From Sayulita: La Lancha Surf Trip w/ Transportation

Experience the La Lancha Surf Trip from Sayulita

If you’re dreaming of catching waves in a pristine, less-crowded setting, the La Lancha Surf Trip offers an excellent escape just outside Sayulita. For $46 per person and lasting about 4 hours, this adventure combines a scenic jungle drive, a relaxed self-guided surf session, and stunning beach scenery. You start at Marea Surf School, where you’ll choose from over 50 surfboards suited for all levels, then hop into an open-air “surf car” for a 30-minute journey through lush jungle. After an easy 8-minute walk through mangroves, you’re at the surf break, ready to enjoy more than two hours of unguided surfing.

What we love about this trip is the flexibility it offers—no strict lessons, just you, your board, and the waves in a peaceful setting. The scenic drive through dense jungle is not just a means of transportation but a highlight in itself, giving you a taste of the area’s natural beauty. Plus, with more than 50 boards to choose from, you can find the perfect match whether you’re a beginner or seasoned surfer.

The one potential consideration is that since the trip is unguided, you’ll need to have some basic surfing skills or be comfortable navigating waves independently. If you’re a total beginner wanting guided instruction, you might prefer a lesson-based experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking authentic, uncrowded surf in a stunning natural setting without the complication of structured lessons. It’s a great fit for those who want the freedom to surf at their own pace and enjoy some of the best beaches around Sayulita.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Uncrowded Waves: La Lancha offers a peaceful surf experience, far from the crowded beaches.
• Flexible Surf Time: Over 2 hours of unguided surfing allows for personalized pacing.
• Beautiful Jungle Drive: The scenic 30-minute trip through lush greenery enhances the overall experience.
• Board Selection: With 50+ boards, finding the right board for your skill level is straightforward.
• Self-Guided Adventure: Perfect for confident surfers or those wanting to practice independently.
• Authentic Beach Setting: The beach’s natural beauty makes this more than just a surf trip—it’s an outing in a gorgeous environment.

A Detailed Look at the La Lancha Surf Trip

Starting Point: Marea Surf School in Sayulita

Your adventure kicks off at Marea Surf School, conveniently located on Calle Pelicanos, right in front of Bichos Restaurant. This spot is familiar to many travelers and offers a friendly, relaxed vibe. Here, you’ll meet your guides, who will help you pick the ideal board from a broad selection of over 50 options. The focus here is on personalized choice—whether you prefer a soft-top beginner board or something more performance-oriented, they’ve got you covered.

The Jungle Drive: A Scenic 30 Minutes

Once your gear is ready, you’ll hop into the open-air “surf cars” for a scenic drive through Sayulita’s surrounding jungle. This part of the trip is both fun and calming, with wind in your hair and a chance to appreciate the lush landscape that makes this area so special. The drive is just enough to build anticipation without eating up too much time, leaving plenty of surf hours ahead.

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The Walk Through Mangroves to La Lancha

After the drive, you’ll enjoy a short 8-minute walk through mangroves and natural coastal scenery. This transition from jungle to beach is a reminder of the area’s diverse ecosystem and enhances the feeling that you’re stepping into a protected, pristine environment. It’s an easy walk, suitable for most travelers, and sets the tone for the relaxed atmosphere of the beach.

Surfing at La Lancha

Once you arrive, guides will give a quick safety briefing and overview of the waves—a helpful touch, especially if you’re new to the area or unsure about local conditions. From there, the entire beach is yours. The 2 to 2.5 hours of unguided surfing is plenty of time to practice, explore, and catch some memorable waves.

The waves here are often described as perfect for all skill levels—gentle enough for learners but with enough push for intermediate surfers seeking to refine their skills. The beach is notably less crowded than other surf spots, making it easier to find your own wave and enjoy the experience without the usual crowds.

The Return Journey

When you’ve had your fill of the surf or the sun begins to set, you’ll load up once again in the surf cars for the 25-minute drive back to Sayulita. Many reviews mention how “great the guides” are and how they add to the relaxed, friendly vibe of the trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You get the use of a surfboard, the transportation, and a brief safety explanation. You won’t find guided lessons here, so if you’re a beginner needing more instruction, this might not be the best fit. Meals, drinks, and hotel pickups are not included, so plan to bring snacks, water, and your own towel.

Reviews in Perspective

Two recent reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness—one calling Miguel and Omar “great,” and another praising Miguel for making the experience “phenomenal.” Many travelers loved the stunning views and felt it was an authentic experience, away from overcrowded beaches.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience strikes a balance between adventure and serenity. It’s particularly appealing for those who already have some surfing confidence or are eager to practice independently in a beautiful setting. The scenic jungle drive and peaceful beach create a memorable backdrop that elevates a simple surf trip into a small adventure. The affordable price makes it a good value considering the personalized surf time, transportation, and equipment included.

Who Will Love It?

If you are a confident surfer wanting to practice in a tranquil environment or a traveler keen on an authentic experience with fewer crowds, this trip will suit you well. It’s also perfect if you’re comfortable exploring waves on your own, rather than needing a guided lesson. However, if you’re a total beginner or seeking a structured lesson, you might want to look for a package with professional guidance.

The Sum Up

The La Lancha Surf Trip from Sayulita offers a unique way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty while catching some of the best uncrowded waves around. The combination of scenic jungle drives, flexible surf hours, and a stunning beach makes it a memorable experience for those seeking an authentic, self-paced surf adventure.

It provides excellent value, especially for surfers who prefer independence and a peaceful environment over rigid instruction. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful surroundings, and a hassle-free setup, this trip is well-suited for confident surfers and adventurous travelers eager to explore beyond the usual crowded spots.

Those who appreciate stunning scenery and a relaxed atmosphere will find this outing a highlight of their Sayulita visit. Just remember to bring your own snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—La Lancha’s waves and wilderness await.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It depends. Since the trip is unguided, you should be comfortable surfing independently or at least confident in your skills. If you need guided instruction, you might prefer a surf lesson.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, snacks, sunscreen, and water. It’s also advisable to arrive 15 minutes early at Marea Surf School.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks and water to stay energized.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, surf time, and the drive back.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the meeting point is at Marea Surf School in Calle Pelicanos, in front of Bichos Restaurant.

In the end, if you’re after a peaceful surf session in a breathtaking setting, this trip provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy La Lancha’s waves without the hustle. It’s best suited for travelers who want to practice independently, love scenic drives, and appreciate authentic beach environments. Do your prep, bring your best attitude, and you’re likely to leave with waves, smiles, and some great stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: