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An Introduction To Punta Mita Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | July 09, 2026
Punta Mita surf has mellow vibes, beautiful coastlines, and a mix of breaks that everyone can ride. Hidden away in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, it’s a peaceful paddle-out for anybody, from beginners to advanced surfers.
Getting around without a car is super easy with walkable paths, bike rentals, and many affordable taxis.
El Anclote is the major break and a fantastic starting point, soft, slow, and super forgiving, ideal for learning and just cruising. A harder challenge for surfers is nearby at La Lancha, El Faro, Stinky’s, and Playa Punta de Mita, a short bike ride away.
Each of these spots is unique, offering everything from smooth playful waves to punchy sections for more experienced surfers. All the accessibility and fun stuff makes the whole Punta Mita surf experience an even more enticing stay.
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Punta Mita
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Peak Punta Mita Surf Season | May to September
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Punta Mita surf is at its best between May & September when southern swells wrap into the multiple reef & point setups around the peninsula. Punta Mita surf during these months ranges from 3 to 5 feet, offering mellow but super fun rides.
It’s a great destination for longboarding, with playful waves at breaks like El Anclote. The variety of spots means Punta Mita surf stays rideable most days, even with wind & tide changes.
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Shoulder Punta Mita Surf Season | March, April & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
Punta Mita surf during shoulder months is mellow but consistent. Wave heights stay around 2 to 4 feet, & the area’s sheltered coves help block wind. Punta Mita surf in spring & fall offers fun peelers & smaller swells, ideal for cruising or refining turns.
While bigger sets are rare, the laid-back vibe & accessibility of breaks make this a perfect season for relaxed sessions. Punta Mita surf remains enjoyable, especially with a fish or longboard.
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Low Punta Mita Surf Season | November to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Winter brings smaller, slower waves to the region. Punta Mita surf during this time is perfect for learners & casual longboarders. With wave size generally in the 1 to 3-foot range, breaks like El Anclote offer user-friendly surf without much crowd pressure.
While occasional north swells may sneak in, Punta Mita surf is mostly calm & ideal for easy paddling & extended rides. Expect mellow conditions & warm water year-round.
Punta Mita Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Punta Mita Surf Temperature:
28–30°C (82–86°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are perfect, with a rash vest if you’re staying out for hours under the sun.
Rainfall:
Expect 10–15 rainy days monthly. Storms are usually short-lived but can bring intense bursts of rain & wind.
Punta Mita Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are still ideal, with warm water well into November.
Rainfall:
Rain begins to decrease—September is still wet with 10–12 rainy days, but by November, that drops to 3–6.
Punta Mita Surf Temperature:
26–28°C (79–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are usually fine, but some early morning surfers might want a thin spring suit.
Rainfall:
This is the dry season, with only 1–3 rainy days per month. Conditions are sunny, dry, & perfect for long beach days.
Punta Mita Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are the best pick, offering freedom & comfort in the warm waters.
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 Punta Mita
| Punta Mita Surf Spots | Distance from Punta Mita | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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El Anclote |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) south |
1-4 foot |
Gentle, mellow waves |
All levels |
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Playa Punta de Mita |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) northeast |
2-5 foot |
Long rides, easy waves |
All levels |
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Stinky’s |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) southeast |
1-3 foot |
Mellow, forgiving waves |
Beginner or intermediate |
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Playa La Lancha |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) southeast |
2-6 foot |
Consistent reef break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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El Faro |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) west |
3-7 foot |
Powerful reef break |
Advanced |
Further Information To Punta Mita Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: North
- Swell Direction: South or Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
El Anclote is a mellow longboard-friendly beach break that shines at mid tide when a robust south-southwest swell meets light northerly offshore winds. Waves peel both lefts & rights over a soft, shallow sandbar, delivering waist- to chest-high rollers with gentle shoulders perfect for cruising & flow-style turns.
The take-off is forgiving, allowing surfers of all abilities to enjoy extended rides. Despite its consistency & long ride potential, sometimes over 500 m, the remote setting keeps lineups sparse. With predictable shape & minimal consequence on falls, El Anclote is ideal for refining technique in uncrowded conditions.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: North or northeast
- Swell Direction: West or northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa Punta de Mita is a versatile point break that performs best at mid tide when a west-northwest groundswells wrap into the bay under clean north-northeast offshore winds. The wave breaks over a mixed rock & sand bottom, offering a fast, critical take-off that opens into long, rippable walls.
Surfable from waist- to head-high, the peak rewards precise rail work & maneuvering across successive sections. While the lineup can get busier during prime winter swells, the multiple peaks along the point help disperse surfers. Punta de Mita’s consistent shape & reliable offshore conditions make it a standout for intermediate & advanced riders.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low tide
- Wind: North or Northeast
- Swell Direction: South or southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Stinky’s is a glassy sand-&-rock beach break just west of El Anclote, thriving at low tide with a south-southwest swell & light northerly winds. The wave offers both lefts & rights, typically at chest-high size, with punchy shoulders & occasional small barrels. Its forgiving take-off zone makes it accessible for beginners, while the peaky sections reward intermediates seeking speed & flow.
The lineup is moderate, as its proximity to town draws local surfers but rarely overcrowds. Stinky’s consistent, user-friendly shape combined with minimal chop creates an ideal playground for refining turns in clean, offshore conditions.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to low tide
- Wind: North or northeast
- Swell Direction: South or southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa La Lancha is a pristine white-sand beach break that excels at mid to low tide when a south-southwest swell aligns with offshore north-northeast winds. Waves peel over a gentle sandbar, delivering forgiving waist- to chest-high rollers ideal for green-wave progression.
Occasional stronger sets push into head-high, rippable walls that challenge intermediates refining bottom turns & cutbacks. The spacious shoreline & consistent shape keep crowds low, providing multiple take-off zones. La Lancha’s smooth, glassy faces & minimal chop make it a perfect spot for longboarders & short-boarders seeking clean, easily accessible waves.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: North or northeast
- Swell Direction: West or northst
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
El Faro is a seasonal point break that lights up at mid tide when a westerly swell rolls in under clean north-northeast offshore winds. Breaking over a rocky reef, it offers fast, hollow rights with steep take-offs & well-defined walls. Wave heights range from head-high to overhead, rewarding confident drops & barrel attempts.
The rocky bottom demands respect, & the lineup remains moderate, mostly attracting experienced surfers. El Faro’s punchy, performance-oriented nature & consistent offshore conditions make it a high-reward break for those versed in navigating reef hazards.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Punta Mita Surf Spots
| Punta Mita Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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El Anclote |
Approx. 10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa Punta de Mita |
Approx. 20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Stinky’s |
Approx. 25 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
5 min. taxi |
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Playa La Lancha |
Approx. 45 min. |
10-15 min. |
10 min. taxi |
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El Faro |
Approx. 60 min. |
20-30 min. |
10 min. taxi |
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Accommodation In Punta Mita
Punta Mita really deserves to be enjoyed when you book your stay that’s perfect for your needs with Booking.com. Their platform lists a variety of water-side accommodations from budget-hostels to luxury beach resorts.
Use the search tool below to browse stays and choose accommodation that works for your surf adventure.
For a complete surf experience while in Mexico, surf camps by Tripaneer would be a perfect choice. They provide tailored lessons, daily surf sessions, and an inviting community, which transform your trip into both an educational and social one.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€30 to €60 |
$35 to $65 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€100 to €350 |
$110 to $380 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€400 to €600+ |
$430 to $650+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Punta Mita Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Punta Mita surf schools offer a premium learning experience with gentle reef breaks, warm water, & experienced instructors. Punta Mita Surf Lessons provides expert coaching in a picturesque setting, helping students build confidence and refine their skills.
Mita Adventures delivers high-quality instruction in a vibrant environment, perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. Tranquilo Surf is an excellent option, known for its laid-back vibe and personalized lessons tailored to your goals.
Mictlan Surf offers professional coaching with an emphasis on progression and safety. Sunset Sessions Mexico combines expert instruction with unforgettable sunset views, creating a unique surf experience.
With mellow waves & high-quality instruction, Punta Mita surf schools provide a smooth path to surf progression.
Punta Mita Surf Camps
For an immersive surf experience, Punta Mita is home to several excellent surf camps that cater to various preferences. Punta de Mita Surf Camp offers a well-rounded surf-focused retreat, combining expert instruction, comfortable accommodations, and the opportunity to connect with a vibrant surf community.
For a touch of luxury, Punta Mita Surf Lodge provides boutique-style accommodations, stunning ocean views, and easy access to the area’s world-class waves, offering a more refined yet equally surf-centric stay.
If you venture just 30 minutes north from Punta Mita to Sayulita, you’ll find an amazing surf camp with Wild Mex Surf and Adventure. More information about this top-rated experience can be found in our Sayulita surf page or click one of the two photos below.
Punta Mita Surfboard Hire
Punta Mita surfboard hire is convenient & high-end, with a wide range of boards available through local surf shops, resorts, & camps. Tranquilo Surf boasts a diverse range of boards for all skill levels, ensuring you’re fully equipped to enjoy the area’s renowned surf breaks.
Mictlan Surf offers well-maintained rentals, making it easy and hassle-free for surfers to explore the region’s diverse wave conditions. For those seeking flexibility, Sapos Surf School provides quality surfboard hire, perfect for riding Punta Mita’s waves at your own pace.
With quality rentals & expert advice, Punta Mita surfboard hire services make it easy to enjoy the area’s gentle, consistent waves.
Mexico eSIM & Mobile Data Guide
Whether you are chasing waves or exploring inland areas, staying connected in Mexico is useful.
Airalo provides an easy eSIM solution that saves time compared with buying a local SIM card. Activate your plan and start accessing data immediately.
Find the best Mexico eSIM option for you.
Punta Mita Surf Report & Surf Cam
Know your Mexico surf, that’s all it takes. Surf-Forecast gives clear indication on swell direction & tide charts.
Surfline has subscription-based live cams which let its users view unfolding waves. All of those put you ahead for selecting those great surf sessions.
How To Get To Punta Mita Surf
- Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) To Punta Mita
Distance: 40km (25mi)
To reach Punta Mita surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) & 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 Punta Mita based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 1-2 hrs.
Details:
From PVR, take a local bus to Bucerías or Mezcales, then switch to another bus bound for Punta de Mita. Buses are frequent but slow due to multiple stops.
You’ll likely need to walk or taxi from the final stop to your specific lodging. Budget-friendly but time-consuming, this is only recommended if traveling light.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1-2 hrs.
Details:
Several companies offer shared & private shuttles from PVR to Punta Mita, often serving hotels & surf camps directly. These services run multiple times per day & are ideal for travelers with boards.
Pre-arranging a shuttle with Kiwitaxi means your ride is ready when you arrive at the airport. This smooth transfer takes you from the airport to the beach quickly, letting you relax right away without waiting or worrying about delays.
- Book Your Puerto Vallarta Airport To Punta Mita Private Transfer
From solo travellers to families and surf groups, Kiwitaxi offers transport solutions from Puerto Vallarta Airport to coastal destinations throughout Mexico.
Find a comfortable way to begin your trip by comparing the available services below.
Travel Insurance For Your Punta Mita Surf Trip
Unexpected challenges like injuries or misplaced equipment might strike at any time when traveling to surf in Mexico.
From medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations to loss or damage to equipment, Visitors Coverage travel insurance covers travelers from these eventualities.
With this protection, your surf trip in Mexico will be kept safe and free of worry, thus allowing you to enjoy the waves. Reliable insurance makes you well-prepared for whatever travel challenge that may come your way.
How To Enjoy Mexico On Flat Surf Days
When the ocean goes quiet, Mexico’s food and culture become the perfect way to spend the day.
Spend your time sampling street food, joining a cooking experience, visiting local restaurants, or enjoying the relaxed rhythm of life in a Mexican surf town.
Viator has a range of food tours, cultural experiences, and activities that surfers can book during their trip.
Mexico Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Surfing in Mexico is a dream come true, however, a little preparation will help you avoid a lot of hassles.
ATMs can often be scarce in beach towns, so carry pesos for food, local transport, and purchases. Spanish is widely spoken, you may hear some English in tourist areas, but it helps to know a few phrases. Do not drink tap water, go for filtered or sealed bottled water instead.
Our Mexico surf page provides information on all 7 essentials for travel, from emergency contacts to health information and visa prerequisites. Make sure you peruse it before you travel.
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.