Where to surf in the Caribbean: The paradise called “Playa Encuentro”
Wondering where to surf in the Caribbean while avoiding spending an arm and a leg? Surfers’ paradise can be found in Cabarete, Dominican Republic, at Playa Encuentro!
Also known as the best surfing beach in the country, here you will find year-round waves for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers, and a good number of surf schools and other additional services, at prices that are not too high.
However, it is good to know that the best season for pro surfers is from October to March, during the winter season, when waves can reach up to 4-5 meters high. While on the other hand, for those looking for good longboard waves, the best time is spring and summer.
In summer, in fact, the waves are almost always soft and rarely exceed one meter in height, so we are also talking about a great time for beginners who want to experience the thrill of surfing, but without losing their lives!
Me surfing at Playa Encuentro
In questo articolo
Why is Cabarete the perfect place for your surfing vacation?
In October 2021 I arrived in the Dominican Republic almost by accident. After four months of traveling in Central America, including Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Guatemala, I was Googling a Caribbean surf spot. I read about Cabarete, and the pictures of Playa Encuentro beach immediately convinced me. Semi-deserted beaches, giant palm trees, crystal clear turquoise water… Practically a daydream!
Playa Encuentro as seen from above – SOURCE: Google
My plan was to stay there for about a month. After almost two years I am still here. I keep traveling, but something, each time, pushes me to return. And it didn’t just happen to me. I know countless people who came to Cabarete as tourists but then decided to settle here and build a relaxed life away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
The lifestyle of the locals is infectious. Once you experience this endless state of happiness and tranquility, going back becomes difficult.
Surfing in the Caribbean: the Cabarete vibe
Cabarete (unfortunately or fortunately) is not the classic Tamarindo, Bali, or Bocas del Toro-style surf town. So if you are looking for a location filled with Digital Nomads or backpackers, this is not the place for you.
When I first came here, I didn’t know I wouldn’t find the typical surf vibe I was used to, and in fact I didn’t like it at first. Then, as the days passed, something changed within me. There is something magical about this place, which compels everyone to stay and live there.
In Cabarete you will feel super connected to nature. You will feel a new connection with the sea. The warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean will rejuvenate you as you dance through the waves on your surfboard; your lungs will fill with the cool sea breeze as you watch palm trees sway in front of towering mountains, and life will begin to flow more slowly.
Go Pro pic – surfing in Playa Encuentro
What time do you go surfing at Playa Encuentro?
Some people get into the water at 6 am, while some (like me!) never arrive before 9 am. In any case, in Playa Encuentro there is almost always ONLY surfing in the morning because of the wind that characterizes the entire Cabarete area (which is why the small town is also known for being the Caribbean capital of Kite-surfing as well as surfing).
However, there are days when you can go surfing even in the afternoon, and watch as the sun slowly fades behind the beautiful palm trees on the beach. Believe me, it is a breathtaking sight!
Where to surf in the Caribbean: Cabarete Surf Company
Cabarete Surf Company
One of the first people I met in Cabarete in 2021 was Victor Beaton, a legendary surfer from Playa Encuentro capable of making incredible magic with his longboard.
Victor in action on his longboard
We became fast friends; he is one of those good-hearted people who achieve their goals by rising from nothing. Victor’s dream was to open a surf school in Playa Encuentro, and help people from all over the world learn to surf.
In October 2022 Victor’s dream became a reality, and today, thanks in part and in large part to the continued support of his wife Elizabeth, they have together created Cabarete Surf Company, which in just a few months has become one of Cabarete’s most popular surf schools.
What they offer is not just lessons and surfboard rentals, but a true all-around experience. Their kindness and love of surfing will make you want to come back here on vacation!
In addition, Cabarete Surf Company is also a shop that sells all the accessories needed to surf; wax, sunscreen, fins, swimsuits, and more. Finally, they also offer a simulator of a surfboard on which you can practice, and a dedicated area to rest or work (Wi-fi available).
It is important for me to emphasize that I am not telling you Victor and Elizabeth’s story for promotional purposes, i.e., I am not making any money from it. If I recommend you turn to them, it is because they are two great people who can fully convey their love for the ocean, and they deserve all the success in the world.
Victor, Elizabeth, and little Victorio
You can visit their surf school website by clicking here.
What to bring on your Caribbean surfing trip
Although a wetsuit is not necessary, you may be comfortable with a neoprene shirt if you want to surf at dawn, when water temperatures are not yet very high.
I only ever surf in a swimsuit. However, if you have sensitive skin, it is best to wear a T-shirt during your surf session, as the sun is scorching year-round in this area.
In addition, Playa Encuentro is full of sharp rocks full of urchins that love to leave their spines in people’s feet. I surf barefoot, but because I know the spot very well. If you have slippers for the stones, I recommend bringing them with you. However, Victor’s surf school also rents out booties in case you need them.
Conclusion
Although there are several other islands to surf on in the Caribbean, Playa Encuentro is among the best options for two different reasons:
- If you visit the Dominican Republic, in addition to surfing you can do dozens of other activities(click here to read my personalized list) and have a real experience with the locals. I assure you that Dominicans are kind-hearted people, although some will always try to rip you off (as they do throughout Latin America).
- Prices on this island are still not as excessive as Puerto Rico, Martinique or Barbados. Here you will find affordable housing prices, and daily life generally does not cost too much compared to Europe.
If my article caught your attention but you still have questions about Cabarete, you can write me in the comments or send me a private message on my Instagram page, and I’ll be happy to help!
