Thinking about planning a surf trip to Southern Baja? Whether you’re chasing fast reef barrels, mellow longboard peelers, or a little bit of everything with tacos and sunshine on the side, Southern Baja is one of North America’s most consistent and rewarding surf destinations. This guide breaks down the best surf breaks on both the Pacific side and the East Cape, with a few local tips, best seasons to go, and even some royalty-free images to stoke your pre-trip daydreams.
Todos Santos & San Pedrito
Imagine rolling into the artsy town of Todos Santos at dawn, walking to the cliffs and looking down at San Pedrito breaking in near-empty waters. From November through April, the north Pacific swells punch into this reef behemoth, creating steeper, heavier lines perfect for advanced surfers. Surfer Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler both spotlight San Pedrito as one of Mexico’s best reef breaks, with power and isolation that reward respect and commitment. After your session, stroll into town for tacos, coffee, or a vibe check—town and surf mix so well together.
La Pastora
Just a short drive north of Todos lies La Pastora, a wild right- and left-hand point that lights up in winter, especially in November. Surf-forecast sources emphasize its consistency when southwest groundswells align with a northeast offshore breeze. It’s remote, rarely crowded, and only for surfers who want hollow, sculpted waves. If you’re up for packing a 3/2 and timing it at mid- to low-tide, La Pastora can deliver unfiltered Baja magic.
Cerritos
Cerritos Beach is your warm-water go-to for consistency and good vibes. This sandy beach break works almost year-round, peaking from June through October with mellow, peeling sets that suit beginners and longboarders. More capable surfers can drift up the end of the beach when winter swells fill in to find peeling rights over a rocky chart. The friendly crowd, on-beach surf schools, and even mango-with-chili vendors make Cerritos a dependable, welcoming base for any surf trip.
Shipwrecks (Punta San Jacinto)
Crossing over to the Sea of Cortez, Shipwrecks is a right-point over reef that pops with power in the summer months (May–October). Local surf guides and Surfline mention it delivers compact, fast sections with minimal crowds and serious character when the swell’s right and wind is offshore. The pilgrimage down a rugged dirt road is part of the experience—camp on the beach, bring snacks, and surf first light when conditions are crisp and clean.
Nine Palms
Just south of Shipwrecks, Nine Palms greets you with mellow, long right-hand waves ideal for longboarders or anyone in recovery mode. The summer swell season brings uncomplicated, fun lines that go on forever under a warm Baja sun. There’s nothing fancy about it—it’s the kind of spot where you surf, nap in the shade, then surf again, all in a weekend’s rhythm.
Zippers, Old Man’s & The Rock (Costa Azul)
Just outside San José del Cabo, the Costa Azul beach is a surf playground with three distinct vibes: Zippers for fast, punchy outcomes, Old Man’s for mellow learners, and The Rock (La Roca) for fun, steeper peaks. These breaks crank best in the summer swell season—expect warm water, offshore northeast wind, and reliable shape. Zippers even plays host to competitions, but friendly etiquette here pays off: share waves, wait your turn, say hola.
Final Tips for a Baja Surf Trip
Thinking winter? Pack a wetsuit and chase San Pedrito and La Pastora for heavy reef slashes in near-empty lineups. Prefer smooth lines and warm sessions? Cerritos is a safe bet any time, and the East Cape shines in summer with Shipwrecks, Nine Palms, and the Costa Azul trio firing. Keep your eyes on tide windows and port ahead with respect for locals and the lineups.
Surf early, eat tacos midday, cheers cervezas at sunset. Baja’s not just waves—it’s a pace and a vibe, one that makes surfers feel alive and present.
Our surf expert is ready to help you plan the ideal trip to Southern Baja for you or your group, with luxury level lodging and the perfect guidance on when and where to go. Want to learn more? Explore predesigned trips or connect with one of our experts to get custom recommendations.
