Best Places for Surfing in San Antonio de los Cobres, Argentina

Nestled at the foot of the Andes Mountains in northern Argentina, San Antonio de los Cobres offers some of the best surfing spots in South America. This picturesque town is not only a gateway to breathtaking landscapes but also a hidden gem for surfers seeking thrilling waves and serene surroundings.

Why Surf in San Antonio de los Cobres?

The area around San Antonio de los Cobres benefits from consistent winds, particularly the northerly ones that create ideal conditions for surfing. The town is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Payunia, which plays a crucial role in shaping these waves. With an average wave height ranging from 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet), suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, there's no shortage of thrilling rides.

Top 20 Surfing Spots Near San Antonio de los Cobres

1. Laguna Blanca: Located just a few kilometers from the town, this tranquil lake offers consistent waves that are perfect for beginners. The calm waters and shallow depths make it an excellent spot to learn.
2. Río San Antonio: As the name suggests, this river provides surfable waves near its confluence with Lake Payunia. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a more natural setting.
3. Laguna de los Patos: This lake, situated in a private reserve, offers some of the best waves in the area. The secluded nature of this spot adds to its charm, making it a favorite among experienced surfers.
4. Río Juramento: Just north of San Antonio de los Cobres, this river provides long rides for intermediate and advanced surfers. Its varying water levels can create diverse wave patterns throughout the day.
5. Laguna Colorada: Known for its vibrant red color due to high iron content in the water, this lake offers a unique surfing experience. The waves here are generally smaller but provide an exciting challenge.
6. Río Las Cuevas: This river is famous for its dramatic karst formations and provides some of the most interesting and challenging surf spots in the region. Its wave patterns change with the water levels, offering a dynamic surfing experience.
7. Laguna Escondida: Hidden deep within a private reserve, this lake offers consistent waves that are perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers alike. The secluded location adds to its allure.
8. Río Payunia: This river flows directly into Lake Payunia and provides some of the best waves in the area. Its proximity to San Antonio de los Cobres makes it a convenient spot for daily sessions.
9. Laguna Pocitos: Located just a stone’s throw from the town, this lake offers calm waters that are ideal for beginners and families. The shallow depths make it easy to navigate, even with little experience.
10. Río El Carmen: This river provides long, rolling waves that are perfect for intermediate surfers looking for a bit more challenge. Its consistent conditions make it a reliable spot for daily sessions.
11. Laguna Azul: Known for its stunning blue waters, this lake offers some of the most picturesque surfing spots in the area. The waves here are generally smaller but provide an excellent backdrop for photos and videos.
12. Río Grande: This river provides long, sweeping waves that are perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers looking for a bit more excitement. Its varying water levels can create diverse wave patterns throughout the day.
13. Laguna Esmeralda: Hidden in a private reserve, this lake offers some of the most vibrant green waters in the area. The waves here are generally smaller but provide an exciting challenge for those looking to push their limits.
14. Río Las Lagunas: This river provides a series of connected lakes that offer varied surfing conditions. Each section has its unique wave patterns, making it a great spot for surfers of all levels.
15. Laguna Escondida II: A lesser-known gem, this lake offers some of the most secluded and challenging waves in the area. Its hidden location makes it a favorite among adventurous surfers looking for a challenge.
16. Río Los Pozos: This river provides long, rolling waves that are perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers looking for a bit more excitement. Its varying water levels can create diverse wave patterns throughout the day.
17. Laguna Colorada II: Another hidden gem in a private reserve, this lake offers vibrant red waters and some of the most picturesque surfing spots in the area. The waves here are generally smaller but provide an excellent backdrop for photos and videos.
18. Río Payunia II: This river flows directly into Lake Payunia and provides some of the best waves in the area. Its proximity to San Antonio de los Cobres makes it a convenient spot for daily sessions.
19. Laguna Pocitos II: Located just a stone’s throw from the town, this lake offers calm waters that are ideal for beginners and families. The shallow depths make it easy to navigate, even with little experience.

San Antonio de los Cobres truly offers something for every surfer, whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an experienced rider seeking new challenges. With its consistent winds and diverse range of wave spots, this region is quickly becoming a hidden surfing gem in South America. So pack your board, grab your wetsuit, and head out to explore the best places for surfing in San Antonio de los Cobres!