The Surf Window

Playa Grande DR

María Trinidad Sánchez, Dominican Republic

Beach breakIntermediate

A spectacular, remote beach on the Dominican Republic's wild north coast with powerful, consistent beach break, backed by a dramatic headland and almost completely undeveloped, one of the most beautiful and uncrowded surf beaches in the Caribbean.

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

Shape

Powerful, hollow beach break, can produce excellent barrels on the right sandbar

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: More exposed than Encuentro, the beach break here is more powerful and less forgiving

Hazards

  • •Strong rips
  • •Remote location, nearest town is Rio San Juan, 10km west
  • •Rough road access, 4WD recommended

Local Tips

  • •Playa Grande Golf Course borders the western end of the beach, luxury resort facilities nearby
  • •The beach has no surf infrastructure, bring everything you need

Location

Map showing the location of Playa Grande DR in María Trinidad Sánchez, Dominican Republic

19.8361, -70.0742