Mexico has many vacation activities and tourist attractions, and the sleepy seaside town of San Pancho is a surfer’s paradise. Rich in culture, natural beauty, and warm, welcoming people who are 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 a 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 remained.

Located in the Bay of Banderas along the Pacific coast of Mexico, this small town mainly attracts advanced surfers because, unlike other surf spots, San Pancho produces challenging waves that make it relatively unknown to the surfer public. . That means there are no crowds, so you practically have the ocean to yourself. Although it is relatively undiscovered, it is still easily accessible for tourists, just a 45-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta on the Riviera Nayarit.

If you are an advanced surfer and you love hitting the waves, this is the surf spot for you. It is found within an hour after more than 12 reefs, and during the rainy season, the waves can rise up to 10 feet in height. 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 often the only ones capable of mastering the waves, as they are temperamental and break over a mixture of sand and rocks (rocks can be dangerous).

Since the waves hit hard, hollow, and fast, this is not the place for beginners. They break too close to shore and don’t walk long enough to stand, making learning treacherous. Beginning 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.

Savvy surfers know that some of the best surf spots are hard to find and most won’t tell you, but local guides may be willing to take visitors to other great spots in the area. Some vacation packages include both lodging and surf tours, making the vacation planning process easier. These packages offer 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 in town for rent, and rental rates cover all-day use. No matter where you surf, before heading out into the ocean, check the weather warnings provided at local surf shops. Beware of the strong undertow in the area and always observe proper safety precautions when surfing.

On your next beach vacation, consider San Pancho, Mexico. The climate is temperate most of the year with a mild 80 degrees (F) on land and a comfortable mid 70s (F) on the water. If you’re visiting this laid-back resort town and planning to surf, the waves may not cooperate, but there are plenty of great surf spots nearby.