Colpipe - Isla Fuerte Colpipe features fast left-breaking waves over a coral reef bottom, ideal for surfers of all levels. The spot maintains its shape even when the swell is larger, providing consistent conditions. Access requires a boat ride from Paso Nuevo or a 20-minute paddle from the island. Located in the Caribbean, Isla Fuerte offers a vibrant atmosphere with clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and socializing. The spot is accessible with instant access on foot and sees few surfers during the week and weekends. Optimal conditions occur at mid tide with rising tide movement, complemented by favorable wind from the south and southeast, and swell from the north and northwest. This combination makes Colpipe a hidden gem for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
View spotPlaya Kanoa - Curacao Playa Kanoa features both right and left-breaking waves over a rocky reef bottom, providing a unique surfing experience. The spot is accessible with instant access from the parking area, located about 200 meters from the main road. The wave can be mushy on smaller days but offers better form during hurricane swells. As one of Curacao's main surf spots, Playa Kanoa is known for its sandy beach that transitions into a rocky reef, creating a diverse surf environment. The best time to visit is from December to April when swells are more consistent. While it can get crowded, especially during school holidays, the atmosphere remains relaxed as long as surfers respect the lineup. The ideal wind direction is from the south, enhancing the wave quality. Patience is key here, as conditions can vary, but with the right swell, Playa Kanoa can deliver some memorable rides.
View spotPunta Roca - Caribbean Coast, Colombia Punta Roca features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a reef with sharp rocks and sand. This spot offers both right and left-handers, ideal for experienced surfers. It works best at mid to high tide with rising and falling tides, and is sensitive to wind conditions, requiring offshore or light onshore breezes for optimal surfing. Located near Barranquilla, access is straightforward via a dirt road leading to the cliffs. The atmosphere is generally friendly, attracting a mix of locals and visitors. While the spot can be empty during the week, caution is advised due to strong currents and hidden rocks. Familiarizing yourself with the tides and currents is essential for a safe surfing experience. Overall, Punta Roca promises a thrilling surf adventure, but respect for the ocean's power and the local surf community is paramount.
View spotPlaya El Almejal - El Valle Playa El Almejal features a sandy beach break with both right and left waves. The surf is characterized by fast, powerful, and fun conditions, making it ideal for experienced surfers. The spot works well at all tides, particularly during a rising tide, and is accessible within a five-minute walk from the beach. Nestled in the stunning Choco region, this surf spot offers not only beautiful waves but also a rich cultural experience with the Afro-Colombian and Embera Indigenous communities. The area is known for its lush jungle backdrop and friendly locals. While the waves can get big and challenging, the beach remains uncrowded throughout the week, providing a serene surfing experience. Accessing Playa El Almejal is straightforward, with transport options available from Bahia Solano. Local board shapers are present, offering rentals and repairs, ensuring surfers have everything they need for a great day on the water.
View spotCartagena Jetty - Cartagena, Colombia Cartagena Jetty features left-breaking waves over a sandy bottom, created by the longest jetty in the area. This breakwater/jetty setup offers fun conditions suitable for surfers of varying skill levels. The spot is accessible with instant access in less than 5 minutes from the Las Velas Hotel. Located on Cartagena’s beachfront, this surf spot is ideal for beginners looking to practice. While the wave quality may not always be exceptional, it provides a unique surfing experience with consistent opportunities to catch waves. The spot works at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements. Expect fewer surfers during the week, but it can get crowded on weekends. Be mindful of the wind and swell directions, primarily from the North and South, to ensure the best surfing conditions.
View spot7 olas - Santa Marta, Colombia This left beach break features a sandy bottom and offers fast, powerless, and ledgey waves. The spot is best surfed during mid tide with a rising tide. Access is straightforward, with a short walk of less than 5 minutes from parking. Located near Parque Tayrona, 7 olas is a secluded surf destination. To reach it, drive from Santa Marta to the park, turn left at the "Sector Neguanje" sign, and continue for about 15 minutes to the entrance gate. After paying the fee, proceed to the beach, which is unmarked and requires a brief walk down the mountain. Be prepared with food, water, and sun protection, as there are no amenities nearby. The spot remains empty during the week and weekends, but be cautious of rips, undertow, and sharks in the area.
View spotEl Nuro - Near Piura, Peru El Nuro features powerful left-breaking sandbar waves over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. Access requires a long walk of over 30 minutes, and while public access is limited, a four-wheel drive vehicle can reach the area. Located in the Sechura desert near Bayovar, El Nuro is a hidden gem that remains uncrowded throughout the week and on weekends. The ideal conditions occur with a northwest swell and southeast winds, making it a prime spot for experienced surfers seeking solitude. However, caution is advised due to the presence of rocks in the lineup. This remote surf destination offers a unique experience for those willing to trek to its shores.
View spotRio Buritaca - Colombia Rio Buritaca features a right point break with sandy bottom, delivering ordinary power waves. The spot is accessible via a short walk (5-15 minutes) from Buritaca village or the El Viajero beach club. It works at all tides, with optimal conditions from swells coming from the north, east, and northeast, and favorable winds from the south and southwest. Nestled in a picturesque setting, Buritaca offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for surfers seeking a tranquil experience. The waves start breaking at the river mouth and can line up to the main beach during larger swells, while smaller swells still allow for fun rides at the river mouth. The area is not crowded, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy the surf and spot marine life, including turtles, enhancing the natural beauty of this hidden gem.
View spotPunta Brava - Panama Punta Brava features powerful, hollow waves breaking both right and left over a rocky reef with boulders. The right wave is optimal with small swells, while the left comes alive with swells over 1.8 meters. This spot is accessible via a 30-minute walk from Santa Catalina, crossing a small rocky beach. This uninhabited surf destination offers breathtaking sunset views and is less crowded during the week, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. The left wave is known for its speed and quality, particularly when the swell exceeds 1.8 meters. Conditions are best at low and mid tide, with favorable wind from the southwest and east. Surfers should be cautious of rocks in the area, but the overall experience at Punta Brava is unforgettable for those willing to make the trek.
View spotCabo Pasado - Offshore from Canoa Cabo Pasado features powerful left-breaking waves over a rocky coral reef bottom. Access requires a long boat ride, as there is no public access and a lengthy walk is necessary. The spot works best with northwest to west swells and southeast to east winds, offering fast and fun conditions. This relatively new surf destination is less crowded, making it an appealing choice for adventurous surfers. The journey to the reef can be lengthy, so hiring a local guide is advisable to navigate the area effectively. While Cabo Pasado presents exciting surf potential, awareness of the sharp rocks and the need for proper preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
View spotEL Muelle - Puerto Colombia, Colombia EL Muelle features a sandbar wave that breaks both right and left, with a sandy bottom. The wave is known for its hollow, fast, and powerful characteristics, making it one of the best in the Caribbean region. It works at all tides and is best with swells from the North to Northeast. Located about 20 minutes from Barranquilla City, access is straightforward; ask locals for directions to the pier. A short walk of 5-15 minutes leads you to the wave, which typically breaks on the left side near an abandoned weight station. The atmosphere is mellow, with a maximum of 15 surfers in the lineup, and the local vibe is welcoming to travelers, especially those who can surf well. Be cautious of fishing lines in the water, and note that the pier acts as a filter for strong winds and currents, enhancing the surf conditions when other spots are blown out.
View spotEstero Beach - Panama Estero Beach features a sandbar wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom. The surf is known for being fast, powerful, and fun, particularly at mid tide during rising conditions. Swells from the west and southwest are optimal, with east and northeast winds providing favorable conditions. Located just south of the renowned Santa Catalina point break, Estero Beach offers a more relaxed surfing experience with fewer crowds. Access is straightforward; park right on the beach, but be cautious of the tide. The surf is manageable at low tide, but expect overhead waves (2-3 meters) during swells at high tide. The local atmosphere is friendly, and nearby accommodations make it a convenient spot for surfers looking to escape the busier breaks. Remember to stock up at the village market before hitting the waves!
View spotPradomar - Colombia Pradomar features a fun beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. This spot is known for its consistency, picking up swells from various directions, particularly from the North and South-West. It works best at mid tide and is accessible within a 5-minute walk from public transport or by car. This popular surf destination attracts a mix of surfers, especially beginners, thanks to its friendly atmosphere. While it can get crowded on weekends, weekdays often see fewer surfers, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The local vibe is enhanced by nearby amenities, including a Reggar Bar that adds to the laid-back ambiance. If Pradomar becomes too busy or conditions are less than ideal, consider heading to El Muelle in Puerto Colombia for alternative waves. Just be cautious of local theft and pollution in the area.
View spotRío Chico - Manabí, Ecuador Río Chico features a powerful left point break over flat rocks and sand, ideal for experienced surfers. The wave works at all tides, with optimal conditions during low tide. Access is straightforward, located within the Piquero Patas Azules beach hotel, requiring a nominal fee for parking and showers. This surf spot is known for its stunning surroundings and relatively low crowd factor, with only a few surfers present even on weekends. The wave offers long rides, perfect for boosting airs, especially during the prime season from December to April when mornings are glassy. While the atmosphere is laid-back, nearby towns like Montañita provide nightlife options. Surfers should be cautious of urchins, rips, and rocks, ensuring a safe and enjoyable session.
View spotSanta Catalina - Panama Santa Catalina features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a rocky reef, suitable for experienced surfers. The spot works best at mid to high tide, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides. It picks up swells from the southwest and south, making it a reliable surf destination year-round. This surf spot is known for its vibrant atmosphere, though it can get extremely crowded, especially during the summer months. Access is straightforward via bus or car to the village, followed by a short 5-15 minute walk. While the waves can be exhilarating, surfers should be cautious of sharp rocks and urchins. Despite the crowds, Santa Catalina offers a unique surfing experience, with the potential for uncrowded sessions if timed right. Be prepared for the local surf culture and bring repair kits for your gear, as the area can be challenging for beginners.
View spotJuanchaco - Colombia Juanchaco features hollow waves breaking over a sandy bottom with rocks. This surf spot is accessible only by boat or plane, ensuring a crowd-free experience. The best conditions occur during mid to high tide with a rising tide, particularly when swells come from the north and winds from the east. Located three hours from Cali, you must take a boat from Buenaventura, followed by a 15-minute walk to reach the surf. Expect a unique atmosphere, as the area is less developed than typical surf destinations, with no large hotels and a humble local community. While the waves may not break frequently, when they do, surfers can enjoy rides up to 350 meters. It's advisable to connect with local surfers, Tabo and Tocayo, for guidance. Be mindful of the political situation in Colombia and potential man-made hazards in the water.
View spotEl Frances - Colombia El Frances features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and is open to the public. It typically offers ordinary power waves and is best enjoyed with a southeast wind and swell from the north or northwest, functioning well at all tides. This surf spot is located in Colombia, providing a serene environment with minimal crowds during the week and weekends. The combination of consistent swell and favorable wind conditions makes El Frances an ideal location for surfers seeking a less crowded experience. The sandy bottom ensures a comfortable ride, while the varied wave directions cater to different skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, El Frances offers a unique surfing experience in a picturesque setting.
View spotCastillogrande - Cartagena de Indias Castillogrande features a left-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom, known for its fast and powerful waves. Located at the end of Cartagena, access is easy with public parking available near the hospital. The spot works at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides, primarily influenced by south swells and north winds. This surf spot is situated in the picturesque neighborhood of Castillogrande, offering instant access to the beach. While it may not break often, when it does, it attracts few surfers during the week and weekends, making it a relatively uncrowded option. The area is also known for its proximity to the Hilton hotel, which provides a more sheltered environment with jetties that catch larger swells. This makes Castillogrande suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers looking for a less hectic surf experience. Always check local surf reports for the best conditions before heading out.
View spotEl Paredón - Colombia El Paredón features powerful and fun sandbar waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. This surf spot is relatively uncrowded during the week and on weekends, making it an appealing choice for surfers seeking less congested waters. Located near the jetty north of Pradomar, El Paredón is known for its ability to pick up northeast swells, providing excellent conditions when the surf is on. However, it can max out in overhead conditions, which may pose challenges for less experienced surfers. Strong rips can occur, so caution is advised. The presence of rocks in the lineup adds an element of danger, requiring surfers to stay alert. Overall, El Paredón can deliver thrilling sessions when conditions align, making it a worthwhile destination for adventurous surfers.
View spotPunta Sur - Little Corn Island Punta Sur features fun right and left reef breaks over sharp coral rocks. Located at the southern tip of Little Corn Island, access is straightforward, with a short walk of less than 5 minutes from the nearest drop-off point. The spot is best surfed with a north swell and north winds. This surf spot remains largely untouched, often frequented only by local island children who enjoy watching surfers. With minimal crowds during the week and weekends, Punta Sur offers a serene surfing experience. However, surfers should be cautious of the sharp rocks that line the reef. The combination of its remote location and favorable conditions makes Punta Sur a hidden gem for those seeking a tranquil surf session in a picturesque setting.
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