

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

Vivier

On the south side of the peninsula, next to Secret, Vivier is also a nice reef and beach break producing lefts and rights. Watch out for urchins. 

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

Club Med

This reliable wave breaks best at mid to high tide, providing smooth rights perfect for carving and occasional hollow sections. Accessible and less crowded than the more famous spots.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : N

Secret

Secret is a less frequented reef spot that holds size and offers fast, powerful rights and lefts. Suitable only for advanced surfers, especially when the swell builds.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : N

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Summary

Montañita is Ecuador’s most famous surfing destination and this little town has some of the most consistent in South America. In Montañita, you will find waves on almost any given day, giving you the chance to score on your surf trip without experiencing too many lay days.

When people think of surfing destinations in South America, Ecuador usually isn’t the first place that comes up. However, over the last decade, this country has been gaining a lot of popularity in the surfing community.

With a coastline that is yet to be fully discovered by surfers, you can still find some spots with barely anyone out. Swells are also very consistent throughout the year without ever getting too big like they would a bit further south, in Chile, for example.

Within Ecuador, if you are gonna chose one place to go, Montañita might very well be the one. It is very hard not to fall in love with this Ecuadorian beach town known as the surfing mecca of the country. Montañita has good restaurants and bars providing a decent social life and making it very easy to meet fellow travelers.

Sun, warm water, nightlife and fairly cheap accommodation will all make this trip even more enjoyable. While Montañita has this little buzz that makes you want to stay forever, make sure to also check the rest of the coast for emptier line-ups and amazing surfing opportunities. For even more adventure, go further inland to discover an amazing country.

When to go

The best time to surf Montañita, Ecuador is pretty much all year long. Waves are very consistent both in summer and winter. However, from December to April, conditions will be slightly bigger with the arrival of some north swells.

Where to stay in Montañita

Hotel Kunalini is a great affordable place to stay near Montañita Beach and ME Hotel is a little more expensive but still has a great reputation.

Getting there

The quickest and best way to get to Montañita is to fly to Guayaquil and then use public transportation to Montañita.

Surf spots in Montañita

Montañita point

At the very end of the beach, a classic right-hand point break holding nicely a sizable swell producing a long and nice wave. Can get hollow on the low tide, but most of the time it is a fairly mellow peeler.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to low
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Montañita beach

Very consistent beach break working on most days. Perfect for beginners or advanced with several peaks.

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

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Summary

Tamarindo, located on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is one of the most popular surf destinations in Central America. Known for its warm tropical waters, consistent waves, and wide sandy beaches, Tamarindo is ideal for beginner surfers looking to catch their first wave in a vibrant, welcoming environment.

With an easy-going surf scene, plenty of surf schools, and year-round sunshine, Tamarindo is a perfect place to learn how to surf or improve your skills.

Tamarindo offers the perfect balance between surf, comfort, and social life—making it one of the best beginner surf spots in Costa Rica.

More Than Just Surf

Besides surfing, Tamarindo is known for its incredible biodiversity, friendly locals, and easy travel logistics. Costa Rica remains one of the safest and most politically stable countries in Central America, which has helped it become a favorite among international travelers and digital nomads.

From wildlife tours and volcano hikes to yoga classes and zip-lining, there’s no shortage of activities when you’re not in the water.

While Tamarindo is known as a tourist hot-spot, we also recommend heading down the coast to discover Nosara and Santa Teresa to get away from the heavy crowds. These two little towns offer a bit more of a laid back atmosphere while still having a nice buzz and social life.  

Best Time to Surf Tamarindo

The best time to surf Tamarindo, Costa Rica depends on your skill level. The country has a rainy season, from May to October, that will offer more consistent and bigger swells. From November to April, Costa Rica goes through its dry season which will have smaller waves. Either way, there is decent surf all year round in Costa Rica. 

Surf spots in Tamarindo

Tamarindo beach break

The main break in Tamarindo is suitable for all skill levels and perfect for beginners. It has a sandy bottom and many different peaks to chose from. Hiring a surf school is always advised to make your first steps in the ocean…

• Wave direction : Left & Right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to High
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : W
• Optimal wind direction : E

Rivermouth

Right in front of the river that separates Tamarindo and Playa Grande is a solid and hollow right that should be kept for more advanced surfers. Crowds are usually not too bad…

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : W
• Optimal wind direction : E

Casitas

First spot after the river on the way to Playa Grande, Casitas is not as powerful as Rivermouth but could be a good intermediate wave to get away from the heavy crowds of Tamarindo.

• Wave direction : Left & Right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Intermediate and Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : W
• Optimal wind direction : E

Playa Grande

Quite popular surf spot located north of Tamarindo, Playa Grande has a good reputation in the area for being a high-quality beach break. Playa Grande’s waves are more powerful and not as beginner-friendly as what you will find down at Tamarindo beach break.

• Wave direction : Left & Right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : W
• Optimal wind direction : E

Where to stay in Tamarindo

On a Budget : Selina Tamarindo or Downtown Sunset Hostel

Best Value : Hotel Flores or La Ramona Charming Hotel

Luxury : Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel or JW Marriott

Getting there

The best way to get to Tamarindo is to fly into Liberia or San Jose and head west via public transportation, taxi or with a rented car. Driving on your own in Costa Rica is relatively safe.

Safety/things to know

• Quite touristy. For more tranquility, Mal Pais/Santa Teresa is a good option. 
• Crowds can get pretty heavy.

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Summary

Surfing in San Juan del Sur is the perfect mix of epic waves, lively social vibes, and affordable tropical living. Tucked into Nicaragua’s southwest coast, this once sleepy fishing village has become a surf hot spot, especially for travelers looking for year-round waves, a buzzing party scene, and easy access to top surf breaks like Playa Maderas and Playa Hermosa.

Whether you’re a beginner or chasing barrels, this is your go-to San Juan del Sur surf guide.

Why Nicaragua is a Surf Mecca

Nicaragua is often called the “offshore wind capital” of Central America. Thanks to Lake Nicaragua, just 50 km inland, surfers enjoy 300+ days of offshore winds per year, keeping waves clean and perfectly groomed almost all the time.

When to go

The best time to surf San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua as an intermediate or advanced surfer is from May to September for more consistent and bigger waves. However, October to April still offers some really fun and smaller waves with dry weather and stronger winds. Those conditions will greatly suit beginner surfers.

On a budget, one of the best place to stay in San Juan del Sur is HC Liri Hotel or a few hostels like Casa Oro or Naked Tiger. On the higher end side, you can look at Bahia del sol Villas and Condominiums.

Surf spots in San Juan Del Sur

Playa Maderas

Playa Maderas is the most popular surfing beach around San Juan del Sur. Located about 20 minutes away from San Juan Del Sur, this picturesque beach offers great waves for all levels of surfers. A classic beach break that is not as punchy as would be Playa Colorado, for example, but is still very consistent. On most days, there is always something to surf at Playa Maderas.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Beginner to Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

 
Playa El Yanke

Playa El Yanke is located just a bit further south near Playa El Coco and offers a very interesting surfing setup. On the low tide, waves hit the rocks at the point and come back to form a wedge. This creates a beautiful A-frame wave that offers a little barrel opportunity. On the high tide, Playa el Yanke looks more like a regular beach break.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Reef and sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate to Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Playa Hermosa

A very wide beach with peaks spread all along. Typical Nicaraguan wave with barrel opportunities. There are a lot of closeouts but definitely a few nice diamonds in the rough.

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

Getting there

The best way to get to San Juan Del Sur is either by bus or taxi from Managua. Buses will transit in Rivas.

Being only a few km away from the Costa Rican borders, you can also fly into Liberia or San Jose and hop over to Nicaragua.

Safety/things to know

• Nicaragua is known for its political instability and higher crime rates than neighbor Costa Rica. If you stay in tourist areas and avoid wandering around at night, you will be just fine.
• As for most of Central America, stingrays can be spotted on the ocean bottom. A good way to avoid being stung is to do the stingray shuffle.
• Avoid staying in the Managua area, it is home to most of the political instability and has high crime rate. All tourist areas are generally very safe.

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