After the recent Rip Curl WCT event labeled “Somewhere in Mexico” scored epic waves at a closely guarded location, those not familiar with Mexico’s southern beaches were left questioning whether it’s possible for a world class wave to remain a secret spot in this modern era of surf travel and swell prediction. So, is what Rip Curl and the ASP called “La Jolla” really a world-class wave, and is it really a secret spot? For those that watched the WebCast the answer is easy to guess. Yes, the spot can get world class - as we all witnessed - and no, the spot is no secret.

The region surrounding the resort town of Huatulco lies south of Puerto Escondido, roughly three long, hot, bumpy hours by car. However, for any surfer with wheels and a little local knowledge, the drive can be well worth the rewards. Puerto is characterized by localized, bone crushing, often closed out barbells, while the Huatulco area contains a series of sand bottom right points. “La Jolla” is the most well known of the points and has the most protection from the wind, but is by no means the best the area has to offer. Taylor Steele’s 2000 release of Hit’N’Run spotlights Kelly Slater and Donovan Frankenreiter surfing the Huatulco region. Of the varies points they surfed, “La Jolla” got the least amount of attention from the visiting pros. And by the way, back in 2000, these waves were real secret spots. The crew had to park off the main highway and walk 45 minutes- no other surfers to see seen. However, things have changed a lot in six years. Newer, bigger roads have been built, making access easy. The magazines, film-makers and pros make regular visits with each south swell session and now, Rip Curl has gone all the way and sponsored a major World Championship Tour event there. Making up a fake name like “La Jolla” will do little to stop the masses from California’s over-crowded beaches.  This is very fortunate for the local economy, which looks every bit the 3rd world that it is, but at the same time a real disappointment for those lucky surfers that had been enjoying this unspoiled area with no crowds or attitudes for many years. 

So, if you’re interested in these waves and want to jump on the band wagon, ask your travel agent how to get to Huatulco in the state of Oaxaca, book yourself a room in one of the 5 star resorts, hire a car then follow any other car you see with boards on it. I’m sure you’ll see plenty. The best time for swell is Mexico’s summer. If you go in the winter expect to see a very flat ocean, due to Pacific Winter North Swells not rapping this far down the Mexican coast. The summer water is warm to hot, the air even hotter. The local food tastes amazing, but will often leave you with an unwanted friend in your belly. If you like Corona Beer and tequila, then you’re headed to the right country, but don’t even think of drinking the water. A typical quiver would consist of a small wave board and a standard shortboard, however, as we saw for the WCT, the pros were riding bigger boards when the swell was at it’s largest. When the waves are small, this is a great location for beginners, as the hoards of European backpackers will confirm. As for dangers, Huatulco is generally a safe place for wives, girlfriends and children. But if you plan on staying in Puerto, you’ll have to be alert. Muggings, rapes and rip-offs are more common than Mexico’s Board of Tourism would like you to know about. But with a little planning and a lot of sunscreen, all of southern Mexico can be a first rate surf destination – just don’t tell ‘em we sent you!