In the Riviera Nayarit, we are fortunate to have fairly consistent waist-to-shoulder high waves throughout the year, on perfect point breaks.
The best surf in this area takes place during the winter months (December-April). Just north of us, Sayulita also works better during the winter months. NW swells create near perfect conditions in the area. Waves range from 2-5 ft, often with offshore winds, and the rides are long. The water doesn’t generally get too cold – a spring suit is often enough.
Even though the waves rarely reach over 8 ft, they are always fun. In order to enjoy the waves in this area, local board shaper Marco Ortiz from ATL surfboards recommends the following quiver: a fish or egg, a thruster, and a funboard or longboard.
Surfing in Sayulita
15 minutes north of Punta de Mita, Sayulita is home to a long right-hander that breaks over rocks. At the southern end of the beach, there is a sandy patch that is good for beginners. When a larger swell arrives, there is a left that works farther down the beach. This beach is crowded with locals and tourists. If you are looking to party, this is the place.
Surfing in Punta de Mita
There are three waves located on the Punta de Mita peninsula. You’ll need to take a boat to reach the first two.
- La Bahia, also known as the Cove, is the farthest and most exposed wave in the area. It mostly breaks right over a rock bottom and tends to get windy.
- El Faro is a right-point break over rocks which tends to get sketchy during low tide. Caution – this is an advanced wave and takes a larger NW swell to work well.
- El Anclote, also known as the Mexican Malibu, is a long, cruisey, mellow right-hander that is best suited for longboards. The wave breaks over a rocky bottom. Everywhere else needs to be really pumping in order for this spot to work. It’s located just north of the beachfront restaurants on Restaurant Row.
More Great Surf Waves in the Riviera Nayarit
- La Lancha
10 minutes south of Punta de Mita, there is another long right-hand break with a rock bottom. La Lancha is ideal for longboards. A faster left also breaks. Watch out for the underwater boils around the take-off zone and on the inside left. This spot often becomes overcrowded with beginners. When everywhere else is flat, you can usually find a wave here. - Burros
10 minutes further south, past La Lancha, there is another break with a long right. The bottom is rock reef with some sea urchins. You have to walk through the jungle to reach this wave. Afternoons and weekends tend to be busy with locals.
In the event that it is flat, take a boat trip to the Marietta Islands for some snorkeling, bird watching and for a chance to spot humpback whales (between December and March).
Contact TRIPWIX at info@tripwix.com to set you up with a trip to some of the best waves in the area. Or, if you’re new to surfing, to arrange lessons to get you started.
The waves are waiting for you. Pack up your board, your board shorts or bikini (and maybe a wetsuit top for winter), and come on a surfing adventure here in Punta de Mita. You might just score the best ride of your life!
Photography by Kemi Vernon. See more of her work at www.kemivernonphotography.com
