September 26, 2022 By WildMex

Wildmex Surf Camp in Punta Mita (La Lancha): What to Expect on Day 1

Ready to take on your next challenge with a Surf Camp in Punta Mita?

Do you know the true THRILL of catching your first wave?

Learning to Surf in Mexico is an experience like no other. With the sun beaming down, crystal waters, and a one-of-a-kind chilled-out vibe, Surfing in La Lancha is here to offer the ULTIMATE adrenaline rush.

Buuuut, before you become the boss of the waves, you’ll need to brush up on the surfing basics.

Meet WildMex’s Surf Camp in Punta Mita. Our five-day surf camp designed to take you from beginner to surf legend in a short course. Thanks to our experienced instructors and top surf equipment, you’ll be riding the surf in nooooo time!

Are you pumped up and ready to go? Or are you still considering courses? Well, why not find out what learning to surf in Punta Mita is REALLY about and why you should choose Wild Mex over any other as your hot-spot to hang-ten?

Press play and scroll down to explore what you’ll learn on DAY 1 of your Wild Mex Surf Camp!

Planning your next holiday? Looking for some ACTIVE fun? A surf camp might be the best route for you, your friends and family.

If you’re ten tabs deep into your research journey, we’re here to help.

When it comes to surfing for beginners in Punta Mita and La Lancha or learning to surf in Sayulita, we’re your EXPERTS.

Let’s face it - no one climbs onto a board and rocks the waves on their first try. So, whether you’re completely new to the surf or not, a surf camp will boost your KNOWLEDGE and CONFIDENCE - leaving you to make unforgettable ocean memories, no matter what.

We work with all skill levels, ages, and surfboards to help you get what YOU want out of the experience.

Plus, we put safety first, meaning you can leave with a SMILE on your face not a bump on your head - learning the basics of water safety alongside your surfing here in Mexico.

Knowledge is power when surfing, we’re here (the locals and experts) to tell all!

So, let’s jump in shall we? Here’s what you’ll learn on your first day when learning to surf in Punta Mita - with WildMex.

While we believe ALL aspects of surfing are fun, pop-ups are the favorite part for many of our new friends.

Surfing for beginners in Punta Mita day 1 revolves around safety AND enjoyment. So, we make sure you learn pop-ups on your first day to get you up and riding the waves instantly!

Pop-Ups and the functional stance teach you to stand on the board while using your weight quickly and powerfully to catch the wave.

Eyes up, head up, pop up! Your eyes, head, shoulders, and torso position are key components to a gnarly pop up. You’ll learn how to develop a smooth, flowing and effortless pop-up which you’ll practice and master over the 5 days.

Soon you’ll be riding the surf like a PRO!

Turtle Rolls

Unlike other surf camps, we make sure our students learn the importance of a turtle roll from day one. We put your safety first, and this is one of our top tips for all newbies.
Sadly, a turtle roll doesn’t involve cute turtles! However, this move will allow you to pass through breaking waves and tricky conditions.

Also known as an Eskimo roll, this technique will allow you to maintain buoyancy without having to discard your board. A must-use maneuver for any surfers at our Surf Camp in Punta Mita and beyond!

Yup, that’s right! We teach you to fall - on your first day.

Sounds counterproductive, right? - Wellll, it’s not! Here’s why…

Underwater is actually your safety zone whilst surfing. We love to see our beginner surfers grow their confidence by learning to fall safely. Once you nail this trick, you’ll feel calmer and more confident on the board and in the waves.

Our WildMex surf coaches will also teach you the Starfish Technique for falling in shallow waters (the most common kind here). Learning to surf in Sayulita combines safety and fun, and the Starfish method is one we love to practice again and again to ensure surfing in oceans with reef aren’t an obstacle or something to fear.

That leads us on to our next lesson…

Our Surf Camp in Punta Mita and La Lancha takes you to some MESMERIZING viewpoints. From oceanwide views to picturesque beaches, we tick ALL your vacation boxes. Sometimes we take our surfers into shallow waters, including areas with rocks and reefs.

Though this might sound technical or scary - DON’T WORRY! We’ll equip you with all you need to know about shallow water surfing, falling, and maneuvers before you head out!

From the very first moment, you’ll receive safety knowledge and insight to improve your surfing in La Lancha.

If you don’t wanna be in the dog house (i.e the beginner everyone shakes their head to), you’d better learn some surfing etiquette!

- Another concept you’ll learn on your first day here!

In our classroom, you’ll become familiar with surfing terms such as “right or way”, “drop-in” and “snaking” you’ll also onboard the importance of holding on to your board and learn how to give and get respect in the water. - Lessons you just cannot learn on your first day on your own.

On your first day, we’ll teach you how to be the good kinda’ beginner!

How to Catch White Water Waves

Last but not least, we also use DAY 1 to teach you how to catch your FIRST white water waves. This is an experience you’ll never forget! - Trust us.

Learning to Surf in Mexico is unique for everyone. But, we make sure all our students catch a white water wave.

Catching one of these waves is a badge of honor for ALL new surfers. This is the first time you’ll experience how the board glides along the wave while you balance upright on two feet. Here is where you’ll finally feel the RUSH all surfers dream of.

Endless summer… here… we… come!

Do you hear the call of the waves? Don’t ignore it!

We’re here to guide you through your first surfing experience. Forget your worries - our team of QUALIFIED instructors know how to help you avoid wipeouts. Instead, you’ll be gliding through the surf like a seasoned pro.

From reliable safety talks to tried and tested surfing techniques out on the beach and into the ocean waves - your first day at your Surf Camp in Punta Mita teaches you the basics and so much more.

It’s not just classroom work like some other camps - You’ll spend plenty of time in the water too! And in no time, you’ll be catching your first whitewater waves on your very first day... Talk about growth!

First time surfing? Make sure you work with professionals when you take the plunge. Learning to surf in Sayulita, Punta Mita, and La Lancha is easier than ever with the Wild Mex team.

Get to know our surf camp online here. Or, opt for our surf camp with included accommodation here.

Save this page for later because we have MORE coming on Day 2 soon!

For now, we’ll be by the ocean…

See you there! Yeeew!

WildMex

August 29, 2022 By WildMex

Considering surf lessons in La Lancha?

Dear Banderas Bay Community:

On the afternoon of October 7, 2022, a young man who was returning from surfing at La Lancha beach in Punta de Mita, while crossing a bridge that crosses one of the creeks on the path that gives access to this beach, was bitten in the calf by a local crocodile.
The young man arrived at the Wildmex facilities, the Surf School at the access to this beach, he was helped in our store and later taken to the nearest hospital.
The young man is out of any danger, and his speedy recovery is expected.
We believe that this incident happened due to the rains of recent weeks, the water level in the estuary has risen and reached the level of the bridge, which allowed the crocodile to have easier access to the people and pets that pass through.

This bridge has already been raised and we hope this will prevent any other such situation.
We remind you that both in Bahía de Banderas and throughout our country we share natural spaces with many other species and it is important to be careful and respectful of the other inhabitants of our environment, as well as pay special attention to taking care of our families and pets when we are in natural areas with different types of fauna.
We ask the entire community that wants to visit La Lancha Beach to pay attention to the signage present at the entrance to La Lancha Beach and along the path, to exercise due caution when entering, walk in groups, carefully observe the path and check that there are no crocodiles nearby before crossing the bridges that cross the creeks of the estuary.

Sincerely

The Wild Mexico Adventures Team

Let’s face it, nature can be CRAZY! It’s easy to forget that we share this amazing world with such unique and primative creatures.

If you’re an animal lover, you’re in for a treat when you arrive for your surf lessons in La Lancha. Not only will you receive EXPERT training and the feeling of PURE adrenaline, but you’ll also get to meet our special guests - the La Lancha crocodiles!

These lil’ guys tend to shock some of our surfing La Lancha visitors, but we’re here to clean up all the misconceptions. You see, our crocodile friends are harmless! These buddies are actually more afraid of you, than you are of them, and they’re always impressed by your impressive surf moves!

Are you worried about passing through our croc spot? We’ve gathered our top facts about the La Lancha crocodiles to ease your nerves. Scroll down to find out about our special guests before you arrive at your surf lessons in La Lancha.

Though a La Lancha crocodile sighting isn’t guaranteed, you’re more likely to see our
friends in summer. In the warmer months, the mangroves flood a little, and this excess water leads to exciting glimpses on the way to your surf lessons.

The crocodiles also have their offspring in these months, so you might get to see the
next generation of La Lancha crocs! Due to higher water levels, crocodiles will be closer
to the trail in these months - but don’t be alarmed! You’ll arrive at your surf lessons for kids and adults without a bite.

When you think of crocodiles, what images pop to mind? Snap, snap, snap, scary
reptiles? The crocodile from Peter Pan? Predators? Well… these common thoughts simply aren’t true!

It’s common to be afraid of crocodiles, yet the local La Lancha crocs are actually
extremely chilled out. Often, our local crocodiles will see you and run away - not the
other way around! These guys spend their time relaxing, not planning an attack on our guests!

So, if you spot a crocodile on the way to your surfing La Lancha experience, make sure
you smile, wave, and leave the croc to chill out. Even if you’re a little scared, avoid poking our friends with sticks or stones - they’ll appreciate it!

Did you know the La Lancha mangrove only hosts one large male crocodile?
That’s right, there’s only room for one croc in this town! This is due to the mangrove’s
limited size and food options. There’s not enough grub here to feed more than one
leader. While we’d love to have more, there’s simply no more room at the inn!

However, our current largest crocodile has been here for nearly ten years. His name is El
Capi (The Captain), and he’s always respectful. If you see him, make sure you give him a big smile and a salute for being the big boss!

Like us surfers, crocodiles enjoy traveling. In the rainy season, our crocs swim to
different estuaries and explore other mangroves. This is usually to find more space and food, as La Lancha offers limited space for big crocs.

Crocodiles also travel into the La Lancha area. If a larger crocodile finds its way into the
La Lancha mangrove, it’ll kick out the smaller crocs. But, this is very rare, and our male croc has been here for a decade. Survival of the largest over here!

We also only have a handful of female and elderly females who mate and birth offspring
each summer. When our baby crocs grow up, they swim out into the estuary and find a home of their own. Talk about empty nest syndrome for us!

Heavy rains are common in the La Lancha rainy season, and this can cause some
unwanted movement for the crocs! Lots of precipitation causes the river mouth to open, so keep note of this if you’re caught in a storm.

If the rains reaches extreme levels, crocodiles can end up being pushed out to the
ocean. If you spot a crocodile in the water, don’t worry! These guys aren’t dangerous,
and they always make their way back home. They don’t want to be there either!

We don’t recommend swimming in the water or surfing when this occurs, and we’ll always let you know when it’s safe to take a dip.

We’ve been co-living with these magnificent animals for years and years. The
mangroves are the natural home for these guys, so it’s important to respect their space.

We’re lucky to see them in their natural habitat!

Please don’t disrupt these guys. If you see any crocodiles on your visit, keep your
distance and don’t swim in the mangroves. Our mangroves are completely safe, but it’s
vital to look and not touch! Remember, no one wants to be bothered in their own home.
It’s always the best time to surf in La Lancha, so come on down and enjoy our one-of-a-
kind landscape! Whether you pick surf lessons for kids or explore adult surf lessons in

La Lancha, you’ll make lifelong memories.

Ready to experience something new? Book Punta Mita surf lessons here or Sayulita surf lessons here.
We’ll see you soon
WildMex

Environment Nature & Wildlife Newsletter Summer Surfing and Weather at Sayulita and Punta Mita, Mexico Surfing Travel

August 23, 2022 By WildMex

5 Reasons Why Surfing Lessons for Kids Are Important in 2022

How old were you when you caught your first wave?

Do you remember the thrill of popping up, feeling the wind in your hair, gliding through the whitewash, falling off with a MASSIVE smile, and wanting to do it all over again??

Or maybe, you've yet to catch your first wave but have a burning desire to allow your children the feeling of being truly FREE and one with mother nature?

Either way, jumping on a board when young is an excellent way to embrace positivity and build confidence around the ocean. However, taking to the waves is a no-go if your young ones haven’t had any lessons! Surf lessons for kids are crucial before your tots start exploring the ocean.

Surfing lessons for kids involve much more than just learning the ropes. From building confidence to improving water safety, our Punta Mita and Sayulita surfing lessons for kids bring life-long skills to the table. Talk about life-changing memories!

Are you considering booking a few lessons for your young’uns? Well, read on to discover the ultimate benefits of surf lessons for kids, with WildMex!

Learning to swim is a life skill that everyone should know. So, getting your kids started when they’re young is the best course of action! You never know when you’ll next need to use your swimming skills, so keeping them topped up from a young age is essential.

Though our participants must be able to swim, our beginner surf lessons will strengthen your kid’s swimming abilities. Practice makes perfect, and surfing lessons for kids are a fun way to spice up your child’s swimming routine!

#2 Better Ocean Safety

Of course, our surfing lessons for kids primarily focus on learning the sport. But did you know participants also learn about beach and ocean safety? Regardless of whether you live by the sea or not, knowing how to practice careful behavior around coastlines can save your life.

We aim to teach our young surfers about water safety, how to avoid danger in the water, and how to recognize dangerous weather. Safety basics are a must when learning to surf. Good habits start at a young age!

If you want to help your child gain confidence, your first thought might not be to Google ‘surf lessons for kids near me’. Yet, surfing and swimming in the sea are useful confidence-building tricks for all ages.

It’s easy for kids to learn to swim in a calm, indoor pool. However, negotiating waves and understanding the tides will boost their self-esteem and water knowledge. These are skills that will provide confidence for life!

#4 Fitness With a Side of Fun

Getting fit and staying fit doesn’t always sound fun. Let’s be honest; how many of us adults dread sticking to a workout plan? Wouldn’t it be a little easier if exercise was actually… fun?

Well, surfing lessons for kids with WildMex are here to introduce children to fitness without feeling boring or repetitive. Staying active keeps us healthy, so set your children free and up to thrive with positive fitness sessions, with mother nature. Nothing beats the feeling of catching your first wave while facing the stunning Pacific Ocean.

Finally, Punta Mita and Sayulita surfing lessons for kids are social events. Here, your children will broaden their surfing and communication skills in friendly, interactive lessons. Social skills are an important part of surfing, especially at a beginner’s level. So, at WildMex we encourage our young surfers to get to know each other out on the open water.

Unforgettable skills, memories, and friends! What more could you want from your child’s first surf lessons?

Q: Are Sayulita Surfing Lessons for Kids Safe?

Surfing lessons for kids are exciting! But, parents want to ensure their kids are in well-trained hands, and we get it. That’s why we’ve taken multiple steps to ensure all participants are safe and protected whilst surfing with WildMex.
How We Keep Our Young Surfers Safe
Why should you book with WildMex? Here’s why you should stop looking for ‘surf lessons for kids near me’ and consider our professional team instead.

All WildMex surf lessons for kids are provided by ISA-certified instructors. Thanks to rigorous training and certifications, our team has the skills to keep your children safe while teaching them the tricks of the trade.
We understand that kids need a little more support. That’s why our Punta Mita, Sayulita, and Puerto Vallarta surfing lessons for kids ages 5-10 include one instructor for every two kids. Double the instructors, double the safety.
High-quality equipment, every time. When you book Sayulita surfing lessons for kids, you’ll also be booking access to over 300 premium surfboards and additional equipment. The better the equipment, the better your kid’s experience is - and we only focus on the best!

Confidence and safety in the water are essential aspects of our program. So, don’t worry! We always work at the level of our students and ensure no one gets left behind. There’s no one-size-fits-all here!

So, will we have the pleasure of teaching your young’uns how to surf?

Our Sayulita, Punta Mita, and Puerto Vallarta surfing lessons for kids ages 5 and up are designed with fun and safety in mind. Kids don’t get to surf every day, so allow your little ones to experience the true thrill of ocean waters with our professional and friendly team.

You never know; our surf lessons for kids might unlock a new passion in your children.
- Surfing medals incoming!

What are you waiting for? Make this vacation one to remember for all the family.

Book Punta Mita surf lessons here or Sayulita surf lessons here.

See you soon!

WildMex

Newsletter Surfing TIPS

August 2, 2022 By WildMex

Marietas Islands Mexico’s MOST Hidden Beach

Curious about exploring the most heavenly hidden beach on the entire coast of western Mexico - Marietas Islands (Playa del Amor)?

Whether you heard about this island through social media, your most trusted friend OR simply through the grapevine… what you’ve heard IS true! - This island is UNDOUBTEDLY worth the visit!

Ok, so, although islands are always beautiful, this one has a special charm that’s got the internet talking! Want to know more? Dive into this blog to unlock the most interesting facts about Marietas Islands hidden beach and national park!

Ah, Playa del Amor – the beach of love! Such a sweet, romantic name for such a unique, hidden beach!

Marietas Islands beach is so visit-worthy because, unlike other beaches, this one is beautifully surrounded by natural rock walls from 360 degrees - just like the beach is hiding! This makes birds-eye viewing pretty epic for all you drone lovers!

So, let’s learn some interesting facts about this beautiful place before you decide on whether to pack your bags now, tomorrow or next week 😉

This beach is often called the beach of love by locals, because it offers a safe, calm, beautiful and closed space for sparks to fly, often attracting couples and travellers looking for serenity. The rocky walls all around, the splashes of colour, clear blue sky on top, smooth white sand under feet and beautiful lush green grass around make it an ideal spot to take a breath of fresh air, admire and explore - romantic to say the least!
The open cave shape area of this beach is due to the Mexican military’s bomb testing in the 20th century!
In 2005, a scientist named Jacques Cousteau started protests to stop bomb testing at the hidden beach. He claimed that this type of testing was destroying this beautiful ecosystem. Fortunately, he won in his struggles and the government stopped bomb testing which thankfully turned this beach into a peaceful place again.
Due to government rules and regulations on national parks in Mexico, only 116 visitors per day are allowed to enter here - which is great! This means that this place isn’t overcrowded like other tourist spots and that you can enjoy this picture-perfect location in peace and serenity.
This island offers you two mindblowing sides to cherish; one is the national park and the second is the hidden beach. Both have their own attractions and are worth visiting for a splendid experience!
It’s not uncommon to spot tropical wildlife and endangered species at Marieta Island! Keep reading to discover which ones…
The only way to reach this beautiful hidden beach is through the ocean via boat. We offer 2 tours that can help you get there to have unlimited fun!

A beautiful Hidden beach underneath an opening on the main island, out of sight and out of reach from the rest of the world! Our Hidden beach tour from Sayulita and Punta Mita grants you access to this magical hidden cove, where visitor numbers are limited by the National Park, meaning your experience won’t be overcrowded.
The Hidden beach tour is an amazing vacation experience for all the family, or will even make for a perfect romantic getaway for you and your other half. Located around an hour’s boat ride from Sayulita, and just 20 minutes from Punta Mita, our Hidden beach tour takes you to a magical secluded Hidden beach beneath the beautiful Marietas Islands. Expect no crowds and a real feeling of adventure as you explore this mysterious hidden cove. Go on a snorkel safari in the crystal clear waters, swim in the bay, relax in the shade, or hang out on the picturesque beach as the Pacific Ocean laps at your feet. The Punta Mita or Sayulita Islas Marietas Tour (Hidden beach tour) is the ultimate island adventure!

The Marietas Islands Snorkeling tour is an amazing hidden gem on the Narayit Peninsula. With great wildlife viewing opportunities, including Grey Whales during winter and Blue Footed Boobies year-round, this half-day adventure is a super option for all ages and fitness levels.

During the trip, you’ll have time to disembark at a secluded beach and snorkel and swim in the blue and nature-filled waters, where you may see colourful fish, turtles, dolphins, sea horses and more. The magical Beach of Love is not included in this tour as visitor numbers are limited, however, we do operate a separate Hidden Beach adventure, (as mentioned above).

Our Marietas Island Snorkeling Tours are generally sold per boat, with a capacity of up to 7 guests.

Bird watching is a great activity that strengthens your ties with your natural environment. Marietas Islands National park tour offers the opportunity to enjoy bird watching while kicking back and relaxing on the island.
The most common bird you can spot on this island is the blue-footed booby bird. Besides that, you will also spot several other species of birds, such as seagulls and Frigatebirds. Sadly, most of the species found here are categorized as endangered species, so this serves as a real once-in-a-lifetime experience!

What’s more exciting and adventurous than exploring this mind-blowing Marietas Islands hidden beach? No words describe the pleasure of exploring such a unique and aesthetically appealing island.

Come and get to know Marieta Islands hidden beach and national park the best way possible - with our professional local guides, who know the island like the back of their hands.

For finer details including prices and packages, browse through our Marietas Islands tours here and get all the info needed to save your space and book your tour for you and your partner or for the whole family. Feel free to reach out and say “Hola!” here for further assistance booking your Punta Mita or Sayulita Marietas Islands Tour, our knowledgeable team are always more than happy to help!

Environment Nature & Wildlife Newsletter Travel Trips

July 19, 2022 By WildMex

How to Choose the Right Surfboard Leash?

Curious about how to choose the right surfboard leash for your surfboard to have the most epic surfing adventure?

Choosing the right surfboard leash not only protects other surfers in the water from getting in an accident with an awol board but it also eliminates the fear of losing control of your board which could mean dings and breakages or having to leave the lineup and swim back to shore to get it - which can sure be a pain in the neck!

Whilst a great variety of leash sizes, styles, and lengths may make you feel overwhelmed, this blog will help you on your journey to assure a comfortable and water-safe experience from your local break to our kick-ass surf camp in Sayulita and Punta Mita.

The purpose of using a surfboard leash is to have full control of your surfboard while still having fun in the water. The famous leg leash will prevent your surfboard from being swept away by waves and will stop runaway surfboards from hitting other surfers and swimmers.

Leg Ropes Need-To-Know!

Leashes, also known as leg ropes, are sort of belts/ropes that you tie with your ankle/knee at one end and with your surfboard at the other end. They are a great invention as they remove the stress of controlling your surfboard. With leashes, you don’t need to swim against waves to get your board. Moreover, leashes protect your surfboard from hitting shorelines and/or other surfers.

In addition to this, leashes also play their role in ensuring safe surfing for you. They don’t only save you from longest swims but also allow you to fall away from your board during falls (if there are no other surfers around.)

An important piece of advice to follow is that you must always put on a leash when there are numerous surfers around. The reason behind this is to protect yourself and others from an unexpected board flying towards others or you. To avoid such injuries, many towns recommend surfers use leashes as per their law.

Dangers To Be Aware Of

Although leashes play their role in ensuring your safety, they can break too. Therefore, you must keep in mind that leashes may break and leave you alone out in the swell. For such an incident, you must always know the below useful tips that would help you in your local waters and here at your WildMex surf camp in Punta Mita or Sayulita.

Don’t surf when you’re already tired. If you start feeling low on energy during your session, we recommend heading in before you get too tired.
Some wave-lovers who fit in the category of surfing for intermediates in Sayulita do opt to go without the leash. We recommend learning to surf with the leash first and moving on to removing the leash when you’re confident that you can control your board completely without one later down the line.
Whenever you practice surfing without a leash, make sure to do it in an uncrowded place to avoid injury to other surfers or swimmers.

FAQs: On Choosing Your Leash

A thicker leach is more durable and stronger than the thinner one. However, keep in mind that a thicker leash will drag more compared to the thinner one. When the waves are smaller, a thinner leash of 5mm-6mm would work perfectly. However, when surfing larger and heavier sets, a thicker leash of 7mm-9mm is recommended.

In stronger waves, thinner leashes may tear out and cause you unpleasant experiences. Therefore, our knowledgeable surf coaches in our surfboard rental in Punta Mita and Sayulita always recommend using thicker leashes for medium-large wave surfers as well as beginners.

The first and foremost important thing to do when your leash snaps, is to remain calm and maintain relaxed breathing. If you panic, you may get yourself into trouble. Therefore, stay calm and tell yourself that you can safely and bravely deal with this situation. If there are other surfers around, don’t be shy to ask for help.

If there is no one around, swim in a relaxing manner by conserving energy to get back to wherever your board may be or the shore (always choose your safest option).

Leash Safety

Now that you are familiar with the basic facts about leashes and can easily pick one for yourself, let’s talk about safety. Although leashes can make your surfing journey fantastic, they can sure make you stressed out too - if they break. Therefore, you must have some knowledge about leash safety.

Keep in mind that some leashes go a long way but some get weaker and wear out very soon. Therefore, make sure to perform a leash check every time you prepare your equipment for the beach or before your surf camp in Punta Mita and Sayulita with WildMex!

If you notice that your leash is weaker than before and may break at any point, don’t wait for it to break. Instead, you must get a new leash immediately or take assistance from our surfboard rental in Sayulita, where a member of our team will be happy to guide you. This won’t only protect you from injury but will also protect other surfers from being injured by your flying surfboard.

Ready to go on the most adventurous surfing trip of your life? It’s time to book your intermediate surf camp in Punta Mita and Sayulita now and pack up your gnarly surfing bags! To get more information about our surf camps' pricing and packaging click here. Alternatively, we’ve got surf maps, transport, accommodation, boards, trips, and more, plus over 300+ varieties of surfing equipment to choose from! From the highest quality equipment to having your very own professional surf coach for beginner or intermediate training; find everything here in one spot, with WildMex!

So what are you waiting for? Hurry up and contact our Wildmex team for all of your surfing needs!

Newsletter Surfing TIPS

June 29, 2022 By WildMex

Hiking Trails in Punta Mita and Sayulita Area

Are you ready to spot some outstanding tropical bird species on your jungle hikes in Punta Mita and Sayulita this year?

Spending time outdoors on your holiday with healthy activities such as hiking always fills the day with happiness and enthusiasm - for the whole family. Exploring local nature by hiking and bird watching is not only an amazing way to refresh your mind and perspective on the local area but is also a great way to positively impact your body and connect with mother nature all in one go! Win-win we say.

If you are curious about which tropical bird species you may discover during hikes in Sayulita and the surrounding area, oh boy are you in the right place!

What to expect and why to learn about the local birds for your hikes in Punta Mita

Reading this blog will help you gather the most interesting insights about local bird species that you may spot while Hiking in Punta Mita and surrounding areas. Already knowing the bird's names, qualities, and habits doubles up the excitement and your chance of spotting local wildlife during your hike.
A family/friends/couples hiking trip with lots of mesmerizing activities such as walking, sightseeing, visiting hidden beaches, exploring nature, picking fruit, spotting wildlife, and watching birds; is the most memorable, and for sure something you’ll never forget once you return home after your trip. Such an outstanding hiking experience is a must-have whilst vacationing in the Nayarit area, serving as an adventurous break from the hotel pool or bustling beach in the main town of Sayulita.
The beautiful chirping sounds of birds during your jungle hikes in Punta Mita, San Pancho, and Sayulita will be sure to boost your energy and excitement for hiking. It also creates a pleasant impact on a person’s mood while hiking and leaves a calm effect on your mood for days to come afterward.
So, what do you say? Let’s learn about the birds already and make your next hiking trip a memorable one? Let’s go!

Jay. Photo credit: https://ebird.org/species/btmjay

Magpie Jays are black-throated birds that are sleek and elegant to observe. They are unique in their appearance and are also loud with their chirp. While hiking Monkey Mountain in Punta Mita, you will probably hear or see a Magpie Jay, as they are most commonly spotted on this hike.
Magpie Jays have long tails that add more charm to their beauty. They live in small groups but are very noisy. Due to this, you can’t overlook them if there is a nearby Magpie Jay group on your hike.
Being omnivores, their favorite foods are small insects such as caterpillars/spiders and fruit.

Unlike the two birds discussed above, the Elegant Trogon is a very quiet bird and therefore more difficult to spot while hiking in Punta Mita and surrounding areas. However, some lucky hikers have reported spotting the Elegant Trogon on local hikes. Keep reading until the bottom for top tips on how to spot this bird!

The beautiful rose-red, greyish, and metallic green colors of this bird make it arguably one of the most attractive birds for hikers to spot here in Nayarit. This species mainly lives in the tropical west coast forests, but some also live in North Mexico. They are omnivores and often inhabit nests in the trees made by woodpeckers.

The Woodpecker is such a fantastic bird that doesn’t only make the nests for itself but also for other birds too (as mentioned above). Making holes with their long beaks within light-colored wood trees is one of their favorite pastime activities, meaning locating them on your hike might be quite easy, if you’re looking in the right place!

These birds have black and white feathered bodies with a beautiful bright red crown on their heads. An average lifespan of a woodpecker ranges from 4 years to 11 years.

Lineated woodpeckers rely on a great variety of foods such as fruits and nectar, corn, flower seeds, and tree nuts.
made by woodpeckers.

The orange-crowned parrot is also famously known as the Orange-fronted Parakeet due to his orange forehead. When you go hiking in Monkey Mountain in Punta Mita or San Pancho, it’s not uncommon to spot this beautiful lush green-colored parrot as it is abundantly seen on mountain ranges in the forests of the Pacific side of Mexico.

Its favorite foods include lots of flowers, seeds such as sunflower seeds, and fruits such as guava. These orange-crowned parrots usually fly in the flock, especially during the Spring season, meaning if you spot one, you’re sure to spot the whole flock of them! Unfortunately, in recent years, this breed has reduced to a noticeable level due to people keeping them as pets.

Photo Credit: Here

A surprising fact about the Citreoline Trogon is that this cute and beautiful bird is seen only in west Mexico - giving even more reason to hike and spot the unique nature here whilst in Nayarit. Its beautiful yellow belly and white and black feathered body makes it without a doubt, visually appealing.

In contrast to some of the above-discussed birds, the Citreoline Trogron is hard to find while hiking monkey mountain in Punta Mita. Also, you won’t hear it making loud noises like the other birds because the Citreoline is actually a very quiet and calm bird.

However, If you pay close attention to your surroundings and know what you’re looking for, it is possible to spot this bird hanging around in the middle to upper treetops whilst hiking in Punta Mita. If you do spot one, don’t make any loud sounds or movements because the Citreoline is very easy to scare.

Fruits are their favorite food, but the Citreoline also eat insects.

And well, the most awaited bird that everyone wishes to spot during their Jungle Hikes in Punta Mita and Sayulita is the Military Macaw. This bird is greater in size than other parrots and has unique traits, such as a large curved beak that he uses to crush nuts and wood.

Military macaws live in large flocks and can live for about 50–60 years in the wild. They can often be heard long before they are seen as they are very noisy birds who often make a variety of loud cracking and shrieking sounds, including a loud kraa-aak.

A large part of their food consists of seeds, berries, nuts, fruits, and vegetables.

8 Bird Watching Tips for Spotting Birds Whilst Hiking in Punta Mita & Sayulita

Here are the 8 amazing bird watching tips that you must follow for the best chance of spotting local bird species!

Avoid making noises and be as quiet as possible. If you make noise, the birds will fly away from you, meaning you won’t be able to get closer to them to observe.
Similarly, don’t make sudden movements during Hiking Trails in Punta Mita and surrounding areas as this will also make the birds frightened and fly away from you.
Whenever you hear a singing bird, follow the sound calmly and quietly as this will help you approach the flocks to see more birds.
If you are in search of a particular bird, follow the flocks. There is a greater chance to find a specific bird in flocks because different species often join together for safety.
Don’t rush after a bird but be patient. When you stay patient, there are greater chances that a bird would ultimately feel safe to come closer to you and trust you within their space.
Try to move in a direction where the sun is at your back if possible. Otherwise, the striking sunlight can make it difficult for you to monitor a bird closely.
Try to wear neutral-colored clothes that match the surroundings. Otherwise, the bright and striking colors may alert the birds. As a result, they may fly away from you.
Take a seat or stand still and be conscious of your surroundings, focus slowly in all directions to spot birds all around.

There is nothing more adventurous and exciting than spotting the birds that you see in these pictures on our local hikes and adventures!

Our Jungle Hikes in Sayulita and Punta Mita offer you the chance to spot the tropical birds here for yourself. Please note that taking one of our guided tours will increase your chances of spotting wildlife and of course, you’ll receive plenty of detailed insights too, making sure you get the very most out of the experience hiking here in Nayarit.

So what are you waiting for? Reach out here for further details of our hiking plans, packages, and prices. Or read more about the hiking trails in Punta Mita and beyond with WildMex here. Let the adventure begin!

With love and peace,
WildMex

Environment Nature & Wildlife Newsletter TIPS

June 22, 2022 By WildMex

Surfing In Punta Mita, Mexico? When To Turtle Roll And When To Duck Dive

When you start learning to surf in Punta Mita, Sayulita, or anywhere else for that matter – you’ll start to realize how important these gnarly maneuvers are when it comes to progressing your abilities, looking like you know what you’re doing, staying safe in the water, and ultimately, having an outstanding surfing experience. Yet, before you start onboarding these techniques, let’s get some valuable insights into these two significant terms, plus how and when would be best to use them!

Let’s dive in! 😉

The Turtle Roll, also known as the Eskimo roll, is an amazing way to get past a larger or breaking wave using a foam board, longboard, or any other board with too much volume to dive the board under the wave. When you start learning to surf in Punta Mita, you may encounter larger sets and powerful waves that require this technique. To get through white walls and bigger sets with your foamie or a longboard, you would make a turtle roll. If you choose to sign up for our beginner's surf camp in Punta Mita or Sayulita, the turtle roll is one of the techniques you’ll learn!

To break through tall or powerful waves with a short board, most intermediate-advanced surfers use the duck dive technique. As the name depicts, it is a trick to exert your force to take your shortboard under the deep water against oncoming or striking waves, to pass through without being set back or struck by the wave. The duck dive technique is useful for lining yourself up whenever you see a large wave coming your way. If you choose to sign up for our intermediate surf camp in Punta Mita or Sayulita, the duck dive is one of the techniques you’ll learn!

When Should You Turtle Roll While Learning to Surf in Mexico?

While surfing in Punta Mita and Sayulita out on your longboard or foamie, you’ll find that larger oncoming waves and white water will try to push you back in the direction of the shore. Whenever you find yourself stuck in such a situation, always choose to make a turtle roll to keep control of your board while maintaining your position and direction out the back. The specific time for the turtle roll is just before the wave is passing or breaking in front of you (1 meter away). The turtle roll is a must when a powerful wave is coming your way, however, we recommended to stop practicing your turtle roll if the water level is very shallow as you could injure yourself and/or damage your board.

When Should You Duck Dive?

Whenever a large or powerful wave makes it difficult to reach the lineup while surfing in Punta Mita or Sayulita, it's the time to make a duck dive. The duck dive always helps to get past the largest waves to safely and successfully reach the lineup. The best thing about the duck dive is that it saves you time and energy paddling out and will also help you reach that *magic spot* efficiently. The duck dive sure takes practice, yet is performed successfully when the distance between you and the wave is at least 2 meters.

The duck dive is a technique to sink your board underwater for a few seconds to beat the powerful waves and reach the lineup safely. Here, let’s look into a detailed and proper way to help you achieve the duck dive successfully.

Before you dive into the water to avoid incoming waves, make a few stronger strokes in the same straight direction. This will help you in building momentum that would ultimately allow you to dive deep into the water and pass through larger sets to not get set back.

Extend your arms and push down on the rails of your board to allow your surfboard to submerge in the deep water. In this way, you would get more stability and hold. Before the wave hits you, you’ll push yourself into a prone cobra pose. From there, put pressure on the board and dip your head and shoulders downward under the water. Imagine that you want to sink yourself right under the wave.

Now, push on the tail with your foot or your knee to bring the tail down so that the whole surfboard can be underwater to prevent being dragged towards the beach.

Next, bring your body close to the board so you can maintain more depth. Relax and let yourself come back up to the surface naturally. Once you’ve broken the surface, paddle toward the next wave.

Want to learn this technique step by step in the water with our professional surf coaches? Check out the details of our surf camps in Punta Mita and Sayulita here.

Common Mistakes in Duck Diving

Here are a few common mistakes that you can avoid while practicing your duck dive.

Trying to dive deep in shallow water. This is a big no-no. If you do so, you may get injured by hitting your body/head at the bottom surface and/or end up damaging your board.
When you dive deep in deep water, don’t rush to come up. Instead, follow the flow and let yourself raise naturally for a successful maneuver.
Try not to close your eyes while duck diving. Keeping your eyes open will help you keep in the right direction and protect you from hitting anything oncoming.
Avoid trying to make duck dives with longboards or boards with too much volume. It’s just not possible! Always use a shortboard for making duck dives.

Before you start practicing these maneuvers, make sure to choose the appropriate surfboard first. Remember, a longboard with greater volume is the most appropriate for making turtle rolls, while a shortboard is best for diving deep under the water with the duck dive!
Learning to surf in Mexico? Or, local to us and want to try out our selection of 300+ surfboards? Drop into our surfboard rental in Punta Mita or Sayulita (see map) or browse our prices online here.
Whichever maneuver you choose is best for you, make sure to practice, practice, practice! The more you practice these techniques, the better you’ll become at them!

Think you’d like some extra assistance? Hurry up and book a surf camp in Sayulita or Punta Mita with us today! Our expert surf coaches and wave lovers alike are waiting to help you improve your surfing abilities and help fine-tune your advanced techniques and maneuvers, for higher-quality surf sessions and greater fun. Contact us here for more details on availability, prices, and packages or to simply book your beginner/intermediate/advanced surf camp with a member of our knowledgeable WildMex team!

Until next time,

Peace & Love!

Newsletter Summer Surfing and Weather at Sayulita and Punta Mita, Mexico Surfing TIPS Travel

June 8, 2022 By WildMex

How to Choose Your Longboard Fin – Guide for Surfing in Punta Mita and Sayulita

Incredible and outstanding maneuvers while surfing in Sayulita and Punta Mita are possible only with the right fins. When you fail to choose the right fins, high-performance surfing can become problematic.

In spite of the thruster vs quad setups for shortboards which you can read about in our alternative blog here, the diverse range of longboard fins now on offer have made surfing for beginners in Sayulita and intermediates alike, waaay more adventurous and enjoyable.

If you are planning on surfing in Sayulita or surfing in La Lancha here in Punta Mita, it’s vital to choose and learn to set up the most appropriate fin for your longboard to perform at your highest potential, no matter your current skill set.

This blog was carefully crafted by our WildMex team of dedicated surfers and wave lovers to help you on this journey and to ensure your surf trip is a memorable one, catching the finest waves, ripping the gnarliest maneuvers, and having the most fun possible out in the swell!

So, let’s make a start? Let’s learn how to set up your longboard fin for that splendid surfing experience here in Mexico…

As its name depicts, a 2+1 fin is where the center fin is bounded with 2 other smaller fins or sidebites. The purpose of such a fin when surfing in Punta Mita or Sayulita is to get more control so that you can surf higher-performing waves.

To get the desired performance while using a 2+1 fin, you must choose a smaller centre fin compared to what you’d use with the single fin setup. Once you have this, you can perform the fin setup by moving the sideway fins to and fro in relevance with the center fin.

For more responsive and faster surfing, set the center fin closer to the sidebites. For greater control over your board, extend the distance between them.

A great number of surfers and especially beginners-intermediate use the single fin setup for surfing Punta Mita, Sayulita and La Lancha. The prime reason behind this is that the single fins are not as sharp as 2+1 fins and are best for less drive. These single fin setups are not ideal for high-performing waves but perform flawlessly in small/medium, fat, and weak waves.

Single fins assure a loose flow under the feet while maintaining a high speed. As single fins are relatively larger with a 9” or 9.5” pivot, you can easily position your fin anywhere.

Positioning it forward would give you a looser feel while positioning it back would result in greater control and hold. Play around and see what works best for you!

Whether you’re at home choosing a new fin for your latest surf trip to Mexico, on your way to our surf camp in Punta Mita, or you’re already here and simply passing by our surfboard rental in Punta Mita or Sayulita, it would be hard not to notice our selection of 300+ boards with a variety of fin setups, or the variety on offer in the marketplace right now! We get it, sometimes this can be a bit daunting – but don’t fret!! We are here to uncomplicate the whole process to ensure you end up choosing the most ideal fin for what you want to get out of your surfing experience!

Choosing the appropriate type of longboard fin is crucial to gaining good control, making powerful movements, and enjoying your turns without being too affected by the flow.

So, here is a brief description of each type of longboard fin and the ones we recommend to help you select the right one for your surfing needs!

Discover here…

For those who love surfing throughout the year and in varied conditions, an all-round fin is a must-have! This all-round fin by True Ames has been designed on versatility to perform well within more or less all longboard wave surfing conditions. You’ll find many of our range of surfboards at our surfboard rentals in Punta Mita and Sayulita’ equipped-out with a classic like this one.

Choosing an all-round fin for your longboard would make you enjoy greater hold, stability, deep drives, and solid performance. With it, you won’t face any difficulty while trimming, cutbacks, or nose-riding.

The best feature about the all-round fin is that you can either use it as a single fin or with side bites as per your needs. It works absolutely super in any situation, for any surfer, for any type of longboard, and for all types of waves. Now, that’s a fin we’re mad for! – Yeeeeew!

Pivot fins like this one from True Ames are the best choices for those who love practicing their cross-stepping abilities!

Additionally, pivot fins are also great for nose-riding as their long surface area will help you maintain stability and steadiness whilst striding to the nose or hanging 10.

The rounded nose of the pivot fin aids in smoother, easier, and controlled nose-riding while maintaining the sleek direction down the line of the wave. If progressing your longboard tricks and maneuvers is high on your list while learning to surf in Mexico, this is our top recommendation!

For more advanced surfers, surfing heavier and massive logs often under tropical storms, the D fin is the best pick. Its design effectively fits with any type of longboard and is the most powerful fin to deal with stormy waves.

Due to the larger surface area of the D fin, it becomes difficult for the heavier water waves to change the direction of the board. Hence, it doesn’t only promise greater hold but also greater stability over choppy waves.

Moreover, the D fins are popular for outstanding trimming abilities with greater ease and steady movements.

However, a D fin is not more preferable for nose riding because it doesn’t fulfill all the requirements that are mandatory for a nose-riding fin, so, keep this well in mind when selecting what you want out of your fins!

So, by now you know that the way you place your longboard fin majorly affects your stability and control over the waves.

If you place your longboard fin near the tail, you will get a good hold of your board during turns and cutbacks. In contrast, placing it near the nose would give you more stability during nose-riding.

You must be thinking about which option suits your surfing style best, which might change day to day, meaning you too can play around and change your fin setup on the daily, in regards to this!

The above-discussed types of fins would help you in deciding the best type for you based on your surfing purpose. For example, choosing a flex fin would require placing it near the tail for excellent turnability. Similarly, choosing a pivot fin would require you to place it near the nose for excellent nose-riding.

Whatever longboard fin you choose, practicing more and more and experimenting with configurations will help you enjoy surfing in Punta Mita and Sayulita to your absolute fullest!

Do you want to discover more surfing theory to improve your surfing abilities? Our epic surf camp in Punta Mita and Sayulita will help you do just that! Discover our 2022 prices and packages here or alternatively, visit our site to browse through our amazing collection of 300+ surfboards and their variety of fin configurations to book an hourly, daily, or weekly rental to discover solo!

Have a question that hasn’t been answered here? Feel free to drop us a message for anything unanswered including locations, availability, pricing, and anything you want to know before you book your next epic surf trip here in Mexico!

Peace and Love,

WildMex

Nature & Wildlife Newsletter Summer Surfing and Weather at Sayulita and Punta Mita, Mexico Surfing TIPS

May 26, 2022 By WildMex

Hiking Trails in the Punta Mita and Sayulita Area

Are you ready to spot some of the coolest animals on our Hiking Trails in Sayulita and Punta Mita?

There’s no doubt that Wildlife spotting on hikes always doubles the fun and boosts your excitement levels! Fortunately, most of the animals found on our hikes in the Pacific Northwest are non-aggressive and it is also possible that you might not see any wildlife during a hike.

However, reading this blog and learning about the wildlife and the best way to spot it/ what to do if you do spot something whilst out hiking, will help you be fully prepared for whatever our wondrous nature has in store for you.

Excited to explore the wildlife that you might see on the Hikes in Punta Mita? This blog will tell you everything you need to know. So, let’s make a start!

What to expect on our hiking trails in Sayulita and Punta Mita?

Hikes in Punta Mita and Sayulita bring so many mesmerizing activities for an outstanding experience.

These activities range from crossing the rocks while hiking through the shady areas, discovering the beautiful plants and animals, and exploring the local towns, jungles, and beautiful beaches.

In addition, hiking in San Pancho and the famous monkey mountain offers a fantastic opportunity to traverse the beautiful and relaxing views of the area while exploring eye-catching plant and animal life.

Here are some of the coolest animals that you might find within our Jungle Hikes in Punta Mita and Sayulita…

As his name points out, the White Nosed Coati is from the species of Coati which is also famously known as Pizote, Tejon, and Bin-Dog, etc. These Coaties are associated with the Procyanidae family.

They are often found by adventure-seekers hiking in Punta Mita or on Monkey Mountain as many of them inhabit themselves in the woody areas of forests.

An amazing fact about them is that they love climbing trees and picking up food for themselves. They love eating fruits, insects, small vertebrae, and eggs.

While climbing on trees, they use their tails to maintain balance. They also insert their nose into the flowers on trees to ingest nectar from them! Look up high for the best chance to spot these beauties!

The Green Iguana belongs to the family Iguanidae and is most commonly found in western Mexico (exactly where we are!). The long spines are present all over their back with yellowish/brownish keeled scales to their tails.

Green Iguanas are fast-moving, excellent climbers, and famous as solitary animals. Trees and rocky surfaces are the ideal habitats for them, so Hiking Monkey Mountain in Punta Mita is the ideal location to spot them.

Most Green Iguanas feed on small animals, insects, and eggs. However, some also eat fruits, stems, and flowers.

Just like an Australian kangaroo, baby Tlacuache also spends a noticeable time in the pouch of the mother. After learning the basic life lessons in the mother’s pouch, it later comes out to start experiencing life itself.

These Tlacuaches are harmless animals with low body temperatures. This feature also makes them incapable of carrying and transmitting rabies.

In addition, Tlacuache are omnivorous which means that they eat fruits, plants, small animals, and even mice. You’ll most commonly find them on jungle Hikes in Punta Mita and Sayulita.

The Boa Constrictor is a species of heavy-bodied snake, also known as the Red-tailed Boa.

An interesting fact about Boa Constrictor is that the females are greater in size than the males. A mature Boa constrictor female is approx the size of 7-10 feet while a mature male ranges within 6-8ft.

Young ones easily climb on trees and shrubs while the older ones become terrestrial due to their heavyweight.

They mainly feed on the eggs of other animals. However, they also rely on eating insects, small animals, and rodents. Stay alert and watch your step – you might spot one on your jungle hike in Sayulita.

(Always remember to keep your distance from wild animals, especially if you’re hiking with children!)

Armadillos are solitary mammals of medium-sized that inhabit grasslands, rain forests, and dry scrubs.

Due to being sexually dimorphic, their males are bigger in weight and height than the females.

The feature that makes them unique is their outer body where bony plates/armors cover with leathery skin. These armors are flexible coverings but make a harder outer surface for the animal’s protection.

An amazing fact about Armadillos is that they eat approx 500 varying foods. Among these, the most common ones include spiders, snails, grubs, bees, wasps, and a number of reptiles.

The White-tailed Deer is native to Central and North America, and also South Africa. During summer and spring, it maintains a reddish-brown coat that turns to grey-brown upon the arrival of winter.

Its name, ‘White-tailed’ Deer, is due to its white color under the tail that stays the same throughout the year.

Unlike other Deers, White-tailed Deers eat plenty of food. Legumes, leaves, and grasses are their favored ones here in Punta Mita and Sayulita.

Another interesting fact about the White-tailed Deer is that they use varying modes of communication. They make audible noises for protection while also communicating through making markings, scents, and body language. This Deer is often spotted hiking in San Pancho!

The Javalina, also called the Musk Hog, is abundantly seen in many parts of tropical/subtropical America.

On average, the Javalina has a height of approx 20-24 inches and weighs between 35 to 60 pounds. They eat a great variety of foods such as insects, nuts, vegetables, plants, lizards, fish, eggs, frogs, and even snakes.

They live in groups and inhabit the roots of trees and also the caves. They are usually harmless but have been known to attack if felt threatened in any way. We recommend keeping your distance and admiring from afar if you do so happen to spot one.

The Jaguar is one of the world’s largest cats and is native to the American region. It outweighs tigers and lions by weighing in at approx 96kgs in body mass. In America, it is famous as the largest cat species while it comes as the third-largest in the world.

Its pale yellow color with black spots enhances its beauty but it goes without saying, that it’s one of the most dangerous animals in the jungles here.

The good news is that the Jaguar is less common to see on our hikes but they are known to inhabit the area where you’ll hike such as our Jungle Hikes in Punta Mita. Hence, why we always recommend going with a WildMex guide!

The sad news is that the jaguar is an endangered species here as it is facing habitat loss. Therefore, it is important to never threaten a jaguar if you see one hiking. If you do happen to spot one whilst you’re out hiking without a guide, we recommend simply walking backward, away from the Jaguar, and to a safe place as slowly as possible, whilst keeping your face towards it at all times – (Jaguars like to attack from behind). If you’d like to donate to the local cause to help this endangered species, please follow the link here.

Additionally, immediately inform our team and the nearby wildlife offices in such situations. Contact info here.

Here are our top tips for your best chance at spotting wildlife during hiking in our local area!

Keep your eyes open and be observant whilst hiking.

Avoid making noises or loud voices whilst hiking trails in Sayulita.

Never attempt to threaten the wildlife in any way.

Make small groups of two or three people while hiking.

Keep your moves slow and small and watch around you.

Make sure you also carry a camera with you that includes a telephoto lens.

If you see any wildlife, simply step back or move on quietly without letting them know of your presence.

Maintain a distance between you and wildlife for the safety of both of you.

There is nothing more enjoyable than hiking in our wondrous jungles and spotting local wildlife!

Let’s bring a refreshing change to your beach holiday by planning a Hike in Punta Mita and Sayulita with WildMex.

Jump here for all prices, packages, and hike details, or book your hiking tour with us here and now for an outstanding experience, you can look forward to on your next trip!

Peace & Love,

WildMex

Environment Nature & Wildlife Newsletter Travel Trips

May 17, 2022 By WildMex
Which Surfboard Fin Setup to Choose? Thruster vs Quad Fin

Did you know that your surfboard’s fins play a BIG role in your board’s performance?

Our intermediate surf campers do because that’s just one of the elements we teach within the theory at our surf camp in Punta Mita! Learn more here.

Believe it or not, almost 40% of your board’s performance comes down to your choice of fins, so, we think it’s pretty crucial you know these kinda’ deets that other surf camps don’t take the time to teach you!

This means switching out your fins, or your fin configuration when surfing in Punta Mita and beyond will play a key role in how your board is going to want to be surfed and therefore, how you will perform in the water on any given day. But which surfboard fin setup to choose?

Whether you’re a big wave rider looking to maximize the chances of you making a giant section, or a local surf-enthusiast simply looking for faster ways to go down-the-line, today we are offering you the inside scoop into our surf camp in Punta Mita theory! So, keep reading here to discover more as we explore the difference between these two famous fin setups and learn What and When to ride.

The History of Surfboard fin Setup

The popular quad and thruster share a parallel origin story. Both were developed in the early 80s within Australia and both were a response to the fiasco that almost everyone was having transitioning from single to twin fins! Eeeeep.

What’s the Main Difference of Surfboard Fin Setup?

So, what’s the difference between the Quad (4-fin set-up) and the Thruster (3-fin set-up)?

In short, Quads go faster and Thrusters turn better, but it goes way deeper than that, keep reading here for the details of each for you to consider what’s gonna work best for you…

Why Choose The Quad Fin Set-Up?

Everyone wants that quick but loose feeling while maintaining control when surfing, right? Well, that’s exactly what you get with the quad setup.

Quad surfboard fin setup

This setup brings out the fastest top speeds possible and can be put to play either in big and heavy waves, or small and mushy waves, it all comes down to the fin placement!

Why not try setting up your quad with the rear fins closer to the rail and slightly further up on smaller days for fast maneuvers and flexibility on the tail. And, on bigger days try out the quad with the fins placed back a little and also close to the rail for extra speed and hold on the face of the wave.

The quad will allow you that extra horsepower out the gate compared to the 3fin set-up and once you’re on your feet, don’t be surprised when you experience that instant oomph of down the line speed instead of having to pump your board!

WildMex likes to surf the quad at Burros & Paredon during south swells for better chances of making the faster sections!

Why Choose The Thruster Fin Set-Up?

When will you thrive with the thruster?

On those super rippable days.

Whilst the quad works in both giant or mushy days, the thruster thrives on those high-quality, epic surf days. Think shoulder to slightly overhead, top to bottom, and plenty of room to move around, not too small, not too big, not too fast, and not weak either, just good quality waves that are simply just rippable.

When you have time to perform instead of having to glide and avoid certain sections, the thruster offers optimum performance value, with the fin placement in the back, you’re offered controlled drag that comes in useful when wanting to surf at a higher level on good quality waves.

Thrusters do still work in small waves, and big waves too but that will all come down to your fin of choice, buuuut, that’s for another blog! 😉

WildMex likes to surf the thruster at Burros on North Swells and La Lancha all the time to perform quick, tight turns and pivots!!

The Recap

At our surf camp in Punta Mita, we teach our students about the different surfboard fin setups – their advantages and disadvantages and how finding the right fin setup for your choice of wave and surfing style is crucial to perform better and accelerate your surfing abilities whilst here surfing in Punta Mita and beyond.

The Quad Setup

Quick

Fast

Loose

Responsive

Fast-reacting

Works in a variety of wave types

Many variations of fin placements to provide whatever type of ride the surfboard was designed for

The Thruster Setup

Stable

Predictable

Radical manoeuvrability

Controlled drag

Increased lateral drive

Performs quick, tight turns and pivots

Speedy redirection

Performs at a higher level on good quality waves

More options available in the marketplace

More styles and designs on offer too!

What’s Best for You?

With the bulk of surfboards coming in the 5-fin convertible option, the question we often get asked at our surf camp in Punta Mita is:

Which is better, the thruster or the quad?

We have no simple answer to this question, other than – both are superb. It all just depends on what you want and need out of yours! Hence the reason why so many boards come with a 5-fin option, allowing you to experience the variety of both.

In the quest to push the boundaries of the imaginable in waves both big and small, your understanding of the real difference between the thruster and the quad setup is vital, so that you can choose for yourself which is best for YOU.

So, one thing you’ll want to consider when choosing between the fin setup of quad fins vs thruster is which type of waves you’ll be surfing most often; and how exactly you wish your surfing style to be.

We know that thrusters offer more predictability and control while quads are fast-reacting and quick. So, what are you looking for and which is right for you?

Now it’s time to be your own board engineer!

Try both and figure out what works best for you. Changing fins in a board can make the board feel like a completely different board! So, why not give it a go?

In the area and looking at surfing in La Lancha? We offer a variety of boards from Single fin to Thrusters and Quad fin setups from our rad range of 300+ surfboards at our. Check the range and prices here.

Best of luck!
WildMex

Newsletter Surfing TIPS

Posts navigation

1 2 3 4 … 9

Blog

Day 1 of your Surf Camp in Punta Mita - “What will I learn?”

Why Choose A Surf Camp For Surfing in La Lancha?

Pop-Ups & Functional Stance

Turtle Rolls

Falling & Starfish Techniques

Rocks and Reef

Basic Surfing Etiquette

How to Catch White Water Waves

Surf Camp in Punta Mita: Day One Round-Up

Get ready to meet our special friends. Find out all you need to know about the La Lancha Crocodiles here!

When was the last time you saw a WILD animal?

#1 Our Crocodiles Are More Visible In Summer

Surf lessons for kids with an extra twist!

#2 La Lancha Crocodiles Are Super Relaxed

#3 We Only Have One Big Male Croc

La Lancha Surf Break in Punta de Mita

#4 Young Crocodiles Travel And Find Their Own Homes

Do you think our baby crocs would enjoy surfing lessons for kids too?

#5 Crocodiles Aren’t Fussy Eaters

#6 Yes, You Might Spot A Crocodile Catching Waves

Top Tip: Embrace Co-Living!

#1 Improved Swimming Skills

#2 Better Ocean Safety

#3 Confidence Building

#4 Fitness With a Side of Fun

#5 Meet Like-Minded Friends

Q: Are Sayulita Surfing Lessons for Kids Safe?

Surf Lessons for Kids: The Bottom Line

What makes Marietas Island so unique?

Things to do at Marietas Islands

Epic Adventure tours in Marietas Islands Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach Tour Prices

Private Group

Shared Group

Marietas Islands Hidden Beach & Snorkeling Tours

Marietas Islands Snorkeling Tour

Marietas Snorkeling Tour Prices

Private Group

Endangered Species on the Marietas Islands

Other Animal Species to Discover

Other Animal Species to Discover

How to Choose the Right Surfboard Leash?

What’s the Purpose of Using a Surfboard Leash?

Leg Ropes Need-To-Know!

Dangers To Be Aware Of

1. What Should Be The Length Of My Surfboard Leash?

2. What Should Be The Thickness Of My Leash?

3. Knee/Calf Leash vs. Ankle Leash: What Should I Pick?

THE ANKLE LEASH:

THE CALF / KNEE LEASH:

4. What To Do In Case Your Surfboard Leash Snaps?

Stay Safe and Have Fun!

A Visitor’s Guide to Birds

What to expect and why to learn about the local birds for your hikes in Punta Mita

Magpie Jay on Monkey Mountain in Punta Mita

Yellow-winged Cacique

Elegant Trogron

Lineated Woodpecker

Orange Crowned Parrot

Citreoline Trogron

Military Macaw

8 Bird Watching Tips for Spotting Birds Whilst Hiking in Punta Mita & Sayulita

Do You Know When To Use The Duck Dive Or When To Turtle Roll While Surfing?

What is a Turtle Roll?

What is a Duck Dive?

When Should You Turtle Roll While Learning to Surf in Mexico?

When Should You Duck Dive?

Surfing in Punta de Mita is

How Do You Turtle Roll When Learning to Surf in Punta Mita?

Common Mistakes in Duck Diving

SUMMARY

Longboard Fin Setup for Surfing in Sayulita & Punta Mita

2+1 FIN SETUP

Single Fin Setup

Types Of Longboard Fins For Surfing Punta Mita & Sayulita

1) The Flex Fin

2) The All Round Fin

3) The Pivot Fin

4) The D Fin