An Introduction To Barra de la Cruz Surf
Barra de la Cruz surf, a hidden gem on the Oaxacan coast, is famed for its beautiful waves, laid-back atmosphere, & the untouched beauty of its beaches. With surf spots within a short bike ride or walk, Barra de la Cruz is ideal for surfers seeking simplicity without the need for a car.
At the centre of the action is Barra de la Cruz Beach, known for its legendary point break that delivers fast, hollow waves, perfect for thrilling, long rides down the line. The wave quality here is exceptional, drawing advanced surfers from around the world who come to experience its powerful, barrelling sections that provide an unforgettable ride.
Just a bit further, nearby beaches like Playa El Mojon & Playa La Bocana offer a variety of conditions for surfers of all levels.
With a few surf camps, local eateries, & quiet sands, it’s easy to dive into the surf culture at Barra de la Cruz.
In This Guide
Best Time For Barra de la Cruz Surf
Seasons:
- Spring (March-May): Moderate waves, great for intermediates.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or 1mm wetsuit top.
- Summer (June-August): Consistent, larger swells for advanced surfers.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.
- Autumn (September-November): Prime swells & ideal conditions.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini
- Winter (December-February): Smaller waves, perfect for all levels.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or 1mm wetsuit top.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 3 to 8 foot, best with a south to southwest swell.
- Break Type: Primarily point breaks with sand bottoms, offering long, powerful rides.
- Tide & Wind: Best during mid to high tide with light east or northeast winds.
- Skill Required: Intermediate to advanced at Barra de la Cruz; Playa El Mojon & Playa La Bocana are more beginner-friendly.
Barra de la Cruz Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Barra de la Cruz | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Barra de la Cruz Beach |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) south |
3-8 foot |
World-class right-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Playa El Mojon |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) southwest |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
|
Surf Spots Within the Area |
||||
|
Playa La Bocana |
Approx. 11km (6.8mi) southwest |
2-8 foot |
Versatile beach break |
All levels |
Access To Barra de la Cruz Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Barra de la Cruz Beach |
Approx. 25 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
5 min. taxi |
|
Playa El Mojon |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 25 min. taxi |
|
Playa La Bocana |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 35 min. taxi |
Accommodation in Barra de la Cruz
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€30 to €120 |
$35 to $130 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€150 to €320 |
$160 to $350 |
How To Get To Barra de la Cruz
How to get to Barra de la Cruz from Huatulco Airport (HUX)
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 based on your preferences & budget.
Distance: 70 km (43 mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share (Best Option):
- Time: 1 hr.
- Cost: Approx. $35-$45 USD
- Public Transport (Bus):
- Time: 1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $10 USD per person
How to get to Barra de la Cruz from Oaxaca City
To reach Barra de la Cruz from Oaxaca City, there are several transportation options. The journey offers a range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Here’s a guide with estimated costs and times to help plan your trip.
Distance: 250km (155mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share (Best Option):
- Time: 5-6 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $150-$200 USD
- Public Transport (Bus + Taxi):
- Oaxaca to Huatulco (Bus) + Taxi
- Time: 8-9 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$30 USD per person
- Taxi from Huatulco to Barra de la Cruz
- Time: 1 hr.
- Cost: Approx. $35-$45 USD
- Oaxaca to Huatulco (Bus) + Taxi
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:
Hike to the Lookout Point:
Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline & capture stunning photos of the surf below.
Explore Playa Ventanilla:
Take a guided tour through the mangroves, spot wildlife, & see the unique rock formations.
Visit the Local Artisan Market:
Discover handmade crafts, jewelry, & textiles created by local artisans.
Day Trip to Huatulco:
Explore Huatulco’s beautiful beaches, vibrant marketplaces, & seafood restaurants for a change of scenery.
Try Local Oaxacan Cuisine:
Sample traditional dishes like tlayudas & mole from small eateries or food stands in Barra.
Exploring Oaxaca: The Best Sights and Landmarks to Visit
If the surf is flat for a few days, consider heading to Oaxaca to immerse yourself in the rich culture, vibrant history, & unique culinary delights of Mexico. From exploring ancient ruins to sampling local mezcal, Oaxaca offers an unforgettable experience off the waves.
Explore the Ancient Ruins of Monte Albán:
Discover the impressive ruins of this ancient Zapotec city perched atop a mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys & rich archaeological sites, including temples, pyramids, & tombs.
Visit the Santo Domingo Church & Museum:
This baroque masterpiece is a must-see, with its ornate architecture & beautiful interior. Adjacent is the Museum of Oaxacan Culture, where you can learn about the region’s indigenous history, art, & traditions.
Wander Through the Zócalo (Main Square):
Oaxaca’s vibrant main square is a hub of activity, with lively markets, street food vendors, & live music. It’s the perfect place to soak in the local culture & try regional specialties like tlayudas & mezcal.
Visit Hierve el Agua:
A stunning natural site featuring mineral-rich waterfalls that have created petrified rock formations, Hierve el Agua offers a breathtaking landscape & natural infinity pool where you can relax & swim with panoramic views of the mountains.