San Antonio Surf Guide

San Antonio Surf Guide

A three-hour drive from Manila is San Antonio, Zambales, an ideal surf spot during the S swell season. When most other breaks turn off from May through August, this is one of the surf spots that still goes off. All along this beach are waves good for everyone, from beginners to experts. Queen among these breaks is a left-handed reefbreak called the Magic Left, accessible on foot along the beach and just across the river. Sheltered on one side by the mountain, the inside section can break right but the ride is often short. More importantly, submerged rocks and sea urchins pose dangers to less-experienced surfers. The rivermouth itself breaks right. Unfortunately, it is a fickle spot. During hard rains, a common occurrence during the S swell season, the river rushes hard and fast and must be crossed with caution. The shorebreak in front of the resorts has a reputation for closing out. But when it is working, the left and right-breaking wave can be overhead, clean and, most importantly, a lot of fun.