Surfing Guide to Puerto Escondido, Mexico

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf Camps

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/things to know

• Surf spots

Summary

Over the years, Puerto Escondido built for itself nothing less than the reputation of being the Mexican surfing mecca. One of the few places in the world where professional big wave surfers and beginners can both catch waves within the same surfing area.

 
In fact, Zicatela, one of the main breaks in Puerto, is also called Mexican Pipeline due to its massive barreling waves reminding anyone riding them, the Hawaiian type of power.

 
However, that kind of swell only occurs on few occasions during the summer months, from June to August. Any beginner heading down to Puerto in winter, during the low season will have a very pleasant time hiring a board or getting a lesson with a surf school and make their first steps in the ocean.

 
Puerto Escondido has a lot to offer in terms of social life and activities making it a top destination for a complete surf trip.

 

Book a Surf Camp in Puerto Escondido, Starting at US$185

 

When to go

The best time to surf Puerto Escondido, Mexico depends on what kind of conditions you are looking for. November to April will be better for beginners and families looking to hang out in the sun while catching a few smooth waves. May to October will bring bigger waves and weather will be a little rainier.

 

 

 

Surf Camps in Puerto Escondido

Find the perfect surf camp in Puerto Escondido, starting at US$125

8-day Budget Surf Camp in Puerto Escondido
US$450, includes:

• All-level surf camp
• 1 group coach lesson
• 5 semi-private surfing lessons
• 1 surf theory class: Fundamentals of surfing
• Free evening fitness classes
• Surf equipment rental
• Transfer to surf spots
• 7 nights’ lodging

 

 

Where to stay in Puerto Escondido

Browse our interactive map to find your dream place to stay on your surf trip to Puerto Escondido!

 

Best surf hotels in Puerto Escondido

Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel

Punta Zicatela Hotel

Casa Joseph Zicatela

 

 

Getting there

The best way to get to Puerto Escondido is to fly from Mexico City or Oaxaca City straight to Puerto Escondido.

 

Safety/things to know

-Mexico has a fairly high crime rate. Staying in tourist areas is strongly recommended.
-Even if waves are small, beginners should take surfing lessons to make sure they stay safe and make of their experience an enjoyable one.

 

 

Surf spots in Puerto Escondido

Playa Zicatela

Mexican Pipeline as they call it…This beach break is hollow and heavy, especially on medium to large swells. Should be kept for surfers looking to get barreled, nothing else.

Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SSW
Optimal wind direction : NE
 
 

 

La Punta

At the very end of Playa Zicatela is La Punta, a nice left-hand point break that is not as heavy as the beach break and provides a nice set up for surfers who are not so keen for intense wipeouts at Zicatela.
 
Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : SSW
Optimal wind direction : NE
 
 

 

Carrizalillo

The best spot for beginners in Puerto Escondido is without a doubt, the pretty bay of Carrizalillo. Waves here are mellow and perfect for learners to make their first steps.
 
Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Sand
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Any
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : NE
 
 

 

Colotepec

Further down the coast, Colotepec is a beach break and a rivermouth that offers great conditions, usually not as heavy as Zicatela, but still good for progressing.
 
Wave direction : Right and left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : High
Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
Optimal swell direction : SSW
Optimal wind direction : NE