Commonly known as the "Mexican Pipeline," it's not a random coincidence that this heavily photographed spot is compared to another gigantic, awe-inspiring, fearsome Pacific wave. A deep off-shore trench helps focus and amplify southerly swells, which explains why Puerto's two main waves (a left called Far Bar and a right called Carmelita's) seldom dip under head high all summer and occasionally max out at 40- to 60-foot faces. Despite breaking over a sandy bottom fairly close to shore, when it's big, you better know what you're doing out there. Hazards include, but aren't limited to: strong currents, inescapable rips, and board-snapping duck dives. It's a minefield out there, but if you connect with the right wave, you'll know the true meaning of the word "cavern."
Source: Puerto Escondido Surf Guide