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By: Jonathan Warren May 1, 2008 It's clear that California is tired of the winter's cold water and Florida is not looking forward to the many flat days of summer. So where can you go that is relatively close by with warm water and most of all, a sure bet of solid, consistent surf? The answer is easy and not exactly a secret, Central America. This region has been an ideal destination of so many surfers for so many years, especially Floridians being only an hour and a half flight away from MIA to SJO. Besides the tropical environment, cheap food, and cervezas, the surf in Central America pumps during the month of May. And with so many various spots from points to reefs to punchy beach-breaks, one is sure to find their nirvana. However, chances are the local rippers aren't too excited about the annual influx of surfing tourist, except for maybe a chance to make some money.

Which country should you go to? Pick any. All of Central America gets good in May as well as the entire summer with storm activity flaring up throughout the South Pacific and throwing down continuous pulses of South Hemi swells. In May, we really start to see vigorous storms develop in the Under World with strong winds pointed a little more towards the north, thus sending swell energy above the equator. Whereas the months before held a fairly zonal pattern with West to East energy - the reason why Chile was April's Best Bet. The Pacific coast is of course the main focus of this Best Bet. However, don't overlook the possibilities that the Caribbean side could offer as consistent trade swell delivers fun surf to many reefs with beautiful clear, blue water. The drive from the Pacific to the Caribbean is not all that far, although it may be difficult to navigate in many areas, but that is part of the fun and adventure! So, rent a 4X4 and explore. Just be prepared to get stuck at some rougher corners of the road and bring some extra cash to pay off the cops. All of Central America gets good in May as well as the entire summer with storm activity flaring up throughout the South Pacific and throwing down continuous pulses of South Hemi swells. Besides the good surf that is so easy to find throughout Central America, there is other things to do as well. Hiking, fishing, canopy tours, running from wild animals in the jungle, waterfalls, off-roading, and getting buzzed on cervezas after the winds have come onshore to name a few. Long-story-short, May will deliver swell and warm water. That's a guarantee. So, what are you waiting for? Book a flight and head down there. Although there is a pretty good chance you will see people you know down there (especially in Costa Rica), there's also plenty of surf to go around. And not to worry, it will be good the entire summer too. Recap of April in Chile This was an average April in Chile. Nothing spectacular, but a reliable run of storms tracking away from New Zealand and towards South America did send in a steady supply of chest to head high plus S to SW groundswells for many areas. Best exposures worked those persistent Southern Hemis for overhead surf through much of the month. There was really no significant NW groundswell in water during April since high pressure shut down most storm production over the east half of the North Pacific. High pressure above the east end of the South Pacific meant generally fair wind/weather conditions for Northern and Central Chile for most of April while spots in Southern Chile were more on the stormy side. --Chris Borg