Las Ánimas (Copala)

Las Ánimas (Copala) is an exposed river-mouth surf break known for quite reliable waves. Surf forms over shifting sandbars, producing consistent peaks that can break both left and right. Best surfing is tied to winter/early-season conditions, with December highlighted as a particularly good month. One guide also describes summer as offering favored conditions overall, while another emphasizes an afternoon sea-breeze pattern that can change texture later in the day—so morning sessions may be cleaner before winds build. The break is generally good at all stages of the tide, and the most favorable swell direction is described as from the southwest (with some sources also pointing to S/SW). Wave heights are commonly workable in the roughly 1.0–2.5 meter range, with moderate wave power and a peeling wave shape. Safety is a central consideration: rips/strong river-mouth currents are common, and hazards reported include sharks. After heavy rains, check for river debris and be cautious around the river mouth area. The spot is described as unlikely to be too crowded even when surf is up.