Cabo San Lucas, located at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, is a unique surf destination where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, creating diverse wave conditions.
This natural phenomenon contributes to Cabo’s reputation for beautiful coastlines, thrilling waves, and a vibrant surf culture.
Home to some of the best surf spots in Cabo San Lucas, this destination caters to all skill levels, from seasoned surfers chasing powerful swells to beginners enjoying gentle, welcoming breaks.
This surf travel guide covers Cabo’s top surf locations, unique conditions, and local insights.
Table of Contents
- Best Surf Spots in Cabo San Lucas
- Zippers Beach
- Monuments Beach
- Acapulquito Beach
- Los Cerritos
- La Fortuna
- Why Cabo San Lucas is a Must-Visit for Surfers
- Best Time to Surf in Cabo San Lucas
- Surf Conditions You Should Know
- Tips for Beginner Surfers
- Safety Tips for Surfing in Cabo
- Post-Surfing Care
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Surf Spots in Cabo San Lucas
1. Zippers Beach
Considered one of the best surf spots in Cabo San Lucas by locals and visitors alike, Zippers Beach offers consistent waves that attract surfers year-round.
This beach is known for its thrilling, fast waves, making it ideal for intermediates and advanced surfers.
- Wave Type: Point break
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
After surfing, visit nearby San José del Cabo for its art galleries, restaurants, and relaxed beach town vibe.
2. Monuments Beach
Monuments Beach is one of the best surf spots in Cabo San Lucas for seasoned surfers.
It’s known for its powerful left-hand reef break, offering a challenging surf experience against a backdrop of stunning cliffs.
- Wave Type: Reef break
- Skill Level: Advanced
After riding the waves, explore the nearby restaurants and cafes with scenic ocean views, perfect for unwinding.
Don’t miss the best surfing spots on the Baja California Coast, where beautiful beaches and reliable swells make it a surfing paradise.
3. Acapulquito Beach
Acapulquito Beach, also known as “Old Man’s,” is a favorite for surfing in Baja California Sur due to its easy-going waves.
The beach break here provides smooth, rolling waves, which are ideal for beginners and those practicing their technique.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Acapulquito is close to Cabo’s resort area, where you can find upscale dining, shopping, and spas for a relaxing day post-surf.
You can also check out the best surf spots in Ensenada for a variety of waves that cater to all skill levels.
4. Los Cerritos
Just a short drive from Cabo, Los Cerritos offers a wide range of wave types, making it one of the best surf spots in Cabo San Lucas for both beginners and advanced surfers.
The spot is one of the top surf destinations in Mexico, known for its forgiving waves and friendly atmosphere.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Skill Level: Beginner to advanced
Todos Santos, a nearby charming artsy town, offers unique cafes, galleries, and shopping for a memorable day trip after your surf session.
5. La Fortuna
La Fortuna is a quieter spot with gentle waves that attract both newcomers and seasoned surfers looking for a more relaxed session.
This secluded spot is one of the best surf spots in Cabo San Lucas for those wanting to avoid crowds.
- Wave Type: Beach break
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Take a scenic walk along the beach, then visit local food stands offering fresh seafood and authentic Mexican dishes.
Why Cabo San Lucas is a Must-Visit for Surfers
Cabo San Lucas is unique for its coastal geography, which is where the powerful Pacific meets the tranquil Sea of Cortez.
This convergence creates a range of surf conditions that few other places can offer.
The Mexican Pacific surf beaches provide challenging waves for advanced surfers, while the Sea of Cortez side features some of the best surf spots in Cabo San Lucas, with gentler swells perfect for beginners.
The surf culture in Cabo San Lucas is vibrant and welcoming, with surf shops, board rentals, and cafes dotting the coastline.
Beyond surfing, Cabo’s rich landscape offers scenic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and a bustling nightlife, making it an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation.
For surfers, Cabo provides an exceptional surfing experience and a strong sense of community.
Best Time to Surf in Cabo San Lucas
The Cabo surfing seasons offer great waves throughout the year, with the summer season (June to August) bringing larger swells from the south, perfect for advanced surfers.
Winter (November to February) sees smaller, more manageable waves from the north, ideal for beginners and those looking to enjoy smoother surf conditions in Cabo.
Fall and spring offer a balance, making Cabo a year-round surf destination with varying wave intensities for all levels.
Surf Conditions You Should Know
Surf conditions in Cabo are shaped by a mix of seasonal swells, tides, and the unique geography where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.
Seasonal swells from the south in summer bring larger waves to these Pacific surf beaches, while winter swells from the north provide more consistent, manageable waves, especially for beginners.
Tides play a significant role in wave behavior across Cabo’s various breaks. At low tide, reef breaks like Monuments Beach produce steeper, faster waves, ideal for advanced surfers seeking a challenge.
High tide, however, softens the wave faces, making spots like Acapulquito Beach more forgiving and better suited for learners.
Wind direction and strength also influence surf conditions in Cabo, with offshore winds creating cleaner, well-formed waves.
Lighter winds in the mornings usually bring ideal conditions, while afternoon winds can sometimes add a bit of chop to the water.
Tips for Beginner Surfers
Cabo offers ideal conditions for beginners to learn and improve their skills.
- Start at Acapulquito Beach, known for its mellow waves, perfect for practicing in calmer waters before moving on to more challenging breaks
- Follow essential surfing tips for beginners, such as focusing on paddling technique, balancing, and wave timing to build confidence
- Many local surf schools in Cabo provide lessons and equipment rentals, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience
Safety Tips for Surfing in Cabo
- Tide Awareness: Be mindful of local tides, which can quickly change wave conditions. This is especially true for Mexican Pacific surf beaches, where stronger tides can impact safety.
Checking tide charts before heading out helps you choose the safest and most enjoyable times to surf.
- Ear Protection: Understanding the different types of ear protection for water activities is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Using earplugs or a mineral oil-based spray helps prevent surfer’s ear and other risks associated with water exposure.
If you’re unsure which ear protection to choose, our guide on comparing ear plugs and sprays can help you pick the right product.
- Respect Local Etiquette: Cabo has a strong surf community, so respecting lineup rules and giving way to locals helps maintain positive vibes.
Observing local customs in the water fosters a welcoming atmosphere and shows appreciation for the surf culture.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Cabo’s tropical climate can be intense. Bring water, wear high-SPF sunscreen, and take breaks to stay energized and avoid sunburn.
Wearing a rash guard or wide-brimmed hat when out of the water can add extra protection from the sun’s strong rays.
If you are surfing with children new to the sport, follow these water safety tips for kids learning to surf.
Post-Surfing Care
1. Skincare and Moisturization
Saltwater exposure can dry out your skin, so start with a freshwater rinse and apply a nourishing moisturizer.
Choose hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil to soothe any sun exposure and keep your skin feeling soft and healthy.
2. Clearing Water from Your Ears
Trapped water in your ears can be uncomfortable and even lead to issues like infections. After surfing, gently tilt your head and pull on your earlobe to help release any trapped water.
Mineral oil-based ear sprays can assist in dislodging moisture and creating a barrier for your next water session.
One of the benefits of using mineral oil in ear protection is that it keeps your ears moisturized as well as reduces the risk of water-related infections.
3. Replenishing Electrolytes
Surfing under the sun can deplete your body’s sodium, potassium, and magnesium levels.
To stay energized and prevent cramps, drink coconut water or a sports beverage or snack on foods like bananas and leafy greens, which are naturally high in electrolytes.
Conclusion
Cabo San Lucas is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s one of the best surf spots in Mexico, offering a blend of perfect waves, a warm community, and rich local experiences.
Cabo's coastline has everything from thrilling breaks for advanced surfers to gentle spots for newcomers.
As you plan your surfing journey, remember to respect local customs, stay safe, and embrace the vibrant surf culture.
For more incredible surf destinations, explore our guide to the best surf spots in Mexico for an unforgettable adventure along Mexico’s coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best surf spots for beginners in Cabo San Lucas?
Acapulquito Beach, also known as “Old Man’s,” and Cerritos Beach offer gentle, rolling waves that are perfect for beginners learning to surf.
- What are the wave conditions like in Cabo San Lucas?
Wave conditions vary by season and location, with larger swells in summer and calmer waves in winter. Cabo offers a mix of point, reef, and beach breaks, catering to all skill levels.
- Can you surf in Cabo San Lucas year-round?
Yes, Cabo San Lucas is a year-round surf destination, with different seasons providing varied wave conditions suited to both beginners and advanced surfers.
- What is the water temperature for surfing in Cabo San Lucas?
Water temperatures in Cabo range from 70°F (21°C) in winter to around 80°F (27°C) in summer, making surfing comfortable without a wetsuit most of the year.
