The waves of Puerto Escondido will be the next world surfing reserve, reported the organization that brings them together, Save the Waves Coalition, according to a note sent to the press published by The Inertia.

“The proposed reserve, which would cover 10 kilometres of coastline and eight surf breaks, will now go through a planning process that will be formalised in early 2026,” the statement said.

The waves of Puerto Escondido, especially Zicatela, have been affected by real estate development and have therefore been in the spotlight lately.

Save the Waves Executive Director Nik Strong-Cvetich said: “Puerto Escondido reflects the quintessential surfing ecosystem, incredible world-class waves, a biodiverse environment with ecosystems important for coastal resilience, and a close-knit community willing and able to defend the place they love.”

Meanwhile, local super Coco Nogales added: “Saving Zicatela Wave would not only benefit Puerto Escondido, but would also bring Playa Zicatela back to life. It is heartbreaking to see the deterioration the wave and beach have suffered over the past decade. Obtaining the designation as a world surfing reserve would be a huge step towards restoring its prestige and regaining its place among the top 10 waves in the world.”

Puerto Escondido will be the 14th reserve of this type, joining surfing areas in California, Australia, Portugal, Peru, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Brazil and Mexico (Todos Santos).