Expert-verified surf spot database with detailed swell/wind parameters, hazards, and travel information
Puerto Escondido is the "Mexican Pipeline"—a brutally powerful beach break on Oaxaca's Pacific coast that produces some of the heaviest closeout tubes outside of Pipeline itself. A deep offshore trench amplifies South Pacific swells, creating thick, grinding barrels over shallow sand. The wave is notoriously dangerous: hold-downs are severe, the closeouts are unforgiving, and the power is humbling. May through August delivers the biggest swells. The Zicatela strip offers cheap living, warm water, and world-class barrels for those brave enough.
🇲🇽 Mexican Pipeline • Closeout tubes of death • Heavy beach break power
Works best with swells from 185° (S). Workable range: 160°-220°.
Ideal size: 3.5m. Too small below 1m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 18s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 315°-45°. Best window: morning.
Peak season May-August. South Pacific swells + light offshore winds.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🌀 Strong rips, ⚠️ Shallow
Extremely powerful closeouts. Heavy hold-downs. Sand bottom but very shallow at low tide.
Swell direction must be within the workable range AND within the spot's coastal orientation. A south-facing beach cannot receive north swells, no matter the size or period.
Offshore wind (blowing from land toward ocean) grooms the wave face. Onshore wind (blowing from ocean toward land) destroys wave quality. Wind tolerance varies by wave type.
Todos Santos (Killers) is Mexico's answer to Jaws—a powerful right-hand point break on an island 8 miles off Ensenada that's been designated a World Surfing Reserve. An underwater canyon focuses swells to produce 40-60 foot waves that wall up and barrel. The wave is nicknamed "Killers" for good reason. Access requires a boat ride through often-rough conditions. When massive NW Pacific swells march down the coast in winter, Todos Santos delivers some of the best big wave surfing south of Mavericks.
💀 Mexican Jaws • World Surfing Reserve • Canyon-fueled giants
Works best with swells from 292° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-315°.
Ideal size: 12.2m. Too small below 6.1m, too big (closeout) above 18.3m.
Needs at least 18s period. Ideal: 20s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 45°-135°. Best window: morning.
90 minutes drive from TIJ airport. Requires boat access ($400/day).
La Punta is Puerto Escondido's friendly alternative—a mellow left-hand point break at the southern end of the beach, offering an escape from the Mexican Pipeline's terrifying power. While Zicatela punishes, La Punta rewards with long, workable walls perfect for progressing surfers and those seeking a more relaxed session. The point catches the same swells but refracts them into something far more approachable. The hipster-friendly neighborhood behind the break adds café culture and boutique accommodation to the mix. For those who want the Puerto lifestyle without the Puerto beatdowns, La Punta delivers.
↙️ Zicatela's gentle twin • Mellow left point • Puerto without the punishment
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 170°-230°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2.5m.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 20° (NNE). Offshore range: 340°-60°. Best window: morning.
SW swell season May-October. Gentler than Zicatela.
Much friendlier than Zicatela. Some rocks at point.
10min from Puerto Escondido airport. Walk from Zicatela.
Sayulita is Mexico's surf town sensation—a once-sleepy fishing village that has transformed into the country's most popular beginner surf destination. The right-hand point break produces gentle, forgiving waves perfect for learning, while the vibrant town offers everything from taco stands to boutique hotels. The party atmosphere and crowds can overwhelm during peak season, but for those seeking warm water, consistent small waves, and Mexican beach culture, Sayulita delivers the complete package.
🌮 Mexico surf town • Beginner point • Party vibes
Works best with swells from 210° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-250°.
Ideal size: 1.3m. Too small below 0.5m, too big (closeout) above 2m.
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Summer S swells from Southern Hemisphere storms.
Beach access from town. Walk across river.
Zicatela is Mexico's most famous wave and one of the heaviest beach breaks on the planet. Known as the Mexican Pipeline, it produces massive, thick-lipped barrels that break over a steep sandy bottom with violent force. When solid south swells hit during the summer months, Zicatela transforms into a world-class barrel factory that attracts the best tube riders on earth. The wave is not for the faint of heart—wipeouts here are legendary, and the power of the closeouts has ended many careers.
🔥 Mexican Pipeline • World's heaviest beach break • Massive summer barrels
Works best with swells from 200° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-220°.
Ideal size: 3.9m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 16s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 22° (NNE). Offshore range: 0°-45°. Best window: morning.
Peak season May-October when Southern Hemisphere swells hit. Best waves April-September.
🌀 Strong rips, 😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 👥 Crowded, ⚠️ Shallow
One of the heaviest beach breaks in the world. Extremely powerful closeouts. Not for beginners.
Easy beach access from town. Multiple entry points along the beach.
Killers at Isla Todos Santos is the West Coast's answer to Mavericks and Jaws—a world-class big wave spot where underwater canyons focus and amplify winter swells to terrifying proportions. Located on a small island 12 miles off Ensenada, the wave can hold faces of 60+ feet when the right storm tracks send massive NW swells down the coast. The remote location, cold water, and extreme power make this a proving ground for elite big wave surfers only.
⚡ West Coast big wave mecca • Canyon-amplified giants • Boat access only
This is a big wave break, breaking right.
Works best with swells from 290° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-310°.
Ideal size: 11.3m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 18m.
Offshore wind from 112° (ESE). Offshore range: 90°-135°. Best window: morning.
Winter NW swells. Needs large swell to break properly.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🦈 Sharks, 🪨 Rocks
Boat access only. Cold water. Massive waves. Underwater canyon amplifies swell.
60 minutes drive from TIJ airport. Requires boat access ($200/day).
Boat from Ensenada required. 30-minute boat ride to island.
Barra de la Cruz is a world-class right point break that put Mexico's Oaxacan coast on the global surfing map when it hosted a Rip Curl Search event. The wave starts with a dredging barrel section at the top that spits surfers into long, rippable walls perfect for carving turns. When solid south swells line up, the wave offers 200+ meter rides and machine-like perfection. The small fishing village atmosphere adds to the raw, authentic surf trip experience.
👑 World-class right point • Rip Curl Search venue • Dredging barrels to long walls
Works best with swells from 185° (S). Workable range: 170°-200°.
Ideal size: 1.9m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 15s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 270°-340°. Best window: morning.
Best during southern swell season. World-class conditions April-October.
Rocky point entry. Remote location. Bring supplies.
Dirt road access to small fishing village. Basic accommodations available.
Scorpion Bay is one of surfing's legendary destinations—a remote desert point break system where rides can connect for over 2 kilometers on the right swell. Third Point is considered the crown jewel of the seven-point setup, offering the best combination of length and quality. The wave peels endlessly over cobblestones, with enough push to keep you gliding while being forgiving enough for surfers of all abilities. The isolation and raw beauty of the Baja desert only add to the magic.
🏜️ Legendary 7-point system • 2km rides possible • Desert perfection
Works best with swells from 197° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-215°.
Offshore wind from 292° (WNW). Offshore range: 270°-315°. Best window: morning.
Summer south swells. Remote desert location.
Very remote. Bring all supplies. No services for miles.
Long drive from San Jose del Cabo (8+ hours). Basic camping at point.
Pascuales is Mexico's other world-class heavy beach break, rivaling Puerto Escondido for raw power and barrel quality. The wave breaks over a steep sand bottom that creates thick, heavy barrels that can reach triple overhead on solid swells. The takeoff zone is known for its violence—massive A-frames that detonate with board-snapping power. Less crowded than Zicatela but equally consequential, Pascuales is a proving ground for experienced tube riders.
⚡ Mexico's other heavy beach break • Massive A-frames • Board-snapping power
Works best with swells from 220° (SW). Workable range: 200°-240°.
Ultra-heavy beach break. Strong currents. Not for beginners.
Beach access from small village. Basic accommodations nearby.
San Miguel is the birthplace of Mexican surf culture, a long right point that has been drawing surfers south of the border since the 1960s. The wave offers hollow, tapered rights that have been compared to a colder version of Rincon or Trestles. When winter NW swells light it up, the point comes alive with long walls and workable sections that reward both tube riding and power surfing. Its accessibility from Tijuana makes it the gateway wave to Baja surf exploration.
🇲🇽 Birthplace of Mexican surf • Trestles-like rights • Winter NW swells
Ideal size: 2.4m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3.6m.
Offshore wind from 90° (E). Offshore range: 60°-120°. Best window: morning.
Rocky entry. Can get crowded on good swells.
Easy access from highway. Parking at the point.
Punta Conejo is one of Mexico's most remote and rewarding waves—a world-class right point hidden along the wild Oaxacan coastline. When south swells hit with the right direction, the point produces 300-500 meter rides that peel with mechanical perfection over rocks and reef. The journey to get there is part of the adventure, requiring either a boat trip or a long, rough drive through rural Mexico. Those who make the effort are rewarded with empty lineups and pristine waves.
🏝️ Remote world-class right • 500m rides • True adventure surf
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 165°-195°.
Ideal size: 1.5m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 0°-90°. Best window: morning.
Summer south swells. Very remote location.
Very remote. Boat or long drive required. Bring all supplies.
Long dirt road or boat access. Very remote.
Rio Nexpa is one of Mexico's premier left point breaks, a long cobblestone rivermouth wave that lights up with SW swells. The wave offers occasionally barreling sections combined with long, workable walls that allow for extended rides. The small surf village that has grown up around the break maintains a laid-back vibe, making it a popular destination for surfers looking to escape crowds while still finding quality waves. When it's on, Nexpa delivers some of the best lefts in mainland Mexico.
🌊 Mexico's best left point • Cobblestone perfection • Rivermouth magic
Works best with swells from 215° (SW). Workable range: 200°-230°.
Summer swells. Rivermouth creates excellent sandbars.
Cobblestone bottom. Strong currents near river.
Small surf village with basic accommodations.
Las Islitas in Matanchen Bay holds the Guinness World Record for the world's longest rideable wave at 5,700 feet. When conditions align—typically needing a large, long-period south swell—the wave can connect through multiple points for rides lasting several minutes. While jetty construction has altered the wave somewhat, it still offers the potential for extraordinarily long rides on the right day. The wave is mellow and forgiving, making those marathon rides accessible to surfers of various skill levels.
🏆 World's longest wave record • 5,700 ft rides • Mellow endless walls
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 170°-190°.
Ideal size: 1.8m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Needs at least 14s period. Ideal: 17s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 45° (NE). Offshore range: 30°-60°. Best window: morning.
Needs specific long-period south swell. Rare but epic.
Very long paddle. Mosquitoes in jungle areas.
Drive to San Blas, then to bay. Basic town accommodations.
La Ticla is a quality left point break on the Michoacan coast that gets hollow and powerful when south swells light it up. The wave breaks over a cobblestone reef near a rivermouth, offering long rides with barrel sections on the bigger days. The small village has a growing surf community but maintains a mellow, off-the-beaten-path vibe. It's an excellent option for surfers looking for quality lefts without the crowds of more famous spots.
🌊 Hollow left point • Cobblestone barrels • Off-the-beaten-path Mexico
Summer south swells. Works on most tides.
Small village with basic accommodations and camping.
Punta Chivo is one of the excellent right point breaks in the Salina Cruz corridor, an area known for its concentration of quality waves along the southern Oaxacan coast. The wave offers long walls with occasional barrel sections, breaking over a rocky point. It's part of a zone where multiple points can be surfed depending on swell direction and size, making it an ideal base for a Mexico surf trip during the summer swell season.
🌊 Salina Cruz corridor gem • Long rippable walls • Summer perfection
Works best with swells from 175° (S). Workable range: 160°-190°.
Ideal size: 1.6m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 2.4m.
Summer south swells. Salina Cruz corridor.
Part of Salina Cruz point break corridor.
El Faro at Punta Mita is a world-class reef break that produces powerful A-frame peaks with hollow sections on both the left and right. Located at the tip of the Punta Mita peninsula, the wave picks up swell from multiple directions, making it one of the more consistent spots in the Nayarit region. Access can be complicated by the private resort that surrounds it, but boat access or proper arrangements can get you to one of Mexico's best reef breaks.
🔥 World-class reef break • Powerful A-frames • Punta Mita crown jewel
Works best with swells from 300° (WNW). Workable range: 280°-320°.
Ideal size: 2.1m. Too small below 1.2m, too big (closeout) above 3m.
Offshore wind from 67° (ENE). Offshore range: 45°-90°. Best window: morning.
Works on both summer SW and winter NW swells.
🪸 Sharp reef, 🚶 Difficult access, 👥 Crowded
Private access issues. Shallow reef sections.
Access can be restricted by resort. Boat access often easier.
La Saladita is the perfect longboard wave—a gentle, incredibly long left point that offers ride after ride of smooth, gliding walls. The wave is forgiving and consistent, making it ideal for longboarders, beginners, and anyone looking to work on their style without battling heavy conditions. The small surf village has grown into a welcoming community of wave-sliders who appreciate the mellow vibe and seemingly endless supply of fun waves.
🏄 Perfect longboard wave • Endless gentle rides • Mellow surf village vibes
Ideal size: 1.2m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Needs at least 12s period. Ideal: 14s+ (long-period groundswell).
Summer south swells. Incredibly consistent.
Small surf village with various accommodation options.
Playa Linda is a quality beach break near Ixtapa that delivers consistent summer surf with hollow sections when conditions align. The wave offers good peaks for shortboarding with enough power to get barreled on the right sandbars. Its proximity to the Ixtapa resort zone makes it accessible while still maintaining a more authentic surf vibe than the touristy beaches nearby.
🌊 Quality Ixtapa beach break • Hollow summer peaks • Easy resort access
Easy beach access near Ixtapa resort zone.
Troncones Point is a quality right point break that has become the center of a growing surf community north of Ixtapa. The wave offers multiple sections that can connect on bigger swells, providing long rides with a mix of workable walls and occasional hollow sections. The village of Troncones has developed into a charming surf destination with boutique hotels and a welcoming local scene.
🌴 Growing surf community • Quality right point • Boutique Mexico surf
Summer south swells. Growing surf community.
Small surf village with boutique accommodations.
Punta Burros is a powerful left reef break near Punta Mita that delivers fast, hollow waves when WNW swells push through. The wave is known for its speed and power, challenging surfers with quick tube sections and critical drops. It's one of the heavier waves in the Nayarit region and rewards experienced surfers who can handle its intensity.
⚡ Powerful left reef • Fast hollow sections • Punta Mita power
Works best with swells from 295° (WNW). Workable range: 280°-310°.
Near Punta Mita peninsula. Multiple access points.
K-38 is a classic Baja beach break named for its kilometer marker on the toll road south of Tijuana. The spot delivers consistent peaks and occasional barrels when winter NW swells push through, making it a reliable option for surfers heading south of the border. Its accessibility and consistency have made it a popular destination for Southern California surfers looking for less crowded waves.
🛣️ Classic Baja beach break • Kilometer 38 • Consistent winter peaks
Works best with swells from 285° (WNW). Workable range: 270°-300°.
Winter NW swells. Consistent and accessible.
Can get crowded on good swells. Typical beach break hazards.
Easy highway access. Named for kilometer marker.
San Pedrito is a fun beach break with reef elements near the artistic town of Todos Santos. The wave offers a mix of peaks that work on both summer south swells and winter NW swells, making it a relatively consistent option in Baja California Sur. The surrounding area has developed into a charming destination with galleries, restaurants, and a bohemian vibe that attracts both surfers and artists.
🎨 Todos Santos gem • Beach break with reef • Artistic Baja vibes
Summer south swells. Can also catch winter NW.
Cerritos is the go-to beginner and intermediate beach in the Todos Santos area, offering consistent, forgiving waves that are perfect for learning and progressing. The wide beach and mellow peaks make it ideal for surf lessons, and several surf schools operate here year-round. Even when other spots are too big or too small, Cerritos often has something rideable.
🏄‍♂️ Baja's learning beach • Consistent forgiving waves • Surf school central
Needs at least 10s period. Ideal: 13s+ (long-period groundswell).
Offshore wind from 0° (N). Offshore range: 330°-30°. Best window: morning.
Year-round waves. Consistent and forgiving.
Popular beach with surf schools and rentals.
La Lancha is a powerful left reef break near Punta Mita that gets heavy when size fills in. The wave offers hollow sections over shallow reef, demanding respect and experience. It's one of the more challenging waves in the Nayarit area but rewards committed surfers with quality barrels.
⚡ Heavy Punta Mita left • Powerful reef break • Gets serious when big
Works year-round with different swell directions.
Near Punta Mita. Boat access also common.
Stoners is a long right point near San Blas that can connect with Las Islitas on big swells for extraordinarily long rides. The wave offers consistent walls perfect for carving and the occasional barrel section. The laid-back surf scene here attracts those looking to escape crowds and enjoy Mexico's jungle coast.
🌴 San Blas right point • Connects to Las Islitas • Jungle surf vibes
Summer south swells. Can connect with Las Islitas.
El Faro in Salina Cruz is a quality reef break offering multiple peaks along the southern Oaxacan coast. The wave provides good options for both lefts and rights, making it a versatile spot in the Salina Cruz corridor. When south swells light up the region, this spot delivers consistent, quality surf.
🌊 Salina Cruz reef • Multiple quality peaks • Summer swell magnet
Summer south swells. Part of Salina Cruz corridor.
Punta Colorada is a quality right point near Puerto Escondido that offers a less crowded alternative to the heavy beach breaks in town. The wave provides long walls with occasional hollow sections, perfect for surfers looking for quality rides without the intensity of Zicatela.
🌊 Puerto Escondido alternative • Quality right point • Escape the crowds
Works best with swells from 195° (SSW). Workable range: 180°-210°.
Summer swells. Alternative to crowded Zicatela.
Near Puerto Escondido. Less crowded alternative.
La Punta is the mellow right point at the south end of Puerto Escondido, offering a forgiving alternative to the heavy beach breaks nearby. The wave is perfect for longboards and intermediate surfers, with long walls that peel consistently throughout the swell season. It's the go-to spot when Zicatela is too heavy or you just want a fun, cruisy session.
🏄 Mellow Puerto point • Longboard heaven • Fun alternative to Zicatela
Year-round waves. Mellower option in Puerto.
South end of Puerto Escondido. Easy access.
Shipwrecks is a powerful right reef on Baja's East Cape that comes alive during summer hurricane season when SE-S swells wrap into the Sea of Cortez. The wave offers quality barrels over a rocky reef, rewarding those who make the journey to this remote stretch of coast. When a hurricane tracks up the Pacific, this is one of the spots that can turn on with world-class conditions.
🌀 East Cape hurricane spot • Powerful reef right • Summer swell specialist
Works best with swells from 170° (S). Workable range: 140°-200°.
Offshore wind from 315° (NW). Offshore range: 290°-340°. Best window: morning.
Summer hurricane swells. Needs SE-S direction.
East Cape area. Dirt road access to remote coastline.
Chickens is the more forgiving big wave option on Isla Todos Santos, offering a step up in size without the life-threatening consequences of Killers. The wave provides quality rights in the 15-foot range, making it accessible to experienced surfers looking to push their limits without going full-send on the main peak. It's often where surfers warm up before paddling over to Killers.
🐔 Todos Santos step-up • More forgiving big wave • Killers warm-up spot
Ideal size: 3.1m. Too small below 1.8m, too big (closeout) above 4.5m.
Winter NW swells. More forgiving than Killers.
Boat access only. Cold water. Big wave spot.
Boat from Ensenada. On same island as Killers.
Zippers is Los Cabos' most famous wave, a powerful beach break with reef influence that delivers consistent surf within easy reach of the resort corridor. The wave offers hollow peaks and punchy walls, making it popular with both locals and visiting surfers. Its accessibility and quality have made it the centerpiece of the Cabo surf scene.
🏖️ Los Cabos flagship wave • Powerful beach break • Tourist-accessible quality
Offshore wind from 337° (NNW). Offshore range: 315°-360°. Best window: morning.
Works year-round. More consistent in summer.
Costa Azul beach. Easy access from Los Cabos.
First Point at Scorpion Bay is the most forgiving of the legendary 7-point system, offering long, mellow rides perfect for longboards and intermediate surfers. The wave provides an introduction to the magic of Scorpion Bay without the challenges of the faster inside points. On the right swell, rides can connect through multiple points for extraordinarily long waves.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay intro point • Mellow long rides • Desert longboard paradise
Summer south swells. Easiest of the points.
Long drive. First point in the 7-point system.
Second Point at Scorpion Bay offers more challenge than First Point, with better shape and more push on bigger swells. The wave connects between First and Third Point on good days, allowing for incredibly long rides through the system. It's the stepping stone between the mellow outside and the faster inside sections.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay step-up • Connects the points • Desert perfection continues
Summer swells. Better shape on bigger days.
Very remote. More challenging than First Point.
Second point in the system. Better on bigger swells.
San Diego is a remote right point in the Salina Cruz corridor, offering long rides away from the more accessible spots. The wave requires effort to reach but rewards with uncrowded lineups and quality walls that peel for extended distances when south swells light up the coast.
🏝️ Remote Salina Cruz point • Uncrowded long rights • True adventure surf
Summer south swells. Remote Salina Cruz corridor.
Tres Emes (3M's) is a quality right point south of San Miguel that offers multiple sections when winter NW swells light up the Baja coast. The wave provides a less crowded alternative to San Miguel with similar quality rights peeling over a rocky bottom.
🌊 Baja point alternative • Multiple quality sections • Winter NW swells
South of San Miguel. Part of Baja point break corridor.
Baja Malibu is a long, mellow right point just south of the US-Mexico border that has become popular with longboarders seeking easy waves. The wave offers long rides without much power, making it ideal for cruisy sessions and nose-riding. Its proximity to Tijuana makes it one of the most accessible Baja spots.
🏄 Baja's Malibu • Mellow longboard right • Easy border crossing surf
Winter NW swells. Popular longboard spot.
Just south of border. Easy access from Tijuana.
Nine Palms is an East Cape reef break that comes alive during summer when hurricane swells send SE-S energy into the Sea of Cortez. The wave offers quality rights over a reef bottom, providing a remote surf experience away from the more developed Los Cabos corridor.
🌴 East Cape reef • Summer hurricane swells • Remote Baja perfection
Works best with swells from 180° (S). Workable range: 160°-200°.
Summer hurricane swells. East Cape specialist.
La Bahia is a protected beach break at Punta Mita that offers beginner-friendly waves when conditions elsewhere are too big. The wave provides a safe environment for learning and longboarding, making it popular with surf schools and those new to the sport.
🏖️ Protected Punta Mita beach • Beginner-friendly • Safe learning environment
Year-round waves. Protected from bigger swells.
Protected beach at Punta Mita. Good for beginners.
Carrizalillo is a beautiful cove beach near Puerto Escondido that offers fun, intermediate-level waves in a stunning setting. The protected bay provides mellower conditions than Zicatela, making it perfect for progression and fun sessions. Access is via stairs down the cliff, adding to the secluded feel.
🏝️ Beautiful Puerto cove • Protected fun waves • Scenic beach escape
Beautiful cove beach. Stairs required for access.
Salsipuedes Point is a remote right point south of Ensenada that rewards those willing to make the effort with quality, uncrowded waves. The name translates to "get out if you can," hinting at both the difficult access and the commitment required to surf here. When winter swells light it up, the point delivers excellent rights far from the crowds.
🏝️ Remote Baja point • "Get out if you can" • Uncrowded quality rights
Remote point south of Ensenada. Requires effort to reach.
La Fonda, also known as K-58 for its kilometer marker, is a quality reef break offering multiple peaks along the Baja coast south of Tijuana. The wave provides both lefts and rights depending on the swell direction, making it a versatile option for surfers exploring the region.
🌊 Baja reef break • Multiple quality peaks • K-58 winter waves
Winter NW swells. Named for kilometer marker.
Kilometer 58 on toll road. Easy highway access.
El Anclote is a mellow right point in the village of Punta Mita, perfect for longboards and beginners. The wave offers long, gentle rides that are ideal for learning and cruising. The charming village atmosphere and easy access make it a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
🏄 Punta Mita village wave • Mellow longboard right • Charming surf town
Year-round waves. Mellow longboard spot.
Punta San Jose is a remote point break south of Ensenada that offers a less crowded alternative to the more famous San Miguel. The wave delivers quality rights when winter swells push through, rewarding surfers who venture beyond the accessible spots.
🌊 Remote Baja point • San Miguel alternative • Uncrowded winter rights
Winter NW swells. Less crowded alternative.
La Pastora is a Todos Santos beach break that gets powerful when size fills in, offering more challenge than the mellow waves at nearby Cerritos. The wave delivers quality peaks with punch, making it a good option for experienced surfers looking for more action.
⚡ Todos Santos power • Beach break with punch • When Cerritos is too mellow
Summer south swells. Powerful beach break.
Costa Azul, also known as The Rock, is a powerful reef break in the Los Cabos corridor that demands respect and experience. The wave breaks over shallow reef, delivering hollow sections and serious consequences for mistakes. It's the heavy option in an area otherwise known for more forgiving waves.
⚡ Los Cabos power reef • Expert only • Hollow serious waves
Old Man's is the go-to beginner spot at Costa Azul, offering mellow, forgiving waves perfect for learning to surf. The gentle break and sandy bottom make it safe for first-timers, and numerous surf schools operate here. It's the soft introduction to Cabo surfing before tackling more challenging spots.
🏄‍♂️ Cabo beginner beach • Mellow learning waves • Surf school central
Ideal size: 1.1m. Too small below 0.6m, too big (closeout) above 1.5m.
Needs at least 8s period. Ideal: 12s+ (long-period groundswell).
Costa Azul beach. Popular with surf schools.
Urchins is a big wave spot on Isla Todos Santos that sits between Chickens and Killers in terms of size and consequence. Named for the sea urchins that cover the reef, the wave offers serious big wave surfing in the 20-foot range. It's the stepping stone for surfers working their way up to Killers.
🦔 Todos Santos step-up • Killers apprenticeship • Named for the urchins
Ideal size: 4.2m. Too small below 2.4m, too big (closeout) above 6m.
Winter NW swells. Step up from Chickens.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks, 🦔 Urchins
Boat from Ensenada. On Todos Santos Island.
Rosarito Pier is a consistent beach break near the iconic pier in Rosarito, offering reliable peaks when winter swells push through. Its easy access from Tijuana and proximity to town amenities make it a popular choice for casual surf sessions.
🏖️ Rosarito beach break • Pier-side peaks • Easy Baja access
Las Gatas is a protected reef break in Zihuatanejo Bay that offers mellow, fun waves in a beautiful setting. The wave is forgiving and accessible, making it a good option for intermediate surfers visiting the charming fishing town of Zihuatanejo.
🐱 Zihuatanejo Bay reef • Mellow protected waves • Charming fishing town surf
Zihuatanejo Bay. Boat or water taxi common.
Punta Morena is the best wave in Caribbean Mexico, coming alive during Norte storm season when cold fronts push E-NE swells into the normally flat Caribbean. Located on Cozumel's east coast, the wave offers a rare chance to surf Mexico's Caribbean side, requiring specific weather patterns but delivering quality reef breaks when conditions align.
🌴 Caribbean Mexico's best • Norte storm specialist • Rare Caribbean surf
Works best with swells from 75° (ENE). Workable range: 60°-90°.
Offshore wind from 247° (WSW). Offshore range: 225°-270°. Best window: morning.
Caribbean reef. Needs specific storm conditions.
Fourth Point at Scorpion Bay is the fastest, most challenging section of the legendary 7-point system. The wave offers more push and speed than the outer points, demanding quick reflexes and solid rail work. On epic days, rides can connect from Third Point through Fourth for incredibly long waves.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay speed section • Most challenging point • Desert performance surf
Summer swells. Fastest section of the system.
Very remote. Fastest, most challenging point.
Coyote Cal's, named for the surf camp at kilometer 181, is a remote beach break in central Baja that offers uncrowded peaks far from civilization. The area requires commitment to reach but rewards with empty lineups and the raw beauty of Baja's desert coast.
🏜️ Remote Baja surf camp • K-181 uncrowded peaks • Desert solitude
Punta Pequena lies beyond Fourth Point in the Scorpion Bay system, rarely surfed on its own but occasionally reached on epic connecting rides. It represents the outer limits of the legendary point system, where only the longest swells and most determined surfers venture.
🏜️ Scorpion Bay outer limits • Rarely surfed • Epic connecting rides only
Rarely's is a second-tier big wave spot on Isla Todos Santos that breaks less frequently than Killers but offers quality big wave surfing when conditions align. Named for its infrequent perfection, the wave delivers rides in the 40-foot range on the biggest days, providing an alternative line for big wave surfers.
🌊 Todos Santos tier 2 • Named for its rarity • 40-foot alternative
Ideal size: 8.3m. Too small below 4.5m, too big (closeout) above 12m.
Needs at least 16s period. Ideal: 19s+ (long-period groundswell).
Second tier big wave. Less consistent than Killers.
Thor's Hammer is a heavy slab on Isla Todos Santos that breaks with extreme power over shallow reef. The wave is aptly named—wipeouts here feel like being hit by a mythical weapon. Only the most committed big wave slabbers attempt Thor's Hammer, knowing the consequences of failure are severe.
⚡ Todos Santos heavy slab • Mythical power • Elite slabbers only
Ideal size: 6.0m. Too small below 3m, too big (closeout) above 9m.
😮‍💨 Hold-downs, ⚠️ Shallow, 🏝️ Remote, 🪨 Rocks
Extremely heavy slab. Life-threatening consequences.
Valentinos is a reef break in the Mazatlan area that produces spinning hollow rights when summer swells hit. The wave offers quality barrels over a reef bottom, providing a more challenging option than the beach breaks in town.
🌊 Mazatlan reef barrels • Spinning hollow rights • Sinaloa surf scene
Los Patos is a left reef break in the Mazatlan area that complements the rights at nearby Valentinos. The wave offers a goofy-footer friendly option in a region dominated by right-breaking waves.
🌊 Mazatlan left reef • Goofy-footer option • Sinaloa variety
Summer south swells. Left complement to Valentinos.
Stone Island is a beach break accessible by boat from Mazatlan that offers fun peaks for surfers looking to escape the crowds. The wave provides a more relaxed vibe than the city breaks, with consistent summer surf.
🏝️ Mazatlan island escape • Fun beach peaks • Boat trip surf
Ideal size: 1.4m. Too small below 0.9m, too big (closeout) above 1.8m.
Stone Island accessible by boat from Mazatlan.
Chivos is a reef break in Mazatlan offering multiple peaks that work on summer swells. The wave provides options for both lefts and rights, making it a versatile choice in the Sinaloa surf scene.
🌊 Mazatlan multi-peak reef • Left and right options • Sinaloa summer surf
Teacapan is a remote rivermouth near the Sinaloa-Nayarit border, where shifting sandbars create quality peaks when summer swells hit. The wave requires effort to reach but rewards with uncrowded surf in a wild, natural setting.
🏝️ Remote Sinaloa rivermouth • Shifting sandbar magic • Off-the-grid surf
🏝️ Remote, 🌀 Strong rips, 🚶 Difficult access
Barra de Navidad is a rivermouth break at the entrance to a lagoon on the Jalisco coast, producing quality waves when conditions align. The charming colonial town adds to the appeal, offering a blend of surf and Mexican culture that defines the authentic Costalegre experience.
🌴 Jalisco lagoon mouth • Colonial charm meets surf • Costalegre gem
Rivermouth can have water quality issues.
Puerto Arista is Mexico's southernmost Pacific surf zone, a beach break in Chiapas that catches summer swells heading toward Central America. The remote location and tropical climate create a unique surf experience far from the more developed Mexican coast, offering consistent waves for those willing to venture to the country's frontier.
🌴 Mexico's southernmost surf • Chiapas frontier • Tropical beach break
Summer swells. Southernmost Pacific surf zone.
Southernmost surf zone on Mexican Pacific.