Hoping to find more surf and reconnect with Ted’s close longtime friend, Francisco, we flew south to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Cisco and his son, Eric, live just outside of Puerto Vallarta in the suburb of Bucerias, minutes from great beaches, incredible local restaurants, and the ever present Oxxo (Mexico’s version of 7 Eleven). Cisco is like a jovial life sized Teddy bear with surfboards and a real estate license, and enjoys hanging out with his son, laughing, tearing around Vallarta in his suped up Honda racer, and laughing some more.

We also surfed with David (originally from Mexico City) who owns a two story open air restaurant near Bucerias, and is the epitome of friendliness. Cisco calls David the Latino Jack Sparrow.

November 2nd is El Dia De Muertos in Mexico (The Day of the Dead) and is dedicated to remembering loved ones who have passed on. Cemeteries are colorfully decorated with flowers and photographs, and shrines are erected all along Vallarta’s malecon boardwalk.

Although November is not usually known for producing surf in Mexico, we were fortunate enough to enjoy some waves during our visit, including a large north swell right before we left. The places we surfed had postcard perfect backdrops and were mostly accessible only by boat, including the left point break at Chacalas, the multi peaks at Bahia, and the hollow remoteness of Qimixto. It’s a good things we had surf to counteract the caloric intake from eating mounds of delicious tacos, enchiladas, tortas, and mole dishes.  Asta luego Puerto Vallarta ohana!  A hui hou.