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Surfing in Mexico: 3 Best Spots + Tips You Should Know!

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Surfing in Mexico: 3 Best Spots + Tips You Should Know!
You must agree, surfing is an incomparable sport in a league of its own. That's why so many people flock to beaches around the world in search of epic waves. If you're looking for a terrific surfing destination, I would highly recommend Mexico. In this guide, I'll explain why!
Josh Ellery
Contributor
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Josh fell in love with solo travel in 2019 and has spent a large majority of his time traveling southeast Asia and other parts of the world. This led to a passion for writing which allowed him to share all of his experiences with the world. Josh will continue to travel until he is older and plans on visiting as many countries as possible.

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Not everyone is a pro surfer, so before arriving in Mexico, it's important to know which beaches to go to for surfing at. This list is handy for all experience levels. Rest assured, you'll find plenty of beaches for the best surfing in Mexico that are beginner friendly!

culture, and of course, the incredible beaches. Now when it comes to surfing, it's quite clear why Mexico is seen as one of the leading countries to enjoy this fascinating hobby. The Pacific coastline in Mexico stretches over 4,500 miles, making it a haven for surfers.

Why Is Mexico Good for Surfing?

Mexico is a unique place with tons of things to do, including surfing. I know I've said it several times in this article, but let me explain! It's not just the fact that you can surf here year-round – that's only a small aspect.

Mexico is hot pretty much all the time, and the weather is impressive for most months of the year. When you combine this with the fact that there are beaches for all experience levels, it adds the final piece to complete the surfer’s paradise puzzle.

You must understand that there are few countries with such a wide variety of surfing beaches as Mexico. If you're an expert, feel free to head for the big waves at Pascuales, Colima. On the other hand, beginners can enjoy more chilled-out waves at Sayulita, Nayarit.

Mexico is an enjoyable location for any kind of surfer, so you shouldn't be intimidated about coming here as a newbie. This is what truly makes it one of the best places for surfing.

green surfboard on the beach
Photo by José Pablo Domínguez on Unsplash

General Surfing Safety Tips

Before exploring Mexico and all its surfing potential, it's important to discuss safety and how to remain safe while surfing. There's a reason this popular hobby is known as an extreme sport. You can quite easily injure yourself if you aren't aware of the dangers.

The easy-to-follow rules listed below should help you stay as safe as a newbie or expert while riding the waves:

  • Learn how to swim well first 
  • Always start at the easiest beaches
  • Surf with someone more experienced than you
  • Buy travel insurance before your first surf
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Wear sunscreen to limit your exposure to the sun
  • Avoid large waves as much as possible 

What to Pack for Your Mexico Surfing Trip

Before going ahead with your surfing trip to Mexico, you should consider the items to take with you. The good news about surf schools in Mexico is that the majority of them provide equipment such as surfboards that you need.

Academies like Oasis Surf School and AMS - Mexican Surf Academy also have their shop where you can buy equipment from. But, if you're with an experienced friend and would like to venture alone, here's a full list of equipment and gear that you should bring:

colorful wooden surfboards on brown field
Photo by Logan Easterling on Unsplash

3 Spectacular Beaches in Mexico for Surfing!

If you're in the market for the best surfing spots in Mexico, these would be my top picks.

3. Playa Sayulita, Nayarit

As a novice, to get the best surfing in Mexico, the most important aspects that make a good beach are predictable and smaller waves. Playa Sayulita in Nayarit not only offers this but much more to complete your surf quest.

Besides the beginner-friendly waves, the beach is typically less crowded here, especially compared to the more popular Mexican beaches for Tulum surfing, such as Playa Paraiso in Tulum.

Less crowded water means more space and ultimately less stress. This is perfect because you need to concentrate and learn the waves without having a bunch of people around you.

It's already tough to find this kind of surfing destination without the beach being entirely vacant, but this isn't the only special part.

There are also numerous surf schools around Playa Sayulita that are all within walking distance. This includes the experts at Sea Sayulita who have years of experience teaching beginners. Whenever you're ready to step out, make sure you're updated with the Sayulita surf report.

If you're looking for an awesome and beginner-friendly beach, go surfing in Sayulita, Mexico!

woman in green bikini sitting on a rock near sea waves
Photo by Alonso Reyes on Unsplash

2. Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido

It isn't just the gorgeous, turquoise-colored waters that make Playa Carrizalillo a phenomenal beach to visit. This beach is surfer-friendly and accommodating for all surfers, no matter your level of experience.

As one of the most popular beaches in the whole of Mexico, tourists have been taking surf lessons here for years. You'll find some impressive surf schools like Chenek Surf School nearby.

If you're planning on coming here, I'd highly advise visiting in the summer. It offers more comfortable weather conditions for surfing and also makes learning a whole lot easier.

Playa Carrizalillo isn't only a very popular beach to relax in, it’s well-known because of the number of surfers that go there. It's an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediates alike. 

A piece of advice! Always check the Playa Carrizalillo surf reports before you go surfing in Mexico.

green palm tree near sea under blue sky during daytime
Photo by Lorraine Mojica on Unsplash

1. Playa La Lancha, Punta Mita

Playa La Lancha is nothing short of a hidden treasure, and its quiet atmosphere is most rewarding to surfing beginners. As a solo traveler who loves to find quiet beaches, Playa La Lancha would be my number 1 surf spot in and around Mexico.

The beach itself is beyond stunning, and the waves are both mellow and tranquil, allowing first-time surfers to easily practice without real danger.

If you're thinking about coming here, it's necessary to mention that this beach isn't the easiest to get to. You’ll have to hike for about 1.6km through the jungle. Still, when you arrive there, it’ll be worth the not-so-easy trek.

Playa La Lancha is a low-wave beach that most novices in the surfing world look for. It provides optimal conditions for getting the hang of things with your board. But before stepping out, always read the Playa La Lancha surf reports first.

woman in pink bikini sitting on a blue car with a surfboard on the top
Photo by Alonso Reyes on Unsplash

Ride the Wave in Mexico With Pilot!

Surfing is a terrific and thrilling experience, but it's infinitely more enjoyable when you know your trip has been planned and fully taken care of. Think Pilot for all your travel needs.

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Josh Ellery Blog
Josh Ellery
Contributor
linkedin logolink to website iconInstagram logo

Josh fell in love with solo travel in 2019 and has spent a large majority of his time traveling southeast Asia and other parts of the world. This led to a passion for writing which allowed him to share all of his experiences with the world. Josh will continue to travel until he is older and plans on visiting as many countries as possible.

Read more about this author
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