Punta de Mita

## The spot Punta de Mita, specifically the break at El Anclote, is a gentle right-hand point break in Nayarit state on Mexico's Pacific coast. The wave wraps slowly around a cobblestone and flat reef bottom, producing thick, sloping faces that peel at walking pace. This is a quintessential learning and longboarding wave, offering stability and predictability in warm tropical water with the Sierra Madre mountains as a backdrop. The fishing village retains much of its character despite the nearby resort development. ## When it works South-westerly Pacific groundswells arrive consistently from May through October, with the largest pulses in July and August. The wave also picks up north-west swells during winter months. It activates on very small swells (2-3ft) and maintains shape up to 5-6ft before the sections become disconnected. North-easterly winds blow offshore and are most reliable at dawn. The sea breeze typically establishes by late morning. ## Where to sit The take-off zone wraps around the cobblestone point at the northern end of the bay. The wave peels right for 50-100 metres along the gradually deepening bottom. Beginners can sit inside where the broken waves reform gently. More experienced riders should position at the top of the point for the longest rides. The deep water beyond the point provides a straightforward paddle-out. ## Hazards The cobblestone bottom is uneven but relatively deep, minimising impact risk. Sea urchins inhabit the rocky sections near the point. The main hazard is other surfers, particularly beginner groups and stand-up paddlers in the congested inside zone. Stingrays inhabit the sandy patches. The tropical sun is fierce. ## Parking and access Street parking is available in the village near the beach. The break is immediately accessible from the beachfront with no difficult entry. Multiple surf schools operate from the beach. Facilities including restaurants, showers, and shops line the waterfront promenade. The Sayulita-Punta de Mita bus runs frequently. ## The crowd El Anclote attracts a high volume of beginners and surf school groups, particularly during peak tourist season (December-April). The inside zone is chaotic with foam boards. Further out on the point, the crowd thins to experienced surfers who have paddled past the school zones. Early mornings before 8am offer the best window before lessons begin. ## Local tips A longboard or a wide fish maximises your fun on this gentle, fat wave. The point produces minimal steep sections for a shortboard to engage with. The wave is best on an incoming mid-tide when the water depth over the cobblestones provides the smoothest face. Punta de Mita is warmer than you expect; board shorts and a rash vest suffice year-round. If the point is too crowded, Bahia de Banderas to the south offers beach break alternatives with fewer people.