Encuentro
Encuentro is the Dominican Republic's most consistent surf spot—a reef break west of Cabarete that catches winter North Atlantic swells. The setup offers multiple peaks and sections, catering to different skill levels. Mornings are essential: trade winds pick up by 10am and can make surfing difficult in the afternoon. The DR is also famous for kiteboarding, and Cabarete is a hub for both sports. Caribbean surfing with year-round warmth and consistent winter swells.
Encuentro surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (35°)
- Direction range
- 350° - 60°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (210°)
- Offshore range
- 170° - 240°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.2m - 1m
Water temp
27°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Beach access west of Cabarete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Encuentro?
The Encuentro profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.2m and 1m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Encuentro?
The Encuentro profile uses wind from SSW (210°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 170° to 240°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Encuentro?
The Encuentro scoring profile favors swell from NE (350° to 60°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Encuentro?
The main season at Encuentro is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Oct. Winter North Atlantic swells. Trade winds pick up after 10am.
How do I get to Encuentro?
The spot profile lists POP as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 25 minutes. Beach access west of Cabarete.
What kind of wave is Encuentro?
Encuentro is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Oct
Winter North Atlantic swells. Trade winds pick up after 10am.
Getting There
👨👩👧👦Family Travel
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Plan a trip around Encuentro
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