Are you thinking about going surfing in Colombia? Well prepare yourself for an exhilarating adventure in one of the most exciting destinations in Latin America! Colombia, blessed with coastlines along the Caribbean and the Pacific, emerges as a surfing haven ready for discovery.  Let’s take a look at some of your best choices for Colombia surf.

Does Colombia Have Good Surfing?

Embarking on a surfing adventure in Colombia is a distinctive blend of wave-induced excitement and the picturesque charm of diverse beaches. Why should you think about going surfing in Colombia?

1. Diversity of Beaches: With extensive coastlines along the Pacific and Caribbean, Colombia offers a plethora of beaches, each with distinct characteristics catering to various skill levels. Whether you seek gentle waves for beginners or more challenging ones for seasoned surfers, there’s a beach for everyone.
2. Tropical Climates: Colombia’s year-round tropical climate ensures that surfing is a delightful experience regardless of the season. The warm temperatures make it inviting to plunge into the water, even during the winter months.
3. Surf Schools: Coastal areas, particularly popular tourist destinations like Cartagena and Santa Marta, host surf schools that provide classes for beginners. This accessibility facilitates a safe and enjoyable learning experience for those new to surfing.
4. Less Crowded: Despite the growing popularity of surfing in Colombia, it remains less crowded compared to other renowned surf destinations. This relative tranquility allows surf enthusiasts to relish the waves without the usual crowds associated with other tourist-heavy spots.

Colombia’s unique privilege of having two coasts gives rise to two distinct surfing areas: the Caribbean Coast and the Pacific Coast.

When Is The Best Time For Surfing In Colombia?

Optimal conditions for surfing in Colombia align with two key periods: December through March and July through September. It’s crucial to note the directional variation of waves in Colombia.

From April to December, the waves predominantly originate from the South West, while in January and February, they shift to coming from the North East. Generally, the wave height is higher between April and December, aligning with the south swell window.

Top Surfing Destinations Along Colombia’s Coastlines

Explore the most breathtaking surfing locations along Colombia’s Atlantic and Pacific Coasts in this section. Whether you’re a novice or an advanced surfer, these spots promise an unforgettable and thrilling surfing experience.

Each beach is categorized by wave difficulty levels as outlined below:

1. Moderate: The maritime area of this beach remains calm, with no significant changes related to waves, rain, or winds. It’s a suitable spot for all audiences, and surfing here doesn’t require advanced expertise.
2. Intermediate: Expect slightly more challenging waves in the maritime area of this beach, accompanied by notable changes related to waves, rain, and winds. Surfing here necessitates some knowledge and is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or children under 8 years old.
3. Difficult: This beach features intense waves in its maritime area, demanding both knowledge and experience for surfing. It is advised against for individuals under 15 years old, pregnant women, or those with mobility, heart, or lung issues.

The optimal surfing period falls between December and January, during which waves can attain heights of up to 3 meters.

Surfing at Playa Blanca

Location: Situated approximately 1 hour from the city of Cartagena, covering a distance of around 35 km (21 miles). Accessible by bus or private car.

Difficulty: Moderate. The waves at Playa Blanca are gentle, making it an great spot for beginners wanting to learn to surf in Colombia.

Playa Blanca is renowned for its tranquil waves gently reaching the shore. Additionally, it serves as a venue for sports events, including activities like kitesurfing and windsurfing. Lots of options here.

La Guajira

Situated in the northernmost corner of Colombia, La Guajira stands as a distinctive territory characterized by a desert landscape, unspoiled beaches, and a thriving indigenous culture. Renowned for its breathtaking peninsula that stretches into the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Venezuela, this region offers a unique experience. For surfing enthusiasts, places like Cabo de la Vela present ideal conditions with waves and winds conducive to practicing this exhilarating sport. If you are looking for a very unique spot for surfing in Colombia, this is it.

The best time to enjoy surfing in La Guajira is from March to May. During these months, the waves are higher and reach the shores of the beaches.

Surfing at Playa Palomino

Location: Situated approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes by car from the center of La Guajira, covering a distance of around 160 km (99 miles). Accessible by bus as well.

Difficulty: Intermediate.

Playa Palomino features consistent waves during certain seasons, and the winds exhibit considerable variability. This beach serves as an ideal location for advancing to the next level and honing surfing skills.

Surfing in Cabo de la Vela

Location: Situated approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Uribia, the capital of the La Guajira department. Accessible by bus as well.

Difficulty: Intermediate. The waves at Cabo de la Vela are typically calm, and the winds remain mild for most of the day. However, they can escalate to become intense.

Cabo de la Vela is renowned as a favored surfing destination, featuring areas with gentler waves suitable for beginners and more challenging breaks for advanced surfers. There are options catering to everyone.

Barranquilla

Barranquilla is a popular spot with the backpacker crowd. It may not be synonymous with surfing, but it boasts a diverse array of cultural, sports, and entertainment experiences. For those looking to do some surfing in Colombia the beaches near Barranquilla do present opportunities to catch some waves.

In Colombia, the waves come from the southwest and are higher between April and December. On the other hand, from January to February, they come from the northeast and are calmer.

Surfing at Playa Pradomar

Location: Situated approximately 27 minutes by car from Barranquilla, covering a distance of around 19 km (11 miles). Accessible by bus as well.

Difficulty: Challenging. Playa Pradomar boasts intense waves, making it a favored spot among experienced surfers.

Pradomar Beach is a popular destination for various water sports. The robust waves, foamy waters, and temperate conditions, along with a distinctive dark bluish-green hue, create an inviting environment for surfers seeking an exhilarating challenge.