El Faro Surf Break: The Complete Guide
The wave
Surfnerd describes El Faro as a right-hand point over uneven reef that works on southwest through northwest swell, with southwest the best match, from about two to ten feet. Consistency is moderate, so it does not work every day. North wind is offshore and holds the long rides together.
The Surf Atlas, which calls the spot Lighthouse, describes a hollow right with cruisy peelers off the rocks. It says El Faro needs strong swell and a low tide with offshore northeast wind to shine, and works to good quality about a fifth of the winter. It adds that summer southwest swell may suit it better.
| Detail | What guides report |
|---|---|
| Wave type | Right-hand point over uneven reef |
| Swell | Southwest to northwest, southwest best |
| Size range | About 2 to 10 feet |
| Wind | North to northeast offshore |
| Tide | Most tides, rising better (Surfnerd); low tide (Surf Atlas) |
| Level | Intermediate; not for beginners |
| Consistency | Moderate |
Access
Surfnerd reports that the point was bought to build the Four Seasons Resort, so access is guarded and parking is restricted. Reaching it takes a long walk, a paddle or a boat. An alternative is to hire a panga from the fishermen's cooperative at the small harbor on the beach at Corral del Risco, El Anclote.
Do not cross private property to reach the break. Ask your villa host or a local captain how to approach it legally and safely on the day.
Season and who it suits
Guides disagree slightly on tide, so treat the tide notes as a starting point and ask a local. Plan El Faro for a day with solid swell. Shortboards are recommended by The Surf Atlas, and the lineup is described as moderately busy when it turns on.
Staying near El Faro
Villas at the tip of Punta Mita are closest, but the access limits mean a boat or an arranged approach is the realistic way to surf it. Tell Costa how your group wants to surf and we will recommend a base.
Who this is not for
El Faro is not for beginners or anyone who wants a casual, easy-access wave. Choose El Anclote, Stinky's or La Lancha instead.
Tell Costa your dates and who surfs in your group in the chat, and we will match you with villas that fit the waves you want.
Questions people ask
Is El Faro good for beginners?
No. It is rated intermediate over uneven reef, and access is limited.
How do I get to El Faro?
By a long walk, a paddle or a boat. Surfnerd also mentions hiring a panga from the fishermen's cooperative at Corral del Risco.
Is access to El Faro restricted?
Surfnerd says access is guarded because the point was bought for the Four Seasons Resort, and parking is restricted.
When is El Faro best?
On strong southwest to northwest swell with north or northeast offshore wind. The Surf Atlas says summer southwest swell may suit it.
What tide is best at El Faro?
Sources differ: rising tide generally (Surfnerd) or low tide (The Surf Atlas). Ask a local.
Is El Faro crowded?
Moderately busy when it is on, according to Surfnerd.
Which villas are close to El Faro?
Villas near the tip of Punta Mita are closest. Costa can say which fit your dates and group.
Have a specific question? Ask me in the chat.
Start the conversationSources: Surfnerd: El Faro · Surfnerd: Punta Mita · The Surf Atlas: Punta Mita · Surf-Forecast: Punta De Mita. Details as published and checked in October 2026; dates, seasons and conditions can change.