Iztapa
Iztapa is Guatemala's off-the-beaten-path option—a fishing village better known for world-class sailfish than surf, where an uncrowded beach break rewards those willing to venture away from the mainstream. The wave receives the same south swells as neighboring spots but draws virtually no crowds, offering the rare experience of empty lineups in Central America. The fishing town atmosphere provides an authentic glimpse of Guatemalan coastal life, while river mouth sandbars create shifting peaks that change with the seasons. For adventurous travelers seeking solitude, Iztapa delivers.
Iztapa surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (195°)
- Direction range
- 165° - 235°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNE (15°)
- Offshore range
- 330° - 70°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.6m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Fishing village. Mostly used for sportfishing but has surf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Iztapa?
The Iztapa profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.3m and 1.6m 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 Iztapa?
The Iztapa profile uses wind from NNE (15°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 330° to 70°. 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 Iztapa?
The Iztapa scoring profile favors swell from SSW (165° to 235°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 14s. 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 Iztapa?
The main season at Iztapa is Mar-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Feb. Consistent south swells. Also famous for sailfish.
How do I get to Iztapa?
The spot profile lists GUA as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 100 minutes. Fishing village. Mostly used for sportfishing but has surf.
What kind of wave is Iztapa?
Iztapa is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Feb
Consistent south swells. Also famous for sailfish.
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