Los Cabos. The name conjures images of luxurious resorts, world-class golf courses, and vibrant nightlife. But for those who pack a board alongside their sunscreen, this tip of the Baja California Peninsula hides a secret identity: it is one of Mexico’s most diverse and rewarding surf destinations.
Forget the crowds of mainland Mexico for a moment; Los Cabos offers a unique geographical advantage. Its position at the confluence of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez ensures a surf season that virtually never ends. Whether you are chasing the heavy winter swells that march down the Pacific coast or seeking the consistent, long-period waves of the summer hurricane season that illuminate the East Cape, Los Cabos delivers.
This guide will take you beyond the tourist traps, diving into the legendary breaks and hidden gems that make Los Cabos a must-visit location for every type of surfer. From the mellow, beginner-friendly peelers to powerful, rocky point breaks, prepare to discover the wave that calls your name.
The Pacific Side—Winter Swells & Power
The western coast of the peninsula, facing the vast Pacific Ocean, is defined by its dramatic winter surf. Between November and March, northern swells generated by winter storms in the North Pacific travel thousands of miles to hit the Baja coast, delivering powerful, well-formed waves. This is where you find the true power and consistency of Mexican point breaks.
Playa Cerritos: The All-Rounder
Just north of the tourist corridor, Playa Cerritos is perhaps the most famous and accessible break in the region. It’s an ideal spot because it caters to almost everyone. The outer section features a fun, high-performance beach break that picks up plenty of swell, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers, especially when a strong North/West swell is running. The wave is fast, offering both lefts and rights.
Crucially, Cerritos also features an inner section that breaks closer to the beach. This sand-bottomed area is smaller and softer, making it the preferred spot for surf schools and beginners looking to catch their first whitewash ride (more on that later). However, be aware of the crowds; this place is popular for a reason, so patience and respect are mandatory.
Monuments (Monu): The Short, Sharp Ride
Closer to Cabo San Lucas, often within view of the resorts, is Monuments. This spot is reserved for experienced surfers only. It’s a fast, aggressive left-hand point break that peels over a very shallow, rocky bottom. While the ride is short, it is steep and offers tube sections on the best days. Monuments generally require a larger swell to really turn on, and its proximity to the highway makes it easily accessible, which means local etiquette must be strictly followed. Respect the lineup, as the crowd here can be intense and predominantly local. If you’re not confident in rock jumping and handling speed, it’s best left to the seasoned riders.
Pescadero and San Pedrito
Venturing further north, spots like Pescadero and San Pedrito offer longer, more challenging rides on their best days. These are often less crowded than Cerritos but require more knowledge of the area and the specific swell angles they need to fire. San Pedrito, in particular, is a legendary reef break known for its quality right-hand wave, but it’s another break that demands respect and skill due to the rocky, shallow conditions.
The East Cape—Summer Swells & Consistency
The East Cape, stretching along the Sea of Cortez between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo (the stretch known as the Tourist Corridor), comes alive during the summer months. From May through October, the focus shifts to the Southern Hemisphere, where powerful South Pacific swells (often enhanced by hurricanes far offshore) march north. These swells wrap around the tip of the peninsula, providing long, user-friendly rides along the rocky points of the East Cape.
Zippers: The Premier Performance Spot
Located just south of San José del Cabo, near the Costa Azul beach, Zippers is the most famous summer break and the location of the annual Los Cabos Open of Surf. Zippers is a fast, powerful right-hand point break that works best on medium to large south swells.
It’s known for its barrel section and ability to connect for a long, rewarding ride. This is a high-performance wave where short-boarders dominate. Warning: Zippers is notoriously crowded and the lineup can be competitive. It breaks over a shallow rock reef, so good wave knowledge and sharp reflexes are essential. If you want a piece of Zippers, go early and be prepared to wait your turn—and respect the locals who own this break.
Old Man’s (or La Roca): The Longboard Haven
Just a short paddle down the beach from Zippers is Old Man’s. As the name implies, this break is generally more mellow and suited for longboarding, mid-lengths, and beginner to intermediate surfers. It’s a beautiful, long right-hand point break that offers consistent, predictable shoulders perfect for cruising, cross-stepping, and working on cutbacks.
The wave here is slower and softer than Zippers, making it much more forgiving and often a great place to start your day. Like Zippers, it also works best on south swells, but handles the crowds slightly better due to its length. The main takeaway for Old Man’s is that it’s the perfect summer alternative if Zippers feels too intense.
The Rock (La Roca)
Adjacent to Old Man’s, sometimes the same wave depending on the swell, La Roca is a slightly more exposed section that can handle bigger swells and offers a steeper face. When Zippers is too big or closing out, La Roca often provides a quality alternative, still favoring the long right-hand wall but with a little more punch than the main Old Man’s peak.
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Beginner’s Paradise & Lessons
If you’re new to the sport or traveling with family, Los Cabos is an ideal place to learn. The region offers several safe, forgiving spots and an abundance of high-quality surf schools.
The best spot for true beginners is the inside break at Cerritos. Because of the wide, sandy bottom here, the risk of serious injury is minimal. Surf schools line the beach, offering board rentals and lessons that include transportation, rash guards, and personalized instruction. If you’re visiting in winter, this is your best bet for a safe, fun learning experience.
In the summer months, the area around Costa Azul (near Zippers and Old Man’s) also hosts several great learning areas. While the points themselves break over rock, the adjacent beaches often provide manageable whitewater where instructors can safely guide first-timers.
Quick Tip for Lessons: Book a lesson in the early morning. The wind is typically calmer, the water glassier, and the sun less intense. Surf schools like Mike Doyle Surf School, Cerritos Surf Town, and various operators at Costa Azul offer reputable services.
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Local Etiquette and Safety
Surfing in Los Cabos is fantastic, but it comes with a few essential caveats related to safety, respect, and environmental awareness.
Respect the Lineup
Many of the best breaks—Monuments, Zippers, and La Roca—are point breaks with a small take-off zone. The local surfers have dedicated years to mastering these waves. Always respect the locals, wait your turn in the rotation, and never, under any circumstances, drop in (take a wave when someone is already riding it). A little courtesy goes a long way. If you’re unsure, watch the lineup for 15 minutes before paddling out to understand the flow.
Reef and Rock Hazards
Unlike many sandy beaches in California, most of the quality waves in Los Cabos break over rock and reef. You must be comfortable navigating a rocky entry and exit. Surf booties are highly recommended, especially when paddling out at Monuments or Zippers, as sharp rocks and urchins are common.
Seasonal Considerations
* Winter (Nov-Mar): Best for the Pacific Side (Cerritos, Monuments). Swell direction is NW/N. Water temperature is cooler, often requiring a 3/2mm full wetsuit.
* Summer (May-Oct): Best for the East Cape (Zippers, Old Man’s). The swell direction is S/SW. Water temperature is much warmer (often 78°F-85°F), usually only requiring board shorts or a spring suit.
Sun and Hydration
The Baja sun is unforgiving. Even on cloudy days, the glare off the water is intense. Wear zinc oxide on your face and lips and drink plenty of water. Dehydration is the fastest way to ruin a surf trip.
Beyond the Resort Wall
Los Cabos is far more than a resort destination; it is a bifurcated surf paradise. Whether you are chasing the heavy winter power of the Pacific at Cerritos or the endless summer rights of the Sea of Cortez at Old Man’s, the peninsula offers a remarkable variety that ensures you’ll find a wave that matches your skill level and desire.
The key to a successful surf trip here is preparation and respect. Know your season, know your break, and understand that you are sharing the water with a dedicated and passionate local community. Pack your board, check the forecast, and get ready to trade the poolside chaise lounge for the ultimate ride. The magic of Los Cabos awaits you.