Last updated on January 21st, 2024 at 04:01 pm
If you are looking for a surf guide to Puerto Escondido, you came to the right place. In this article, you will find all the information you need to plan your surf trip, including surf seasons, surf tips, surf spots, and everything else you need to know about surfing in Puerto Escondido, Mexico.
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About Surfing in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Puerto Escondido is located in Oaxaca State, in the southern part of Mexico. It has a small Airport, but you can also get here by driving from Mexico City. Amazingly, in Puerto Escondido, this town is all about surfing. Since it was discovered in the late 1950s, it has turned into the Mexican surfing Mecca. Surfers from all over the world come here to face one of the greatest challenges of the surfing world.
You must have heard about the giant waves in Puerto Escondido, as this is one of the most famous surf destinations in the world. “The Mexican Pipeline”, they call it, or “Puerto” in short, but in reality, no words can describe this incredible break.
To surf in Puerto Escondido, you better be an experienced surfer, as this break is no joke. It is exposed to massive south swells that crash on the sandy bottom with frightening power. This is the land of giant barrels, broken boards, and broken bones. However, if you know what you are doing and stretching your limits is what you seek, then surfing in Puerto Escondido is exactly what you need.
Surf Seasons in Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido’s surf season starts in May and lasts till November. Since it is exposed mainly to south swells, the summer months produce the biggest and most consistent waves. Sure, if you come here during winter, you will get some waves, perhaps even good ones, but it will not be the perfect monster you have heard about. Furthermore, when surfing Puerto Escondido, you better wake up early, as between 6 and 10 AM, the light offshore winds create beautiful glassy barrels.
During these summer months, the weather is hot and humid. The water is also warm, so all you need to bring is a pair of shorts and some sunscreen.
Be aware that July and August are the peak months. Therefore, during these months, the swell can be huge and can get up to 20 feet. In fact, these kinds of swells require a different type of board, so that’s the time to bring your gun. Also, you better bring an extra board as they tend to break pretty often.
Surf Spots in Puerto Escondido
Zicatela:
Located right in front of town, in the middle of the bay, this is the famous beach break everybody talks about. Due to the shape of the bay and the shallow sand, the upcoming swells build up to a giant wall and break very close to shore. The drop is steep, and once you make it, you must stay tight on the wall and let it barrel above you. While some barrels show you the exit, others close out on your head. Therefore, to surf in Zicatela, you must be at the top of your game. If that’s not the case, do yourself a favor and go to the other spots before you get hurt.
La Punta:
Walk on the beach about 10-15 minutes to the east corner of the bay, and you will get to La Punta. Unlike Zicatela, this left-hand point break is suitable for all skill levels. The takeoff zone of this break is very close to the rocks, so be aware of that. However, once you make that part of the wave, you get a pretty open wall over a sandy bottom. On a good day, you can get here some 300-meter rides with a few barreling sections. When a big swell hits the coast, this spot can get crowded, as other than the pros, everybody escapes from the monsters of Zicatela. Luckily, this break offers a few different sections, so you can position yourself to catch it along the way.
Playa Carrizalillio:
West of Zicatela, on the other side of the bay, you will find Playa Carrizalillio. This beach is well protected from the swells, so the water is pretty calm. Therefore, Carrizalillio is a beginner-friendly beach, and it is perfect for surf lessons.
Can Beginners Surf in Puerto Escondido?
Surprisingly, Yes!
Although the famous Zicatela Beach is challenging and dangerous, Playa Carrizalillio is the ultimate beginner spot. This is where you can learn and practice your skills in a safe and calm environment. Unless the swell is giant, the last section of La Punta also offers fantastic beginner waves.
In short, surfers of all skill levels can surf in Puerto Escondido.
Surf Camps in Puerto Escondido
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore Puerto Escondido’s surf scene at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones in town:
1. Oasis Surf House – For more details, please click here.
2. Odessa Surf Camp Puerto Escondido – For more details, please click here.
3. Barbarenas Yoga and Surf Retreat – For more details, please click here.
4. Selina Surf Club, Puerto Escondido – For more details, please click here.
5. B Surfer, Puerto Escondido – For more details, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Puerto Escondido
Since surfers from many countries come to surf in Puerto Escondido, it has become a touristy town. Therefore, you will find a wide variety of accommodations of all types. From backpacker hostels to luxury hotels, everything is available.
When surfing in Puerto Escondido, you obviously want to stay as close as possible to the waves. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Selina Puerto Escondido– Selina is set in the quiet area of Zicatela Beach, in the surf town of Puerto Escondido. It features free Wi-Fi throughout the property, an extensive garden with a swimming pool, and a restaurant/bar.
2. Bungalows Zicatela– this small hotel is located in the heart of Zicatela Beach. It has a swimming pool with cascades, a sauna, and a hot tub and offers either rooms or bungalows.
3. Hotel Punta Zicatela– Set closer to La Punta, Hotel Punta Zicatela offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a bar, and a garden. This property boasts family rooms and provides guests with a sun terrace and 24-hour front desk.
For more surf hotels in Puerto Escondido, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Nightlife in Puerto Escondido
Besides surfing, Puerto Escondido offers some good nightlife scenes too. In fact, the main street of town is full of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The main places to visit are Kabbalah, Bar Fly, and La Pina. Keep in mind that the party is up almost every night and lasts till 4 AM, so find the balance with your surf so you don’t miss out on the morning sessions.
Puerto Escondido- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Currency– Mexican peso.
Population– about 50,000.
Calling code– +52.
Time zone– GMT -6.
Pros– incredible barrels, consistent waves.
Cons– the waves at Zicatela are too aggressive for beginners and intermediates.
Conclusion- A Final Thought
To sum up, if you have the skills and the courage to surf in Puerto Escondido, you will get the tube rides of your life here. This is definitely one of the best surf spots in the world, and surfing is a privilege for any surfer. And even if you just ride mellow waves at the nearby beaches, it is still lots of fun. Furthermore, you can check out other fantastic surf spots in Mexico, such as Sayulita or, further north, Cabo San Lucas.
We hope you enjoyed reading this surf guide to Puerto Escondido. Have an awesome surf trip!
