This is a Jungle surf fantasy come to life
Chances are if you’re a surfer you’ve already heard about the waves at Cabo Matapalo.
They are legendary. Three long, beautiful, right-handed point breaks that fire on south swells. 85°F (29°C) water temperatures. Scarlet Macaws buzzing the lineup. Monkeys swinging overhead on your walk to the breaks. Humpback whales leaping out of the ocean.
Pan Dulce
This is the beach closest to the lodge (5 minute stroll) and features a user-friendly wave that breaks from knee high to double overhead plus. It’s great for beginners and where most of the lessons are taught. Longboard heaven. Extremely long rides possible at over a minute, with very rippable walls and some speedy sections. The outer peak is more advanced. Breaks on a medium tide, but with substantial swell can be surfed at all tides.
Backwash
A hollow wave often described as a “skatepark,” with an inside barrel section. Likes a low tide. Handles size from waist to double overhead plus. Intermediate to advanced surfers. Not for beginner longboards. Shorter than Pan Dulce but much punchier. Caution should be exercised if the swell is over 6 foot. 10 minute walk from the lodge.
Matapalo
Steep walls, barrels, shifty peaks and littered with sharp rocks on the inside—this is an advanced/expert wave. Catches the most swell of the three and works on most tides. You’ll find the better surfers here and positioning can be tough. Sneaker sets can surprise you, and the shoals of rocks at the end of the wave are hazardous. A powerful, challenging wave but also very rewarding if your ability is up to its level. 20 minute (2km) walk from the lodge.