Overview
Champerico is a sand-bottom beach break on Guatemala's Pacific coast, where a large pier gives both the sand and the surfers a focus. On a clean, small swell it throws up short barrels before closing out, and the big breakwalls to the north can hold some likeable lefts as well.
When It Works
The banks pick up swell from south through west, with southwest (SW) the best match. Both lefts and rights break here, and the spot is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. It is moderately consistent, so it rewards being ready for the occasional day when everything lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northeast (NE) offshore wind to clean it up. It can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is a friendly, approachable spot for beginners, and the lineup tends to stay fairly quiet. Keep an eye out for rips that can run beside the pier. The local crew are welcoming.
Access
There is a surf school and surf shop on hand, along with a few beach shacks renting older gear. Several cheap hotels nearby make it easy to stick around and wait for those occasional good days.
