For decades, this small fishing village on Mexico’s Pacific coast has been a hidden sanctuary for surfers, offering one of the longest left-hand waves in the world. It’s not just about the wave—it’s about the vibe, the simplicity, the respect between surfers and locals, and the deep connection to nature.
But as more people discover this paradise, there’s an important question we all must ask:
How do we keep La Saladita’s magic alive while embracing its growth?
If you’re planning to visit, whether for a surf trip or a long escape, you play a role in shaping the future of this special place. This is not just another tourist destination—it’s a home, a community, and a legacy built by those who came before us.
To understand La Saladita, you first need to know its story. And like all great surf destinations, this one begins with an adventure.
The Birth of a Surfing Paradise: A Legend on Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Legend has it that sometime in the 1970s, a group of surfers was traveling along Mexico’s Pacific coastline in search of the mythical wave of Petacalco, known for its power and perfection.
But fate had a different plan. One night, they accidentally camped on an unknown beach, unaware that by sunrise, they would discover something extraordinary: a long, perfect left-hand point break, tailor-made for longboarding, with rides that seemed to last forever.
And just like that, by pure chance, the first surfers stumbled upon what we now know as Playa La Saladita.
Corky Carroll and Timothy Dorsey: Surfing Pioneers in La Saladita
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, more surfers arrived, drawn to this uncrowded, peaceful paradise. With no electricity until the year 2000, visitors lived simply, embracing the slow rhythm of the town and the generosity of the local fishing community.
As time went on, word of this hidden gem reached some of the most influential surfers of the era. Among them was Corky Carroll, a five-time U.S. surf champion and professional surfing legend, and Timothy Dorsey, another wave explorer who helped spread the word about La Saladita among the California surf community
Mexi Log Fest: The Event That Put La Saladita on the Global Surf Map
Flyer from Mexilogfest 2017
La Saladita grew slowly and organically—until 2017, when it hosted Mexi Log Fest, one of the world’s most prestigious longboarding events.
Sponsored by major brands like Jeep and Vans, the event brought the planet’s best longboarders while also celebrating the local community with music, art, and surf culture.
Picture from Mexilogfest.com
Since then, La Saladita has transformed from a well-kept secret to a must-visit destination for surfers worldwide. But the real turning point came with the COVID-19 pandemic.
La Saladita’s Post-Pandemic Boom
Picture from Saladita 2020
Starting in 2020, after the pandemic, many people sought refuge in nature, away from the chaos of city life. With its perfect waves and peaceful environment, La Saladita became an ideal escape.
The result was rapid growth: ✅ More surfers and digital nomads began staying for extended periods. ✅ New local businesses emerged, from eco-friendly accommodations to surf shops and cafés. ✅ A surge in real estate investment and construction, boosting the local economy but also raising concerns about sustainability.
This growth has brought economic opportunities to the local community, but also challenges. How can we keep La Saladita’s soul intact while allowing for development?
How to Be a Responsible Visitor in La Saladita
If you visit La Saladita, you are a guest in a place with history, culture, and a community that protects it. Here’s how you can help:
🌊 Respect the Local Community
Say "buenos días" and "gracias"—a little kindness goes a long way.
Support local businesses instead of bringing everything from outside.
Remember, people live and work here; it’s not just a surf destination.
🏄 Respect the Lineup
Don’t drop in on others. Respect priority and don’t snake waves.
Observe before paddling out. Learn the flow before jumping in.
If you’re a beginner, take lessons from local instructors instead of paddling out alone.
♻️ Protect the Environment
Leave no trash behind. Not even a cigarette butt.
Use reusable bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
If you see trash on the beach, pick it up—even if it’s not yours.
🏕️ Embrace La Saladita’s Rhythm
This is a place to disconnect, surf, and appreciate nature. It’s not a party town
If you're looking for loud nightlife, this isn’t the place for you.
From the legend of the traveling surfers to the arrival of Mexi Log Fest and the post-pandemic boom, La Saladita has evolved while staying true to its roots. But the challenge is to maintain that balance.
The first surfers who arrived here were explorers, adventurers, and nature lovers. They came for the wave but stayed for the magic of the place.
If you are part of the new generation of surfers coming to La Saladita, remember: this is not just a surf spot—it is a sanctuary, a home, an ecosystem.
Protect it. Respect it. Leave it better than you found it. 🌊💙
Are you ready to experience La Saladita the right way?
Playa Saladita is a serene coastal town where safety, respect, and a strong sense of community define daily life. If you’re wondering whether Saladita is a secure place to visit, invest in, or call home, the answer is yes, and here’s why.
Learning to surf can be a life-changing experience, and there's no better place to begin this adventure than in La Saladita. This hidden gem on Mexico's Pacific coast offers the perfect combination of consistent waves, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming community. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, La Saladita provides an ideal environment to embrace the surfing lifestyle.
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