Sipacate
Sipacate is Guatemala's emerging surf destination—a consistent beach break on volcanic black sand that captures the southwest swells powering through Central America while remaining blissfully uncrowded. The wave is powerful for a beach break, with sandbars that create punchy peaks capable of genuine force. The growing scene here attracts pioneers who appreciate the authenticity of pre-development surf travel: basic facilities, genuine local culture, and the excitement of waves that few have ridden. For travelers willing to venture beyond the established destinations, Sipacate offers Central America as it used to be.
Sipacate surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 170° - 240°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (10°)
- Offshore range
- 330° - 60°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.8m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Between El Paredon and Iztapa. Basic facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Sipacate?
The Sipacate profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.3m and 1.8m 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 Sipacate?
The Sipacate profile uses wind from N (10°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 330° to 60°. 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 Sipacate?
The Sipacate scoring profile favors swell from SSW (170° to 240°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, 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 Sipacate?
The main season at Sipacate is Mar-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Feb. SW swell season. Black volcanic sand beach.
How do I get to Sipacate?
The spot profile lists GUA as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 120 minutes. Between El Paredon and Iztapa. Basic facilities.
What kind of wave is Sipacate?
Sipacate is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Feb
SW swell season. Black volcanic sand beach.
Getting There
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