Baja California has been a surfing hub since the 1940s, where both the northern and southern tips of the 1000 mile peninsula offer incredible right-hand swells and barreling beach breaks. And the best bit? Despite worldwide recognition, lineups still remain beautifully empty. So, whether you’re new to surfing or a wave-riding veteran, here’s where you should be heading for the best surf breaks in Baja California Mexico.
In this blog, I take on the challenge of sharing the best breaks in both Baja Norte and Baja Sur. Overall, there are 11 breaks outlined in this article. Now, there are several more breaks throughout the Baja Peninsula, but these are the best breaks that I have surfed while in Baja. The goal here is to share some of needed formation for you to visit and surf waves while down in Baja.
Read on to discover the best surf spots in all of Baja.
A surfer sitting alone on a big wave while surfing in Baja, Mexico at a secluded break. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Best Surfing in Baja Norte:
Baja California Norte may not have the glamour and glitz of the south, but it has something even better: uncrowded lineups, year-round surf and the biggest waves on the peninsula. Remote beaches, fast point breaks and epic reef breaks make northern Baja the perfect spot for intermediate to experienced surfers. The water here can be pretty chilly all year round and facilities limited, so you’ll need to come prepared with your own wetsuit, board and, in some cases, camping gear. Here are the best surf spots of Baja Norte:
Baja Malibú
Known for constant beach breaks and some of the biggest waves along the peninsula, Baja Malibu beach is the first popular surfing hotspot once you cross the border. Located in Rosarito just 18 miles south of the US-Mexico border, Baja Malibu is a quick day trip from San Diego. When all the elements line up, the beach is known as a world-class surfing spot for intermediate and advanced surfers. Winter months are when the waves really shine with huge barrels thanks to northwest swells. Summer months can see decent, albeit inconsistent, beach breaks. Most surfers bypass Baja Malibu for the classic Baja spots like K38, La Fonda and San Miguel 30 minutes south meaning the water is never overly crowded and there is always room in the lineup.
K-38
This famous cluster of excellent surf breaks is known as K-38 because it is located at Kilometer 38 of the Baja Highway 1. January is the best month for K-38 where according to the Surf Forecast about half of the time the waves hold up well for longer rides in prevailing cross-offshore, offshore or light wind conditions. That said, the exposed reef break produces surf-able waves year round. Because K-38 is famous for its consistent, high-quality waves, the beach is known to get packed during weekends. A midweek Baja surf trip is ideal if you don’t want to fight for waves.
One downfall is the rocky surfaces. Booties to protect feet from rocks, reef and sea urchins are always a good idea. Also, try to find secure parking at a hotel or paid parking lot with a security guard. The area is known for break-ins and vehicle theft.
Rosarito
With a long stretch of varied beach breaks, Rosarito is a great option if you want surf suitable for all levels. The biggest waves – which will keep even the experienced surfer entertained – break at the south end of the bay, but there are also some fun beginner waves on the north side. In the summer, Rosarito is one of Northern Baja’s most popular tourist beaches. This means that, whilst you may not have the place to yourself, there’ll be a lively nightlife scene and plenty of board shops, restaurants and places to stay nearby.
San Miguel
For those brave enough to take it on, San Miguel offers some of the best right-hand point breaks in Mexico. Waves here are consistently fast and break over a reef, so should only be tackled by experienced surfers. Despite its difficulty – or maybe because of it – San Miguel sees a lot of surfers, particularly during July and August. However, compared to lineups in US waters, this is still relatively quiet. Please note there is no board rental here and only a very basic campsite, so come prepared and stock up on supplies from the nearest town, Ensenada.
Isla Todos Santos
Directions to Isla Todos Santos
Swell Report for Isla Todos Santos
Not to be confused with the town of Todos Santos at the southern tip of Baja, Isla Todos Santos is an island 10 miles off the coast of Ensenada. Waves here are not for the casual surfer. The break—known as Killers—produces some of the most powerful waves in the world. Waves in the area can reach a potential of 50-foot faces. Strong currents, rocks and huge waves make the water unsuitable for anyone but the most experienced big wave riders. The infamous point-break can only be accessed by boat.
The best time to surf Todos Santos’ Killers is early in the morning from November through March. Even if you are not a big wave surfer, hopping a charter boat from Ensenada to watch surfers battle the big waves is a great way to spend a day.
Scorpion Bay
In recent years the small fishing village of San Juanico, better known as Scorpion Bay, has transformed into a classic Baja surf spot. The long, sweeping beach has four point breaks that produce vastly different types of waves making the spot perfect for groups of surfers with varying degrees of skill levels. The first and second points are typically smaller waves making it exceptional for beginner surfers and longboarders. The third and fourth breaking points are steeper creating long barrels where surfers can ride waves for a minute or more.
When all the conditions are on point the bay can produce world-class waves, although Scorpion Bay is known for inconsistent surf conditions. In general, spring and summer offer the most consistent surf. If waves are not pumping, charter a fishing boat and go fishing with local fishermen. Because of its remote location, the water is never overly crowded. Nearby campsites and one hotel house overnight guests.
If you want to learn more about surfing, camping, and hanging out in San Juanico, I wrote a full blog on San Juanico (the town’s actual name of Scorpion Bay).
A surfer enjoying the last light while surfing one of Baja California Mexico’s best surf spots. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Best Surfing in Baja Sur:
If you’re looking for warmer waters, a lively surf scene, and luxury accommodation options, Southern Baja is your ticket. The south is also a better option for beginners and improvers, as there are smaller, slower beach breaks on offer. Be warned though: with a growing number of tourists every year, expect busier lineups and pricier accommodation. Here are the best surf spots of Baja Sur:
Cerritos Beach
Swell Report for Cerritos Beach
About 20 minutes from the popular artist town of Todos Santos is Playa Los Cerritos. The long sandy beach butts up next to the rocky point of a cliff. The beach is known for its highly constant surf making every day of the year a great day to go surfing. Because of the consistency, surf schools gravitate towards this beach to teach newbie surfers how to catch a wave.
The beach caters to both beginners and experienced surfers depending on how big the swell is. Because of increasing tourism in the area the beach can get quite crowded. To escape the crowds, head away from the rocky point to a secluded area on the northside of the beach. Despite the crowded water, the area still maintains a laid-back, friendly vibe. The sunsets are a spectacular reason to stick around after a long day of surfing.
If you want to learn more about surfing, camping, and hanging out in Cerritos beach, I wrote a full blog on Cerritos Beach that you can find here.
Isla Natividad
Swell Report for Isla Nativadad
For those hardcore surfers in search of the perfect empty wave in the middle of nowhere, Isla Natividad is the answer. If conditions are right, you’ll be met by one of the best beach barrels in the world, known as Open Doors. However, you’ll have to work for it: the wave can only be accessed by a small private plane or boat ride. The break here is extremely powerful, fast, hollow and can reach up to double overhead, so it goes without saying – this is strictly for the pros.
Punta Abreojos
Swell Report for Punta Abreojos
Known for its epic right reef breaks and 200m-long (656ft) rides, Punta Abreojos is always on the top of every Baja surf veteran’s list. If you’re just starting out, there are also some easier beach breaks here. After your surf, make sure you stop by the local fishermen boats to buy the fresh catch of the day for your barbecue back at the campsite.
Playa La Pastora
Directions to Playa La Pastora
Swell Report for Playa La Pastora
Known as Cabo San Lucas’ premier big wave, La Pastora has been known to reach triple overhead. In other words, huge – and usually reserved for the pros. Those who do manage to take on this break, however, say it’s absolutely perfect. The best time to surf here is during mid-low tide. Expect both left and right breaks over a sandy bottom.
East Cape
In the far south of the Baja California peninsula, where the Pacific meets the tranquil Sea of Cortez, East Cape is famous for its right point breaks. They’re so popular you can expect to wait your turn to catch them – especially between December and April, when tourists flood into the big resorts in San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. From June to August things are quieter, with the best surf, but with ever more condos and a burgeoning expat population, it’s never quiet.
Now that you have discover the best surf spots in all of Baja, it is your turn to hit the road and start surfing these breaks! Please, if you found this blog helpful, or have something to add, please drop it in the comments below for other surfers headed to Baja.
