Manuel Antonio Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
South-West, South
Wind
North-East
Surf Height
Chest high to just overhead
Tide
Mid
Manuel Antonio Surf Guide
About 45 minutes south of Jaco, the tranquil, remote, jungled wavescape of Manuel Antonio has become a favorite destination for beginning surfers with its scattered, soft-lipped, A-frame beachbreaks that come alive on S and S-W swells. Just north of Manuel Antonio is Quepos rivermouth, which churns out long lefts that can hollow out on a strong W or N-W swell with a lower tide.
Ability Level
Beginner - Intermediate
Beginner to intermediate
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Mellow, but don't underestimate the locals. Humility and respect is a virtuous import.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Locals surf mostly at Playitas, a 300-yard-wide stretch of beach with three peaks and lots of bodyboarders.
Spot Rating
Fun
Pretty average spot overall.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Easy surfing.
Water Quality
Clean
Water surprisingly clean being near such a populated area.
Hazards
None really.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish, Bodyboard
Access
Lots of guarded parking by National Park; walk north for bigger surf.
Bottom
Sand, scattered rocks
Best Season
Rainy season May-Oct
Do you have local knowledge about Manuel Antonio?
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