I have been visiting La Ticla since 1979 and it used to be one of my favorite spots for surfing with a great atmosphere. However, I must admit that I really enjoy seeing the locals and semi-locals from Guadalajara and other cities coming here to spend their weekends and enjoy the beach and surfing. Every year, I encounter several of them, and it brings back memories of the old days when we used to surf, camp, party, and simply enjoy life.
The downside is that many foreigners have decided to settle in La Ticla's affordable camping areas on a semi-permanent basis, and this has negatively impacted the surf break and the overall ambiance of the place. Last year, I witnessed over 40 people in the water, and it seemed like they were just there to exist, smoke marijuana, drink, and, for lack of a better word, act like hippies. While it's nice to see hardworking Mexicans enjoying their beach break during their holidays and weekdays, the hippies have destroyed the once secluded surf break of La Ticla. Yes, I'm getting older and perhaps less tolerant, but it's just not the same anymore. Farewell, La Ticla, I will be heading elsewhere in search of my endless summer.