Fast, hollow beachbreak peaks line the black sand shore at El Paraiso, a quiet village on Colima's coast that sits in the shadow of its heavier neighbour Pascuales just across the rivermouth to the south. SW to SSE swell is the engine here, best met with NE to N offshores and a mid tide to keep the sand banks from going slab-like. The wave throws up both rights and lefts, with rights tending to offer a bit more shoulder to work with. Intermediate to advanced surfers will find plenty to sink into on pumping days, and the crowd stays manageable away from the main town peak. Bottom: sand with scattered rocks. Season: March to October. Consistency: medium. Black sand heats fast under the tropical sun, so bring footwear for the walk back up the beach after a long session or your feet will pay for it.
The main break in town draws local surfers and bodyboarders who know what they have. Paddle out with humility and read the pecking order before going for set waves. Peaks scattered up and down the beach offer breathing room when the town break is stacked. Respect goes a long way here.
El Paraiso is a small village, easy to miss if you're not looking for it. No dedicated surf facilities on the beach, so bring water, food, and everything you need. Cheap meals are available in the village itself. Water quality is fair near the town peak. Watch for scattered rocks on the sand bottom, especially at lower tides.
When El Paraiso is not cooperating, Pascuales across the rivermouth to the south fires on bigger S and SW swells, though it demands more experience and nerve. Boca de Apisa to the north offers a thick, fast beachbreak that can deliver quality on a medium swell. Over the state line into Michoacan, La Ticla is worth the drive when the swell has some size and the banks are on.
Forecast by Windy.app
