San Pancho, or San Francisco as it’s also known, is a laid-back surf spot located close to the popular Costa Azul resort. It offers surfers a different vibe compared to California waves, with a friendly local crowd. The beach is not always packed, but you might run into some fellow surfers, especially on weekends. The main attraction is its unique surf break with a fast left-hander off the point and a peak that gets fun right in front of the river mouth.

The surf at San Pancho works best with a southwest swell direction, though it can handle swells coming from the south and northwest, with optimal conditions around 2ft (about 0.6 meters). The waves break over uneven reef and sand, offering a mix of point and beach break style. If you’re looking for good rides, low to mid tides are the way to go. When the waves are on, especially at low tide, they can get hollow and fun, especially for intermediate surfers keen to test their skills. The best wind direction to aim for is east, which helps keep the surf clean.

While you’re out there catching waves, just keep an eye on the rips near the river mouth. They can be tricky to navigate, especially when the tide changes. It’s a great spot to enjoy some surf time, but make sure you’re aware of the conditions. Happy surfing!