Overview
Zipolite is a sand-and-rock beachbreak on the wild stretch of coast south of Puerto Escondido, where jungled hills run straight into the Pacific and the beaches stay empty. Along with nearby San Agustinillo, it's a wave for surfers in the mood for something mellow. It's rarely great, and both waves tend to get wind-tattered and warbled after 11am, but it's often fun and worth the paddle. Travelers just passing through probably won't score it. Post up at one of the cheap places for a few hot, quiet days and your odds go up a lot, and there are hidden gems scattered all along this coastline.
When It Works
Waves break both left and right over sand and rock, and it's usable from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, roughly waist to head high. It draws swell from southeast through south to west-southwest (SE-S-WSW). The season runs March to October, so spring through autumn is the window.
Wind and Tide
Look for east-northeast (ENE) offshore wind to clean things up, with a workable wind window from west-northwest through north to east (WNW-N-E). It can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call. Keep in mind the wind usually turns on it after 11am, so early is the move.
Local Tips
The paddle out is pretty typical for a beachbreak, and the wave suits everyone from beginners to experts. Shortboards, bodyboards, and bodysurfing all work here. Expect a moderately busy lineup depending on the conditions, with a laid-back atmosphere. Be respectful and you'll fit right in. The water is typically pretty clean, and sunburn is the main thing to watch out for.
Access
Getting to the water is easy.
