Overview
San Blas sits about 80 miles north of Vallarta, where the coastline starts jutting back out into the Pacific far enough to catch south swell pulses through spring and summer. The town marks the beginning of that fortunate geological shift, and it is mostly beachbreak heaven in and around it, with waves peeling both right and left over sand. Two points break up the run of banks: Stoner's Point just south of town, a mellow cobblestone righthander, and Santa Cruz on the other side of the bay, a lefthand point. On its day it is a decent beachbreak, and quality depends a lot on the swell that shows up. The water is usually pretty clean, though it can turn after a big rain.
When It Works
The season runs from March to October, covering spring, summer and autumn. Swell arrives from south-southwest to west-southwest (SSW-WSW), and the beach is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.2 m / 4 ft. Paddling out is manageable.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast (NE) offshore wind. The workable wind window is broader than that, running from north-northwest through north to east (NNW-N-E). Tide is rarely the thing that shuts you out here, since it can work through low, mid and high, though a rising tide is generally the better call and your tide choice will depend on which spot you paddle out at.
Local Tips
There is room for everyone at San Blas, from beginners finding their feet to intermediates and experts. Bring whatever suits the day, as shortboards, fish, funboards and longboards all have a place. The lineup tends to be fairly quiet and surfers spread out along the coast, though the main spots gather more people. The atmosphere is somewhat reserved but easy-going. Watch out for rocks and sharks, and be aware that alcohol and spring breakers are part of the mix here too.
Access
Getting in is easy.
