5 Famous Mexican Surfers: The Best!
It’s always up for debate, "who are the most famous Mexican surfers"?
We list the current most famous Mexican surfers, going into detail of their impact on Mexco's surf culture and surfing as a whole.
The list of famous Mexican surfers is forever growing so here is our 5 best!
Most Famous Mexican Surfers
- Alan Cleland
- Coco Nogales
- Jhony Corzo
- Kalle Carranza
- Oscar Moncada
This list of the most famous Mexican surfers is forever growing! Let's get into each famous Mexican surfers story below in detail.
Want to find more surfers? View our list of the most famous surfers ever!
Alan Cleland
Born: 2 June 2002
Origin: Boca de Pascuales, Colima, Mexico
Style: Regular
About: Alan George Cleland Quiñonez, born on June 2, 2002, is one of the most famous Mexican surfers Hailing from the beachside town of Boca de Pascuales. Alan has made significant contributions to the world of surfing. Alan won a gold medal at the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games, securing his qualification to compete at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Achievements: Gold medal in the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games Men's category and Silver medal in the 2019 ISA World Junior Championship, Under-18 category. Alan is also proudly sponsored by industry-leading brands including Quiksilver, TPatterson Surfboards, Oakley, Futures, Proline, and Nixon, showcasing the recognition and support he has earned in the surfing community.
Instagram: @alan_jr_cleland
Coco Nogolaes
Born: June 21, 1985
Origin: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Style: Coco Nogales is celebrated for his fearless approach to big wave surfing. His style combines technical precision with a profound connection to the powerful waves he conquers.
About: Hailing from the iconic surfing destination of Puerto Escondido, Coco Nogales has become a symbol of Mexican surfing prowess. From his early days riding the waves along the Pacific coast to his current status as a big wave charger, Coco's journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport making him one of 5 famous Mexican surfers. Coco Nogales faced a life-threatening incident on Friday the 13th during a massive swell at Isla Todos Santos.
A severe wipeout resulted in a broken pelvis and sacrum, leading to an emergency evacuation. The crucial role of his inflatable vest in aiding his ascent, coupled with the swift actions of fellow surfers like Greg Long, contributed to Nogales' successful evacuation, subsequent surgery in the U.S and ongoing recovery.
Achievements: Coco Nogales has left an indelible mark on the international surfing scene. His notable achievements include multiple victories in the Puerto Escondido Cup, a top-ten finish in the Big Wave Tour, and a reputation for tackling some of the most challenging waves around the world.
Instagram: @coconogalesofficial
Jhony Corzo
Born: March 12, 1996
Origin: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Style: Jhony Corzo is known for his powerful and versatile surfing style. Whether he's navigating massive barrels or executing precision turns, his approach to the waves showcases a dynamic and adaptable technique.
About: Born and raised in the legendary Mexican surf town of Puerto Escondido, Jhony Corzo developed a deep connection to the ocean from a young age. His journey into professional surfing is a story of passion, dedication, and a profound respect for the powerful waves that define his hometown.
Achievements: Jhony Corzo has earned acclaim for his exceptional surfing skills. His list of achievements includes top finishes in major competitions, such as the WSL Qualifying Series, and a reputation for fearlessly taking on some of the most challenging waves around the world with other famous Mexican surfers.
Instagram: @jhonycorzo
Kalle Carranza
Born: September 8, 1992
Origin: Sayulita, Mexico
Style: Kalle Carranza is renowned for his progressive and innovative surfing style. His approach to the waves involves a seamless blend of technical tricks, aerial manoeuvres, and a unique flair that sets him apart in the surfing community.
About: Hailing from the picturesque coastal town of Sayulita, Kalle Carranza's journey into surfing began at a young age. His passion for the sport quickly blossomed into a career marked by creativity and a constant desire to push the boundaries of what is possible on a surfboard.
Achievements: Kalle Carranza has earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to the sport. Notable achievements include top finishes in national and international competitions, as well as a reputation for his progressive and influential surfing style.
Instagram: @kallecarranza
Oscar Moncada
Born: January 15, 1983 - 2017
Origin: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Style: Oscar Moncada is known for his powerful and dynamic surfing style, combining impressive manoeuvres with a deep connection to the ocean.
About: Hailing from the vibrant coastal town of Ensenada, Oscar Moncada's love for the ocean was ingrained in him from a young age. His journey in surfing began as a way to connect with the waves, and it quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. In 2017 Oscar tragically passed away in a car accident in which three other passengers also lost their lives. He was 34 years old and now is a huge part of the famous Mexican surfers history.
Achievements: Oscar Moncada has left an indelible mark on the international surfing scene. Notable achievements include winning the Baja Open Surf and securing a top-five finish in the WSL Championship Tour.
Instagram: @oscar_moncada1
Who is the Mexican Surf Champion?
Mexico's first World Champion surfer is Jhony Corzo making him one of the most famous Mexican surfers,
He secured this historic achievement by winning a gold medal at the ISA World Surfing Championships in Biarritz, France, where he faced seasoned competitors and emerged victorious as the reigning ISA World Champion.
Hailing from Puerto Escondido, Corzo began his surfing journey at the age of five, navigating the challenges of big-wave seasons and competing against top CT riders.
His triumph not only made him a symbol of hope for Mexican surfing but also marked a significant milestone as the country's inaugural World Champion in the sport. The hope of the country is to produce many more famous Mexican surfers like Corzo to keep challenging at the top!
Famous Mexican Surf Spots
- Puerto Escondido (Zicatela Beach): Known for its powerful and challenging waves, Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, attracts experienced surfers from around the world.
- Sayulita: Located on the Pacific Coast, Sayulita in the state of Nayarit is a popular surf destination with a vibrant surf culture, suitable for surfers of various skill levels.
- Punta de Mita: Also on the Pacific Coast, Punta de Mita in Nayarit is known for its consistent waves, making it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced surfers.
- La Saladita: Often referred to as the "Mexican Malibu," La Saladita in Guerrero offers long, mellow waves, making it perfect for longboarding.
- San Pancho (San Francisco): A picturesque beach in Nayarit, San Pancho has a laid-back atmosphere and provides great waves for surfers seeking a less crowded spot.
- Playa Zicatela (Puerto Angelito): Another section of Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, Playa Zicatela is known for its consistent waves and is suitable for surfers of various skill levels.
- Troncones: Located in Guerrero, Troncones is a beautiful and less crowded surf spot with a variety of breaks suitable for different surfing abilities.
- Barra de la Cruz: In Oaxaca, Barra de la Cruz gained international attention after hosting surfing events. It offers powerful and consistent waves.
- Scorpion Bay (Bahía de los Escorpiones): Found in Baja California Sur, Scorpion Bay is renowned for its long right-hand point break, providing surfers with lengthy rides.
- Pascuales: Situated in Colima, Boca de Pascuales is known for its heavy and challenging waves, attracting experienced surfers seeking powerful breaks.
These spots are often sought after by famous Mexican surfers attempting to seek the best waves ti improve their surfing.
Summing It Up: What To Do Now
Now you have a vast list of the most famous Mexican surfers, be sure to check out famous surfers from countries around the world such as the United Kingdom and Indonesia!
If your interested in learning more about surfing discover our many guides that will inform you on your surfing journey. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook & Instagram to stay informed on our amazing surf shots and stories shared from surf creators around the world!
Frequently Asked Questions
What part of Mexico has the best surfing?
The southern part of Mexico, particularly the state of Oaxaca, is renowned for having some of the best surfing spots, including Puerto Escondido and Zicatela Beach.
What month is best for surf in Mexico?
The best months for surfing in Mexico are generally from May to October. During this period, the Pacific Ocean sees consistent swells, providing ideal conditions for surfers.
What beach in Mexico has the biggest waves?
Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, is renowned for having some of the biggest waves in Mexico, attracting experienced surfers seeking challenging conditions.
Are there big waves in Mexico?
Yes, Mexico experiences big waves, especially on the Pacific Coast. Spots like Puerto Escondido are famous for their powerful and challenging waves.
Which country has the best surfers?
Australia, the United States (especially Hawaii and California), and Brazil are known for producing some of the world's best surfers.
Is there any good surfing in Mexico?
Yes, Mexico offers excellent surfing opportunities. Popular surf destinations include Puerto Escondido, Sayulita, and Punta de Mita, catering to surfers of varying skill levels.
