El Tizate

El Tizate is a sheltered beach break on the Puerto Vallarta coast that rarely works, with surf performance most dependent on a solid northwest swell meeting offshore wind conditions. Sources emphasize that the spot is not consistently surfable—often only a few times per year—and that when it does break, it tends to do so for longer, manageable sections rather than powerful, high-energy surf. For surfing, the preferred setup is a northwest swell combined with an offshore east wind. The wave is described as a right-hand intermediate wave and is best as a longboard-oriented spot when conditions are right. Surfing quality is also strongly time-dependent: the spot is typically best in the morning before afternoon thermal winds build and can blow the face out. Access and safety matter here. Rocks and sea urchins are present, and rips are reported as a hazard; take extra care around shallow areas and lower tides. Multiple sources also warn that low-tide surfing should be avoided because of rock formations. Local presence is noted, so it’s important to follow basic right-of-way/behavior expectations near the launch. Outside of surfing, El Tizate can be used for wind-based sports in the thermal season. In spring, afternoon sea-breeze winds become steadier and provide suitable conditions for kitesurfing and wingfoiling, with reports of small chop/kicker waves and foil-friendly access. For these sports, expect the wind to peak later in the afternoon (around the mid-afternoon window) and bring the usual precautions for wind sports in a bay setting.