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Surfing in Mexico

By Amy Lambert

Mexico has thousands of kilometres of coastline, meaning that there are many great beaches for surfing, whether you are a beginner or expert. The Pacific coast is really the best area for surfing in Mexico and boasts some of the world´s most famous surfing locations, where annual competitions are held. Some of the advantages of surfing in Mexico include having a good climate all year round, a variety of wave sizes and relatively uncrowded beaches, due to the abundance of space available. However it is essential to do research before planning a surfing vacation in Mexico, as there are also things that you need to beware of. Crime rates are high in some of the surfing areas, so it is generally best to surf in groups, plus there are dangerously big waves and sharks to lookout for!

The area of Baja California, the long peninsula that extends southwards from California, is a very popular area and is easily accessible for Californians, attracting many tourists and surfers all year round. Like the rest of the Pacific coast of Mexico, it gets great waves as there is so much space across the Pacific Ocean for the waves to gather momentum and height. One of the best things about this area is that its beaches are usually not very crowded, especially on weekdays, despite being regarded as some of the world´s best for surfing. Particularly famous is the small island Isla Todos Santos, just off the coast of Northern Baja. It can be accessed by boat from Ensenada, another great surfing spot and is known to have some of the world´s biggest and most dangerous waves, meaning this is only for expert surfers. If you´re looking for waves that are more suitable for beginners, Cabo San Lucas, situated right at the southern point of the peninsula, generally has more gently waves. Check out the beaches El Medano or Costa Azul in San Jose del Cabo if you´re an inexperienced surfer. These areas also have many other attractions, including a variety of other water sports if you don´t want to dedicate your holiday to surfing.

Moving on to mainland Mexico and there are yet more good surfing destinations further south. Puerto Escondido, in Oaxaca, is one of the best known for its huge waves and international competitions are held there in August and November. Here there are two main beaches: from Playa Principal you can take boats to hidden beaches not reachable by land and enjoy fishing at the same time, whilst Playa Zicatela has some of the biggest waves in the world and has been nicknamed the ´Mexican Pipeline´ for its high waves that form tubes. The strong waves from this particular beach have caused serious injury to even professional surfers, so it is no place for beginners. However, there are other beaches in Puerto Escondido that have smaller waves and surf schools for beginners. This area also has good nightlife and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, meaning you´ll have plenty to do in the evenings after a long day riding the waves. Despite the name Puerto Escondido (´Hidden Port´), the area is actually quite easy to access. There is an airport in the city and regular buses going from the centre to the most popular beaches.

The coastal town of Mazatlán is another popular surf destination on the Pacific coast and has plenty to do for even the most active tourists. Along with good waves, Mazatlán also offers many other sports, a year round good climate, a historical town and good nightlife, making it ideal for a family or group vacation. Its most popular beach is Playa Bruja, which boasts great waves, although there are wave sizes suitable for absolutely any level here. Like most of the other surfing destinations in Mexico, there is an abundance of surf schools and rental shops, so you needn´t worry about bringing your own equipment.

Surfing is a great activity to try out whilst in Mexico, as it is one of the world´s best locations, rivalling California and Hawaii. However, caution must always be taken: it is vital to check surfing forecasts before every outing to ensure you won´t be surfing in violent seas or shark-infested waters. Take precautions, however, and you´re guaranteed to have a fun and exciting surfing vacation!

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