La Lancha Surf Break: The Complete Guide
The wave
Surfnerd describes La Lancha as a reef and point break that works both right and left over rock and coral. The point faces southwest, but northwest swell is what makes it work. Cabo Corrientes blocks most south and south-southwest swell, while very westerly southwest swells also work.
The Surf Atlas describes two breaks in the bay: an intermediate wedge farther out with a better left than right, and a short beach wave good for paddling and pop-up practice. It ranks La Lancha among the top three spots in Punta Mita.
| Detail | What guides report |
|---|---|
| Wave type | Reef and point, rights and lefts |
| Best swell | Northwest; about 4 to 12 feet, waist to head high ideal |
| Wind | Northeast offshore; workable from northwest to northeast |
| Tide | Mid to high, rising generally better |
| Season | Mainly November to March, tail into spring |
| Level | Beginner through expert |
| Boards | Shortboard, fish, funboard or longboard |
Season
Winter northwest swell is the main season. The Surf Atlas says the intermediate wedge is especially good from May on and warns that summer swells can make La Lancha feisty. In practice, beginners are best served in winter.
Hazards, lessons and crowd
Surfnerd says the reef is shallow and rocks are a real hazard, so go with a coach if it is your first time. The lineup is moderately busy when it is good, with many longboarders, but described as friendly. Lessons are commonly given here because the beach wave is forgiving.
Getting there
Surfnerd says to ask locally or hike in from the beach. Live Punta Mita uses La Lancha as an access landmark for Palmitas, a punchy sandbar break a short hike away. Surf-Forecast places La Lancha about two kilometers from the main Punta de Mita break.
Staying near La Lancha
La Lancha is the most useful break to be near if your group has mixed levels. Villas in the Punta Mita communities are a short drive away. Tell Costa who surfs and we will recommend a base.
Who this is not for
Surfers looking for a heavy reef barrel will prefer Punta Burros or La Bahia. Anyone who dislikes shallow reef should surf a sandy beach.
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 La Lancha good for beginners?
Yes. There is a short beach wave for beginners, and it is the main lesson location. Rocks are a hazard, so go with a coach.
When is the best season for La Lancha?
Mainly November to March on northwest swell, with spring at the tail end.
What tide is best?
Mid to high, with a rising tide generally better, according to Surfnerd.
How do I get to La Lancha?
Ask locally or hike in from the beach, per Surfnerd.
Is La Lancha crowded?
Moderately busy when good, with a friendly lineup of many longboarders.
Which villas are close to La Lancha?
Villas in the Punta Mita communities are a short drive away. Costa can match you to one.
What board should I bring?
Shortboard, fish, funboard or longboard all work.
Have a specific question? Ask me in the chat.
Start the conversationSources: Surfnerd: La Lancha · The Surf Atlas: Punta Mita · Surf-Forecast: Punta De Mita · Live Punta Mita: Surfing in Punta de Mita. Details as published and checked in October 2026; dates, seasons and conditions can change.