Mexico City has plenty of vacation activities and tourist attractions, and the sleepy beach town of San Pancho is a surfer’s paradise. Rich in culture, natural beauty, and people who are warm, welcoming, and full of life, it may not be the first Mexican city that comes to mind when considering a beach vacation with some surf, sand, and sun, but once you discover this hiding place, you will keep coming back again and again. Officially called San Francisco, the locals gave it the nickname San Pancho, which has stuck.
Located in Banderas Bay along the Pacific coast of Mexico, this small town primarily attracts advanced surfers because, unlike other surf spots, San Pancho produces challenging waves that make it relatively unknown to the surfing public. . That means no crowds, so you pretty much have the ocean to yourself. Although it is relatively undiscovered, it is still easily accessible to tourists, only about a 45-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta in the Riviera Nayarit.
If you are an advanced surfer and love hitting the waves, this is the surf spot for you. It’s located within an hour of more than 12 reef breaks, and during the rainy season, waves can rise up to 10 feet high. Although beginner and intermediate surfers try to surf San Pancho, it is more suitable for advanced surfers looking for more challenging waves. Expert surfers are usually the only ones capable of mastering the waves, as they are temperamental and break on a mixture of sand and rocks (rocks can be dangerous).
Since the waves hit heavy, hollow and fast, this is not the place for beginners. They break too close to shore and don’t walk long enough to stand up, making learning treacherous. Beginner surfers visiting the city should stop by the San Pancho Surf Shop and ask for lessons from Alonso, who will teach them in a safer location.
Expert surfers know that some of the best surf breaks are hard to find, and most won’t tell, but local guides may be willing to take visitors to other great spots in the area. Some vacation packages include lodging and surf tours, making the vacation planning process easier. These packages provide options such as private surf lessons for five days or advanced surfing all day for eight days. Surf packages vary to suit anyone’s skill level and preferences.
Shortboards, longboards, and funboards are available for rent in town, and rental fees cover all-day use. No matter where you surf, before you head out into the ocean, check the weather advisories provided by local surf shops. Beware of strong undertow in the area and always observe proper safety precautions when surfing.
On your next beach vacation, consider San Pancho, Mexico. The weather is mild most of the year with a pleasant 80s on land and a comfortable mid 70s on the water. If you’re visiting this laid-back resort town and planning on doing some surfing, the waves may not cooperate, but there are plenty of great surf spots nearby.