The Surf Window

Encuentro Beach

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Beach breakIntermediate

Cabarete's local surf beach is a long stretch with multiple beach break peaks of varying difficulty, from mellow inside sections for beginners to hollow, powerful outside bars, one of the Caribbean's most complete surf destinations.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)

Wind

S

Offshore

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

November–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand and reef

Shape

Multiple peaks, outside bars can be hollow and powerful; inside is more forgiving

Length

50–150m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: All levels (multiple peaks)
  • •Why: Something for everyone from the beginners on the inside reform to experts in the outside barrel

Hazards

  • •Reef sections on the outside, booties recommended
  • •Crowded with surf school students in peak season
  • •Strong rips between the peaks on bigger swells

Local Tips

  • •Cabarete is a kitesurfing hub, mornings before the trade winds belong to surfers, afternoons to kiters
  • •The town has an excellent restaurant and nightlife scene, one of the Caribbean's most vibrant small towns

Location

Map showing the location of Encuentro Beach in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

19.7628, -70.4258