Overview
El Conquistador is a consistent, fun reef peak in the rocky bay in front of the Conquistador Hotel. It has mellow lefts and rights over flat but jagged rock, with the lefts usually the better option.
When it is small, it suits a wide mix of surfers and wavecraft. On a medium swell it can get much better, with faster walls that are better for more experienced surfers.
When It Works
The reef works on northwest through north to southeast swells, with southwest as the optimal swell direction. It is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 3 m / 10 ft.
Autumn and winter are the main seasons, with October to March the best stretch. The spot can work on south swells too.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is east. East and southeast winds are the useful wind notes here.
It can work through the tide, with low to mid tide noted, and a rising tide usually better.
Local Tips
El Conquistador is popular with improvers and intermediates when small, and it attracts tourists because many locals are often surfing other breaks. Expect crowds when it is good, with a lineup that can feel a bit reserved but generally mellower than some nearby spots.
Shortboards, funboards, SUPs, fish, longboards, and bodyboards all fit here when conditions are small enough. Paddling is easy when small, but it can get rippy when bigger.
Watch for rocks on the inside and sharp rock underfoot. There are also reports of sewage discharges through aging infrastructure.
Access
The spot is in front of the Conquistador Hotel. There is beachside parking on Calle Arenas Blancas, with a car park, free parking, and roadside parking available.
