Papagayo Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

SW

Wind

E/SE

Surf Height

Head high-double overhead.

Tide

Medium-low.

Papagayo Surf Guide

Papagayo is a pretty popular, quirky left reef break, smack out in the middle of the bay fronting the town of Quintero. It's one of the few true reef breaks in central Chile. It's not located in the lee of a headland or point and can be a bit sensitive to wind. Swells stack on the outer bit of the reef and feel their way along into a few speedy sections, tubing when it all comes together, and usually maintaining size as it goes down the line. There's a convenient paddling channel that runs next to the break, and when it's super huge, which is often, especially in winter, there's a way inside section that many of the local kids like to surf.

Ability Level

Intermediate - Advanced

BegIntAdv

intermediate to advanced.

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

Can be a bit intense at times, but if you're mellow you'll be fine.

Crowd Factor

Heavy

MellowHeavy

Yep.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Can get good, but requires cooperative wind since it lacks the protection of a headland.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

A workout when it's on, take advantage of the paddling channel.

Water Quality

Fair

CleanDirty

Not bad, can get dirty when it rains.

Hazards

Bouncing off the reef.

Bring Your

Shortboard, Gun, Fish, Longboard

Access

Park on top of the hill and hoof it on down.

Bottom

Rock reef.

Best Season

March-May.

Do you have local knowledge about Papagayo?

If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]