Best Places for Surfing in Santa Apolonia, Guatemala

Santa Apolonia, a small coastal village on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, offers surfers a unique blend of picturesque scenery and consistent waves. This guide will explore the best places to catch some waves along this stretch of coastline.

Why Surf in Santa Apolonia?

The appeal of surfing in Santa Apolonia lies in its ideal location. With consistent swell patterns, the village is a haven for both beginners and experienced surfers. The warm tropical climate, coupled with clear blue waters, makes it an idyllic destination year-round.

Top 20 Surfing Spots in Santa Apolonia

1. El Encanto

   • Located just north of Santa Apolonia, El Encanto offers gentle waves suitable for beginners and intermediates. The beach is known for its picturesque setting and the friendly local community.

2. La Concha

   • This break near the village center provides a more challenging ride with bigger waves during peak season. It’s ideal for those looking to improve their skills or catch some serious waves.

3. El Mirador

   • Nestled between Santa Apolonia and Playa Grande, El Mirador offers excellent conditions for longboarders due to its consistent right-hand waves. The view from the beach is breathtaking, making it a favorite spot among surfers.

4. Playa Grande

   • Known for its powerful waves that can handle bigger swells, Playa Grande caters to experienced surfers seeking adventure and big wave thrills. It’s also home to one of Santa Apolonia's popular beach bars where you can refuel after a session.

5. La Hacienda

   • This break provides a mix of lefts and rights, making it versatile for all skill levels. The area around La Hacienda is beautiful with lush vegetation and stunning sunsets, adding to the overall surfing experience.

6. El Faro

   • With its long, unbroken waves, El Faro is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The beach offers both left-hand and right-hand breaks, making it perfect for experienced surfers looking for variety in their sessions.

7. Cabo San Lucas

   • Near the southern tip of Santa Apolonia’s coastline, Cabo San Lucas provides consistent waves throughout the year. This area is particularly popular during the summer months when swells are more frequent and larger.

8. Las Palmas

   • This break near Playa Grande features a mix of different wave types and directions, making it ideal for surfers looking to improve their skill set. The beach offers a peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds than some other spots in the area.

9. El Progreso

   • Located towards the northern end of Santa Apolonia, El Progreso is known for its smaller waves that are perfect for beginners and families. The gentle swells make it easy to catch and learn from.

10. Los Cocos

    • Near the small town of Los Cocos, this spot offers a unique surfing experience with diverse wave breaks. It’s particularly popular during high tide when conditions are ideal for a variety of surfers.

11. Las Caletas

    • This area is known for its consistent waves that cater to intermediate and advanced surfers. The beach offers beautiful views and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for both surfing and relaxation.

12. La Playa de la Estrella

    • Located on the outskirts of Santa Apolonia, this break provides long, smooth waves that are perfect for surfers looking to enjoy a relaxed session in a quieter part of the village.

13. El Remate

    • Near Playa Grande, El Remate offers powerful waves that are great for big wave enthusiasts. The beach is less crowded than some other spots and provides excellent conditions during high tide.

14. Playa Bonita

    • This spot near Santa Apolonia town center features gentle waves suitable for beginners and families. The clear waters make it ideal for learning to surf in a safe environment, while the beautiful setting adds to the overall experience.

15. El Paredón

    • Known for its consistent left-hand break, El Paredón is a favorite among experienced surfers looking for a challenge. The beach offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for surfers seeking solitude.

16. Punta Tres Palmas

    • Near the southern tip of Santa Apolonia’s coastline, Punta Tres Palmas provides consistent waves that are perfect for all skill levels. The beach is less crowded and offers beautiful views, making it a hidden gem among surfers.

17. La Isla

    • Located on a small island near the coast, La Isla features unique wave breaks that are ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. The area is quiet and provides a peaceful environment for those looking to enjoy some solitude during their sessions.

18. Playa El Cangrejo

    • Known for its powerful waves during peak season, Playa El Cangrejo caters to experienced surfers seeking big wave thrills. The beach offers beautiful views and a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for both surfing and relaxation.

19. Playa El Rodeo

    • Located near Santa Apolonia town center, Playa El Rodeo features gentle waves that are perfect for beginners and families. The clear waters make it ideal for learning to surf in a safe environment, while the beautiful setting adds to the overall experience.

20. La Lobería

    • This break near the southern tip of Santa Apolonia’s coastline offers consistent waves that cater to all skill levels. The beach is less crowded and provides beautiful views, making it a hidden gem among surfers.