La Saladita for beginner surfers is a proper wave machine

This week’s surf spot spotlight is on La Saladita, Mexico. It had me at “wave machine”.

La Saladita for beginner surfers? Oh yes. This sleepy point break in Guerrero, Mexico is known as “The Wave Machine”—and for good reason. It’s one of the most consistent and mellow left-handers in the country, perfect for longboarders, foamies, and anyone chasing long, cruisy rides. It’s way less chaotic than spots like Sayulita, but you won’t find a big nightlife scene. Which honestly… might be part of the charm.

La Saladita is a rural beach town on Mexico’s southwest coast, about 45 minutes north of Zihuatanejo in the state of Guerrero. It’s not built up like other surf towns, but it has everything you need: a few great restaurants, surf-friendly accommodations, and a laid-back, no-hurry pace.

Getting there is straightforward: fly into Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH), then grab a taxi or rental car. Roads are good but signage is minimal, so save the Google Maps offline version before you land.

You come to La Saladita to surf, eat, and sleep. It’s not a scene—it’s a rhythm. Wake up with the roosters, paddle out at sunrise, eat your weight in huevos rancheros, and repeat.

The surf
La Saladita is a long, mellow, left-hand point break that works best on a longboard or mid-length. The takeoff is soft and forgiving, the rides can last for ages, and it rarely gets too heavy. On small days, it’s a dream for beginners. On big days, the outside sections challenge intermediates while beginners stick closer to shore.

Water quality
Generally good! Because it’s rural, you don’t get much urban runoff. That said, it’s still Mexico—so don’t drink the tap water and maybe skip a post-storm session just in case.

Wardrobe
Boardshorts or bikinis, year-round. The water is warm and dreamy. You might want a rash guard or surf suit if you’re prone to sunburn, and some folks wear booties because of the cobblestone bottom.

☀️ Best time for beginners to go
November through March is dry season—great weather, small-to-medium swells, and clean conditions. May–September brings bigger surf and occasional rain, but early mornings still offer beginner windows. Summer can get hot and humid, but the waves keep coming.

⚠️ Hazards
Rocks near the takeoff zone, especially at low tide. It’s a cobblestone reef, not sand, so just watch your footing. Also, it’s very remote—so bring your own meds, zinc, and essentials. The wave itself? As friendly as it gets.

Rentals + lessons
A few spots on the beach rent longboards, and many guesthouses offer lessons or can connect you with a local coach. It’s not Sayulita-level infrastructure, but the instructors here are mellow and used to beginners who want to ride their first 100m wave.

When you’re not surfing

• Eat fish tacos and fresh mango
  
• Swing in a hammock and read your book
  
• Take a siesta and call it “cultural immersion”
  
• Watch the sunset while dolphins breach in the bay
  

Solo friendly?
Yes—if you’re cool with quiet. La Saladita is peaceful, safe, and filled with surf families, mellow travelers, and longboard die-hards. If you’re looking to party, this isn’t the place. But if you’re looking to reset, reflect, and ride long lefts? You’re golden.

Author: The Wipeout Weekly team