Updated on 04/06/2024
Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!
Prepare to ride the waves in one of Latin America’s most thrilling destinations! Colombia, with its Caribbean and Pacific coasts, is a surfing paradise ready for exploration. Join us on a journey along Colombia’s beaches and top surf spots in this blog, where we’ll share tips to inspire your exploration of the country’s hidden wave treasures.
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Advantages of Surfing in Colombia
Surfing in Colombia is a unique experience that combines the thrill of the waves with the beauty of the diverse beaches. Some of the advantages of surfing in Colombia include:
- Diversity of beaches: Colombia offers a diverse range of beaches along its extensive coastline on the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Each beach caters to different skill levels and preferences, with options ranging from gentle waves ideal for beginners to more challenging waves for experienced surfers.
- Tropical climates: Colombia’s tropical weather conditions allow for surfing all year round. The warm temperatures make it pleasant to be in the water, even during the winter months.
- Surf schools: In several coastal areas of Colombia, especially in tourist destinations like Cartagena and Santa Marta, there are surf schools offering classes for beginners. This makes it easy for novices to learn to surf safely.
- Less crowded than other destinations: Although surfing is growing in popularity in Colombia, it is still less crowded than other famous surfing destinations. This means you can enjoy the waves without the crowds often found in other tourist surf spots.
Colombia is a privileged country in South America to have two coasts, so it has two main surfing areas: the Caribbean Coast and the Pacific Coast.
Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic Coast, also called the Caribbean, is located in northern Colombia and stretches along the Caribbean Sea. It comprises departments like Atlántico, Bolívar, La Guajira, Sucre, Córdoba, among others. The popular cities in this area are:
- Cartagena
- San Andrés and Providencia
- Santa Marta
- Barranquilla
- Valledupar
The white sandy beaches and warm waters of the Caribbean coast are ideal for beginners.
Pacific Coast
The Pacific Coast is located in southwest Colombia and stretches along the Pacific Ocean. It comprises departments like Chocó and Valle del Cauca. The most well-known cities in this area are:
- Buenaventura
- Tumaco
- Quibdó
- Nuquí
- Bahía Solano
The Pacific coast boasts powerful and challenging waves that attract more experienced surfers.
Best Places to Surf on the Colombian Coasts
In this section, you’ll discover the most spectacular places to surf in Colombia along the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these sites offer you an unforgettable surfing experience.
Each beach has a wave difficulty level explained below:
- Moderate: The maritime area of the beach is calm and has no significant changes related to waves, rain, and winds. To surf there, you don’t have to be an expert. It is suitable for all ages.
- Intermediate: The maritime area of the beach has slightly more challenging waves and significant changes related to waves, rain, and winds. To practice surfing there, you must have knowledge of the subject. It is not suitable for people with mobility issues or children under 8 years old.
- Difficult: The maritime area of the beach has intense waves, and knowledge and experience are required to surf there. It is not suitable for people under 15 years old, pregnant women, or people with mobility, heart, or lung problems.
Nuquí
Nuquí, located on Colombia’s Pacific Coast, is a hidden treasure that combines black sand beaches, tropical jungles, and astonishing biodiversity. This remote place is a paradise for surfers looking for challenging waves and nature lovers because, for example, it is possible to spot humpback whales at certain times of the year.
How to Get to Nuquí
To reach Nuquí, you can take two routes:
- By air: flights from Quibdó or Bahía Solano take 40 minutes, or from major cities, you have to make a connection in Medellín, which has direct flights to Nuquí.
- By sea: from Bahía Solano by boat takes 2 to 3 hours, or from Buenaventura by fast boat takes about 8 hours.
Surfing at Playa Terquito
Location: southwest of Nuquí.
Difficulty: moderate. Its waves are gentle and there are no strong winds.
It is a beach with dark sand and abundant jungle nature in its surroundings. This beach is characterized by its cold water and calm waves. From July to October, it is possible to observe humpback whales that come to its waters to give birth. Seeing them is truly extraordinary!
Surfing at Playa Pico de Loro
Location: it is located 40 minutes by fast boat from the coastal area of Nuquí.
Difficulty: intermediate. Its waves are strong and sometimes very high. This place is ideal if you already have experience or want to learn at a professional level.
Pico de Loro Beach is the favorite spot for both Colombian and foreign professional surfers because of its solitary waves. In fact, this beach is the site of surfers’ meetings and classes. Since 2008, national and international surfing competitions have been held here, such as the ProColombia Latin American Championship and other tournaments organized by the Latin American Association of Professional Surfers.
Something interesting is that the name Pico de Loro was given to this beach because its waves, when they rise, have that characteristic curved shape resembling the beak of a parrot.
Also, you can surf at other beaches like Juan Tornillo, El Chorro, Pela Pela, and Terco.
Recommended Time for Surfing in Nuquí
The wave season runs from April to October. However, the best time for surfing in Nuquí is from May to August, as this is when the best waves roll in, often accompanied by favorable winds.
Surf Schools in Nuquí
Santa Marta
Santa Marta, located on the northern coast of Colombia, is a city that blends natural beauty and history seamlessly. With golden sandy beaches on the Caribbean Sea, the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and the mystical Lost City nearby, this region offers endless experiences. Moreover, it’s an up-and-coming destination for surfing.
Getting to Santa Marta
To reach Santa Marta, you can take a flight from Bogotá or other major cities. The flight from the capital takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can go by bus or car, which takes about 17 hours from Bogotá, covering approximately 966 km (600 miles).
Surfing in Tayrona National Natural Park
Location: Tayrona Park is located a 45-minute drive from the city of Santa Marta, about 16 km (9 miles) away. Of course, you can also take a public bus from the transport terminal.
Difficulty: In this park, there are numerous beaches, each with different difficulty levels. There are beaches with moderate difficulty like Rodadero because of its gentle waves, and others like Guachaca.
Tayrona National Natural Park is part of the sacred territory of four indigenous peoples (Arhuaco, Kogui, Wiwa, and Kankwamo). It covers an area of 15,000 hectares with diverse ecosystems, including beaches suitable for surfing.
Among its beaches, Mendihuaca Beach stands out, perfect for surfing because it receives the waters of the Mendihuaca River, resulting in agitated waves reaching the shore. Moreover, the water at this beach is warm, so a wetsuit is not necessary. Surfing classes are offered here in Spanish, English, and German, and surfboards are available for rental or purchase.
Other ideal surfing beaches include Buritaca, Los Naranjos, Los Ángeles, Casa Grande, and Barlovento.
Recommended Surfing Season in Santa Marta
The best time to surf in Santa Marta is from January to March when the wave intensity is higher.
Surf Schools in Santa Marta
Cartagena
Cartagena, located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is a historical gem and a highly frequented tourist destination in this country. This walled city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transports you back in time with its cobblestone streets, charming squares, and colonial architecture. Additionally, thanks to its extensive beaches, surfing can be enjoyed here.
Getting to Cartagena
To reach Cartagena, you can take a flight from major Colombian cities. For instance, it takes 1 hour and 40 minutes from Bogotá. Alternatively, if you prefer to go by car or bus, the route takes about 19 hours from Bogotá, covering approximately 1,039 km (645 miles).
Surfing at Playa Blanca
Location: Playa Blanca is located 1 hour from the city of Cartagena, about 35 km (21 miles) away. You can take a bus or drive there.
Difficulty: Moderate. Its calm waves make it ideal for beginners.
Playa Blanca is known for its gentle waves that reach the shore. It also hosts events related to sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing.
This beach is perfect for learning the sport or practicing at a basic or intermediate level. The water has a blue-green color, and the sand is clear. The sea at this beach is warm.
Recommended Surfing Season in Cartagena
According to the specialized surfing website, Surferrule, the best time for surfing is from December to January when waves can reach up to 3 meters.
Surf Schools in Cartagena
La Guajira
La Guajira, located in the northern corner of Colombia, is a unique territory with a desert landscape, pristine beaches, and a vibrant indigenous culture. This region is renowned for its stunning peninsula, stretching out into the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Venezuela. Here, surfing enthusiasts can revel in places like Cabo de la Vela, where the waves and winds are ideal for practicing this sport.
Getting to La Guajira
To reach La Guajira, you can take a flight from numerous cities in Colombia. For example, it takes 1 hour and 30 minutes from Bogotá. If you prefer to go by bus or car, the route from Bogotá covers about 1,024 km (636 miles), taking approximately 18 hours.
Surfing at Playa Palomino
Location: Playa Palomino is located 2 hours and 40 minutes by car from the center of La Guajira, about 160 km (99 miles) away. You can also reach it by bus.
Difficulty: Intermediate. The waves are constant during certain seasons, and the winds can be varied. This beach is the perfect place to advance your skills and practice.
Palomino, situated on the border of La Guajira and Magdalena, offers excellent surfing conditions between January and March when currents are favorable and winds are less intense. With its stunning white sand and deep blue waters, it’s also perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.
Several surf schools are available in this municipality for both beginners and professionals.
Surfing at Cabo de la Vela
Location: It is located 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Uribia, the capital of La Guajira department. You can also get there by bus.
Difficulty: Intermediate. The waves are usually calm, and for most of the day, the winds are gentle. However, they can become intense.
Cabo de la Vela is known for being a popular destination for surfing because it offers areas with softer waves suitable for beginners to more challenging breaks for advanced surfers. There are options for everyone. Surfing in this location provides a unique experience due to its natural conditions and beauty.
In addition to conventional surfing, Cabo de la Vela is a popular destination for kitesurfing due to its strong winds. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, this can be another exciting activity to enjoy in the area.
Recommended Surfing Season in La Guajira
The best time to enjoy surfing in La Guajira is from March to May when the waves are higher and reach the beach.
Surf Schools in La Guajira
Puerto Colombia
Puerto Colombia, situated on Colombia’s Atlantic coast, is a charming coastal town known for its relaxed atmosphere and rich history. Popular among locals and tourists alike, it offers stunning sea views and a refreshing ocean breeze. While not traditionally famous for surfing, the area has seen a growing surfing scene in recent years.
Getting to Puerto Colombia
Puerto Colombia is close to Barranquilla, approximately 25 minutes by car, covering about 19 km (11 miles). You can also arrive by bus or other public transportation.
Surfing at Playa Salgar
Location: It is located 10 minutes from downtown Puerto Colombia, very close by car, about 4.2 km (2 miles). In fact, you can go by bus, or if you walk, it’s almost a 2-hour walk.
Difficulty: Intermediate. It is a very touristy beach with intermediate and consistent waves.
This beach is perfect for visiting with family and friends as there are kiosks and stalls. The water is somewhat cold and has a blue-greenish color. Likewise, at this beach, you can find solitary waves that are a lot of fun for surfing.
Recommended Surfing Season in Puerto Colombia
The best time for surfing in Puerto Colombia is from November to March and from July to September due to the intensity of the waves and the constant winds characteristic of those seasons.
Surf Schools in Puerto Colombia
Barranquilla
Barranquilla is a major city on the Atlantic coast of the country. Although Barranquilla is not primarily a surfing destination, the city offers a varied range of cultural, sports, and entertainment experiences. Moreover, surfers can find opportunities to surf on beaches near Barranquilla.
Getting to Barranquilla
To get to Barranquilla, you can take a flight from many Colombian cities, including Bogotá, which takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. Similarly, you can go by bus or car, and the journey takes 18 hours from Bogotá, covering about 1,008 km (626 miles).
Surfing at Playa Pradomar
Location: It is located 27 minutes by car from Barranquilla, around 19 km (11 miles) away. Likewise, you could take a bus.
Difficulty: Difficult. This beach has intense waves and is frequented by experienced surfers.
Pradomar Beach is popular for being an ideal place for surfing tournaments, such as the National Surfing Championship, and for other water sports. Its waves are strong, and the water is somewhat foamy. In this area, the water is warm and has a dark blue-green color.
Recommended Surfing Season in Barranquilla
In Colombia, 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.
Surf Schools in Barranquilla
Safety Tips for Surfing in Colombia
Here are some tips for surfing in Colombia to avoid setbacks:
- Research the Time of Year: The time of year can influence wave and sea conditions in Colombia. The best surfing season on the Caribbean Coast is from December to March, while on the Pacific Coast, it’s from April to December. However, research the specific best time for the site you’re visiting before your trip. Surf Forecast is an ideal website for this.
- Bring Surfing Equipment: Make sure to bring the appropriate surfing equipment with you, such as surfboards, wetsuits, and other essential accessories. If you’re a beginner, research the necessary items.
- Respect the Rules and be Cautious: Follow local regulations and respect the surf culture at each destination. Avoid entering the water where not recommended and refrain from attempting complex maneuvers if inexperienced. Exercise caution when releasing the surfboard to prevent accidents.
- Familiarize Yourself with Water Conditions: Before getting into the water, familiarize yourself with local conditions and currents. Stay updated on the weather forecast and tide warnings. Learn to read waves and currents to position yourself correctly and catch the best waves.
- Take Care of the Environment: Contribute to the preservation of the ecosystems you visit.
- Pick up your trash.
- Don’t step on or damage coral reefs or marine life.
- Avoid touching or disturbing local fauna.
- Engage in sustainable tourism, essential for the conservation of beaches and oceans.
- Explore Different Destinations: Colombia has a wide variety of surfing destinations. Don’t limit yourself to just one place. Explore different beaches and experience the diversity of waves and landscapes that the country has to offer.
- Take Care of Your Belongings Outside the Water: Keep your belongings safe on the beach. Don’t leave valuables unattended and use lockers or safes if available.
- Learn from the Local Culture: Don’t just focus on surfing. I suggest you explore the local culture and cuisine, immerse yourself, and enjoy the everyday life of coastal communities.
What to Bring for Surfing in Colombia
To surf safely in Colombia, I advise you to bring the following items:
- Surfboard or you can rent at surf schools
- Wetsuit
- Rashguards
- Eco-friendly wax
- Surf hat
- Sunscreen
- Earplugs
- Towel
- Beach shoes for walking on the beach
- Waterproof bags for your valuable belongings
- Board repair kit
- First aid kit
- Whistle
- Cash
- Identification documents
- Water and high-calorie snacks.
More Nature Tourism Experiences in Colombia
Here is a list of incredible destinations for hiking and other nature activities in Colombia:
- The Best Hiking Routes in Colombia.
- The Most Representative Flowers in Colombia.
- Cacao Guide in Colombia.
