With waves like that the surfing should be protected. Photo: Save The Waves
Puerto Escondido has been officially dedicated as the 14th World Surfing Reserve. The designation, made by non-profit Save The Waves Coalition, will go towards preserving the unique and storied surf ecosystem affectionately known as the “Mexican Pipeline.”
The newly minted World Surfing Reserve stretches across approximately six miles and includes Punta Colorada, La Punta de Zicatela, Playa Marinero, Playa Carrizalillo, and more. The region was officially selected last year, following years of work by Save the Waves with local organizations to address issues faced by the region, such as protecting the mangrove ecosystem at Punta Colorada, addressing ongoing water quality and sewage issues, and fixing erosion issues at Zicatela. Save the Waves is also providing support in the study of a jetty at Bahia Principal that locals say is altering the surf break.
A dedication ceremony was held on Saturday, March 21st. There, save Save The Waves Coalition and local partners gathered to celebrate the milestone. After a ceremony honoring the surf ecosystem of Zicatela, remarks were made by government officials representing the state of Oaxaca, the municipalities of San Pedro Mixtepec and Santa María Colotepec, the Surf Association of Oaxaca, the Mexican Association of Surf Instructors, and the World Surfing Reserve’s Local Stewardship Council.
“Playa Zicatela is much more than a famous wave,” said surf photographer Edwin Morales in a Save The Waves press release. “It is a community united by respect for the ocean, by shared early mornings, and by the passion of those of us who feel that the sea is part of our lives. For many of us, Zicatela is not just a place where we surf – it is a place where we belong.”
The World Surfing Reserve program was launched in 2009 and now features 14 reserves. These include Malibu and Santa Cruz in California; Ericeira in Portugal; the Gold Coast, Manly and Noosa in Australia; Punta de Lobos in Chile, Playa Hermosa in Costa Rica; Huanchaco in Peru; Guarda do Embaú in Brazil; North Devon in the United Kingdom; Bahía de Todos Santos in Baja California, Mexico; and Oriente Salvaje in El Salvador.
“The dedication of the Puerto Escondido World Surfing Reserve not only recognizes the exceptional quality of its waves but also the community’s commitment to their protection,” said Save The Waves Senior Conservation Manager Trent Hodges. “This is a moment to celebrate the amazing surf and to acknowledge the incredible stewardship work and passion of the people of Puerto.”
