Sunset Reef – a Soul Surfer’s Paradise

Sunset Reef is one of the very best surf spots in the Mal Pais area, but few people surf it because you need a vehicle to drive to it, and most surfers staying in Santa Teresa are happy with the waves in front of their hotel or rental villa.

For those who want a bit more adventure, and a potentially epic wave to yourself, Sunset Reef is a great spot. It’s not as difficult to get to as the Cabuya Reef, but forms a big, hollow swell. A left-hand point break, it can get quite big and hollow at times. Given the right conditions, rumor is that it breaks like Teahupo’o.

There’s an abandoned hotel here, that used to be a favorite spot. Unfortunately, it was built illegally on public land, so the owners had to abandon it after operating it for many years.

To find Sunset Reef, just head south on the main beach road from Playa Carmen to Malpais, until you see the fishermen and their boats on the right. Park in that area and you’ll find a trail on the other side of the fishermen that leads out to the point. There’s a channel on the left to take you out to the waves.

Further Information:

Sunset Reef Surf Spot – Sunset Reef surfing information

Places of Interest Near Sunset Reef:

Beija Flor Resort – Hotel with pool, yoga, and restaurant.
Moana Lodge – Beautiful ocean view hotel and restaurant in Malpais.
Malpais Fishermen’s Beach – Fish market, sailboat for hire, and Playa Malpais
Cuevas Murcielagos Wildlife Refuge – Beach and bat cave