A 90-degree coastal elbow south of Mazatlan wraps S and SW swell into long, zippy left-handers that can run 150-500m on a good day at Patoles. SW, SSW, and S swells are the engine here, working best from April through October. E or SE winds keep faces clean, the break can handle S wind but it gets messier. Starts producing at waist-to-chest high and hits its peak from head high to double overhead, where proper barrels appear at the top of the point. Bottom is sand and rock, with shallow rocks at the head of the point demanding respect. Intermediate surfers can enjoy the long walls on smaller days, but when it's pumping, the current sweeping around the point creates long paddles and makes holding position a real fight. Season runs April to October. Consistency is good when S swell is in the water. Pack a step-up for bigger swells and stay alert to fishing nets occasionally set in the lineup.
Weekday crowds are generally light, the spot is well-known in the region but the access keeps numbers manageable. Localism is present and swell-dependent. A respectful approach in the lineup goes a long way. Dawn patrol on weekdays is the cleanest window if you want open waves.
Reachable from Mazatlan in under two hours by rental car. Access becomes difficult or impassable during and after heavy rain, particularly mid-rainy season. Avoid August road access unless conditions are confirmed dry. The nearby town of La Cruz sits roughly 15km north and offers a base to avoid daily toll costs. No on-site facilities, bring water and food.
If Patoles is flat or blown out, the stretch between Mazatlan and the point holds several quality options. Marmol offers a long, softer left that handles smaller swell well. Veneno is a well-shaped A-frame left that can get hollow on the right swell. Both are worth checking on the drive down.
Forecast by Windy.app
