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Costeño Beach Surf Camp & Eco Lodge

Costeño Beach Surf Camp & Eco Lodge

Costeño Beach Hostel is a unique refuge on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, near Santa Marta and Tayrona Park. Experience the magic of the beach, the jungle, and an unforgettable adventure. Book Now!

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Surf Camps in Magdalenan

Magdalenan, on Colombia's Caribbean coast, offers a laid-back surf scene with gentle waves perfect for learning. Explore beautiful beaches and national parks while catching your first waves in this tropical paradise.

The Vibe

Surfing in Magdalenan is all about a relaxed and adventurous spirit. The region is home to the stunning Tayrona National Park, where the jungle meets the sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your surf sessions. The surf scene here is less about massive swells and more about enjoying the journey, with friendly locals and a handful of surf schools catering to beginners and those looking to improve their skills in a beautiful, uncrowded setting.

The Waves

The waves in Magdalenan are generally mellow and user-friendly, making it an ideal destination for beginner and intermediate surfers. You'll find a mix of beach breaks and the occasional reef break.

  • Tayrona National Park: This area offers several spots with gentle, rolling waves, perfect for longboarding and learning. The scenery is unbeatable, with lush jungle and pristine beaches.
  • Playa Los Angeles: Just outside Tayrona Park, this reef break can offer some hollower, more challenging waves, reaching up to 2 meters on the right swell. It's a great option for more experienced surfers looking for a bit more punch.
  • Dibulla: This spot has a small wind break that produces consistent 1-2 foot waves. When a weather system rolls in, it can pick up to a fun 3-5 feet, with long rides thanks to the shallow shore break.

Best Time to Go

While you can find waves year-round, the best time to surf in Magdalenan is during the dry season, from December to April. During these months, you'll have consistent trade winds that create clean, organized swells. The rainy season can be less predictable, with onshore winds and choppier conditions, but you can still score some fun sessions.

Who's it For?

Magdalenan is a fantastic destination for beginner and intermediate surfers. The gentle waves and supportive surf schools provide a safe and fun environment to learn and progress. More advanced surfers can find fun waves too, especially at spots like Playa Los Angeles, but it's not a destination for those seeking heavy, world-class barrels. It's more about the overall experience of surfing in a beautiful, natural setting.

What Makes it Special?

What sets Magdalenan apart is its incredible natural beauty and adventurous spirit. You can spend your mornings surfing and your afternoons hiking through the jungle, exploring hidden beaches, and discovering the rich culture of the region. It's a place to disconnect from the crowds and reconnect with nature, all while enjoying some fun waves.

The best time to surf in the Magdalenan department is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This period sees the most consistent swells, generated by the trade winds, creating fun and reliable waves along the Caribbean coast. The conditions are particularly favorable in January and February, offering clean waves and sunny weather, making it an ideal time for a surf trip.

Magdalenan offers a variety of surf spots suitable for all skill levels. Beginners will find gentle, rolling waves at protected beaches like those near Palomino and Dibulla, which are perfect for learning. Intermediate and advanced surfers can find more challenging conditions at spots like Mendihuaca and the beaches within Tayrona National Park, such as Arrecifes and Los Naranjos, which pick up more swell and offer faster, more powerful waves.

The water in Magdalenan is warm year-round, with an average temperature of 27-29°C (80-84°F). You can comfortably surf in boardshorts or a bikini, without the need for a wetsuit. This makes it a pleasant and inviting environment for long surf sessions.

Besides your surfboard, you should pack light clothing suitable for a tropical climate: boardshorts, bikinis, t-shirts, and shorts. A good quality sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential to protect you from the strong sun. It's also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a reliable insect repellent for the evenings. For more information on what to bring, you can check out our packing guide.

The local culture in Magdalenan is a vibrant mix of Caribbean and Colombian influences. The people are known for their warmth and hospitality. The local cuisine is a highlight, with an abundance of fresh seafood. Be sure to try 'arroz con coco' (coconut rice), fried fish, and 'patacones' (fried plantains). For a deeper dive into the local scene, consider visiting the nearby city of Santa Marta, which has a rich history and a bustling food scene.

The cost of a surf trip to Magdalenan can vary widely depending on your travel style. Budget-conscious travelers can find affordable accommodation in hostels and local guesthouses, with daily expenses for food and transport being relatively low. A reasonable budget would be around $40-60 USD per day. For those seeking more comfort, there are several surf camps and eco-lodges available, which you can explore on our Colombia surf camps page.

Magdalenan is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in the main tourist areas and surf spots. However, like any travel destination, it's important to take common-sense precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, keep your valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings. The local communities are welcoming to surfers and tourists, and by being respectful and cautious, you are likely to have a trouble-free experience.

Beyond the surf, Magdalenan is a region of incredible natural beauty. A must-visit is the stunning Tayrona National Park, known for its pristine beaches, lush jungle, and ancient ruins. You can also hike to the 'Ciudad Perdida' (Lost City), a challenging but rewarding trek. The vibrant city of Santa Marta, one of the oldest in South America, is also nearby and offers a glimpse into the region's colonial past and lively present.

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