The 17 Best Surf Spots in Mexico: The Ultimate Guide
Are you looking for the best surf spots in Mexico? Whether you are a hard-core surfer or a beginner looking to get the thrill of riding a wave for the first time, Mexico has great surfing options for you.
The Pacific Coast of Mexico is filled with great surfing destinations, with everything from world-famous surf spots to empty “secret” local surf areas.
From the northern parts of Baja California down to Oaxaca, you will find great waves and maybe even get to fulfill your dream of surfing in a big tube.
Here is your guide to surfing in Mexico with the best spots for every skill level and what time of year to go.
Brace yourself because this guide will leave you with the urge to get into the water and start paddling out to those waves!
Best Surfing in Mexico at a Glance
The Pacific Coast of Mexico is a surfer’s paradise. As you travel along the coast you will find some beautiful waves and a lot of surfers in the water.
The surf spots on the Pacific Coast offer you a variety of point break and beach break surf spots.
While the best surfing in Mexico is on the Pacific Coast, the Caribbean coast proves that anywhere there is a wave, there will be surfers in the water riding it.
In Cancun and Tulum you will find surfers in the water anytime there are waves. There is no consistent swell in this area, the waves are the result of wind.
The waves are smaller than in the Pacific, but the crystal clear blue water entices surfers to get in and catch a few waves.
Point break vs beach break
A point break is when the wave hits a piece of land, usually a peninsula or part of the beach that extends into the water, and then rolls into shore.
In areas with point breaks, you will find all the surfers catching the wave in the same direction towards the beach, and these waves are pretty predictable.
Beach breaks are when the waves hit the sandy bottom, sometimes on a shifting sand bar, to produce large, surfable waves. Beach breaks can be trickier for new surfers because the peak of the wave is in different spots.
What kind of waves are in Mexico?
There are waves for everyone on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. There are surf spots along the Pacific Coast that draw the attention of pro surfers from all over the world.
These beaches provide some huge waves. Experienced surfers looking to ride a tube can find them here.
Although the Pacific is known for its huge waves, beginner surfers who want to take a surf lesson can trust that their instructors will know where to find some smaller waves that are suitable for beginners.
When is the best time to surf in Mexico?
The best surfing in the Pacific is from May to October. These months are officially hurricane season and bring in some of the biggest, best waves.
Although this is the main surf season, on many of the beaches you can surf all year round. The water off the coast of Baja California in Northern Mexico can drop below 70 degrees in the winter, so if you plan to visit during those months, you should pack a wetsuit.
In the southern and central Pacific states, the water stays warm all year, rarely dropping below 80 degrees.
Most of the major surf areas will have surfboard rentals available, although serious, experienced surfers might be disappointed in the quality and variety of boards available.
Often tourists will sell their damaged surfboards to rental shops that repair and rent them. If you are a surfer who is traveling through the area and wants to get a day of surfing in, you will be able to find a suitable rental surfboard to use.
To make it easier to move between different surf spots it can be helpful to either rent a car or hire a local guide.
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore different surf spots near where you are staying.
In all the major surf spots you can hire a local surf guide who will drive you to great surf spots, some that you might never have found on your own, and help you catch some great waves.
With so many great surfing options in Mexico, it can be hard to pick where to go.
Keep reading for more information on the best surf spots, where to stay, and important information that can make your surf trip the best one yet.
The Best Surf Spots in Mexico
1. Rosarito, Baja California
Rosarito is located just south of the Mexico border with the United States and is a popular tourist destination for surfers of all levels.
California surfers have been visiting Rosarito and exploring the surrounding beaches for a long time.
Rosarito has many different surf spots, some have rocky entrances and huge waves and are for advanced surfers.
Other areas are great for surfers of all different skill levels, including beginners.
A few of the most famous surf spots are Baja Malibu and Rosarito Beach, both of these spots have fast beach break waves.
Calafia Beach is to the south of the town of Rosarito and is a right-hand point break that can have huge waves.
If you are a beginner surfer, Rosario has several different surf schools to help you get up on your feet.
The surf schools Escuela de Surf Locales and Las Gaviotas Surfing Lessons are both highly recommended surf schools.
Most surf schools will provide you with a wetsuit and have surfboard rentals so you can continue to practice after classes are done.
The summer months offer the best surfing in Rosarito when the water is warmer.
Where to stay in Rosarito
Rosarito is a popular tourist destination and has lively nightlife, great food options, and plenty of different lodging options to choose from.
Here you will find luxury hotels to simple, laid-back surf hostels.
If you want a larger hotel that has plenty of amenities and is conveniently located within walking distance to surf spots, check out the Rosarito Beach Hotel and Spa.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that is steps away from the waves, try Robert’s K38 Motel with its laid-back surfer vibes.
2. Ensenada, Baja California
Ensenada is a bit further north from the Mexico border with the United States, but still receives lots of tourists looking to catch a good wave.
Ensenada is considered the birthplace of Mexican surfing and hosted surf competitions as early as the 1960s.
You will find locals and tourists from all over the world surfing in Ensenada all year round. During the winter months, there is a strong swell that creates huge waves.
Although the biggest waves are in the winter, the summer is a popular time to visit. Whenever you decide to surf Ensenada, make sure to pack your wetsuit. Ocean currents can leave the water in Ensenada chilly all year.
Surfers of all levels will find a wave to surf in Ensenada. Beginner surfers can take classes and practice at Playa Hermosa or Stacks.
Intermediate and experienced surfers should check out San Miguel, which is just north of downtown Ensenada and has a strong right-handed point break, and Playa Tres-Emes which is an a-frame point break, meaning you can take the wave in either direction.
Professional surfers can find some absolutely huge waves at Isla Todos Santos. Accessible only by boat, Isla Todos Santos has waves that can reach 20 meters high and is a stop for the Big Wave surf competition.
Where to stay in Ensenada
Whatever type of accommodation you are looking for, you can find it in Ensenada. Ensenada has everything from camping to luxury hotels.
If you are on a budget check out the Deluxe Hostel GGG. If you want a comfortable stay in the city center, you may love Posada El Rey Sol.
👉 Also, read my detailed post on Where to stay in Ensenada
3. Todos Santos, Baja California Sur
Not to be confused with Isla Todos Santos off the coast of Ensenada, Todos Santos in Baja California Sur is located about one hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas.
Here you can escape the crowds that you find in the north, the water is warmer, and the best surf is in the summer.
Todos Santos has great surf spots for intermediate to advanced surfers. Experienced surfers will love the huge waves at La Pastora, which can reach up to three times overhead!
Playa Los Cerritos is popular for hanging out, camping, and catching waves. Playa Pescadero is an a-frame point break where you can get lucky and avoid crowds.
In addition to being a popular surf spot, Todos Santos is a Pueblo Magico and has a great art scene.
Where to stay in Todos Santos
You can find great food and music in this colonial town. If you want to stay in downtown Todos Santos, check out Hotel Casa Tota, which is a charming, renovated hotel. If you are all about surfing, try staying at Pescadero Surf Town.
4. Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur
Located at the southern tip of Baja California, Los Cabos refers to the area that includes San Jose del Cabo y Cabo San Lucas.
This is a popular tourist area for great restaurants, nightlife, great accommodations, and plenty of activities to choose from.
The southern tip of the Baja Peninsula is where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet. These conditions make for some great surfing waves, and this area is popular with surfers.
Here you can find plenty of great waves for intermediate to advanced surfs including Zippers which is a fast right-handed wave that has been the location for many different surf competitions.
Experienced surfers will also love the fast waves at Shipwrecks and Monumentos. Beginner surfers will find plenty of surf schools to choose from, including Line Up and Costa Azul Surf Shop, and intermediate surfers will find great waves to catch at Nine Palms.
Where to stay in Los Cabos
Los Cabos resorts are some of the most beautiful in Mexico and what this beach town is mainly known for is known for beautiful, oceanfront resorts.
If you want to focus on surfing check out MariaMar Suites, which is just a few minutes’ walk to different surf spots.
If you are visiting Los Cabos on a budget, check out the Surf Hostel Cabo “El Riptide” which offers dormitory rooms, a kitchen, and a lounge, and has a great laid-back surfer vibe.
5. San Blas, Nayarit
San Blas Nayarit is an excellent destination for surfers of all skill levels.
Las Islitas and Palomitas are two beaches that offer smooth, long waves that are great for beginners to practice on.
Borrego Beach is a great spot to catch some waves or just relax under a palapa.
Stoner’s Point is a point break that is only surfable in the summer. Surfers who catch this wave will enjoy the longest surfable wave in the world.
The ride is around one kilometer long! Advanced surfers can catch some great waves at Santa Cruz de Miramar, but need to be careful of rocks.
Where to stay in San Blas
San Blas is a small fishing town that now has a growing tourism market. You can stay at simple cabins on the beach with Stoner’s Surf Camp. If you want a relaxing stay in town, try the Hotel Hacienda Flamingos.
6. Sayulita, Nayarit
Sayulita is a small town with a relaxed vibe that has long been popular with tourists. It has located to the north of Puerto Vallarta and has great restaurants, coffee shops, and of course, waves.
Sayulita is a great spot for surfers of all skill levels, but compared to some locations in Mexico offers more options for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Here you will find over 15 different surf spots. Sayulita is also popular for longboard surfing.
The left side of Playa Sayulita in town is great for beginners and the right side offers a point break that is better for intermediate surfers.
The best waves in Sayulita are found in the winter months, from December to April, but you can surf here all year.
Where to stay in Sayulita
If you want to have a luxurious stay in Sayulita, check out Hotel Ysuri Sayulita where you will have a beautiful pool, ocean views, and a modern interior.
If you are traveling on a budget but still want a comfortable surf spot to stay in, try the Hostal Tortuga.
At Hostal Tortuga, you have lovely gardens, a pool, and the chance to meet other surfers and digital nomads.
7. Punta Mita
Located about 15 miles to the southwest of Sayulita, Punta Mita is on a peninsula that marks the connection between the Riviera Nayarit and the Bahia de Banderas.
Since it is on a peninsula, you can always find the wind blowing offshore, creating great waves. Here you can explore a variety of different waves, and there are spots for all levels of surfers.
The waves in Punta Mita can get really big and strong in the winter months. Advanced and pro surfers will enjoy the fast and big waves during this season.
During the winter months, Lighthouse and Bahia will offer big rides. Beginners and surfers who are looking for a fun wave will find what they want in the summer months.
They will enjoy surfing at El Anclote, and intermediates should check out La Lancha for a steep ride in the summer.
Advanced surfers who visit in the summer months will find the biggest waves at Burros.
All levels will enjoy taking rides at Stinky’s, which is located within walking distance from town.
Where to stay in Punta Mita
There are lots of options for great places to stay in Punta Mita. Check out the eco-friendly PuntoMita Suites & Hostal which has a great garden terrace, and is a short walk away from Punta Mita Beach.
Punta Mita has become famous for its luxury hotels, if you want to treat yourself to an all-inclusive try Casa de Mita, located on Playa Careyeros.
8. Mazatlán, Sinaloa
Mazatlán is located across the Gulf of California from Los Cabos and has long been a popular beach destination for Mexican travelers.
Here you will find great food, music, and beautiful beaches without all the tourists that other areas have.
In Mazatlán the waves are the best during the summer months, but you can surf here all year round. There are a variety of different surf spots, and surfers of all levels will enjoy the waves.
Playa Los Pinos, El Camaron, and Bruja are great spots for beginners and Playa Olas Altas has much bigger waves and is better suited for more experienced surfers.
Valentinos is conveniently located in town and makes it a popular spot for surfing.
Where to stay in Mazatlan, Sinaloa
There are tons of accommodation options in Mazatlán, with hotels lining the beach along the main road. If you want to save money and stay in a fun hostel environment, check out Funky Monkey Hostel.
If you want a boutique hotel within walking distance to the historic city center, check out Casa Lucilia Hotel Boutique which has a delicious, authentic restaurant and great views of the ocean.
9. Cuyutlán, Colima
The state of Colima is located to the south of Jalisco. Cuyutlán has long been a sea salt producing area and is a relaxed beach town with black sand beaches.
Cuyutlán is where you will get a chance to see La Ola Verde, which is the name for the phenomenon when the sunset hits the ocean and creates the appearance of a green wave.
The best waves in Cuyutlán can be found from March to November, with the best waves during the hurricane season from June to October.
Cuyutlán offers beach break waves and how good they are each day depends on the wind.
This area is the best for intermediate to advanced surfers because the waves are strong and fast.
Where to stay in Cuyitlan
You can find simple accommodations in Cuyutlán with great views of the ocean, check out San Rafael or Zar Manzanillo for a more budget-friendly option.
10. Pascuales, Colima
Pascuales is for advanced and pro surfers. Pascuales has a river mouth beach break that creates some enormous tubes that can reach up to 30 feet.
Be careful if you go in here, this beach has a reputation for breaking surfboards!
Where to stay in Pascuales
If you are serious about surfing a great place to stay here is Luxurious Surf Resort is only steps away from the famous beach break.
If you are traveling with some friends check out the villas at Pascuales Villas, where they can help you with surfboard rentals, transportation to surf sites, and photographers to get you some great action shots while surfing!
11. La Ticla, Michoacan
If you want to get away from the crowds and find a lesser-visited and yet one of the best surf spots in Mexico, check out La Ticla Michoacan.
Michoacan is the state located to the south of Colima, and here you can find some waves to enjoy without loads of tourists.
La Ticla is located at the mouth of the Oostula River and is a left-handed point break with some big waves.
The waves in this area are typically from 1 to 2 meters high, and winter is the best season to go. La Ticla is best for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Where to stay in La Ticla
La Ticla is a small spot. If you come here to surf you can try to find a room to rent or camp.
Many visitors stay to the north of La Ticla in San Juan de Alima. Check out Brisa Bliss hotel or Hotel Hacienda Trinidad.
12. Troncones, Guerrero
Troncones is a great spot for surfers of all levels. Here you can find a variety of different surf breaks.
Playa Troncones is just three miles south of Manzanillo and is an ideal spot for beginner surfers to get in the water and catch some waves.
Troncones Point is a left-handed point break that everyone can enjoy. If you are looking for a spot away from the crowds, check out The Ranch which is an a-frame beach break.
Longboarders love to surf at La Saladita because it offers a nice, long left-handed point break ride.
You can find everything you need for surfing in Troncones, including a variety of surf shops and surf schools. Winter is the best time of the year to visit, but you can catch a wave here all year round.
Where to stay in Troncones
Troncones Point Boutique Hostel is a great place to stay with beach access and a variety of different types of rooms to choose from.
Troncones Point surf spot is directly in front of the hostel, and they can arrange transportation to further out surf spots if you want. If you want a modern, luxurious place to stay on the beach check out Lo Sereno Casa de Playa.
13. Acapulco, Guerrero
Starting in the 1950s, Acapulco was a favorite tourist destination for travelers, including famous celebrities.
Due to an increase in cartel-related crime, many tourists began to choose locations such as Cabo San Lucas and Cancun over Acapulco.
It has slowly been rebuilding its popularity, especially with Mexican national tourists. Acapulco offers great restaurants, beautiful beaches, and great water sports including surfing and windsurfing.
In fact, Acapulco is relatively safe if you stay in touristy areas by the beach and avoid getting drunk at night or walking in unsafe areas. Read my post linked above to learn more.
Surfers of all skill levels can find the perfect swell in Acapulco. Beginners will find several choices of surf school.
Playa Revolcadero and Playa Bonfil offer great waves for all surfers. Playa Bonfil is a beach break with long waves.
Located north of town, Playa Pie de la Cuesta gives advanced surfers and bodyboarders big waves.
The best time of the year to surf Acapulco is the summer months of April to September.
Where to stay in Acapulco
You can find accommodations to meet any budget and desire in Apaculpo. From luxury beachfront hotels to budget-friendly hostels, Acapulco has it. Wayahnb’al Eco Hostel offers individual cabins constructed of adobe.
Casa Jaguar Boutique Hotel is a small spot located near Playa Bonfil and has a pool, lounge area, and everything you need to relax after a day in the water.
If you want to find a fancier hotel in Acapulco I have got you covered as well.
14. Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
Puerto Escondido is a fishing village that is famous for some seriously big and fast waves.
All surfers dream of being able to catch a huge tube in a place like Puerto Escondido.
The most famous beach in Puerto Escondido is Playa Zicatela.
Commonly referred to as the Mexican Pipeline, in honor of the famous tubes at the Hawaiian Pipeline, the surf break at Playa Zicatela is fast and can produce waves up to 30 feet.
The best waves are found here from May to July.
Playa Zicatela’s waves made Puerto Escondido famous in the surfing world, but there are other great surf spots near Puerto Escondido.
Intermediate surfers will enjoy the left-handed point break at La Punta. These waves are not as big as Zicatela but still hollow and fast.
New surfers can practice their skills at Playa Carrizalillo, which is a cove that is popular with surf schools and beginners.
There are plenty of surf schools in Puerto Escondido that can find suitable waves for all skill levels. The surf season in Puerto Escondido is from March to December.
Where to stay in Puerto Escondido
All along Playa Zicatela, you can find hotels with great views of the surfing action. Check out Villas Carrizalillo for great views of the Carrizalillo cove and a relaxed atmosphere.
Casa Frutas y Verduras is located near La Punta surf spot and has funky cabins and a great on-location restaurant.
15. Barra de la Cruz, Oaxaca
Barra de la Cruz is a small village with a great beach located about 30 minutes from Huatulco in the state of Oaxaca.
This right-hand point break is great for intermediate and advanced surfers. The best waves are from March to October, with the biggest waves rolling in in June and July.
During the off-season of November to February, the waves are smaller and newer surfers could get a chance to take some great rides.
Surfers who visit Barra de la Cruz usually stay in Huatulco. If you plan to surf in this area of Oaxaca it is a great idea to contract a local surf guide, regardless of your skill level.
These guides know the area and can take you to beaches you would not find on your own and help you catch some great waves.
Where to stay in Barra de la Cruz
A great accommodation option if you want to surf this area is Las Palmeras Surf Resort in Salina Cruz. Located near the Punta Conejo surf spot, these cabins are ideal for surfers and they can take you to different surf spots in the area.
If you want to stay in Huatulco check out Cafe Surf which has local surf guides that will show you around the area and help you find the best waves.
16. Cancun, Quintana Roo
Cancun is famous for its white sandy beaches and the water offers plenty of opportunities for great wave action.
In Cancun, you can surf, kitesurf, and windsurf. Here you will not find the huge swells of the Pacific, but surfers can still enjoy catching waves.
The size of the wave here depends on the wind.
The best beaches for surfing in Cancun are Playa Gaviota Azul, Playa Chac Mool, Playa Marlin, and Playa Delfines.
Surfers and bodyboarders can enjoy catching waves in these beautiful blue waters all year round.
There are surf schools in Cancun that you can check out whether you are a beginner looking for surf lessons or you are a pro surfer looking for tips on the location and board rentals.
Good Vibes surf school is one of the highly rated surf schools in Cancun.
Where to stay in Cancun
The Cancun hotel zone has countless hotels to choose from. Surfers who want to stay near the beaches on a budget should check out the Hostel Natura, which offers surf classes as well.
If you are looking for something a bit more upscale with more amenities, but you don’t like staying in an All inclusive hotel, check out the Casa Tortugas Boutique Hotel.
Also check: the best Adult Only all-inclusive hotels in Cancun
17. Tulum, Quintana Roo
Located to the south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum has become a vacation hot spot in recent years. The beach beaches have attracted travelers away from the traditional hotel scene of Cancun.
If you are new to surfing, Tulum is a good spot to take classes. The waves here are much smaller and more manageable than the super swells in the Pacific, and you can surf all year.
Where to stay in Tulum
Tulum has a ton of different accommodations to choose from. Check out Casa Ganesh and Selina Tulum for great accommodations on the main beach, near the waves.
Also check: Where to stay in Tulum
18. Cozumel, Quintana Roo
Last on the list but not least as one of the best spots to surf in Mexico, Cozumel is an island located off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, across from Playa del Carmen.
Similar to Cancun and Tulum, the waves in Cozumel depend on the wind. During the winter months as wind storms blow in from the north, there can be good waves to surf.
During the summer months passing tropical storms can send large swells to the island.
Surfing on Cozumel takes place on the east side of the island, opposite from where the town is located.
The best surf spots are Punta Morena, which is great for beginners and intermediate surfers, and Chen Rio.
Chen Rio is the local surfers’ favorite spot. This is where you will find the biggest and longest waves on Cozumel, but be careful because it has a rocky entrance.
Beginners can take classes or practice at Playa Bonita, which offers mellow waves and plenty of whitewater to practice on.
Surfing in Cozumel is not consistent enough to plan a surf vacation there, but if you are traveling in the area and the conditions are good, you can have a fun day in the waves.
Surfers who come to Cozumel should plan to stay in downtown San Miguel. The Tamarindo Bed and Breakfast is a beautiful spot with newly remodeled rooms, a beautiful garden, swimming pool, and they offer yoga classes on-site.
If you want a budget option, check out the Hostel Auikyani, which is on the main road, across from the ocean, and steps away from restaurants and bars.
Also check: Cozumel Travel Guide
Surf Camps in Mexico
No matter your skill level, spending time at a surf camp in Mexico will help you improve your skills and have a great time. Instructors at surf camps are experts in the local surf scene and will be able to help you find the best waves and make the most of your vacation. Check out these surf camps for your next vacation:
🏄🏽 10-Day Progressive Surf Camp in Sayulita, Nayarit🏄🏽
This 10-Day Surf Camp in Sayulita is ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers. Instructors will cover basic surf theory and water safety, and their focus is always on fun and safety.
Beginner surfers will practice in the white water before advancing onto green waves. This surf camp offers three different accommodation choices, depending on your budget.
When you are not surfing there are plenty of other activities to explore in Sayulita, including snorkeling, hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, and enjoying the great town.
🏄🏽♀️8 Day Budget Surf Camp in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca🏄🏽♀️
The 8-Day Budget Surf Camp in Puerto Escondido is a great choice for any level of surfer.
The instructors will divide students based on skills and maintain a 2:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Guests will stay in comfortable apartments that are within walking distance of the beach and town center.
In addition to surf lessons, this camp focuses on the fitness needed for surfing and will help you improve flexibility and balance.
🏄🏽♂️3-Day Personalized Beginners Surf Camp in Cabo, Baja California Sur🏄🏽♂️
The 3 Day personalized beginners surf camp is a great way for new surfers to pick up skills and enjoy plenty of relaxation time on vacation.
In addition to surf lessons, guests will enjoy making their personalized schedule that can include early morning beach walks and time in town. Guests will stay in a mixed dormitory.
The Best Surf Spots in Mexico: final thoughts
Whether you are a hardcore surfer looking for tubes or a beginner who wants who is excited to start surfing, Mexico has great surfing options for you.
Mexico is a world-class surf destination where you can find some of the best waves in the world. Use this guide to help you decide where to plan your next Mexican surf adventure!
Meet the Author – Adrienne Banka
Adrienne Banka is a Michigander and fell in love with diving at 16 years old. Now she is an island living dive instructor turned brewmaster, turned mom. When she is not in the water she enjoys riding her bike and chasing after her dog and her newborn daughter.