A person practicing yoga on the beach with a surfboard nearby, symbolizing the connection between yoga and surfing for strength and flexibility.
By wildmexsurf.com

STRETCHING IN SAYULITA FOR BEGINNER AND INTERMEDIATE SURFERS

Reaching out from #Sayulita to all the surfers in the Punta Mita area in México and around the globe, who are looking to improve their surfing skills and find strenght and release prior and after hitting the waves, here are some useful yoga exercises:

A person practicing yoga on the beach with a surfboard nearby, symbolizing the connection between yoga and surfing for strength and flexibility.
  1. Commence your yoga journey standing tall in Tadasana, feet rooted firmly on the ground, arms resting gently by your sides, inviting a sense of centeredness and balance.
  2. Inhale deeply, gracefully sweep your arms overhead, embracing the vastness of the sky above; exhale, gracefully fold forward into Uttanasana, surrendering to the Earth's pull with each breath.
  3. As you inhale, find length in your spine, drawing your torso halfway up into Ardha Uttanasana, a graceful pause to foster a sense of openness and extension.
  4. With a mindful exhale, plant your palms firmly on the ground, step back into Plank pose, channeling strength and stability through your entire body.
  5. Inhale, feel the energy coursing through your being as you lower down with control, either transitioning into a gentle Chaturanga or gently lowering all the way to your belly.
  6. As you inhale, rise into Cobra pose, lifting your heart to the sky, while keeping your shoulders relaxed, inviting a sense of expansiveness and vitality.
  7. Exhale, ground down through your palms and press back into Downward Facing Dog, allowing your body to stretch and release any tension accumulated throughout the practice.
  8. Inhale deeply, lift your heels high, bend your knees, and gracefully hop forward into Bunny Hops, igniting a sense of playfulness and lightness in your practice.
  9. Exhale, softly land back into Uttanasana, feeling a sense of surrender and release as your belly gently rests on your thighs.
  10. Inhale, find length in your spine once again, lifting halfway up with Ardha Uttanasana, cultivating a profound connection between breath and movement.
  11. With a mindful exhale, fold forward into Uttanasana, allowing yourself to release any remaining tension and sink deeper into the present moment.
  12. Inhale, bend your knees and sink your hips back into Utkatasana, Chair pose, embodying strength and determination as you ground down through your feet and lift your arms high.
  13. Exhale, transition into Navasana, Boat pose, balancing on your sitting bones, igniting your core, and awakening your inner strength.
  14. In Navasana, engage your core as you row the boat, inhaling as you lower towards the earth and exhaling as you rise, fostering resilience and perseverance with each movement.
  15. Hug your knees to your chest, rock back, and forth, building momentum and vitality as you prepare to rise back to standing in Utkatasana, symbolizing your readiness to face any challenges with courage and grace.
  16. Exhale, press firmly into the earth, and rise back up to standing, embodying strength, stability, and poise.
  17. Repeat this empowering sequence, adding Handstand Pike variations if you're feeling adventurous, and embrace the transformative journey of yoga to elevate your surfing experience to new heights.
By wildmexsurf.com

Best Tides to Surf in the Sayulita and Punta de Mita Area

Every day, surfers inquire about the optimal tides for surfing in the Sayulita and Punta Mita region. Understanding the nuances of incoming and outgoing tides, especially in relation to different types of breaks, can significantly enhance your surfing experience.

Situated along the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Sayulita and Punta Mita offer waves year-round. Sayulita, facing north, is ideal for North swells, while Punta Mita, with spots like La Lancha, is more receptive to South swells. The coastline between these two points accommodates various swell directions due to its rugged terrain.

A detailed map showcasing surf spots in the Sayulita and Punta de Mita area, aiding surfers in choosing the best tides for optimal surfing experiences.

Now, what exactly is "swell"? Swell refers to waves generated by distant storms in the ocean. As swell approaches shallow waters near the coast, it forms the waves surfers ride. The direction and size of swell greatly influence surfing conditions.

Let's delve into specifics. Sayulita boasts a gentle, beginner-friendly wave on its left side, best enjoyed at high tide. Conversely, the right side offers a rock bottom point break suited for intermediate to advanced surfers, preferable at low or mid tide.

Moving north to San Pancho, you'll encounter a punchy left-hand river mouth break, suitable for shortboarders during low to mid tide.

Southward lies Punta Mita, featuring renowned breaks like La Lancha, a consistent reef break suitable for beginners and longboarders in all tide conditions, albeit with caution at low tide due to rocks.

In the vicinity, Anclote, The Lighthouse, and Stinky's offer reef and rocky breaks, thriving at low to mid tide. Palmitas, a beach break, delivers punchy waves best surfed at mid to high tide.

Further south near Puerto Vallarta, Burros provides a reef break favoring rights over lefts, particularly at low tide.

In essence, beach breaks typically excel at mid to high tide, while reefs perform best at low to mid tide. However, local conditions may vary, emphasizing the importance of checking updated swell forecasts and tidal information.

For real-time updates on swell direction, wind conditions, and tidal patterns, refer to websites like Magic Seaweed or Surfline.

A person practicing yoga on the beach with a surfboard nearby, representing surf fitness and preparation.
By wildmexsurf.com

Surf Workout Tips for Optimal Performance

Surfing is not just a sport; it's a lifestyle. And to excel in this exhilarating water activity, strength, endurance, and balance are paramount. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting out, incorporating the right exercises into your routine can make all the difference. Here's how you can optimize your surf workout regimen:

 A person practicing yoga on the beach with a surfboard nearby, representing surf fitness and preparation

1. Swimming:

Swimming is a fundamental aspect of surfing. It not only enhances your cardiovascular fitness but also strengthens the muscles crucial for paddling. Spend 1 to 2 hours per week in the pool to improve your stamina and water proficiency.

2. Yoga:

Yoga offers a holistic approach to surf fitness. By focusing on balance, core strength, and flexibility, various yoga practices prepare your body and mind for the demands of surfing. Incorporate yoga sessions into your weekly routine to enhance your surfing experience.

3. Gym Workouts:

To maximize your performance on the waves, consider integrating gym workouts specifically tailored for surfers. Inspired by insights from experts like physiologist Tim Brown, these workouts target key muscle groups essential for paddling and maneuvering on the board.

Strength Training:

Follow a structured routine that mimics the exertion of paddling out. Incorporate exercises such as push-ups, dumbbell lifts, and pull-ups to build upper body strength and power.

Endurance Training:

Engage in pool workouts that simulate the stroke and effort required for surfing. Sprint intervals and distance swims will enhance your lung capacity and overall endurance.

Balance Training:

Utilize balance trainers like the Indo Board to fine-tune your equilibrium and stability. Gradually progress through different levels of balancing exercises to challenge yourself and improve your surfing prowess.

By integrating these surf workout strategies into your fitness regimen, you'll not only enhance your physical abilities but also elevate your surfing experience to new heights. Whether you're chasing waves in the ocean or perfecting your technique on dry land, consistency and dedication are key to mastering the art of surfing. Unlock your full potential and ride the waves with confidence!

time lapse photography surfer in wave water
By wildmexsurf.com

Surfing During Rainy Season: Embracing the Unique Experience on Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Experience the thrill of surfing during the rainy season on Mexico's picturesque Pacific Coast. Embrace the natural beauty and excitement of riding epic waves under the rain.

Surfing during the rainy season on Mexico's Pacific Coast can offer a whole new dimension to the sport. While many people may shy away from the beach when it's raining, experienced surfers know that this is actually an ideal time to catch some epic waves. The combination of rainfall and the ocean creates a dynamic and exhilarating environment that can take your surfing skills to the next level.

One of the main advantages of surfing during the rainy season is that the waves tend to be larger and more powerful. The rainfall contributes to the formation of swells, which can result in some of the best surfing conditions of the year. The waves are often more consistent and have a longer period, allowing surfers to ride them for extended periods of time. This is a great opportunity for intermediate and advanced surfers to challenge themselves and improve their skills.

Another benefit of surfing in the rain is the lack of crowds. Many tourists and beachgoers tend to stay indoors during rainy weather, leaving the waves uncrowded and ripe for the taking. This means you can have more space and freedom to catch waves without having to worry about colliding with other surfers. It's a peaceful and serene experience to be out in the water, with only the sound of raindrops and the crashing of waves in the background.

Surfing during the rainy season also offers a unique visual experience. The raindrops falling on the water create a mesmerizing effect, with ripples and patterns forming on the surface. The contrast between the dark clouds and the bright blue ocean can be breathtaking. It's a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature in a different light and to connect with the elements in a profound way.

Of course, there are some precautions to take when surfing in the rain. It's important to wear a wetsuit to keep warm, as the rainwater can be quite chilly. Additionally, it's crucial to be aware of any potential lightning storms in the area and to seek shelter if needed. Safety should always be a top priority when engaging in any water sport.

In conclusion, don't let the rainy season deter you from enjoying the thrill of surfing on Mexico's Pacific Coast. Embrace the rain and take advantage of the unique opportunities it presents. Whether you're a seasoned surfer looking for a new challenge or a beginner wanting to experience something different, surfing during the rainy season can be a memorable and exhilarating adventure.

Advantages of Surfing in the Rain

First and foremost, when it rains, the beach is usually less crowded. Parking spaces near the beach are often unoccupied, so you don't have to worry about zigzagging through people to finally reach the water. Additionally, there are usually fewer swimmers in the water, which means you won't have to navigate around them while riding a wave.

Another advantage of surfing in the rain is that it calms the wind and cleans up the waves, creating ideal conditions for surfing. The rain helps to smooth out the ocean surface, resulting in cleaner and more manageable waves. So, if you're looking for optimal surfing conditions, don't let a little rain deter you.

Furthermore, surfing in the rain can provide a unique and exhilarating experience. The raindrops falling on your face as you ride the waves can add an element of excitement and connection with nature that you may not experience on a sunny day. The sound of rain hitting the water and the feeling of the cool droplets on your skin can create a sense of tranquility and serenity as you glide through the waves.

In addition to the physical benefits, surfing in the rain can also have mental and emotional advantages. It can be a refreshing change from the usual routine and a break from the monotony of everyday life. The rain can create a sense of adventure and spontaneity, allowing you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. It can also be a great way to challenge yourself and test your skills in different conditions.

Lastly, if you're on vacation and the weather is wet, your options for outdoor activities may be limited. Instead of staying cooped up in your hotel room, why not embrace the rain and book yourself a surf lesson? It's a great way to make the most of your holiday and have a memorable experience. Plus, surfing in the rain can provide a unique perspective of the beach and the surrounding scenery, as the rain can create a mystical and ethereal atmosphere.

tay safe while pursuing your passion in the water. Learn how to surf safely during lightning storms with our expert tips and enjoy the thrill with peace of mind.

Surfing During a Storm

While surfing in the rain can be an enjoyable experience, surfing during a storm is an entirely different scenario. When it comes to lightning storms, it's important to prioritize safety and exercise caution.

Due to the conductivity of saltwater, the effects of lightning can reach up to 500 meters from where it strikes the surface of the water. Although the probability of being struck by lightning while surfing is still relatively low, it's always better to be informed and careful.

To determine the distance of a storm, you can count the seconds between the lightning and the thunder. By using this data, you can calculate the approximate distance as follows: distance (km) = difference between lightning and thunder (seconds) / 3. If the time interval is less than 3 seconds, it's crucial to take precautions and seek shelter, as it indicates that the storm is less than 1 kilometer away.

Remember, prevention is key. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to lightning storms. If you're unsure about the distance of a storm or if the conditions seem unsafe, it's best to get out of the water and seek shelter until the storm passes.

So, while surfing in the rain can be a thrilling and unique experience, it's important to exercise caution and prioritize safety when it comes to surfing during a storm. By staying informed and making responsible decisions, you can still enjoy the beauty of Mexico's Pacific Coast while minimizing any potential risks.

Additionally, it's essential to be aware of other dangers that can arise during a storm. The strong winds associated with storms can create powerful currents and unpredictable waves, making it challenging for even the most experienced surfers to navigate the water. These conditions can lead to dangerous situations, such as being caught in a rip current or being slammed against rocks or other hazards.

Furthermore, storms often bring heavy rainfall, which can reduce visibility and make it difficult to spot potential dangers in the water. Debris, such as branches or other objects, can be carried by the current and pose a threat to surfers. Additionally, the water quality may be compromised during and after a storm, with pollutants and runoff entering the ocean, increasing the risk of infections or illnesses.

It's also important to consider the impact that surfing during a storm can have on the local community. Emergency services may be stretched thin during severe weather events, and by engaging in risky activities, such as surfing during a storm, individuals may put themselves and others in danger. Rescuing individuals caught in dangerous conditions can put the lives of first responders at risk.

Ultimately, the decision to surf during a storm should not be taken lightly. It's crucial to assess the current conditions, including the presence of lightning, the strength of the winds, and the visibility, before entering the water. Consulting local authorities or experienced surfers familiar with the area can provide valuable insights and guidance.

By making informed decisions and prioritizing safety, surfers can continue to enjoy their passion while minimizing the risks associated with stormy conditions. Remember, the ocean is a powerful force, and it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your well-being and the well-being of others.

By wildmexsurf.com

Introduction to Surfing and Surf Science

Wave Formation

Ocean waves originate from distant low-pressure storm systems or local onshore winds. Ground swells, generated by large low-pressure systems or tropical storms, travel orderly across the ocean in sets, typically containing three to eight waves. Conversely, wind swells, caused by strong onshore winds, result in more disorganized, choppier waves.

To distinguish between groundswells and windswells, envision a rock thrown into a pond versus water being blown onto the shore by a fan. Groundswells produce waves from a single source, while windswells create less refined, choppier waves.

The quality of surfing conditions depends on five key factors:

  1. Swell size and direction: Waves vary based on their size, direction, and where they originate.
  2. Bottom contour: The shape of the land or sea floor influences how waves break.
  3. Wind: Offshore winds, blowing from land to sea, groom waves for optimal surfing conditions.
  4. Tides: Different tides affect surf spots differently, with ideal conditions varying from low to high tide.
  5. Sea floor formation: A well-formed sea floor contributes to shaping the waves.

To maximize surfing opportunities:

  • Seek beaches with swell hitting directly.
  • Understand how waves from different directions affect surfing conditions.
  • Favor offshore winds for cleaner, groomed waves.
  • Consider the sea floor's shape for wave formation.
  • Be aware of the tide cycle and its impact on wave quality.

By optimizing these factors, surfers can enhance their surfing experience and catch the perfect wave.

Surf Camp Sayulita Punta Mita

Wave Types

Waves can either be " mushy" ; breaking slowly with a lip that just sort of crumbles over when the wave breaks, or " hollow "; fast-breaking, barreling waves with lips that pitch out forcefully into the wave's trough. The types of waves that can be surfed are called beach breaks, pointbreaks, and reef breaks . These waves all have their own characteristics.

BEACHBREAKS

  • Sand bottom
  • Not always reliable as the underlying sand can move in big storms and swells
  • Beach break waves do not always break as softly as point break waves or reef
  • waves. On the other hand, wiping out on a beach break tends to be a lot more forgiving than the alternatives.
  • Famous beach breaks are: Huntington Beach, and Trestles Beach, both in California, and Bells Beach in Victoria, Australia
BEACHBREAKS

POINTBREAKS

  • When the conditions are perfect a point break can create a really long wave to ride as the wave wraps around a point or headland and then runs along the coastline of a bay or cove
  • Point breaks can have rock, coral, or sandy bottoms
  • Most surfers would consider a point break the perfect wave as the actual time
  • riding the surfboard will be the longest
  • Famous point breaks are: Jeffreys Bay in South Africa, Noosa in Queensland,
  • Australia, and Rincon in California
POINTBREAKS

REEFBREAKS

  • Reef breaks are created by a reef under the water, often coral
  • The surrounding water can be quite deep, but due to the formation of the coral reef the
  • waves will break there, often seemingly in the middle of nowhere
  • Reef breaks can offer fantastic waves but can also be famous for nasty injuries
  • Famous reef breaks include: Pipeline in Hawaii, Uluwatu in Bali, and the very famous Teahupo'o off Tahiti.
Lefts and Rights

Lefts and Rights

  • Every wave that " peels " (runs sideways down the beach for a distance before shutting down ) goes either left or right. The way to tell the difference between the two is simple; when you're lying down on your surfboard, paddling into a wave, you're going to drop into the wave and angle either towards your right (then it’s a right hander) or your left (which tells us it’s a left hander). Important, when seen from the beach, someone going left will be going towards your right. Everyone has their preference as to which foot goes forward:
    • If you put your left foot in front and your right foot on the tail, you're a regular foot

    So, if you're a regular foot, and you drop into a wave and go right, you'll be going frontside: facing the wave. Drop into a left, and you're going backside (back to the wave). For goofies, it's left: frontside, and right: backside.

Rip Tide or Rip Current

A strong, narrow surface current that flows rapidly away from the shore. Rip currents form when excess water that has accumulated along a shore due to wind and waves rushes back suddenly to deeper waters. Also called r iptide. Most surfers, after time, will learn to paddle out right in the middle of rip currents, in order to get a "free ride" out to the break, and then surf right alongside the rips, as they tend to sweep the sandbars into desirable shapes.

Wipe outs!

A strong, narrow surface current that flows rapidly away from the shore. Rip currents form when excess water that has accumulated along a shore due to wind and waves rushes back suddenly to deeper waters. Also called r iptide. Most surfers, after time, will learn to paddle out right in the middle of rip currents, in order to get a "free ride" out to the break, and then surf right alongside the rips, as they tend to sweep the sandbars into desirable shapes.

Wipe outs

ALWAYS REMEMBER - If you do get hit by a wave and held underwater, never panic and scratch hard for the surface! Here's something to consider: when big-wave surfers take a wipeout on a thirty or forty foot wave, like Waimea Bay in Hawaii, they're almost never underwater for more than twenty seconds. A twenty second hold down would be considered an extremely long time by any experienced surfer. On waves that beginners are likely to ride, from around knee to head high, wipeouts are nothing to fear; even on a powerful wave, you'll be underwater for no more than five to ten seconds. It is a natural reaction to panic and try as hard as you can to get up to the surface, and every second you're underwater seems to feel like ten, but once you learn to relax, you'll find that being tumbled around by a wave is not bad at all. It’s actually kind of fun; it just depends on how you look at it. Don't forget that your surfboard isn't just for riding waves, it is also an excellent lifesaving device and your primary means of getting out of trouble should a bad situation arise.

Have Fun!

The best thing you can do for both yourself and others in the water is simple - just enjoy yourself! It's hard not to have a good time in the surf, but everyone has a bad day every once in awhile. If you find yourself getting frustrated, ask yourself why. Are you missing waves that you're trying to catch, and wiping out on the ones you do manage to get into? Maybe someone has dropped in on you a few times, or hit you with their surfboard and didn't apologize. Hey, don’t worry, be happy! Remember to always stay in a relaxed frame of mind, and encourage others to do the same. Share waves, smile, and give a kind word to both friends and strangers alike. Hoot for others when you see them get a good wave, and soon you'll hear other surfers hooting for you on your good ones!

By wildmexsurf.com

Experiencing the April 8 Eclipse in Bahía de Banderas: A WildMex Adventure

Eclipse Bahia de Banderas

Understanding the Eclipse:

As the sun dipped behind the moon on April 8, the skies over Bahía de Banderas witnessed a celestial spectacle like no other. At WildMex Surf and Adventure, nestled in the heart of this enchanting coastal region with locations in Sayulita and Punta de Mita, we were fortunate to witness this cosmic event firsthand. 

  

The April 8 eclipse, a total solar eclipse, occurs when the moon passes directly between the sun and Earth, casting its shadow upon the terrestrial surface. This particular eclipse was especially captivating, offering viewers the rare opportunity to witness totality—the moment when the moon completely covers the solar disk. 

How It Was Experienced:

In Bahía de Banderas, the eclipse was visible in the early morning hours as the moon aligned perfectly between Earth and the sun. As the moon gradually obscured the sun’s face, the skies plunged into twilight, creating a magical and surreal atmosphere. At WildMex, we marveled at this phenomenon from various vantage points, including some of our favorite surf spots the picturesque Playa La Lancha. 

Eclipse en bahia de banderas 2024

Percentage of Visibility:

While the eclipse was visible across much of the world, here in Bahía de Banderas, we enjoyed a clear and unobstructed view of the celestial show. Approximately 90% of the sun was covered by the moon, providing viewers with an awe-inspiring and unique experience.   

The April 8 eclipse served as a reminder of the breathtaking beauty of the cosmos, and at WildMex, we feel privileged to have been part of this extraordinary event.