As soon as you cross the border to Mexico, you enter the land of barrels, clean lines, and zero crowds. The best part is that these destinations are only a short plane ride away! Let’s start our journey thru Central America. Without further ado here is Chica Brava’s top ten best surf spots in Central America!
1. Puerto Escondido, Mexico
By now everyone has seen or read about the massive waves to be had at Puerto Escondido. The small fishing village and beach break of Playa Zicatella, will have even the most experienced surfers thinking twice about paddling out. If you choose to paddle out you will have some of the longest barrels of your life, but be prepared for some broken boards.
2. Mazatlan, Mexico
This surf spot has a number of breaks along the coastline. Mazatlan is known for its long lefts, and gorgeous reef bottom. Playa Norte, Playa Bruja, and Playa Olas Atlas are all located in Mazatlan and are some of the best spots to surf all year long.
3. Punta Roca, El Salvador
A right point break located in La Libertad works on all tides and is one of the heaviest waves on this side of the hemisphere. Rocky point break is a gentle way of saying, a wrong take off might land you with a broken board and some broken bones. If you make it past the steep drop, the ride is long and hollow.
4. El Tunco, El Salvador
This fast barreling beach break is located just one hour from San Salvador and is a famous spot among locals. Not only can you experience the local culture here, but you can also catch some sick waves. While this is a advanced break there are plenty of breaks in and around the area that are easily accessible for beginners.
5. Playa Colorado, Nicaragua
While there are many other world class waves in Nicaragua, Playa Colorado is a little slice of heaven. Not only is it in front of a picturesque resort, Hacienda Iguana, but it is a heavy beach break with barrels for days. Nicaragua is being dubbed the second Costa Rica, so these secret spots are being discovered fast.
6. Popoyo, Outer Reef, Nicaragua
Only breaking during large swells, this wave is fast and powerful. Only access is by boat and some days a tow in is the only way into the waves. Outer Reef offers a nice right or left with a heavy barrel. Bring your quiver because you will break a board here.
7. Witches Rock, Costa Rica
What is a list about Central American surf spots without including, Witches Rock? Made famous in the surf film, The Endless Summer II, this timeless beach break will have you on some of the best rights and lefts of your life. Not to mention your photos will be epic with the iconic rock in the background.
8. Salsa Brava, Costa Rica
Located on the Caribbean side just North of Bocas Del Toro, Salsa Brava is a heavy shallow reef break. Don’t let being on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica fool you, this region gets swell. Surfers don’t wear helmets as fashion statements here! We’ll just call this the Caribbean’s Pipeline.
9. Bocas Del Toro, Panama
Another spot in the Caribbean, and another spot that has barrels for days. If you are looking for an island, rasta vibe with clear, blue water and a variety of waves, look no further than Bocas del Toro. This party spot has surf for all levels depending on the island or reef break you choose. Most breaks are only accessible by boat and if you are looking for adventure ask any of the boat captains to take you to a “secret spot”.
10. Silverbacks, Panama
Located off the island of Bastimentos, Silverbacks is one of Bocas most famous waves. This wave is often called the Hawaii of Panama and for good reason. This reef break is fast, powerful, and heavy with waves breaking as big as 20 feet! There are a few beach breaks close to this epic wave that might be more suitable for beginners, such as Red Frog Beach.
Whether beginner or experienced Central America is quickly becoming the mecca for quality surf options. If you are looking to get away and love adventure, check out Chica Brava surf camp in Nicaragua to satisfy your surf desire.