Manzanillo Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S., SW
Wind
NNE, NE, E, ESE
Surf Height
Head high to triple overhead
Tide
Varies.
Manzanillo Surf Guide
Because Manzanillo is where the airport is located, it's the main arrival point for surfers coming to the region, and therefore, the spots in this area can occasionally be crowded, but there are several to choose from. Campos Manzanillo can be fun in the right conditions and can hold up to a ten-foot swell. South of that you'll find Cuyutlan, which is essentially just gnarly, thumping shorebreak. Colonia offers a mellower version of Cuyutlan. Then there's Pascuales, the crown jewel of the area, which should be avoided by anyone who doesn't consider themselves an expert surfer. You haven't been scared until you've surfed 15-foot beachbreak. South of Pascuales you'll find Boca de Apisa, which picks up winter-time northwest swells that produce long, fun rivermouth lefts.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced
Local Vibe
Doable
Heavy at Pascuales. Be smart about who you drop in on!
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Semi-crowded (Crowds thin out, though, when the surf starts to max out.)
Spot Rating
Perfect
Good.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Medium
Water Quality
Clean
Varies
Hazards
Duck dives and getting lipped at Pascuales.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Bodyboard, Gun
Access
Many dirt roads require 4-wheel drive to access.
Bottom
Sand, rock, coral reef.
Best Season
March-September (though Winter has its moments, too)
Do you have local knowledge about Manzanillo?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]