Punta Mala is located just south of the busy town of Puerto Lopez. This beach offers a more isolated feel, away from the crowds, making it a nice escape for surfers. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, especially with a striking sea stack that gives a nice backdrop while catching waves.
The surf here is mainly left-breaking waves, making it a good spot for intermediate surfers. Punta Mala works best with a north-west swell, but it can also handle swells coming from the south-west. It manages swell sizes around 3ft (approximately 0.9 meters). The waves break over an uneven reef, so be mindful of your take-off and landing. The best conditions happen with a south-east wind and can be surfed during low, mid, or high tide.
Reaching Punta Mala can be a bit of a trek as the roads are rough, but many surfers choose to take a boat from either Puerto Lopez or Salango for easier access. It’s a good idea to team up with others if you’re heading out, as the spot is somewhat remote. Overall, it’s a decent surf location worth checking out if you’re in the area.