Summer vacation is wrapping up. Kids are heading back to school, schedules are filling back up, and the beach photos are turning into memories. But here’s the thing — while everyone else is settling back into routine, your best surf trip of the year is still ahead of you.
Winter in Cabarete isn’t the off-season. From November through April, it’s the season.
Why Winter Surf at Cabarete Hits Different
Playa Encuentro sees more consistent swell during these months — ideal conditions whether you’re catching your first wave or working on your pop-up. As a reef break, waves break far from shore, leaving plenty of shallow whitewater close to the beach — perfect for beginners to practice, while more experienced surfers head further out for the real swell.
Why Playa Encuentro Specifically
Playa Encuentro is one of the most consistent surf breaks in the Dominican Republic — a big part of why it’s known as the surf capital of the country. The area has a really laid-back style, lots of Costa Rica vibes on the beach. You can eat right on the beach — a few good restaurant options nearby.
Don’t hesitate to ask us for our local recommendations too. We love suggesting our favorite restaurants and events happening — like the monthly Natura Cabana Market or the Christmas market at Sea Horse Ranch. Dates can change.
Plan Your Winter Trip Now
Winter dates fill up fast, especially with returning students who already know what they’re coming back for. Whether it’s your first wave or your fiftieth, now’s the time to lock in your lesson dates before the season books solid.
Upcoming Event
Kick Off the Season: Master Surf Reunion (November 6–9)
If you’re coming in November, don’t miss the energy of Cabarete’s surf community at the Master Surf Reunion. This friendly competition brings together veteran surfers — aged 35 and up — from the Dominican Republic and abroad for a few days of heats, camaraderie, and celebration at Playa Encuentro. It’s less about fierce competition and more about generations of surfers reconnecting over their shared love of the waves. Whether you’re competing or just watching from the beach, it’s the perfect way to kick off the winter season and feel what makes this stretch of coastline so special.
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