The best surf spot in puerto escondido

Hey surfer!

If you’re ready to ride the waves of the Pacific Ocean, then it’s time to discover the best beaches to do so.

Puerto Escondido is called the surfer’s paradise and is characterized by spectacular beaches, which offer unique and unforgettable experiences



La Punta

Difficulty: moderate | Crowd: high | Localism: high

Located at the southern end of the breakpoint, beyond the legendary waves of the main center, it is less powerful and more manageable than its compadre brochure-fronting.Here you will find heavy and rather challenging left rips that can accelerate quickly. 

However, on larger days, the situation can get a little chaotic near the rocks. It is essential to always pay attention to exposed cliffs and crowds. Despite this, Punta is a beautiful point break that offers a perfect left wave, in front of all the trendy bars on the local beach. Although it is an ideal place to perfect your maneuvers, the wave presents some sections of barrel in the best days. During the wave season, you can expect waves between 1 and 3 meters (3 to 10 feet), while in the rest of the year the heights can vary from 0 to 2 meters (0 to 7 feet). The best tide is low to medium.


Playa Zicatela

Difficulty: very high | Crowd: moderate | Localism: high

For experienced surfers looking for strong emotions, Zicatela, also called “The Mexican pipeline“ is the ideal destination. You need to be well prepared and make sure you have the skills you need before heading out to tackle its gigantic waves, among the highest in the world. 

During the wave season (May-September) the wave size generally varies between 2m and 6m (7ft to 20ft) compared to summertime from 0m to 3m (0ft to 10ft). Low to moderate offshore wind. Works best in the morning (sunrise until 10 am). Best tide: low to medium. In addition, this beach will enchant you with its promenade, lined with shops, restaurants and stands dedicated to surfing and diving.

Playa Carrizalillo:

Difficulty: low to intermediate | Crowd: moderate | Localism: moderate

Playa Carrizalillo hides in a wide horseshoe bay along the west coast of Zicatela. The first thing that strikes you is its breathtaking beauty, with palm trees swaying in the breeze and golden sand. Beyond this, there are two separate breakpoints that head inland to the center of the bay from their respective headlands. Here, the key word is “relaxation”.

 

Surfing is optimal at medium or low tide, with waves reaching about chest height. Many local surf schools frequent this beach, but you can also rent boards directly on the bay for about 500 pesos. It is the perfect place for beginners!

 

However, you should not neglect it if you are an experienced surfer. In fact, Playa Carrizalillo is a great spot even on days of big waves. The configuration of the bay attenuates the energy of the waves, so the dimensions are smaller than other interruptions in the area. You will find both a left and right wave, with the right one often reserved for locals. The left can reach quite perfect conditions. It is advisable to surf at low tide.



La Barra

Difficulty: intermediate to high | Crowd: Low | Localism: Low

Playa La Barra is one of the best kept secrets for surfing in Puerto Escondido, mainly because of its difficult accessibility. However, this feature adds to its charm, offering a tranquility away from the crowd. La Barra beach boasts quite powerful waves that can generate barrels up to two meters high. These conditions attract adventurous intermediate surfers and confident beginners eager to improve their skills.

During the rainy season, this location is often avoided because the river connects to the ocean, increasing the risk of encounters with crocodiles. However, during the dry season, the river does not connect to the ocean, making the area safer for surfing. The best tide for surfing is from low to medium.



Punta Colorada

Difficulty: intermediate to high | Crowd: Low to moderate | Localism: moderate

Punta Colorada, located north of the city of Puerto Escondido, is an ideal break for bodyboard lovers. This heavy beach is located opposite the airport, next to the famous surf spot called Colorada. Here, the wave is too fast for surfers, but offers optimal conditions for practicing the bodyboard.

Puerto Escondido may be renowned for surfing, but it also has its own place for bodyboarders in Punta Colorada. 

Punta Colorada is an exposed spot near the mouth of the river, which receives reliable surfing when south-southwest waves combine with offshore northeast winds. This combination creates short, intense and often empty waves that perfectly fit the preferences of bodyboarders. The best time to practice bodyboarding at Punta Colorada is between December and February, when the waves are clean and regular, perfect for long sessions of fun in the water.



In summary, Puerto Escondido is the ideal place for those seeking adventure and relaxation.

Whether you are an avid surfer, a lover of peace or simply looking for unforgettable experiences, these beaches will never disappoint.