The 9 Best Beaches for Surfing in Mexico for Beginners

Keen to discover Mexico’s beginner-friendly surf spots? You’re in luck – the country boasts a wealth of options, from Sayulita’s consistent point break to La Punta’s mellow left-handers. But which beaches truly stand out? Plunge into our guide to uncover the 9 best surf spots for newbies, where you’ll find the perfect waves to hone your skills and the essential details to plan your surf trip.

Key Points

• Sayulita, Playa Troncones, and Troncones Point are beginner-friendly surf spots in Mexico with consistent waves and accessible conditions.
• La Punta and The Ranch offer a mix of beginner-friendly and advanced wave options, catering to surfers of all levels.
• Surf schools, affordable accommodations, and transportation options are readily available near the recommended surf spots.
• Seasonal variations in wave height and conditions provide suitable options throughout the year for beginner surfers.
• Safety considerations, including being aware of local surf etiquette and potential hazards, are crucial for a successful surf trip.

Sayulita: Consistent Right-Hand Point Break

Although located in the vibrant Riviera Nayarit region on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Sayulita offers a consistent right-hand point break that caters well to beginner surfers. Year-round surfing is viable in Sayulita, with the largest waves coming from northern swells in the winter and southern swells starting in the spring and continuing through the summer.

With waist-high to overhead waves, a mix of sand and rock bottom, and favorable conditions at mid-tide, this spot provides a forgiving environment for those just starting out. Its south sandbar section, in particular, features mellow lefts and a sandy bottom, making it an ideal learning area. Sayulita is widely recognized as one of Mexico’s epic surf spots for those seeking the perfect balance of sun and waves. Complemented by nearby surf schools, Sayulita’s beginner-friendly characteristics and year-round consistency make it a prime choice for surfers looking to hone their skills along the Mexican coastline.

La Punta (Puerto Escondido): Left-Hand Point Break

Located at the southern headland of Playa Zicatela in Oaxaca, La Punta offers a left-hand point break that caters to surfers of all levels. The current wave height is 4.3 FT. This spot features mellow sections and occasional barrels, with the best swell period ranging from 13-18 seconds. While the crowd can be heavy, especially during peak season, the break handles onshore winds better than Puerto Escondido’s main break.

The water is consistently warm, and the visibility is generally clean, with turquoise hues. The hidden charm of La Punta is part of what makes Puerto Escondido such an alluring destination for surf enthusiasts. Although the local vibe can be aggressive, the long paddle-back and presence of less-experienced surfers make this an ideal spot for improving your turns on long, fast walls.

Playa Troncones: A-Frame Beach Break

Framed by the lush Sierra Madre mountains, Playa Troncones offers a mix of consistent wave types during different seasons. The area boasts A-frame beach breaks, though not as prominent as other spots. Waves typically range from 2-4 feet in winter to 4-6 feet in spring, suitable for multiple swell directions.

Tidal changes affect wave pitch, while rocky outcrops create sandbars that form consistent peaks. Known for being less crowded, the beach is relatively accessible, attracting legendary local surfers.

While not recommended for beginners due to the rocky terrain, Playa Troncones provides diverse conditions for improving skills with expert guidance and a relaxed, supportive surf culture.

Troncones Point: Left-Hand Point Break

Just a short distance from the consistent A-frame beach breaks of Playa Troncones, you’ll find Troncones Point – a left-hand point break that’s a prime spot for beginner surfers.

Situated near a scenic coastal village, the spot is easily accessible by car or bus. The waves typically range from 2 to 5 feet, offering a relaxed ride with a swell period around 15-17 seconds.

With warm water temperatures year-round and light offshore winds, Troncones Point is surfable about 67% of the time, making it less crowded than other Mexican surf spots.

Nearby resorts and surf schools provide accommodations and equipment, while La Salidita and Saladita offer additional surf spots for more experienced riders.

The Ranch: A-Frame Point Break

Though situated north of the consistent beach breaks at Troncones, The Ranch offers a compelling alternative for beginner surfers.

Located in Guerrero, Mexico, this spot features an A-frame point break with a boulder bottom, providing both left and right waves. The main attraction is the left point break in front of Los Amigos restaurant, offering semi-hollow waves suitable for long rides.

The area’s remoteness and minimal local surfers make it an appealing destination, despite its proximity to Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa Airport.

The Ranch’s laid-back atmosphere and responsible development preservation efforts create an unspoiled surfing haven for those seeking an uncrowded, natural experience. Unlike Mazatlan surf spots, The Ranch provides a more secluded experience for beginners looking to develop their skills away from crowds.

Optimal Swell & Seasons

To surf the best waves in Mexico as a beginner, understanding ideal swell conditions and seasonal variations is essential.

Swells from the south or southwest create consistent waves, while distant groundswells offer both left and right waves. Spots like Asuncion Bay provide consistent beach breaks, with smaller swells in the dry season suitable for beginners and larger swells in the rainy season better suited for advanced surfers.

Be cautious of rip currents and other hazards. The Pacific coast offers varying conditions, with morning sessions and mid to low tides often providing the best surf.

Beginner-friendly spots include Punta Mita, Sayulita, and Nexpa. Mexico’s top surfing beaches offer gentle, forgiving waves perfect for those just starting their surfing journey.

Nearby Surf Schools & Accommodations

Many surf schools and accommodation options are available near the best beginner-friendly surf spots in Mexico. Surf schools often offer lessons, rentals, and packages that include lodging. Nearby surf spots often have local surfers and guides to assist with trips. Accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury resorts, with some offering amenities like yoga, pools, and communal dining. Surf camps provide a community vibe and activities beyond just surfing.

Many locations, such as Sayulita and La Punta, are known for their beginner-friendly waves and nearby surf schools. Regardless of your budget or experience level, you can find the perfect combination of instruction and lodging to suit your needs.

Safety & Crowd Conditions

Safety and crowd conditions are important factors to take into account when surfing in Mexico, especially for beginners. Crime rates vary, with beach towns generally safer than major cities, but thefts and pickpocketing are common at night. Avoid urban areas after dark, as gang and drug-related crimes are prevalent. Local hotel staff can provide real-time safety updates. Mexico’s diverse geography provides year-round surfing opportunities across various locations, with a variety of wave types catering to different skill levels, although surf spots can become crowded as popularity increases.

Emergency services may be limited in remote beach areas, so be prepared for incidents like stingray or jellyfish stings. When visiting popular tourist destinations like Riviera Maya, maintain peace of mind by staying vigilant and keeping valuables secure in your accommodation. Avoid solo surfing, especially in hazardous spots with strong currents and volcanic rock. Beginner-friendly beaches like Playas de Tijuana and Sayulita offer manageable crowds and consistent, smaller waves, making them ideal for learning.

Access & Transportation

Mexico’s well-developed highway system, including those along the coasts of Baja and the mainland, facilitates easy access to surf spots. Roads are generally decent, though potholes and police checkpoints are common. The country offers low living costs, making it an attractive destination for surfers. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring surf spots, while colectivos (minivans) provide an affordable way to travel between towns, though less suitable for surfboards. Some regions require hiring local guides, which can be beneficial for maneuvering rules and finding the best spots.

For safety purposes, always travel during daylight hours to avoid potential security risks on unfamiliar roads. Planning your route using maps, considering toll roads, and opting for surf camp packages can simplify transportation. Whether by private vehicle, moped, or walking, managing your surf gear through specialized bags and local support is essential for a successful surf trip in Mexico.

Final Words

Mexico’s surf spots offer beginners a wave of opportunities. Whether you’re carving Sayulita’s point break or riding Troncones’ A-frame, these beaches provide the perfect canvas to hone your skills. With consistent swells and beginner-friendly conditions, you’ll be hanging ten in no time. So pack your board, lace up your booties, and get ready to conquer Mexico’s surf paradise.