Surfing in Cabo San Lucas: Best Surf Spots for Beginners and Advanced Surfers
If you’re planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas and want to experience the surf culture of Baja California Sur, you’re in the right place. This complete guide will help you discover the best surf spots in Cabo, whether you’re a beginner looking for your first wave or an experienced surfer chasing powerful breaks.
Cabo offers unique surfing conditions thanks to its location between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. This means you can find waves year-round, with different conditions depending on the season and location.
- Pacific side: More consistent and powerful waves
- Sea of Cortez and San Jose: Softer, beginner-friendly waves (especially in summer)
Best Surf Spots in Cabo San Lucas
1- Cerritos Beach – Best for Beginners
Located about 40 miles from Cabo San Lucas, Cerritos Beach is one of the most popular surf spots for beginners.
- Sandy bottom (safe for learning)
- Waves typically 2–4 ft
- Can reach up to 10 ft during big swells
- Consistent conditions year-round
Ideal for surf lessons and first-time surfers.
2- Monuments Beach – For Advanced Surfers
This is the only surf spot directly in Cabo San Lucas, near Medano Beach.
- Fast left-hand wave
- Rocky bottom
- Best for intermediate to advanced surfers
- Works best in winter (Nov–April)
Not recommended for beginners due to rocks and strong waves.
3- El Tule – Beginner-Friendly with Local Vibes
Located in the Tourist Corridor between Cabo and San José del Cabo.
- Easy right-hand waves
- Good for beginners to intermediate surfers
- Relaxed local atmosphere
- Easy access by car
Great spot to practice and improve skills.
4. Costa Azul – The Surf Hub of San José del Cabo
Costa Azul is the main surfing area in San José del Cabo, with multiple breaks:
Old Man’s (Acapulquito)
- Perfect for beginners and long boarders
- Slow, smooth right-hand wave
- Great for lessons
The Rock
- Faster, more technical wave
- For intermediate to advanced surfers
Zippers
- Powerful, fast wave
- Advanced surfers only
One of the best places to surf in Cabo, but can get crowded.
5- Shipwrecks – A Hidden Gem
One of the best waves in the East Cape.
- Clean, powerful right-hand wave
- Works best with proper swell
- Waves from 3 to 8 ft
- Rocky bottom
Ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers looking for uncrowded waves.
6- La Fortuna – East Cape Paradise
Located about 40 minutes from San José del Cabo on the East Cape.
- Crystal-clear water
- Right-hand reef break
- Suitable for all levels (depending on swell)
- Dirt road access (adventure included)
A beautiful and less crowded surf experience.
7- Nine Palms – Adventure + Surf
Further north in the East Cape, perfect for surf trips.
- Multiple breaks for different levels
- Beginner-friendly inside section
- Advanced waves further out
- Popular for camping
Great for a full surf adventure experience.
When Is the Best Time to Surf in Cabo?
- Summer (May–Oct): Best for beginners (cleaner, softer waves)
- Winter (Nov–Apr): Bigger swells for advanced surfers
Final Tips for Surfing in Cabo
- Always check swell and wind conditions
- Be careful with rocky bottoms
- Respect local surfers and etiquette
- Consider taking a lesson if you’re a beginner
Want to Learn How to Surf in Cabo?
f it’s your first time surfing, the fastest way to progress is with a professional instructor who knows the local conditions and safest spots.
Surf lessons in Cabo can help you:
- Catch your first wave safely
- Learn faster
- Avoid dangerous areas
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