An Introduction To Barra de la Cruz Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | May 07, 2025
In a world of faded finds, Barra de la Cruz surf is raw, quiet, and undoubtedly world-class. Set on the southern Oaxacan shoals, the little town brings in solid waves without the whole crowding or commotion feature of most surf places; the distance from the majority of surf spots allows for quick biking or walking, the ideal scenario for anyone chasing great sessions and simple car-free living.
At the center of everything is the main point break at Barra Beach, speedy, hollow, and unfathomably fun. The waves line up so perfectly, peeling forever, with rides so memorable they keep advanced surfers returning season after season. It is a spot where the surf speaks for itself while the spell is cast by down-to-earth vibes.
Should you fancy a change, the new beaches of Playa El Mojon and Playa La Bocana provide different conditions and plenty of opportunities to wander. Whether you’re here chasing barrels or just soaking up the slow pace of a sleepy surf town, the surf at Barra de la Cruz rates as a lifetime memory long after you’ve pulled out of the place.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Barra de la Cruz
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Peak Barra de la Cruz Surf Season | April to September
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Barra de la Cruz surf hits its prime from April through September, when long-period southern swells wrap perfectly into the point. During this time, Barra de la Cruz surf offers clean, hollow, & fast waves that peel flawlessly along the right-hand sand bottom.
Consistency is high, with waves often ranging from 4 to 8 feet. This is when the town becomes a magnet for surfers chasing perfect lines & uncrowded sessions. Early mornings are best, as winds tend to pick up by midday.
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Shoulder Barra de la Cruz Surf Season | March & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
March & October bring smaller but still fun conditions, with 3 to 5-foot waves & fewer crowds. Barra de la Cruz surf during this time is less intense, allowing beginner & intermediate surfers to enjoy the wave’s shape without overwhelming power.
Swell direction can vary, but when a clean south swell arrives, the setup still delivers. Conditions are less reliable, but warm water & forgiving tides make it a pleasant time to visit. Barra de la Cruz surf remains rideable, though less consistent.
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Low Barra de la Cruz Surf Season | November to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Barra de la Cruz surf slows down considerably between November & February. Swell activity from the Southern Hemisphere dies off, & waves shrink to 1 to 3 feet. While this season lacks punch for advanced riders, it’s ideal for beginners looking for mellow practice waves.
Crowds thin out, & the relaxed vibe returns to town. Barra de la Cruz surf becomes all about longboarding & soft boards, perfect for honing fundamentals in friendly conditions.
Barra de la Cruz Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Barra de la Cruz Surf Temperature:
28–30°C (82–86°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are perfect for this time of year. You won’t need any extra warmth in the water, though a rash vest is handy for strong sun.
Rainfall:
Summer is the rainy season, with 12–16 rainy days monthly. Expect short but heavy downpours in the late afternoons or evenings, especially in July & August.
Barra de la Cruz Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are still all you need, even in November. The warm water makes for super comfortable surfing.
Rainfall:
Rain tapers off through the season. September remains wet with 10–13 rainy days, but October & November see fewer showers, around 5–8 days monthly.
Barra de la Cruz Surf Temperature:
26–28°C (79–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are ideal, even during early morning sessions. The water remains inviting & warm all winter.
Rainfall:
This is the dry season, with only 1–3 rainy days per month. Conditions are sunny, dry, & perfect for long beach days.
Barra de la Cruz Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are all you’ll need throughout spring. The water stays consistently warm & inviting.
Rainfall:
Rainfall remains low until late May. March & April see 0–2 rainy days per month, while May rises slightly to 4–6.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Barra de la Cruz
| Barra de la Cruz Surf Spots | Distance from Barra de la Cruz | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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Barra de la Cruz Beach |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) south |
3-8 foot |
World-class right-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa El Mojon |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) southwest |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Playa La Bocana |
Approx. 11km (6.8mi) southwest |
2-8 foot |
Versatile beach break |
All levels |
Further Information To Barra de la Cruz Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: West
- Swell Direction: South or Southeast
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Barra de la Cruz Beach is renowned for its world-class right-hand point break that comes alive at mid to high tide under a south or southeast swell & clean westerly winds. Waves peel off a mixed sand & rock bottom into long, glassy walls with head-high to overhead sections & occasional barrel pockets. The take-off zone is forgiving yet offers fast, rippable shoulders for extended carving.
As the wave runs along the point, it maintains its shape through multiple sections, rewarding precise timing & rail work. Lineups remain moderate because the point’s length spreads surfers over a wide area. Barra de la Cruz delivers a quintessential performance wave in consistently offshore conditions.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa El Mojon is a mellow beach break located just east of the main Barra de la Cruz break. Best at mid tide when a southwest swell meets light northeast winds, the wave offers both lefts & rights over a soft sandbar. Waves average waist to chest-high, providing a forgiving take-off & smooth, rolling walls ideal for refining turns & building confidence.
Occasional larger sets push into playful shoulders suitable for intermediates. The broad, gently sloping bottom & minimal entry hazards keep crowds light & lineups uncrowded. El Mojon’s ease of access & consistent, user-friendly peaks make it perfect for progression in calm, offshore conditions.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: South or southeast
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa La Bocana is the river-mouth break at Barra de la Cruz, shining at mid tide under a south or southeast swell & northeast winds. This beach break produces quick-peeling lefts & rights over shifting sandbanks, with occasional hollow tubes near the estuary. The take-off can be punchy, but the wave’s shoulders offer exciting rides that reward speed & agility.
As sand shifts, the peak moves, creating a variety of peak zones along the beach. Moderate crowds form when conditions are optimal, yet multiple peaks allow adequate wave access. Playa La Bocana’s blend of punchy sections & forgiving walls makes it a versatile spot for adventurous intermediates & advanced surfers alike.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Barra de la Cruz Surf Spots
| Barra de la Cruz Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Barra de la Cruz Beach |
Approx. 25 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
5 min. taxi |
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Playa El Mojon |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 25 min. taxi |
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Playa La Bocana |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 35 min. taxi |
Accommodation In Barra de la Cruz
Visit Trip.com for accommodations where you’ll find everything from lavish ocean view hotels to budget beachside lodgings for an effortless way to get started on your Barra de la Cruz surf trip. Advanced booking means that much less hassle, spending less time on logistics and more time surfing.
To enrich your surfing expedition in Mexico, Tripaneer surf camps are a good option because they involve lessons, lodging, and a friendly atmosphere for surfers of every level. With these camps, you improve technique and get cultural immersion for a truly rewarding surfing trip to Barra de la Cruz.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€30 to €120 |
$35 to $130 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€150 to €320+ |
$160 to $350+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Barra de la Cruz Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Barra de la Cruz surf schools offer a unique learning experience on one of Mexico’s most iconic right-hand point breaks. Ola Perfecta Surf Company provides personalized surf lessons for surfers of all levels, ensuring you build confidence and improve your skills.
Cabañas Barra Habitación combines cozy accommodations with professional surf instruction, offering a seamless way to enjoy both learning and relaxation. Barrels de la Cruz Rentals Boards & Surf Lesson delivers well-rounded surf lessons, making it a great option for those looking to ride the famous waves of Barra de la Cruz.
For those seeking progression in a quiet & wave-rich environment, Barra de la Cruz surf schools provide focused instruction & unforgettable sessions
Barra de la Cruz Surf Camp
While Barra de la Cruz doesn’t currently offer a dedicated surf camp, you’re in luck just up the coast. In nearby Puerto Escondido, Mexico’s surf capital, Experiencia Puerto Escondido offers an immersive surf experience that blends world-class waves with a vibrant community vibe. Click Puerto Escondido to be taken to the surf guide page to find out more!
Alternatively, on your trip through Mexico, don’t miss our extensive surf guides for Sayulita and Troncones. These two need no introduction on the Pacific Coast. Inside both are mellow surf camps and constantly working waves for every skill level, from never ever to totally gnarly.
Barra de la Cruz Surfboard Hire
Barra de la Cruz surfboard hire is limited but reliable, typically offered through surf camps & eco-lodges. Ola Perfecta Surf Company offers high-quality equipment for exploring the local breaks.
Barrels de la Cruz Rentals Boards & Surf Lesson also provides a convenient rental service, ensuring you’re well-equipped to enjoy the renowned waves of Barra de la Cruz.
While more low-key than other destinations, Barra de la Cruz surfboard hire ensures you have the right equipment for the wave. It’s a streamlined, surf-focused experience for those who come to ride one of Mexico’s best.
Barra de la Cruz Surf Report & Surf Cam
Knowing the latest Barra de la Cruz surf conditions means everything. Surfline live cams, accessible via subscription only, shoot real time action from Mexican surf breaks. Ideal swell and tide data from Surf-Forecast is a solid complement.
Whether you stop by for a quick morning session or to check out what new swell just hit, you will need that connectivity working for you. That is where Drimsim eSIM or Yesim eSIM comes in. Forget SIM changes, just fast digital activation, and you are connected! This bypasses the hassle while you explore and check surf reports and share your excitement with the world.
How To Get To Barra de la Cruz Surf
- Huatulco Airport (HUX) To Barra de la Cruz
Distance: 70km (43mi)
To reach Barra de la Cruz, the most convenient route is to fly into Huatulco Airport (HUX), & then take a taxi or local bus to your destination. Below is a guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Barra de la Cruz surf based on your preferences & budget.
Public Transport
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
From Huatulco Airport, take a local taxi or colectivo to the town of La Crucecita (approx. 20–30 minutes). From there, catch a second colectivo or regional bus heading south along Highway 200 towards Salina Cruz & ask to be dropped near the Barra de la Cruz turnoff.
You’ll then need a short taxi ride or hitchhike 5 km inland to reach the village. Public transport is possible but requires a few changes & is best for budget travelers.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
Several companies offer shuttle transfers from Huatulco to Barra de la Cruz, especially surf-focused operators. These shuttles usually include onboard space for surfboards & make limited stops.
Shared shuttles operate on a fixed schedule & may require waiting for other passengers, while private shuttles can be reserved for immediate departure.
Book your shuttle ahead with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups and get a waiting vehicle on arrival. This makes your transfer from the airport to the beach quick & stress-free, even after a tiring trip.
Mexico Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Remember to get Mexican Pesos since most smaller surf towns will hardly accept cards. English is widely spoken in many tourist areas, but Spanish is the official language, and a few words of Spanish will take you a long way! WiFi is usually available in accommodations, but its availability may be intermittent in rural beach zones. Do not drink tap water, and stick to bottled or filtered water.
For visa policies, safety advice, emergency contacts, and more, visit our Mexico surf page for everything you need to know in the 7 essentials.
Travel Insurance For Your Barra de la Cruz Surf Trip
Visiting Barra de la Cruz for a surf trip entails the inevitable inconvenience of lost items or cancellation. VisitorsCoverage is the provider of insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, cancellation, and damages or loss of equipment.
It thereby covers the whole surf experience in Mexico and allows you to continue surfing without stress. When insured, all trips become more hassle-free and enjoyable.
Discover Barra de la Cruz: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is quiet in Barra de la Cruz, there’s no shortage of natural beauty & local culture to explore. Here are five recommended activities.
Keep Exploring With More Mexico Surf Destinations
Written by Matt
Surfer for nearly 20 years and an environmental scientist for nine, Matt grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Australia and now calls Melbourne home. He’s all about finding surf towns you can reach without a car and writes simple surf guides to help you do the same.