Windsurfing is an example of perfect fusion between calorie-burning exercise and a pure adrenaline rush, with the smooth, relaxed feeling of surfing joining with exhilarating sailing moves.
Classed as an extreme sport, windsurfing provides participants with the chance to learn tricks such as spins, jumps and inverted loops, skimming the surface of the water. And although it can be difficult to master at first, practice most definitely makes perfect – and it’s also fun! Visitors should take advantage of Mexico’s beautiful locations, with winds and friendly waters providing the ideal backdrop for both nervous beginners as well as hardcore windsurfers.
Los Barriles
Los Barriles is popular with visitors from all over the globe, being one of the best known locations for windsurfing in Mexico.
Situated in the East Cape of Mexico, Los Barriles was previously a sleepy fishing village which has grown into a bustling resort and a Mecca for windsurfers! Between November and March the famous El Norte wind blows through the Sea of Cortez, averaging 18 to 30 knots.
The EL Norte typically blows for between four and eight days, with lighter breezes for two to four days in between. The temperature of the water is balmy and pleasant; varying from 68 to 78 degrees, but a bodysuit or 3mm shortie is usually advisable.
During the deep winter months winds can become powerful and only intermediate or advanced windsurfers should take to the waters.
Visitors to the area can either opt to have a go at the sport or if arriving in January, marvel at some of the world’s best windsurfers in the annual Vela-Neil Pryde Baja held in Los Barriles.
Mayan Riviera
A district located on the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, the Mayan Rivera is a glorious stretch of waters famed for its marine life, which are provided with shelter by the spectacular Belize Barrier Reef.
The prime time to visit this area is from December through to April as rain can be an issue in other months. The strongest winds are present in January and February and are generally better suited to more experienced windsurfers. However for the rest of the season, the winds are fairly light, varying from 15 to 20 knots. As an average, surf tends to rise to around 1.5 metres.
With soft white sand beaches, crystal-clear aquamarine waters and a tropical climate, the Mayan Riviera is a popular place for kite surfers as well as windsurfers of all abilities.
Punta Abreojos
In English, Punta Abreojos means ‘Point of Open Eyes’. Whilst this may seem to be a strange title to hold, the town was named after fishermen saw what looked like open eyes gazing at them from the sea after they returned to shore. The phenomenon was actually perfectly shaped wave barrels with the wind spraying across the crest, creating ‘eyelashes’!
Although fishing and surfing are very popular in Punta Abreojos, huge crowds have not made their way to the region yet, very appealing if you are looking for a pure windsurfing experience without the tourists.
Its winds are consistent, providing perfect conditions regularly for those itching to get out on the water, usually reaching between 20 to 25 knots in the afternoon.
Mexico is fast becoming known for its prime windsurfing locations that accommodate the needs of both beginners and experts. An ideal activity to spice up a mundane vacation or break out of a daily routine, windsurfing offers both novice and experienced participants the perfect way to enjoy the ocean!
And for the days where the wind is just that little bit too much, or while you are waiting for it to arrive, you won’t be short of other things to do in the area. What more could you possibly ask for?
Written by Rebecca Hubbard, who enjoys writing articles about holidays in Mexico and other travel related destinations.
