---

Surf's Up - Where to Catch the Perfect Wave

By Kameron Nesen
September 14, 2009

For all the surfers out there who want to head South of the border for a weekend getaway, here are some of the insider hot spots where the coveted waves roll in.

Puerto Escondido
This hideaway boasts beautiful beaches, spicy Mexican food, and of course the "Mexican Pipeline" - A surfer's dream.

The Mexican Pipeline is the spot for all serious surfers, with waves up to 10 m in height, including the "Monster that can get up to 12 m high. The consistency and power of the waves is what makes the "Playa Zicatela" the main spot at Puerto Escondido.

For those adventure and danger seekers, the "Far Bar" is at the other end of the beach. But BEWARE: Some of the worlds top surfers are now paralyzed due to the "Far Bar's" deep and powerful waves.

Puerto is just right for chillin' and if you want to get away from the resort feel for an afternoon. But be sure to be safe as some areas may be dangerous for tourists. Don't travel alone and don't be flashy with your new Rolex.

Playa Azul
Plaza Azul (Blue Beach) is a coastal town with sandy beaches in the middle of open sea known for its beautiful waters rich in color. It is one of the most popular spots known for its soft yellow sands and strong waves with a gentle slope.

Playa Azul boasts stunning landscape of steep mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and great beaches. A simple town with solid surfing and a variety of beach-side restaurants and shops, Playa Azul will meets everyone's needs. As for the surf breakdown - The coastline is varied with cobblestone reef breaks, point breaks and river-mouths. It's open to all swells from the south to the west-northwest, meaning you can surf there all year long. However for the best waves, summertime is ideal.

Sayulita, Nayarit
Good waves, a large surf community, and frequent surf contests. Catch the north swell December through early April.

Pascuales, Colima
Huge beach break, very powerful. For experienced surfers only.

Mazatlan, Sinaloa
Excellent conditions year round from beginner to expert. Check out Playa Bruja, Playa Olas Altas, Cerritos Beach, Cagadazo Beach, and Playa Los Pinos.

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur
Good surfing in Santo Tomas north of town. Camping available. Best time is fall and winter - bring a wetsuit.

Huatulco, Oaxaca
La Bocana beach, Barra de la Cruz, 20 km east is great. Summer and fall are the best.

Punta de Mita, Nayarit
Good waves off the beach near the end of the point in Banderas Bay.

San Pancho, Nayarit
Small waves here, better in Sayulita (10 minutes by car). A good place to stay is Costa Azul. They have daily minivan trips to surrounding surf areas.

Los Cabos, Baja California Sur
Surf spots mainly outside the resort, on the Pacific near Todos Santos.

San Blas, Nayarit
Las Islitas was once famous for the longest wave in the world - now a good jetty and shore break at Borrego Beach. Best surf is in the summer. Surfers hang out at Pompis Ramada on Borrego.

For more detailed up to the minute surf cams, reports and forecasts check out: surfline.com