Best Places for Surfing in Cartagena, Colombia

Discover the best waves and hidden gems for surfing in the vibrant coastal city of Cartagena, Colombia.

The Magical Coastline of Cartagena

Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only renowned for its colonial architecture and bustling historical center but also for its diverse and thrilling surf spots. The city’s coastline stretches along the Caribbean Sea, offering a variety of breaks suitable for surfers of all levels.

Best Surf Spots in Cartagena

1. La Boquilla

   • Description: A popular spot for both beginners and experienced surfers due to its consistent waves.
   • Tips: The best time to hit the waves is early morning or late afternoon when the sea is calmer.

2. Barra Honda

   • Description: Known for long, powerful waves that can reach up to 5 meters high during a strong swell.
   • Tips: Best surfers should visit this spot; it requires some experience and skill due to the strength of the waves.

3. El Caimán

   • Description: Offers a combination of small and large waves, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.
   • Tips: Early morning sessions are recommended as the water can get quite choppy by midday.

4. Lorena Beach

   • Description: A quieter spot with gentle waves that make it perfect for beginners and families.
   • Tips: This area is less crowded than other spots, offering a more relaxed surfing experience.

5. El Rosario

   • Description: Famous for its consistent left-handers, suitable for surfers looking to ride the best waves.
   • Tips: Check local weather forecasts as El Rosario can be affected by wind and current changes.

6. **Punta Morro

   • Description: A challenging spot with powerful waves that are perfect for experienced surfers.
   • Tips: The best time to catch the waves is during high tide, which usually occurs in the afternoon.

7. El Dorado

   • Description: This beach offers a variety of wave conditions, from small rights to large left-handers.
   • Tips: Early mornings are the best for catching clean waves before the crowds arrive.

8. Cristo de la Salud

   • Description: A hidden gem with consistent waves that can range from small to sizable depending on the swell.
   • Tips: This spot is less frequented by tourists, providing a more serene surfing environment.

9. El Guayabo

   • Description: Known for its long, slow waves that are perfect for learning and practicing surf techniques.
   • Tips: Visit during low tide to avoid strong currents and ensure easier entry into the water.

10. Playa San Pedro

    • Description: Offers a variety of wave conditions from small, beginner-friendly breaks to larger waves for more advanced surfers.
    • Tips: Early morning sessions are recommended as it can get quite busy by noon.

11. El Faro

    • Description: A secluded spot with strong waves that require some skill and experience.
    • Tips: This area is less crowded, making it a good choice for surfers who prefer a quieter environment.

12. Bocagrande

    • Description: Known for its smaller waves and excellent conditions for learning to surf or practicing basic techniques.
    • Tips: Bocagrande is popular with beginners, so plan accordingly if you’re looking for a more challenging experience.

13. Playa del Caribe

    • Description: A picturesque spot with gentle waves that are perfect for surfers of all levels.
    • Tips: The best time to hit the waves is during the early morning or late afternoon when the water is calmer.

14. Santa Helena

    • Description: A lesser-known beach offering a mix of small and large waves, perfect for intermediate surfers.
    • Tips: Visit during low tide to avoid strong currents and ensure easier entry into the water.

15. El Tandil

    • Description: Known for its challenging left-handers that are suitable for advanced surfers.
    • Tips: The best time to catch the waves is early morning or late afternoon when the water is calmer and less crowded.

16. Playa del Rey

    • Description: A spot with small, consistent waves that make it ideal for beginners and families.
    • Tips: This area offers a more relaxed surfing experience away from the hustle and bustle of larger surf spots.

17. La Cumbre

    • Description: Famous for its powerful waves during strong swells, suitable for experienced surfers.
    • Tips: Check local weather forecasts as La Cumbre can be affected by wind and current changes.

18. El Rinconcito

    • Description: A hidden gem with consistent waves that are perfect for learning and practicing surf techniques.
    • Tips: This spot is less frequented by tourists, providing a more serene surfing environment.

19. Lobos Beach

    • Description: Known for its gentle waves and excellent conditions for beginners and families.
    • Tips: The best time to hit the waves is during low tide to avoid strong currents and ensure easier entry into the water.

20. El Tamarindo

    • Description: A spot with a mix of small and large waves, making it ideal for intermediate surfers.
    • Tips: Early morning sessions are recommended as it can get quite busy by noon.

These top spots in Cartagena offer a diverse range of surfing experiences, from learning to perfecting your skills. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting out, the vibrant coastal city has something for everyone.