San Mateo
San Mateo is a quality left point break near Manta that comes alive during NW swell events. The wave wraps around a rocky point in a traditional fishing village, offering long walls and occasional barrels.
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Strike Score Breakdown
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (337°)
- Direction range
- 315° - 360°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (112°)
- Offshore range
- 90° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Near Manta. Fishing village.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at San Mateo?
San Mateo works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at San Mateo?
Offshore wind at San Mateo blows from the ESE (112°). Anything in the 90° to 135° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at San Mateo?
San Mateo wants NNW swell (315° to 360°) between 1.2m and 3m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf San Mateo?
The main season at San Mateo is Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. A secondary window runs May, Nov. Best December-April with N-NW swells.
How do I get to San Mateo?
Fly into MEC, then allow about 45 minutes by road. Near Manta. Fishing village.
What kind of wave is San Mateo?
San Mateo is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Secondary: May, Nov
Best December-April with N-NW swells.
Getting There
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