BEST SURF SPOTS IN MEXICO

Scorpion Bay

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Lovers Shore Break

Lovers Shore Break - Cabo San Lucas This beach break features powerful, hollow waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. It is known for its heavy closeout barrels, making it unsuitable for beginners. The spot works well at all tides, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides, particularly with swell from the Northwest, West, Southwest, and South. Accessing Lovers Shore Break requires a water taxi from town, followed by a short 5-minute walk to the Pacific side. Bargaining for a taxi fare is common, especially near the marina. While the beach is public, surfers should be cautious of rips, undertow, and the presence of sharks. The crowd is typically sparse during the week and on weekends, allowing for a more enjoyable surfing experience. For those looking to explore further, Solmar Beach is a short walk around the rocks.

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Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta - Mexico Puerto Vallarta features a sandbar wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom. The wave is known for its hollow and fast characteristics, making it suitable for experienced surfers. It is accessible from the Camino Real hotel, with instant access to the beach after a short walk. This spot is best during hurricane season when swells are larger than those at nearby Sayulita. The atmosphere is relaxed, with minimal crowds due to restricted access. The wave can be quite heavy, so caution is advised as it can dump hard on the sand. Ideal conditions occur with southeast, east, or northeast winds and northwest, west, or southwest swells, working well at all tides. Puerto Vallarta offers a unique surfing experience, especially when the conditions align perfectly.

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Carrizalillo

Carrizalillo - Puerto Escondido, Mexico Carrizalillo is a beach break featuring both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. Located at 15.8587° N latitude and -97.0790° W longitude, it is a good spot for beginners, offering fun waves. Access requires a short walk of 5-15 minutes, and the beach is publicly accessible. Nestled in a picturesque bay, Carrizalillo is framed by palm-frond palapas, creating a mellow atmosphere ideal for surfers of all levels. The waves can vary with swell conditions, leading to a mix of crowd sizes, particularly during peak seasons in spring, summer, and autumn. While the vibe is generally relaxed, respect for local surfers is encouraged. The beach is clean and welcoming, making it a great place to enjoy a day of surfing. Be prepared for a few steps down to reach the beach, but the scenic views and fun waves make it worthwhile.

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Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido (Mexican Pipeline) - Oaxaca, Mexico Puerto Escondido features a powerful beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by hollow and fast conditions. The bottom consists of a mix of reef and sand, making it a challenging spot for surfers. Access is instant, with public access available, but the waves can be difficult to paddle out due to strong currents and rips. Known as the "Mexican Pipeline," this surf spot attracts both professionals and travelers, particularly during the spring to autumn season when conditions are most consistent. The atmosphere is vibrant and crowded, especially on weekends, with a strong local presence. Surfing here requires attentiveness, as waves often close out, and a high skill level is necessary for larger swells. Early morning sessions are recommended to avoid onshore winds. Be prepared for a challenging paddle out and respect local customs while enjoying the thrilling surf experience.

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Horace Caldwell Pier

Horace Caldwell Pier - Port Aransas, Texas Horace Caldwell Pier features sandbar waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. The spot is accessible with instant access (<5 min walk) and ample parking available. It works best at low and mid tide during rising and falling tides, providing consistent conditions for surfers. Located in Port Aransas, this surf spot is favored by locals and offers a friendly atmosphere. While the waves can get crowded near the pier during peak times, moving away from the pier allows for more space to catch rides. The best seasons to surf here are late summer to fall and late winter to mid-spring. With a few surfers on weekdays and weekends, it’s an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a solid surf experience while respecting the local lineup.

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Escolleras

Escolleras - Tampico, Mexico Escolleras features a beach break with both right and left waves, predominantly sandy bottom. The spot is known for its powerful and fun surf, particularly during winter and fall when swells can reach up to 1.8 meters. Spring brings south winds, offering occasional 0.6 to 1.2-meter waves, while summer tends to be less consistent. Located in Tampico, Escolleras is easily accessible, with instant access from the beach. The spot is best during mid tide with rising tide conditions. While weekdays see few surfers, weekends can become ultra crowded. Surfers should be cautious of rips, undertow, and man-made hazards like buoys. Overall, Escolleras is regarded as one of the best surf spots in the Gulf, providing a friendly atmosphere and excellent waves in the right season.

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Chen Rio

Chen Rio - Cozumel, Mexico Chen Rio features powerful reef waves breaking both right and left over a sharp coral and rocky bottom, with sand patches. The spot is known for its fast and ledgey waves, making it one of the most thrilling surf locations in Cozumel. Access is instant, with a short walk from the coastal highway. This surf spot is located along the southern coast of Cozumel, surrounded by cliffs and natural beauty. The area is relatively undeveloped, providing a serene atmosphere. However, surfers should be cautious of strong rips and shallow coral at low tide. The best conditions occur at mid to high tide with falling tide movement, and the waves are ideal when the swell comes from the northwest, west, or southwest. While the spot is often empty during the week, it remains a challenging environment due to potential dangers like urchins, rocks, and undertows. Strong swimming skills are essential for safety.

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Playa Delphine

Playa Delphine - Mexico Playa Delphine features fast sandbar waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. Located in front of the El Pueblito beach resort, it offers instant access within 5 minutes, making it a convenient spot for surfers. This surf spot works well at all tides, with optimal conditions when the swell and wind come from the southwest or southeast. During the week, the beach is typically empty, while weekends see a few surfers. However, caution is advised due to the presence of rocks. With its prime location in the Cancon hotel zone, Playa Delphine is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced surfers seeking a less crowded experience.

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Playa Los Cerritos

Playa Los Cerritos - Baja California Playa Los Cerritos features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking on a soft, sandy bottom. The spot works at all tides and is best with northwest swells. Access is straightforward, just turn off Mex 19 and head west for 5 km to the beach. This surf spot is known for its fun and easy waves, making it suitable for intermediate surfers. While it can attract a crowd during peak season, weekdays typically see few surfers. The ideal wind direction is from the northeast, which helps maintain clean conditions. The beach offers a scenic backdrop, with options for various skill levels, although the more challenging waves may appeal to more experienced surfers. Overall, Playa Los Cerritos provides a great environment for those looking to enjoy a day on the water.

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Punta Custodio

Punta Custodio - San Blas, Mexico Punta Custodio features a rivermouth wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom. The waves are characterized as fast and fun, making it suitable for various skill levels. This surf spot works at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements. Accessing Punta Custodio requires a journey of over an hour from San Blas, with options including a private resort path or a trek through the woods. The beach, Playa Tortugas, offers instant access within 5 minutes. The spot typically sees few surfers during the week and on weekends, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. However, be cautious of rips and undertow, which can pose dangers. Overall, Punta Custodio promises an amazing surfing experience in a beautiful setting.

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Fish Pass Jetties

Fish Pass Jetties - Corpus Christi, Texas Fish Pass Jetties features powerful sandbar waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. This spot is accessible via three routes: off-road from the main highway (4WD needed), through Mustang Island State Park (entry fee required), or via a public access road to the north. It works well at all tides, but caution is advised due to rocks in the area. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Fish Pass Jetties attracts a friendly crowd, primarily longboarders. While the jetties have silted up, they still offer some protection from strong north and south winds. The best surf conditions typically occur in late summer and fall, as well as from late winter to mid-spring. Although it may not be the premier surf destination on the Texas coast, it can provide enjoyable rides when conditions are favorable, making it a worthwhile stop for surfers seeking a relaxed vibe.

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Chacahua

Chacahua - Mexico Chacahua features a right-point break over a sandy bottom, offering ordinary power waves. The spot is best accessed via a local ferry or lancha boat, with optimal conditions occurring at low and mid tide during a falling tide. Expect a crowded lineup during the week and ultra-crowded weekends. Nestled within a national park, Chacahua is surrounded by estuarine lagoons, providing a unique and laid-back atmosphere. While the surf can be inconsistent, various beach peaks are available for exploration. The local community is small and welcoming, but basic accommodations are the norm, with options like Cabanas Piocho or free camping available if you purchase food and drinks. Be prepared for strong rips and localism, and respect the local culture by learning some Spanish. This spot is ideal for adventurous surfers seeking a chill experience away from the typical tourist path.

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Chacala

Chacala - Mexico Chacala is a left point break with a reef bottom, featuring fun waves suitable for various skill levels. The spot works at all tides and is best accessed by boat from the fishing village of Chacala, located approximately 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. This surf destination offers a unique atmosphere, surrounded by nature and away from crowded beaches. While it can get busy, especially on weekends, there are multiple take-off spots to accommodate surfers. The waves provide long rides with mellow take-offs, leading into a racy inside section. However, caution is advised due to sharp rocks and urchins in the area. The nearby Lolas spot, also accessible by boat, presents a mix of waves and rocky reef challenges, making it a worthwhile addition to your surf itinerary if you're in the region.

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La Punta

La Punta - Playa Zicatela La Punta features a left-point break with hollow and fast waves, breaking over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. It offers instant access within 5 minutes of walking and is publicly accessible. The spot typically sees few surfers during the week and on weekends, but caution is advised due to the presence of rocks. Located at the southern headland of Playa Zicatela, La Punta serves as a fantastic alternative when the main break becomes too intense. The waves here are fun and more manageable, appealing to a wider range of surfers. Access is straightforward, whether by foot, car, or bus. While the spot can attract crowds, especially from locals and less experienced surfers, it maintains a clean environment. Late afternoons often provide optimal conditions with lighter winds. Respecting the local vibe is essential, as surfers are protective of their waves, making it crucial to keep a chill attitude while enjoying this versatile surf spot.

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Stoners

Stoners - San Blas, Mexico Stoners features a right point break over a boulder bottom, delivering hollow, fast, and powerful waves. This spot is best during low and mid tide with rising tide conditions, requiring a solid southwest or south swell to break well. Access involves a long walk from Playa Borrego or a rough 4x4 drive from Las Islitas. Stoner’s Point is a classic surf destination known for its challenging access and rewarding waves. The trek involves paddling across a river and navigating a jungle path, so prepare for an adventure. Despite its inconsistency, when conditions align, it offers some of the best waves in the area, attracting a few surfers during the week but becoming ultra-crowded on weekends. The spot has historical significance in the surf community, having been featured in the film "Cosmic Children." Be cautious of local dangers such as urchins and rips, and enjoy the scenic beauty of this unique surf location.

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San Agustinillo

San Agustinillo - Mexico San Agustinillo features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves can be fast and powerful, making it suitable for experienced surfers. Access is instant, taking less than 5 minutes on foot, and the spot is publicly accessible. This picturesque surf spot is located in Mexico, offering a tranquil atmosphere with few surfers during the week and on weekends. While the wave conditions are not fully detailed, surfers should be cautious of rips, undertow, and rocks. The combination of its scenic beauty and manageable crowd levels makes San Agustinillo an appealing destination for those seeking a less crowded surf experience.

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Zippers

Zippers - Costa Azul, San Jose Del Cabo Zippers is a right-hand reef break characterized by sharp rocks and coral, requiring significant swell to perform optimally. The wave works at all tides but is best during rising and falling tides, with ideal conditions arising from a southwest to southeast swell. Expect a fun power level, but only when the swell reaches 8-10 feet. Located just west of San Jose Del Cabo, Zippers is known for its intense localism and crowded conditions, especially on weekends. Access is straightforward with a large parking area nearby, and a quick walk leads you to the surf. This spot attracts experienced surfers, making it essential to be prepared for competition in the water. While the wave can deliver thrilling rides, be cautious of local attitudes and potential hazards like urchins and rips. For the best experience, aim for spring to autumn when conditions align for memorable sessions.

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Punta Conejo

Punta Conejo - Baja California Sur Punta Conejo features a long left point break over flat rocks and sand, ideal for experienced surfers. The waves are best during low and mid tide, particularly on a falling tide. Access is via a dirt road leading to a bluff, with a short walk to the surf zone. This remote surf spot is known for its warm waters and laid-back atmosphere, attracting campers who enjoy the stunning morning sessions. The area offers unique features like tide pools and sand dunes, perfect for relaxation after a surf. Fresh fish can be purchased from local fishermen, enhancing the camping experience. However, caution is advised due to potential flash floods; camping should be done on the bluff rather than the lower sand area. With strong afternoon winds, securing gear is essential. Punta Conejo is a hidden gem for those seeking solitude and adventure in the waves.

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Galveston - Flagship

Galveston - Flagship Flagship features a breakwater/jetty wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom. The spot is known for its ordinary to fun wave power, making it the most consistent surf location in Galveston. It works best at mid and high tide, particularly during rising tide conditions, and is often crowded, especially on weekends. Located at the end of 25th Street, Flagship is easily accessible with paid parking along the seawall. The area has transformed from the Flagship Hotel site into a vibrant surf destination, attracting surfers from cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. While the waves can be mushy, especially due to recent beach nourishment efforts, the stable sandbars near the pier provide opportunities for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced longboarders. Be prepared for a busy line-up and remember to respect local surf etiquette for an enjoyable experience.

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