Matanzas is a mellow surf spot located in Chile, featuring shallow bays and some mini headlands with rocky outcrops. The setup here can be a bit patchy, as it relies on sand to create more organized waves. When conditions align, it’s a laid-back place for surfers who want to escape the crowds, but on average, it doesn’t always deliver the best waves.

The surf at Matanzas works best with a southwest swell and can handle sizes around 3ft (about 1 meter). You’ll find primarily left-point waves breaking over uneven reef and sand. The best time to catch waves is during low tide, especially when the swell is coming in from the south or west. It's more suited for beginners, but as long as it’s under mid-tide, it can keep small crowds entertained. However, be aware that it doesn’t have as much wind protection from the south compared to other spots, which can make it a popular choice for wind and kitesurfers.

While you're at Matanzas, you'll find some surf-friendly places to stay along the beach, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the waves. The East wind is preferable here, which can help improve the overall conditions for a surf session. Even though the spot can be a bit disorganized at times, there’s still a charm to the area that many surfers appreciate.