Troncones

Troncones’ beach is just 3 miles long, but it’s gained international acclaim among surfers. Locally, surfers seek out the breaks at Troncones Point and Manzanillo Bay. Adventurers looking for a true surfing safari use Troncones as a base camp for exploring the killer waves at La Saladita, known as the “Wave Machine,” which is 20 minutes away. El Rancho is another good choice but, if possible, opt for the 30-minute boat ride over the hour-long drive over bumpy back roads.

Beyond surfing, visitors head to the sea for eco-tours and adventures. There’s horseback riding on the beach and hiking in the Sierra Madre mountains. Costa Nativa Ecotours has native guides that are eager to educate visitors about the area’s rich ecological treasures. Settle into a kayak for a trip through Capire’s Estuary where pelicans and other birds look for lunch in the gentle waters. Stroll the beach looking for endangered sea turtles that emerge from the water to lay their eggs in the sand or join a turtle-watching boat ride on a local fisherman’s panga boat.