Surfing in Punta de Mita: The Best Breaks on the North Shore

While the coast of Punta De Mita, Nayarit is home to some of the best surf spots in Mexico, it's also home to some of the best luxury resorts in North America. The natural beauty of the area is unbeatable, meaning that the development of this stretch of beaches has been carefully planned to ensure we don't spoil the untouched environment. What makes Punta de Mita one of the world's favourite surf destinations? 

First, the area has surf breaks that hit during differing weather and tide conditions, therefore surfers are able to catch waves basically all year round. 

Second, the naturally-blessed geography that sorrounds the peninsula of Punta de Mita, offers a variety of breaks: from shore breaks with gentle waves to reef breaks with larger and faster rides - as well as several of the longest and least crowded point breaks in Mexico. 

Third, the diversity of the of breaks allows everybody, no matter the level or style - from beginner to experienced surfers, short-boarders, long-boarders, paddle-boarders, body-boarders, and even kitesurfers to find their ideal spot.

The area is small but it offers a wide variety of beaches, If you are looking for an exciting spot to surf but you have cero idea what suits best for you, check out this options!  

El Anclote: This is by far the best place to learn to surf, here age doesn't matter! The access is very easy, located at El Anclote, the main beach in Punta de Mita. Kids, teenagers, adults, beginners, experienced surfers, everyone is welcome here. 

Location: Right in front of Hotel Cinco at El Anclote beach
Best for: Longboard
Wave Type: Point break
Direction: Right
Quality: Good beginner break; easy and longTide: Low is best.

Palmitas: Formed mainly by sand, this beach break is essential for those experienced surfers visiting the area, with both right and left breaks. This spot is much better with northern swells. You might be surprised to see the shapes of the waves.

Location: Short hike from La Lancha
Best for: Shortboard
Wave Type: Punchy beach break
Direction: Right & Left. Works on short period North swells with North winds
Quality: Good for experienced surfers
Tide: Mid to High tide

Veneros: Find the classic reef break preferred for shortboard surfing! You can also enjoy longboard surfing here. Clean groundswells prevail and the ideal swell angle is from the southwest.

Location: Access next to Rancho Banderas entrance, short hike. Fronting the W Hotel.
Best for: Shortboard, fast rides
Wave Type: Fast beach break
Direction: Right & Left.
Quality: Good on the south swell and hurricane swell
Tide: Good surf at all stages of the tide, but low is best

Stinky's: This break is good for longboarders and perfect for beginners as the break is slow and steady. A right point break, it is located to the left of the local jetty that provides cover to the small fishing boats. It's a mellow place with generally few surfers around and is also a great SUP wave. When larger swells hit, the break will offer up longer right rides with occasional fast sections in play.

Location: Directly in front of La Quinta del Sol Hotel in Punta de Mita
Best for: Longboards and SUP
Wave Type: Slow and long
Direction: Right
Quality: Works on large north or south swells
Tide: Works at low tide

Tell us about your most recent Punta Mita surf experience, and tag us in your photos @livepmsports