Surf: General: Even though Isla de la Piedra, or Stone Island, is just, well, a stone's throw away from the pulsing beaches of Mazatlan, it's mellow mood and open spaces make it feel like it's miles into the country. In actuality, Stone Island is just a ten-minute ferry ride across the harbor. Once there, you'll find a seemingly endless golden stretch of beach lined with some of the best open-air restaurants around.

There are a variety of breaks on Stone Island, ranging from the A-frame sandbars peaks to the rare right-hand "point" of Escollera. For any visitor to Mazatlan, Stone Island is worth the quick trip, but for surfers it's mandatory, especially when a solid south swell is running. When you head over there from Mazatlan, pack for the day, because after a couple long sessions you're going to want to stick around for the beach scene. Tides: All tides, depending on where you choose to surf Size: Chest high to double overhead Wind: N to NE Swell: SW, SSW, S, SSE Bottom: Sand and rock Paddling: When it's pumping, you'll be duck-diving a fair amount. Spot Rating: Really fun. Access: Short ferry across the harbor. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Spread out. Local Vibe: There are a lot of local surfers in Mazatlan. Humility and respect are appreciated. Environment: It is next to the harbor... Hazards: Shallow rocks if surfing the point. Season: April-October