Surfing in Punta Mita: Breaks and Levels
Match your level to the break
Surf reports and local guides agree on the broad pattern: the breaks closest to the village are forgiving, and the outer reefs are not.
Skill level here also depends on season. A break that is mellow in December can be much heavier on a summer south swell.
| Level | Start here | Why | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | El Anclote, Stinky's, La Lancha beach wave | Slow, long rights and a short beach wave used for lessons | Rocks, urchins, summer swell |
| Intermediate | La Lancha wedge, El Faro on smaller days | Longer rides with some power | Shallow reef, crowds when good |
| Advanced | Punta Burros, La Bahia, Palmitas | Hollow reef wedges and punchy sandbars | Reef, boat access, localism |
What a good first week looks like
A common sequence is to spend the first days at La Lancha or El Anclote to get comfortable with the reef and the entries, then step up to a bigger break once you know the tide pattern. Guides recommend checking the tide: several breaks work best at low to mid tide, though this differs by spot.
Local coaches work mostly at La Lancha, which guides describe as the main lesson location. Ask a coach about the day's swell before you pick a break.
Boards
Longboards and funboards work at El Anclote, Stinky's and La Lancha. Shortboards and fish are better for Punta Burros and the outer breaks. If you are unsure, ask the coach or board provider what to bring.
Who this is not for
Surfers who want beach breaks with sand bottoms and a wide choice of surf schools on the beach will find Sayulita easier. Punta Mita is mostly reef and point.
Tell Costa your dates and who surfs in your group in the chat, and we will match you with villas that fit.
Questions people ask
What level of surfer is Punta Mita for?
All levels, but different breaks. Beginners use El Anclote and Stinky's. Intermediates can surf La Lancha. Advanced surfers go to Punta Burros, La Bahia and El Faro.
Is Punta Mita good for learning to surf?
One local guide calls El Anclote the best place nearby to learn. Lessons are commonly given at La Lancha.
What is the biggest risk for beginners?
Reef and rocks. Wear a rash guard, protect your feet where advised, and do not paddle out onto a reef you have not been shown.
Is it better to go in winter or summer?
Winter brings smaller, cleaner waves that suit learning. Summer brings bigger south and southwest swell for experienced surfers.
Do I need my own board?
Not necessarily. Coaches and rental shops supply boards. Ask Costa to arrange it for you.
Which breaks are walkable from the village?
El Anclote and Stinky's are in front of the village, and La Lancha is a short hike or ride away.
Have a specific question? Ask me in the chat.
Start the conversationSources: The Surf Atlas: Punta Mita · Live Punta Mita: Surfing in Punta de Mita · Surfnerd: La Lancha · Surf-Forecast: Punta De Mita. Details as published and checked in October 2026; dates, seasons and conditions can change.