There are many different best surf towns in Mexico, each with its own unique set of benefits for those who love to surf. From the quiet town of Sayulita on the Pacific Coast to Mazatlán, a bustling city on the Gulf of California, there is a town in Mexico perfect for everyone who loves surfing.
Here are just a few of the best surf towns in Mexico, each with something special to offer visitors.
Also check out our guide to 7 of the best surfing beaches in Baja Mexico.
1. Sayulita
This bohemian beach town is located in Riviera Nayarit, on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
It’s a mecca for surfers of all levels, with gentle waves perfect for beginners and challenging breaks for more experienced riders.
When you’re not surfing, you can enjoy Sayulita’s lively nightlife, or explore the town’s shops and restaurants.
Sayulita offers many fun bars and night life activities for when you're not surfing. You can find many different types of food here as well.
2. San Pancho
Just north of Sayulita is a sleepy town called San Pancho.
Great for shortboarders because of their beach break waves and beautiful sunsets.
This town is a bit more low-key than Sayulita, but it’s still worth a visit for anyone looking to catch some waves in Mexico.
3. Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is a small port town in Oaxaca, on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
It’s known for its big waves, which attract surfers from all over the world.
Puerto Escondido is a laid-back town, with a focus on surfing, fishing, and enjoying the beach.
There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy when you’re not riding the waves.
4. Ensenada
Ensenada is a city in Baja California, located on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
It’s a popular destination for surfers, with waves that are perfect for all levels.
Ensenada is also known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy.
There are also many shops and restaurants to explore in this vibrant city.
Just north of Ensenada is where you'll find some of the better surf spots.
K38 and K58 offer long, consistent waves that are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers.
5. Punta Mita
Punta Mita is a luxury resort town located in Riviera Nayarit, on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
It’s known for its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing.
Punta Mita is a popular destination for celebrities and wealthy travelers, who come to enjoy the town’s luxury resorts and golf courses.
Right out front is a mellow beach break that offers long, gentle waves, perfect for beginners.
Just a short drive away is the world-famous surf spot of Puerto Vallarta.
6. San Jose del Cabo
San Jose del Cabo is a city located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula.
It’s known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and beaches.
San Jose del Cabo is also a popular surfing destination, with waves that are perfect for all levels.
The surf spots here are called Nine Palms, Zippers, and Costa Azul.
However, Nine Palms is better experienced for surfing if you plan on camping or van-living it there because there aren't any resources in the area.
7. Todos Santos and Cerritos Beach
Todos Santos is a small town located on the Baja Peninsula, in the state of Baja California Sur.
It’s known for its surfing, with waves that are perfect for all levels. Cerritos Beach is one of the best surf spots in Todos Santos.
Todos Santos is a small village with many great restaurants and bars.
Making it fun to enjoy when you're not in the water surfing.
Common questions about the best surf towns in Mexico
What part of Mexico has the best surfing?
Baja California has some of the best surfing in Mexico, with waves that are perfect for all levels.
Surfers from all over the world come to ride the waves in Baja California.
The state is also home to many luxury resorts and golf courses.
Does Mexico have good surf?
Yes, Mexico has some of the best surfing in the world.
Is Puerto Vallarta good for surfing?
There isn't any surfable waves right out front of Puerto Vallarta.
You'll have to go an hour north to the surf towns in Mexico (Sayulita and San Pancho).
Is Tulum a good place to surf?
No, there is no surfable waves in Tulum.
The closest place to surf would be in Puerto Escondido on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
What are the best surf spots in Mexico?
Some of the best surf spots in Mexico include Sayulita, Puerto Escondido, Ensenada, Punta Mita, and Baja California
What is the cheapest beach town in Mexico?
The cheapest beach town in Mexico is Todos Santos.
It's a small town located on the Baja Peninsula, in the state of Baja California Sur.
It's known for its surfing, with waves that are perfect for all levels. Cerritos Beach is one of the best surf spots in Todos Santos.
Is Cancun good for surfing?
No, Cancun is not a good place for surfing.
However, Nine Palms right outside of Cancun is a great spot for surging.
It requires you to camp on the beach or staying at an expensive hotel though.
