Why Southern Oaxaca Should Be Your Next Surf Trip Destination

on June 13, 2024June 13, 2024 By Emma Roggenkamp

surf with amigas southern oaxaca retreat

Southern Oaxaca, located along Mexico’s stunning Pacific coast, is celebrated as one of the premier surfing destinations in the world. With its diverse range of waves, consistent swell, and inviting atmosphere, it’s a paradise for surfers. If you’re searching for long, perfect sand-bottom right point breaks and beach breaks, you should choose our Southern Oaxaca retreat location for your next surf coaching trip. Read on to learn more about the waves in Southern Oaxaca and why we love it so much!

Wave Variety

From powerful, barreling beach breaks like Playa Zicatela, also know as the “Mexican Pipeline,” to long, rippable right hand point breaks like Punta Conejo and Barra de la Cruz, Southern Oaxaca offers a wide variety of waves to get your glide on or practice maneuvers. With the diverse array of options, you’re bound to find your personal Goldilocks break.

Consistent Swell and Ideal Conditions

Southern Mexico is often a swell magnet for long-period swells that originate in the South Pacific. Swells can show up at any time of year but the most consistent season for surf is April through September, when larger storms are generated in the South Pacific. Our retreats in Southern Oaxaca are in September, an ideal time to score and miss some of the heavier crowds that descend upon the region earlier in the summer.

Vibrant Surf Community and Culture

Southern Oaxaca’s surf towns, like Puerto Escondido, have a vibrant and welcoming surf community, while still maintaining an authentic, Mexican beach town feel. Being an international surf destination, you’re bound to meet surfers from around the world while also enjoying Mexico’s rich culture.

With all the different spots in the area, it’s easy to move around to avoid the crowds. One of our favorite yoga instructors, Reesie, describes her time in Oaxaca as “a land filled with incredible, long right-hand points” that give you plenty of time and space to practice any maneuver of your dreams.”

Most importantly, the local culture and cuisine enhances the overall experience. Oaxaca is full of tradition and hospitality, and the food is a reflection of that. You won’t be able to pass up the local salsas, and can’t leave without trying the tlayudas, or Mexican pizza.

Sustainable Surf Tourism

One of the things that makes Southern Oaxaca so special is wave accessibility and sustainable surf tourism. Apart from Barra de La Cruz, the locals have many hidden gems of the region on lockdown, meaning you need a local guide/local accommodation in order to surf them (which can often come with a hefty price tag). Even in Barra de La Cruz, you’re required to pay around $10 a session. This idea may initially seem outrageous, but it has allowed the local community to benefit from surf tourism while also keeping waves from becoming overrun. As Surfline describes, “Once you get over the fact that you must pay to play, you’ll find that the waves are more than worth it, the local guides are friendly and welcoming, and it’ll still be the quickest, cheapest, easiest score you’re likely to get in the Northern Hemisphere.”

If you join us on our Southern Oaxaca retreat, you’ll gain access to explore epic waves along the coast via 4×4, surf safari style!

Southern Oaxaca is a dream come true for surfers, and offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable surf vacation. Whether you’re chasing big barrels or just wanting to cruise and practice turns, Southern Oaxaca invites you to ride its waves and experience its unique charm. So pack your board, embrace the adventure, and get ready to discover why Southern Oaxaca is the ultimate surfing destination!

JOIN AMIGAS FOR A CURATED SHORTBOARDING AND MIDLENGTH ADVANCED COACHING CLINIC IN Southern Oaxaca! THIS WILL BE A 100% SURF FOCUSED RETREAT! YOU MUST BE ABLE TO DUCK DIVE OR CONFIDENTLY TURTLE ROLL TO ATTEND.

Feeling Frustrated In The Surf? Here’s How To Develop a Positive Surf Mindset

on May 28, 2024February 20, 2025 By Emma Roggenkamp

Surfing is an experience that tests both your patience and perseverance. Anyone who’s spent time on a board knows just how easily frustration can set in. Whether it’s the challenge of catching waves, navigating crowded lineups, or dealing with the ocean’s unpredictability, surfing can often feel like an uphill battle, no matter how many years of experience you have under your belt (or how many surf retreats you attend)!

Big wave surfer Bianca Valenti is a positive mindset champion. She encourages the acceptance of fear and discomfort in the water:

“This is exciting. This is scary. I don’t know if I can do it. I want to do it. I’m gonna try, who knows what’s gonna happen. Just choosing to really embrace your fear, sit with it and have a healthy relationship with it and see where it can take you [can be extremely impactful]. I’m always out there for the love of it, but also it feels good to get to that place of extreme discomfort because I think it’s empowering to be able to choose to face your fear. When you make the choice to go out there, that’s what you’re doing. You’re making a choice to go out and adventure, explore and see what you can unlock within yourself.”

That being said, here are a few tips we focus on at our women’s surf & yoga retreats to help Amigas develop a positive surf mindset and reframe their frustration:

Embrace the Learning Curve

One of the biggest sources of frustration in surfing is the steep learning curve. Unlike many other sports, where progress can be swift, surfing requires patience and persistence. Remember, every surfer was a beginner once. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do, celebrate each small victory. Maybe today you paddled stronger, or you managed to pop up a bit quicker. Acknowledge these achievements and give yourself credit for the effort you’re putting in.

Set Realistic Expectations

It’s easy to get caught up in the highlight reels of professional surfers or influencers, but comparing yourself to them is a surefire way to feel inadequate. Set realistic, personal goals that are within your reach. Maybe it’s standing up on the board, riding a wave for five seconds, or even just feeling more comfortable in the water. When you achieve these goals, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that fuels your desire to keep improving.

Focus on the Process, Not Just the Outcome

Surfing is as much about connecting with nature and mental renewal as it is about catching waves. Whether you’re suiting up, paddling out or wiping out, challenge yourself to be present during your surf sessions. In addition, mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and grounding exercises, can help you stay centered, reset your mind after difficult experiences, and ultimately become more appreciative of your time in the water.

Learn from Your Wipeouts

The ocean is a powerful teacher. Each wipeout, each missed wave, is an opportunity to learn. Instead of seeing mistakes as failures, view them as valuable lessons. Reflect on what happened and consider what you can do differently next time. This mindset shift from frustration to curiosity can transform your surfing experience, making each session a chance to grow and improve.

Build a Supportive Community

Surfing can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you’re struggling. Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow surfers who understand the ups and downs of the sport. Share your experiences, laugh about your wipeouts, and celebrate each other’s progress. Having a tribe can provide encouragement and remind you that you’re not alone in your journey.

Stay Physically and Mentally Fit

Surfing requires both physical and mental endurance. Regularly engaging in activities like yoga, swimming, or strength training can improve your performance in the water. Additionally, practices such as meditation can enhance your mental resilience, helping you to stay calm and focused even when things don’t go as planned. Here is a surf training workout series that we recommend!

Have Fun and Practice Gratitude

At the end of the day, surfing is supposed to be fun. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Laugh at your mistakes, enjoy the camaraderie, and remember why you started surfing in the first place. Remember that gratitude can also be a powerful antidote to frustration. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the ocean, the privilege of being able to surf, and the health and strength that allows you to be out there. When you’re having fun, the frustration naturally diminishes, leaving room for more joy and stoke.

Finally, remember that developing a positive surf mindset takes time, but it’s a worthwhile journey. The next time you feel frustrated in the surf, remember these tips and paddle out with a positive attitude and an open mind.

WANT TO DEVELOP A HOLISTIC SURF PRACTICE? CHECK OUT OUR COLLECTION OF VIDEOS HERE , or LISTEN TO OUR Second Breakfast PODCAST episode with Bianca Valenti!

4 Ways You Can Be A Respectful Surf Traveler

on May 15, 2024May 15, 2024 By Emma Roggenkamp

Surfing isn’t just a sport; it also encompasses a culture, lifestyle, and a global community. As surfers, we’re privileged to explore stunning coastlines and surf waves all over the world. However, with this privilege comes responsibility – a responsibility to respect the environments we surf in and the communities we encounter along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just dipping your toes into the world of wave-riding, here are four ways you can be a respectful surf traveler.

Learn and Respect Local Surf Etiquette

Every surf spot, anywhere in the world, has its own unwritten rules and codes of conduct. Everyone deserves to have access to the ocean and waves, but it’s essential to show respect in the lineup, especially as a foreigner. Before paddling out, take the time to observe the lineup and understand the local etiquette. Is there a lineup hierarchy? Are there specific peak markers? Notice where people are sitting in the lineup and where you might have the best chance of scoring fun waves amongst that mix; where are the local shredders, the salty dogs, and the beginners all sitting? Avoid dropping in on others’ waves, follow the lineup rotation, and always give right of way to whoever is closest to the peak. By adhering to these unspoken rules, you’ll not only enhance your surfing experience but also contribute to a positive vibe in the water. Don’t forget to smile!

When in doubt, and especially if you’re going surfing at an entirely unfamiliar break, hire a local surf instructor or surf guide to show you the ropes.

Please note that the topic of surf etiquette can be complicated, and often controversial! To dive deeper into the rules of the lineup, check out our podcast, Second Breakfast, linked here.

surf with amigas Costa Rica surf retreat

Minimize Your Environmental Footprint

As surfers, the oceans are our playground, but that doesn’t mean the sport is inherently environmentally friendly. Surf trips and surf retreats often involve lengthy and fuel intensive travel, which already lends itself to a heavy carbon footprint. That’s why we encourage that wherever your surf adventures take you, prioritize leaving the coastline cleaner than you found it. Pack out what you pack in, dispose of your trash properly, and participate in local beach clean-up initiatives whenever possible. Additionally, be mindful of the products you use. Opt for eco-friendly sunscreen to prevent harmful chemicals from entering the ocean, choose sustainable surf gear whenever feasible, and use reusable water bottles. If you must buy bottled water in areas where the tap water isn’t potable, buy in bulk to avoid excess plastic! By minimizing your environmental footprint, you’ll help preserve the beauty of surf destinations for generations to come.

Cultivate Cultural Awareness

Surfing can take us to amazing locations with rich cultural heritage. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture with an open mind and heart. Respect local customs, traditions, and sacred sites. Learn a few phrases in the local language (do not assume everybody you meet speaks English), engage with locals respectfully, and support local businesses rather than large corporations whenever possible. Remember, as surf travelers, we’re guests in these communities, and it’s essential to leave a positive impression through cultural sensitivity and appreciation.

Give Back to the Surfing Community

Surfing is a global sisterhood, and there’s immense value in giving back to the community that has given us so much. Whether it’s within the communities you’re traveling in or elsewhere, we highly recommend volunteering with surf-related charities, mentoring aspiring surfers, or supporting grassroots initiatives that promote ocean conservation and coastal communities’ welfare. Especially while abroad, find ways to contribute meaningfully to the surfing community. This could involve anything from donating surf gear to locals to using local guides on your trip. At Surf with Amigas, we work hard to give back to the communities we play in. In Northern Nicaragua, for example, we sponsor a local ladies kickball team, helping them with money for transportation to games and their end of season parties. Join us on a retreat to get a chance to high 5 the ladies after a super fun game of kickball on the beach or at the local sports field!

As surfers, we’re not just travelers; we’re stewards of the ocean and ambassadors of surf culture. By embodying respect for the environment, local communities, and fellow surfers, we can elevate our experiences both in and out of the water. Let’s ride waves with gratitude, humility, and a deep-seated commitment to leaving a positive impact wherever our surf travels may take us.

3 Reasons Why You Might Fall In Love With Nicaragua

on April 29, 2024April 29, 2024 By Emma Roggenkamp

Nicaragua, nestled in the heart of Central America, enchants travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From the peaks of its volcanic landscape to the sun-kissed shores of its pristine beaches, Nicaragua offers an array of experiences sure to capture the hearts of adventurous souls. Whether you’re drawn to Nicaragua to surf, explore quaint local villages, or eat fresh food, Nicaragua offers plenty to fill your cup with on your next surf adventure. Here are three reasons why you might find yourself falling head over heels for this captivating country.

The People

You’ll love the people of Nicaragua because they are humble, down to earth, kind, and approach difficulties with the saying, “aqui resolvemos.” This saying, meaning “here, we resolve,” emphasizes Nicaraguan’s can-do attitude, resilience and determination. As Nicaragua was our inaugural retreat location, we are deeply embedded within the communities where we work, and that is reflected within most of our retreat activities. Whether it is playing kickball, riding on horseback down the beach or learning to dance with local women, we love interacting with the beautiful people of Nicaragua and learning more from their culture. Our local partners that play an integral role in SWA retreats in Nicaragua include surf instructors, taxi drivers, boat operators, videographers, chefs, and many more.

The Food

You’ll love Nicaraguan food for its vibrant flavors, blending influences from indigenous, Spanish, African, and Caribbean culinary traditions into a rich tapestry of taste. The cuisine is characterized by its generous use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients like plantains, beans, maize, and tropical fruits, resulting in dishes that burst with color and freshness. From classic Central American favorites like gallo pinto, (a hearty mix of rice and beans) to flavorful repochetas (fried tortillas often served with beans and/or eggs), and fresh fish (caught right down the street from local fishermen at our retreat location), Nicaraguan cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors and textures sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

The Waves

You’ll fall in love with the waves in Nicaragua for their pristine beauty and thrilling surf opportunities. Nestled along the Pacific coastline, Nicaragua boasts a diverse range of surf breaks catering to surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro searching for the tube ride of your life or a beginner eager to catch your first wave, Nicaragua’s beaches offer something for everyone. Not to mention, the presence of Lake Managua, about 50 miles inland from the coast, helps funnel wind across the country to provide 300+ days of offshore winds. At our Nicaraguan retreat location, you’ll find consistent swell, lots of fun beach breaks (point breaks are an option with bigger swell), warm water and breathtaking scenery, the ultimate combination for an unforgettable surf trip.

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