Papagayo surf guide

Papagayo is a surf spot located in the bay at Quintero. It features an uneven reef that creates a long left setup that often barrels over the shallower sections during lower tides. This spot can handle decent-sized swells and has a pretty deep channel, so it usually doesn't close out. However, the waves don't particularly like a southwest wind. Just behind the island, the wave wraps around to an inside reef, which caters to improvers and younger surfers looking to catch some fun rides.

The optimal swell direction for Papagayo is from the southwest, while it can also pick up swells from the south and northwest. The spot works best with swell sizes of around 4ft (about 1.2 meters). The waves break over the uneven reef, offering left-hand rides that can be enjoyable for those who have some intermediate skills. The preferred wind direction is from the east, and it’s best to surf here during low to mid tide for the best experience.

While Papagayo can be a solid spot for surfers, it's worth noting that vibe issues can pop up in the line-up. Consistency scores around 7 out of 10, and crowds can vary. Overall, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings when you're out there.