Puerto Escondido has now joined the world’s surfing elite. The Mexican enclave has been officially declared the 14th World Surfing Reserve, a recognition promoted by the Save The Waves Coalition that highlights both the quality of its waves and the local commitment to their conservation.
The inauguration ceremony, held on March 21, brought together more than 350 members of the community, including surfers, authorities, and local associations, in a symbolic event on Zicatela Beach, known as the “Mexican Pipeline” for the power and size of its waves.
The event began with a collective ceremony on the sand, where attendees formed a circle as a sign of respect for the ocean. Afterward, representatives from institutions and community organizations spoke before unveiling the official plaque that certifies the designation.
“Zicatela is much more than a famous wave. It’s a community united by respect for the ocean,” stated local photographer Edwin Morales, one of the most prominent voices at the event. Similarly, community leader Humberto “Beto” Olivera emphasized that “surfing here is not just a sport: it’s identity and community.”
Beyond Zicatela, the new reserve encompasses 10 kilometers of coastline and up to eight surf breaks, including spots like Punta Colorada, La Punta, Playa Marinero, and Carrizalillo, forming a diverse ecosystem of great natural value.
Inclusion in the international program, created in 2009, places Puerto Escondido alongside iconic destinations like Malibu, Ericeira, and the Gold Coast, solidifying its global status. “We celebrate not only the quality of its waves but also the collective effort to protect them,” highlighted Trent Hodges, the organization’s conservation officer.
This recognition comes after more than a decade of collaborative work between surfers, scientists, and local groups, who have spearheaded campaigns to preserve key areas against aggressive development projects.
The next step will be to implement a Local Management Plan with clear objectives: to improve water quality, restore the Zicatela wave, and protect critical ecosystems. “This recognition will allow us to conduct scientific studies and avoid repeating past mistakes,” explained Almendra Gómezleyva.
With this designation, Puerto Escondido reinforces its role as a global benchmark, not only for its waves but also for a conservation model that originates from the community.
Source: as
