An Introduction To Barra de la Cruz Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 07, 2025
Barra de la Cruz surf is one of those rare finds—raw, quiet, & absolutely world-class. Tucked along Oaxaca’s southern coast, this small village delivers incredible waves without the crowds or chaos. With most surf spots just a short bike ride or walk away, it’s perfect for anyone chasing great sessions & a simple, car-free setup.
At the heart of it all is the main point break at Barra Beach—fast, hollow, & ridiculously fun. The wave lines up beautifully, peeling for what feels like forever, & offering the kind of ride that keeps advanced surfers coming back year after year. It’s the kind of spot where the surf does all the talking, & the vibe stays grounded.
If you’re looking to mix things up, nearby beaches like Playa El Mojon & Playa La Bocana offer different conditions & plenty of room to explore. Whether you’re here for the barrels or just to soak in the rhythm of a quiet surf town, Barra de la Cruz surf is the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’ve left.
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In This Guide
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 |
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, Cafeteria & Surf School 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. It’s the perfect spot to sharpen your skills, connect with fellow surfers, & embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle. More details about this unforgettable camp can be found in the section below.
8-Day Puerto Escondido Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Experiencia Puerto Escondido
Join Experiencia Puerto Escondido for a transformative 8-day surf & yoga retreat designed for beginner surfers. Enjoy five semi-private surf lessons, three yoga sessions, & a private surf photo session in one of Mexico’s most renowned surf spots.
This camp offers personalized attention with a maximum of two students per instructor, ensuring you receive top-notch guidance. The perfect blend of surf & yoga will help you develop your skills, relax, & connect with fellow surf enthusiasts.
What’s Included:
Your retreat includes 7 nights of accommodation, five surf lessons, all equipment (boards & lycras), & three yoga sessions. The program also features a private surf photo session & video coaching to analyze your progress.
Meals are not included but you will have ample free time to explore the local area & enjoy nearby dining options. Airport transfers are available on request. Find Out More
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Mexico and around the world!
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
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Barra de la Cruz surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Barra de la Cruz surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
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 estimated costs & 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 | Cheapest Option
- Time: 1.5-2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $5-10 USD per person
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
- Time: 1.5-2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $25-$45 USD per person
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. Booking online in advance is highly recommended due to limited service in this rural region.
Accommodation In 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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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Barra de la Cruz, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
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