Puerto Escondido · Mexico
Zicatela Surf Forecast & Surf Guide
Zicatela is a heavy beach break in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. Known as the Mexican Pipeline, this deep-water beach break can produce extremely powerful, hollow peaks and major size. Use the live forecast below to compare wave height, swell direction, period, wind and tide before choosing your session.
LIVE CONDITIONS
Zicatela surf forecast
Compare surf height, swell direction and period, wind, tide and temperature before deciding when to paddle out.
Zicatela Surf Report & Forecast
Current Surf Conditions
—
Primary swell
— gusts, —
—
Forecast temperatureSURF SPOT GUIDE
About Zicatela
Zicatela is one of the better-known surf options around Puerto Escondido. Known as the Mexican Pipeline, this deep-water beach break can produce extremely powerful, hollow peaks and major size. The break is best approached as a conditions-dependent wave: swell angle, period, local wind and tide can change the character quickly. The page below combines a live forecast with practical spot information so surfers can judge whether the setup matches their ability and equipment.
BEST CONDITIONS
When does Zicatela work best?
Swell
S to SWUse swell direction together with period and size to judge how much energy will reach the break.
Wind
N to NE offshoreFavourable wind can help keep the wave face cleaner and more organised.
Tide
Bank dependent; often lower to midTide interacts with swell size and the bottom shape, so compare the live curve with the ocean.
Season
April to OctoberSeason tells you when the regional swell pattern is most likely to favour this spot.
The preferred pattern is S to SW swell with N to NE offshore wind. Bank dependent; often lower to mid. Longer-period swell usually adds more power and can make the surf more demanding than the raw wave-height number suggests. Always compare the forecast with what is actually happening at the beach or reef.
SKILL LEVEL
Who should surf Zicatela?
Zicatela is generally suited to advanced to expert surfers. The correct level can change with size, tide and crowd pressure, so treat this as a guide rather than a guarantee. If the surf is larger or faster than expected, choose a more sheltered nearby break.
SURF SEASON
Best time of year
The main surf window is april to october. Outside the prime season the spot can still work, but swell consistency, wind quality and wave size may be less predictable.
LOCATION
Where is Zicatela?
Zicatela is located in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico, at approximately 15.8500, -97.0550. Use the map and local access information before travelling, as parking and shoreline access can change.
- Latitude
- 15.8500
- Longitude
- -97.0550
SAFETY & LOCAL ETIQUETTE
What to know before paddling out
Main considerations include shifting sandbanks and rips, powerful sets and hold-downs when swell increases. Observe the lineup, identify a safe entry and exit, respect local priority rules and do not paddle out when conditions exceed your experience.
NEARBY SURF
Other surf spots near Zicatela
ZICATELA FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best swell for Zicatela?
S to SW is the preferred swell direction listed for this spot. Swell size and period also matter, so compare the complete live forecast.
What wind is best for Zicatela?
N to NE offshore is generally the favourable wind setup. Local topography can change how the wind feels at the water.
What tide is best for Zicatela?
Bank dependent; often lower to mid. Tide interacts with swell size and period, so check the live tide curve before surfing.
What level is Zicatela for?
The recommended level is advanced to expert. Conditions can make any surf spot easier or more difficult, so choose a session that matches your experience.
When is the best surf season for Zicatela?
April to October is the main season listed for this spot. Day-to-day quality still depends on swell, wind and tide.
CHECK BEFORE YOU GO
Plan your next Zicatela session
Conditions change quickly. Recheck swell, wind and tide shortly before you surf and compare the forecast with the ocean in front of you.