Surf Breaks Around Troncones: A Local Guide
- Surfer T
- Mar 29
- 4 min read
If you’ve been looking into surf trips on Mexico’s Pacific coast, you’ve probably come across Troncones.
It’s a quiet stretch of coastline just north of Zihuatanejo, known for warm water, consistent swell, and a handful of surf breaks that work across different conditions.
But what makes this area really interesting isn’t just one wave.
It’s the variety.
Within a short distance, you’ll find beach breaks, point breaks, and long mellow waves that can suit everything from beginners to more experienced surfers.
If you’re planning a trip here, this is a simple guide to the main surf breaks around Troncones — and when they tend to work best.
Troncones Main Beach
Right in front of the village, Troncones offers a long stretch of beach break.
Depending on the swell, you’ll find multiple peaks along the coast. Some days it’s soft and playful, other days it has a bit more power.
What makes this spot great is the flexibility.
You can usually find a section that matches your level, especially if you’re willing to walk a bit and explore.
Best for:
• Beginner to intermediate surfers • Daily sessions close to where you’re staying • Mixed conditions depending on swell
La Saladita
About 20 minutes north of Troncones, you’ll find one of the most well-known waves in the region.
La Saladita is a long left point break that can offer incredibly long rides when the swell lines up. It’s often described as one of the most fun waves in Mexico, especially for surfers who enjoy cruising and working on their technique.
Because the wave breaks slowly and predictably, it can also be more forgiving than faster beach breaks.
If you're still figuring out whether Mexico is a good place to learn, we go deeper into that in Is Mexico Good for Beginner Surfers?.
Best for:
• Beginners on smaller days • Intermediate surfers improving technique • Longboarders and funboard riders
The Ranch
A bit further north of La Saladita you have The Ranch, a point break that offers a different type of wave.
When it’s working, you’ll find long left-hand waves that can offer smooth, flowing rides.
It tends to be a bit more performance-oriented than La Saladita, but still approachable in the right conditions.
This is one of those waves that rewards timing and positioning.
Best for:
• Intermediate surfers • Clean swell conditions • Longer rides with more shape
When These Breaks Work Best
The Pacific coast of Mexico picks up consistent swell throughout the year, but conditions vary depending on the season.
In general:
• May to October → more consistent and powerful swell • November to March → smaller, cleaner waves • April & November → a nice balance of both
If you’re planning your timing, our Mexico Surf Trip Guide breaks this down in more detail.
What Makes This Area Special
One of the biggest advantages of surfing around Troncones is how close everything is.
Within a short drive, you can:
• Check multiple surf spots • Adjust based on conditions • Avoid crowded lineups
Instead of being locked into one break, you have options — and that often means more time actually surfing.
It’s also why many surfers choose to stay a bit longer here. Conditions change daily, and having time on your side makes a big difference.
We talk more about that in How Long a Mexico Surf Trip Really Should Be.
Quick Guide: Which Surf Break Should You Choose?
If you're visiting Troncones for the first time, choosing the right break can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your surf sessions.
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
If you're a beginner:La Saladita is often the easiest place to start, especially on smaller days. The long, mellow wave gives you more time to stand up and find your balance.
If you're intermediate:Troncones beach offers a mix of peaks where you can practice reading waves and improving your positioning.
If you're looking for longer, cleaner rides:The Ranch can be a great option when conditions line up, offering smooth right-hand waves.
The best part is that all of these breaks are close to each other, so you’re not locked into one spot.
If one wave isn’t working, you can usually find another.
If you want to make the most of your time here, surfing with local guidance can help you find the right break each day based on conditions.
Final Thoughts
The surf around Troncones isn’t about one perfect wave.
It’s about variety, consistency, and having options.
From mellow point breaks like La Saladita to shifting peaks along Troncones beach, the area offers something for almost every surfer — especially those looking to spend real time in the water.
And once you start exploring the different breaks, it becomes less about chasing waves and more about settling into the rhythm of the coast.