About Salina Cruz Surf Travel
Once a top secret fiercely defended by locals and ex-pats in the know, Salina Cruz today is a common stop for traveling surfers, as well as the object of several new surf camps and tour operators’ desire. While the coast just to the north of Salina Cruz is laden with tumbling tropical beaches and untainted nature, the landscape and beaches around this industrial town are rather barren and unimpressive. It’s a different story just off the beach, of course.
Salina Cruz may not dredge quite as hard as its neighboring right-hander Barra, but it sure does grind along for a mind-bendingly, leg-crampingly long time. Catch one that’s been spinning already for tens of yards and you’ll still have a lengthy ride. There are barrel sections, crisp lips, pocket shoulders and every other manner of blissful kink in Salina Cruz’s right-handers. In short, it’s as close to a skatepark as surfing can get.
Catching a shady respite from the waves
A warning: Be cautious and frugal if you’re traveling with a group in this area. As mentioned, Salina Cruz has only recently been introduced to the greater surf travel world and as such many folks are not the least bit stoked about it. You’ll notice that the reputable surf camp and tour outfits only take a certain amount of surfers to the wave each day, and even then stagger their groups into smaller ones. While the influx of surf tourism cannot be stopped at this point — no matter how prudent tour operators are — many of those that knew Salina Cruz before the rush should be able to expect proper etiquette from all the new faces.
Surf Hazards
In 2017 the Salina Cruz area was heavily impacted by hurricane storms. During prime hurricane season the surf can pump, but it can also be extremely dangerous. Be wary of the rainy season as mosquitos can be especially bothersome. And remember, you’re in Mexico and there’s always a chance things can go sideways if you’re not mindful of your surroundings and aware of where you are. Be smart, be safe.
Surf Pollution
Because this area isn’t a sprawling metropolis, it doesn’t have a lot of urban runoff issues, but heavy storms can wash debris and pollution out to sea. Beware of the flush effect.
Best Surf Seasons in Salina Cruz
1) Summer
(June-August) primetime for Salina Cruz, summer means consistent south swells and increasingly more travelers. The rainy season, bring a poncho and you could also chance into a properly aimed hurricane swell…but be careful if the storm gets too close.
2) Fall
(September-November) a slow down in crowds, late season south swells and warm water makes the fall a great time of year to take a spin through Salina Cruz. September is peak hurricane season, so be mindful of the storms as they can get dangerously close…or they can produce sand-sucking barrels.
3) Spring
(March-May) early season swells in Salina Cruz mean groomed sandbars and light crowds. The surf may lack consistency, but it also lacks the rush. Pick your poison.
4) Winter
(December-February) the dry season, winter in Salina Cruz means a slowdown in swell. Winter is the official offseason in Salina Cruz.
Directions to the Salina Cruz
If you’re flying into the Salina Cruz zone, and chances are that you are, there are three airports that can be relied on. Ixtepec, Hualtuco and Puerto Escondido. From there you can rent cars, hire drivers or hop a bus. The choice is yours.