Cabo is one of the few spots on the planet where you are exposed to two major swell directions within a one hour drive. It's usually not flat in both windows, north and south.

Surf trip require lots of planning and usually a long ass plane trip but sometimes you just want a no hassle easy trip—just get on a plane for a few hours to get away from it all. Yea?

Here is where Cabo fits the ticket, 2 hours after taking off from LAX you can be surfing in warm water, with access to two swell windows, stuff your face with Mexican cuisine and drink cheap beer by the bucket load.

You can also drink good boutique home brewed beer at the new Baja Brewery, nothing like having an IPA after sucking down watery Mexican beer for a few days—this ain't no El Sal trip. It's kinda like the states but in Mex.

Feel like some WARM water?

Cabo is one of the few spots on the planet where you are exposed to two major swell directions within a one hour drive. It’s usually not flat in both windows, north and south. a surfers guide to Cabo was born out of my passion for travel to Mexico.

It’s 2018 and I am updating A Surfers Guide To Cabo, this living guide for the 10th time after my, yes you guessed it, my 9th trip in the last few years.

Things are changing in Cabo. Violence is on the rise and the drug cartels seem to be moving in. I spoke with lots of locals about this while there in September and most reported that tourists had nothing to worry about. I didn’t feel unsafe, but I could feel a bit more tension in the air.

The jump in killings in Los Cabos — accompanied by a rise in other crimes — has pitched residents into a state of fear they say they have never felt before.

I still think this is a great trip and I’ll keep going down unless things go upside down with the violence. I wouldn’t worry to much about what you hear, but keep your wits about you while in Cabo and don’t get mixed up in any shenanigans.

Here is a great podcast on staying clear of violence, anywhere in the world.

  Update 2018 Trip Highlight

  • Lidia caused major damage to roads and infrastructure, grab a 4×4 to get to breaks;

  • New paved road to the Pacific side now complete (Toll);

  • New paved road to Eastern Cape complete;

  • New hotel in Cerritos – Tortugas Cerritos Beach front Hotel;

  • Discovery of best place to eat (Pacific Side) Hierbabuena;

  • Officials now charging $50 if you lose your departing customs form..

Cabo Baja Map

I have surfed all over the world and ridden some of the best waves on the planet. I have traveled to far off locations around the globe: Africa, Asia, South America, Mainland Mexico, and Central America. I even drove from California to Panama and wrote a guide about the adventure, grab it for $29 bones if you feel like taking that trip.

A surf trip requires lots of planning and usually a long ass plane trip, but sometimes you just want a no hassle easy surf escape. Two hours after taking off from LAX you can be  surfing in warm water, with easy access to two swell windows.

Stuff your face with Mexican cuisine and drink cheap beer by the bucket load—you can also drink good boutique brewed beer at the Baja Brewery, nothing like having an IPA after sucking down watery Mexican beer for a few days.

I’ve been traveling to Mexico for a few decades now and every time I go back, I am reminded of the jewel just south of the border. Is it safe? I’d say traveling to Baja is getting more and more safe. I go down every few months and things are looking better with each visit.

I hope this guide assists you along the way. Please drop me a line and let me know of any additions or useful updates. If I end up adding your content in the guide, I will send you a free Wave Tribe surfboard leash as a gift.

Have a wonderful trip!

Derek, Wave Tribe Founder

Before we start, grab this free download. It’s the perfect map for your trip.

Surf trip require lots of planning and usually a long ass plane trip but sometimes you just want a no hassle easy trip. Here is where Cabo fits the ticket. Two hours after taking off from LAX you can be  surfing in warm water with access to two swell windows.

Stuff your face with Mexican cuisine and drink cheap beer by the bucket load—you can also drink good boutique home brewed beer at the new Baja Brewery, nothing like having an IPA after sucking down watery Mexican beer for a few days.

I’ve been traveling to Mexico for a few decades now and every time I go, I am reminded of the jewel just south of the border.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”briefcase” wrap=”i”] I used to travel to mainland Mexico every year and surf the beaches of La Ticla and the surrounding region, but as violence has percolated in those areas I have diverted my surf energies to Baja—see our other article on Surfing Northern Baja Mexico 2016.

Surfing Cabo Southern Baja Trip Planning

Book your airline ticket for about $350—you’ll want to fly to San Jose Del Cabo (airport code SJD).

I like Alaska Airlines because they treat surfers right at $40-$75 per board bag—no matter what you put in it or how many surfboards you stuff your bag with. Speaking of surfboard fees, check out our fee surfboard baggage fee guide before you pull the trigger on a plane ticket.

Flying with Alaska is down right fun and the planes are super comfortable. If you are flying someone else to Cabo you are missing out on a great airline.

Going through customs is easy and you don’t need a visa if you are an American citizen, but you will need a valid passport. For information on getting a passport head on down to your local US Postal Office or check out this link. As of 2017, passports cost $110 and take a few weeks to process.

Cabo Airport & Toll Road

The Cabo airport sits about 20 minutes from downtown San Jose and about 30 minutes from San Lucas. There are two roads to San Jose, the toll road ($2-$4) and the free road. Spend the few dollars to jet straight to the break, you’ll be stoked. To get to the toll road from the airport go left out of airport (toward the mountains). The road will curve back around toward the beach.

* Going to the Pacific side? Take the toll road toward toward San Jose, 2K from the exit for San Jose veer left toward Todo Santos. This road will cut 30-40 minutes off your trip and the road are excellent. You can also go to San Lucas this route.

If you are into the party thing then you’ll want to head towards San Lucas and hang out with the college trippers, strippers and overweight cruise ship retirees.

However, for a more relaxed setting check out San Jose or Todos Santos depending on the season you go and, of course, the surf forecast. No matter where you stay you’ll be an hour’s drive to all three top surfing locations, which are listed in order of quality:

  1. Eastern Cape
  2. Todo Santos
  3. San Jose

The three main breaks in San Lucus are Old Man’s, Zippers, and The Rock. All of them are within paddling distance of each other and offer a progressively faster wave, check out the names and you’ll know which is which.

You can see all breaks from the road (just head towards San Lucas along the coast going west out of San Jose). Below Zippers there is a dirt parking lot below the bridge and for Old Man’s you need to park behind the Cabo Surf Hotel (just after the bend in the road) and walk through the sewage tunnel (yep, if it’s raining I wouldn’t surf here).

[wp-svg-icons icon=”pacman” wrap=”i”] Word on the street is that they are going to privatize the access to Old Man’s with a new development going in, so that break might become less accessible in the near future.

Car Rentals in Cabo

Try and book something before you go, there are a ton of rental agencies at the airport. Though the rental agencies they say in airport, they are a short ride across the street from the airport. They will pick you up outside of the airport terminal and they do have agents just outside the customs area just in case you get freaky lost.

If you can afford it (you can) get something more 4x4ish than not. Or at least something a but bigger for your boards. I like to keep my boards in the car for obvious reasons (theft and brutal Mexican sunshine) but if you ride a bigger board then you’ll need some good soft racks.

I’ve been stuck in the sand and had to be pulled out by a 4×4 on 2 of the last 6 trips, not bad odds for Baja. If you are in an economy rental, your chances of getting stuck are higher. You might also have to pay for damages that happen when you try and pull that plastic heap from the sand. We rented a car from Ace in June 2016 and had a great experience.

Car Insurance

Yea, I know you bought insurance online and they said you don’t need to buy any at the car rental office—but this is Mexico bros.

Don’t buy the web insurance! It is useless in Mexico.

There I said it, but I know you are still going t buy it. Yea, your American Express card says they’ll cover your ass too but don’t take the risk in Mexico because you’ll have to fork over the money before you are able to leave the country. I guarantee American Express isn’t going to wire you the 20K you need to extricate yourself from the Mexican cha cha you got yourself into.

How do I know? Bro.

Unfortunately, I have had two major accidents in Mexico over the years including a head-on collision in Michoacan. I’ve been through the shit ringer in Mexico, and I want you to have a fighting chance in case you got to throw a Mexican Hail Mary after a car accident.

So get out your wallet because you’ll need to get the full coverage that they offer you up at the rental agency. Full coverage in Mexico means if something happens, you are fully covered. If you get anything else, half coverage with your credit card, or some other policy you found online at Orbitz then you won’t be fully covered. Yea, they got you by the cajones.

Hotels in San Jose Del Cabo

Cabo Surf Hotel
Cabo Surf Hotel

There is a hotel right in front of Old Man’s called Cabo Surf Hotel. If you got the cash (like $250+ per night) this is your best location because you are steps from the surf.

It’s a really nice hotel with a pool and good food—you can grab a meal here after your surf if you are feeling like hanging in this area. Watch your bros hit the lip while you stuff your face with a fat burrito and some tasty guacamole.

Right next to the fancy Cabo Surf Hotel there are perfectly situated condos. I did find one for rent that looks spectacular for $175 a night—it’s called Las Olas and it sits in the middle of all the waves in that region in a group of condos.

Another popular spot for surfers wanting central access to both the Eastern Cape, at only $75 per night, is the Drift San Jose. It has 8 private rooms, a communal kitchen, secure parking and a pool, centrally located in the historic center of San Jose del Cabo, surrounded by great bars and restaurants.

An alternative to resorts the scene is pared back, do-it-yourself—like an upscale hostel—with great social atmosphere. Booking available through Airbnb with a link to the listings here.

Check other hotels here on Trip Advisor. When you land you’ll need to rent a car unless you are just going to surf the waves in town and stay close to the breaks.

2017 Update: New Hotel Near 9 Palms

The only hotel near 9 Palms  www.vidasoul.com located at Punta Perfecta and 3 miles North of 9 Palms.  They have great food and service and 16 rooms.  They cater to surfers and surf photo shoots and videos.

*The owner Joan Hafenecker sent me this info, I have yet to check it out but the pics look good.

Cabo Baja Surf Check—Where to Go?

Depending on where you surf you can find all types of waves in Cabo, from beach-break on the Pacific side to endless points breaks on the Eastern Cape.

As I mentioned before, within one hour driving you have two coasts—and swell directions to choose from—the Pacific side is exposed to north swell and will pick up most wind swell or ground swell from the north (and a little south).

San Jose and the Eastern Cape pick up anything with a south in it—any kind of south.

I shouldn’t have to remind you, but please be respectful to the locals. Every surfer that visits Cabo is an ambassador and you need to remember that we are visitors in their home.

Most locals are really cool and they will go out of their way to help you or give you a wave—if you get snaked in the water it will usually be by another gringo who has moved to Cabo and usually acts like as d-head.

If you need a guide or some help finding your way you can check out SurfinCabo.com and ask them to take you around. I met the owner and he was a nice guy that rips a SUP. They got boards for rent and will take you out to the waves along with a few friends, if you desire.

 

Now let’s check the realtime surf:



 

Surf In Cabo Around Town: Old Mans, Zippers & The Rock

surfingsanjosedelcabo
Surfing Cabo

Right in town (San Jose) hit up Old Man’s for a meow session or paddle down to The Rock or Zippers for more challenging waves.

To the east and at the end of hotel row in San Jose are some waves at The Estuary. This was actually the first wave I surfed in Cabo and it can get really fun.

I did learn later that it is one of the most polluted breaks when the river mouth breaks and sewage comes pouring our of the riverbed. Don’t let hepatitis ruin your trip.

I had an epic session at The Rock, one of the best I have had in a while. Super fun! You can paddle to The Rock from Old Man’s or check it from the cliff. For best positioning, sit just behind the big rock and pick off the sets—watch the locals, they’ll show you how it’s done.

Once you are ready to experience the Eastern Cape, head east towards downtown and cross the large concrete bridge towards La Playa. You’ll make a few twists and turns along the way but just keep following the signs for Eastern Cape.

 

Surfing The Eastern Cape Baja: 9 Palms, Ship-wreaks & Beyond

The road out to the Eastern Cape is dirt and can be full of potholes. Get the insurance on the rental car—if you don’t, the roads will rip apart your wallet and you’ll be faced with unexpected (‘mordidas’) fees at the end of your trip.

The drive out to the Eastern Cape is about one hour depending on where you go, it’s not a bad drive at all. You might want to consider camping out on the beach a night or two if the swell is pumping.

Camping is free in most places and totally safe, but you’ll need to take some shade with you to protect yourself from the relentless heat during the day. Trees? Nada.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”fire” wrap=”i”] A word on the heat—the south swell window is basically March through August and the closer you get to August the more horrendous the heat is.

If you are like me and not a fan of heat then I would lean towards an earlier trip—April is the most comfortable and you might even need a spring-suit, but the south swells can be a crapshoot—plan accordingly.

The winds tend to come up around 9 and mess with the lineup, so you’ll want to get on it early. The good news is that they also tend to back off around 4pm, allowing you a few hours to get in a good evening session.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”windy-2″ wrap=”i”] Here is a great resource for the wind on the eastern cape, I used it my last trip and planned several good sessions based on the data, it is very accurate: Eastern Cape wind conditions. Anything under 5 knots is acceptable and watch out for those nasty easterly gusts.

The road turns into dirt about ten minutes in and you’ll start to see the swells slamming into the coast. The first fun wave you’ll come across is called Shipwrecks, about 40 minutes out of town to the East. Shipwrecks is a nice right-hander off a beautiful point and is a hotdog wave where mostly short-boarders hang out.

There is a left in the middle of the beach too. When you see the Virgin Mary library you know you have found it. Really, I am serious. Oh, and the ship is gone, so don’t look for that.

9 Palms Baja California
9 Palms Baja California

Nine Palms is another break another 15 minutes down the road. It is a super fun point-break with some long rights and the occasional left.

When the swell is right the wave will bend and toque on the outside and can spit and barrel in the mid section. It can throw and be heavy but mostly it is forgiving on the takeoff and allows for several turns and the occasional lip section to whack.

Between 9 Palms and Shipwrecks is another fun wave called La Fortuna which offers a few options in the bay and also a right that breaks fast off an inside rock and another section off to the left of the rock that is a little slower but will hold a big south swell.

There is a good restaurant at La Fortuna and has better camping than the other locations.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”stackoverflow” wrap=”i”] If the swell is huge (or if there is a hurricane) you can continue on past 9 Palms and you’ll find a few more waves. The further along the cape you go the smaller the surf will get.

Cabo San Jose Surf Shops & Awesome Food Options

Did you forget wax or sun block?

The best surf shop in town is  Costa Azul Surfshop. I bought a rash vest that I used every day while there and a pair of booties that I never put on (I’ll save them for Bali).

There is another shop in town next to the Kiss Brew and Rock bar on the main drag called Salsipuedes that has a good selection of gear and a few Firewires hanging in the window.. There are also a few shops popping up near Zippers, so if you snap your board and need one you’ll be able to pick one up.

Shooters downtown has a really good vege burger and cold Coronas for 10 pesos.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”point-left” wrap=”i”] The best place to eat in town is the Guacamaya. This is of my all-time favorite Mexican eateries and this is always the first and last place I eat at when I arrive to Cabo. The ingredients are super fresh and the chile selection is insane. I promise, you’ll love it!

A Surfers Guide To Cabo Las Guacamayas
Best Mexican Food in San Jose Del Cabo

People tend to like The Drunken Sailor in La Playa area (across the bridge) for good seafood and some nice chill atmosphere. I thought their Margaritas were tops.

This entire area is growing and has a nice feel to it, they just put in a beautiful hotel called El Ganzo right on the marina, might be worth taking your lady there for a drink or a night away from downtown.

If you are chilling with your woman or want to go out and have an excellent organic meal, then head for Huerta Los Tamarindos out in the fields towards the Eastern Cape.

Finding the place is not easy and I am not going to even attempt to explain it, but it’s worth taking the effort to visit. They have a great wine list and some of the best views possible, this is by far my favorite place to eat in Baja.

Mexico isn’t known for its wine, but there are some nice reds coming out of Northern Baja; and though I have found it hit-and-miss (mainly miss), I do like the reds being produced by La Cetto and I have been pleasantly surprised by their quality. Los Tamarindos has it on their menu and it’s worth getting or grab a bottle at the wine store in the Pescadero Plaza (same plaza of Rock & Brews).

For some good Italian food cooked to your liking check out Rustico and say ‘Hola’ to Perla and Javier, the owners. Sit at the bar, you’ll enjoy talking with the owners and sharing their passion for food.

For the best coffee and Italian ice cream in town, check out the The Dolce Villa, they got organic beans from Oaxaca and a real Italian coffee machine. They make all there ice cream with top quality organic ingredients and offer more flavors than a Los Vegas hooker has tricks (not that I would know about that second part).

[wp-svg-icons icon=”user-2″ wrap=”i”] If you are looking for a surf instructor while in Cabo ask for Victor at La Dolce Villa and he’ll find you one.

Eco Tourism in Cabo

Still looking for stuff to do? How about an eco tour?

Going to Cabo and lying on the beach, kicking back margaritas, sounds like pretty much anyone’s dream. But if you’re into something a little more meaningful, ecotourism is the way to go.

It’s got all the sights and activities of your typical tourism without the negative impact on the environment or local culture.

Cabo Expeditions offers three land tours that let you get up-close-and-personal with Cabo’s history and culture. Country Experience takes you on a beach-side horseback ride and then a tour of a farm, so you can see how the agrarian system works down here.

Your tour ends with an awesome organic meal made from the foods you just saw rooted in soil.

When you take the Parietal Paintings tour, you’ll step back 7,000 years in time to learn about a nomadic group of hunters and gatherers who left behind artifacts you’ll see with your own eyes.

Then you’ll have a chance to meditate on the beauty of the area at a Tibetan monastery. Yes, a Tibetan monastery exists in Cabo.

Cabo Expeditions prides itself on being the only Los Cabos tour operator authorized by the Mexican government to rescue whales. So their passion for the environment runs deep. When you do ecotourism with them, you do it right.

Surfing The Pacific Side Of Cabo: Todo Santos & Cerritos

Surfing Cabo Map
I know you came for warm water and point breaks, but sometimes you just got to go where the surf is and that might very well lead you to the Pacific side of Cabo. I had done several trips to southern Baja before I ventured onto the Pacific side and I have to report that I really enjoyed both the atmosphere and surf in this region.

You’ll have to trade your long points for beach break and cobble stone reefs, but when you pull up to A-frame peaks or barreling green mountains you’ll be stoked that you ventured over to the Pacific. From San Jose head toward San Lucas and just before you drop down towards the spring-break marauding streets of San Lucas, you turn right towards La Paz and Todos Santos.

About 30 minutes later, thanks to the newly paved four-lane highway, you’ll find yourself at Cerritos. Cerritos is located off to the left of the highway and it is the first major establishment (if you can call it that) since leaving the suburbs of San Lucas.

You’ll see several hotels out on the beach and you need to head north toward the right that you’ll see breaking off the point. This is a fast wave and can be very ledgy at any tide and I find that it tends to get better at low tide with more markable sections.

[wp-svg-icons icon=”connection” wrap=”i”] You can park at the restaurant on the beach as long as you buy a cold beer after you surf—worth the peace of mind you’ll have knowing all is good with your vehicle—also worth the cold beer and delicious guacamole they start serving at 11:30am.

Hotels in Cerritos

We stayed at a new hotel right on the beach, an epic place with an awesome crew. The official name is the Tortugas Cerritos Beachfront Hotel. They have about 12 rooms and offer a delicious breakfast and lunch menu. Each room has an awesome ocean view. Great location, wonderful staff, and fantastic rooms. You feel like the surf is under you pillow you are so close to the water.

Aide, Bertha, Noe, Juan Carlos, Diane and Drew all made us feel like we were at home—I can’t wait to go back and stay here again.

We booked our room on airbnb and it cost us about $100 a night, not a bad price for sleeping steps from the beach. You can’t miss the hotel, it’s the one next to the new condo monstrosity going up just south of them.

Restaurants Near Cerritos & El Pescadero

In town you can find some great food, a good cup of coffee (Baja Beans) or an internet connection to check the swell. I recommend hitting up Baja Beans for a quick coffee anytime but please don’t miss the jewel of the Pacific—Hierbabuena!

Hierbabuena (Peppermint in Spanish) is as “locavoric” as is possible. Set in and amongst a beautiful and bountiful organic garden from which over 50% of each meal’s ingredients are sourced quintessentially represents “farm-to-table” dining.

Please do not leave the Pacific side without eating at the Hierbabuena organic restaurant. This indoor/outdoor extravaganza is perhaps the best meal I have had in any location in the last few years.

We rolled up after a surf session with beers in our hand, walked in, grabbed a seat, and the staff walked right over and asked if we were ready for another cold one. Of course we were! Epic.

The pizza is amazing and the kale stuffed enchiladas are exquisite, the wine list impeccable and the staff full of smile, laughs and downright stoke—can you tell if I liked it or not?

Getting here is a little tricky, departing Cerritos drive toward Todos Santos. The first town you will come to is El Pescadero. Turn left on the road before the Pemex station, you’ll see a small sign on the road. If you hit the Pemex station, double back and turn right onto the dirt road and follow the signs about half a mile down.

El Pescadero Surfing

Past Cerritos is Pescadero, here you will find a great right point-break called San Pedrito which is a great wave and can hold some big swell that swings off the point.

Just before Cerritos there is a break called the curve. I have never surfed it, but I could see from the road that it had a good set-up. Past Cerritos is Pescadero, here you will find a great right point-break called San Pedrito which is a rippable wave and can hold some big swell that swings off the point.

Todos Santos

Todos Santos is a laid-back town with excellent surf, great food and some good old fashion Mexican cowboys walking around. It’s a bit artsy and rustic with just the right amount of hippy. Todos Santos reminds me of what northern Baja used to be like when I was growing up, before the narco problems invaded the Tijuana surroundings.

There is a feeling of things being a bit wild-west like, yet with enough comforts of home that you don’t feel totally disconnected (though you can unplug easily if desired).

The main break in Todos is called La Pastora. You need to drive through town to get to the beaches to the north. Between Hidalgo and Obregon, turn left onto Camino A Las Playitas.

You’ll go down a hill and along a riverbed. The road will twist and turn and a few miles from the town you’ll come to a clearing to the left where La Pastora is located. Don’t drive too far toward the beach unless you have a 4×4. Park where the dirt look compact and walk to the see the swell.

This is a really fun wave with lots of sections. Be careful of the rocks on the shore when getting in and out. I tore a chunk out of my toe the last trip while excitingly jumping off a rock with a sharp barnacle. Not fun.

la esquina todos santos
La Esquina, Todos Santos

 

Two places with great grub and an awesome atmosphere in Todos Santos are Café Santa Fe and La Esquina. La Esquina is a more casual hang-out and conveniently located near the beaches to the north of Todos Santos.

Café Santa Fe is where you go to take your gal or to have an excellent meal after a long surf. It is a little pricy but WAY worth every peso.

Hotel California is also worth a visit with some excellent local dishes and live music most days during the high season. There is surf to the south and north of Todos Santos and likely tons of waves I don’t even know about, it’s the end of the road but in many ways feels like the beginning.

Accommodation in Todos Santos

There are quite a few airbnb places available online for Todos Santos. This June we stayed at an awesome location just a few minutes from the main surfing beach.

Jason, the owner, lives with his family on the property but they have a detached unit several few away from the main house with two bedrooms and a great rooftop vantage point of the surf—get up and check the surf from your room. Check it out below:

Cabo Resources

Hotels Cabo San Jose

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort
Telephone no: 00 1 888-767-3966
Website: http://www.rosewoodhotels.com

One & Only Palmilla
Telephone no: 00 52 33 4164 2110
Website: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com

JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa
Telephone no: 52-624-163 7600
Website: http://www.marriott.com

Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort
Telephone no:00 1 855-605-0316
Website: http://www3.hilton.com

Hyatt Place Los Cabo
Telephone no: 00 52 624 123 123
Website: http://loscabos.place.hyatt.com

Cabo Azul Resort
Telephone no: 00 1 888-725-5669
Website: https://www.diamondresortsandhotels.com

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabo
Telephone no: 00 52 1 877 394 9146
Website: http://loscabos.ziva.hyatt.com

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort
Telephone no: 00 52 55 5350 9603
Website: http://www.secretsresorts.com

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Los Cabos
Telephone no: 00 1 855-605-0317
Website: http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com

Marisol Boutique Hotel
Telephone no: 00 52 624 132 9089
Website: www.marisol.com

Royal Decameron Los Cabos
Telephone no: 00 1 844-238-5587
Website: http://www.decameron.com

Melia Cabo Real All-Inclusive Beach & Golf Resort
Telephone no: 00 34 912 76 47 47
Website: http://www.melia.com

Holiday Inn Resort Los Cabos All-Inclusive
Telephone no: +63 1800 1 888 1025
Website: http://www.ihg.com

Barcelo Grand Faro Los Cabo
Telephone no: 00 34 518 88 95 70
Website: https://www.barcelo.com

Bel Air Collection Resort & Spa Los Cabos
Telephone no: 00 52 800 400 2040
Website: http://www.belaircabos.com

Cabo Surf Hotel
Telephone no: 00 52 55 4170 9258
Website: http://www.cabosurf.com

Mar Adentro Cabos
Telephone no: 00 52 33 4164 2134
Website: http://maradentrocabos.com

El Delfin Blanco
Telephone no: 00 52 624 142 1212
Website: http://www.eldelfinblanco.net 

Hotel & Suites Las Palmas
Telephone no: 00 52 81 4170 7121
Website: http://www.suiteslaspalmas.com

Restaurant & Bars Cabo San Jose

Don Sanchez Restaurante
Telephone no: +52 (624) 142 2444
Website: http://www.donsanchezrestaurant.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Flora’s Field Kitchen Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 1 (624) 355-4564
Website: http://www.flora-farms.com
Open Hours:
Sunday
10:00 am – 2:30 pm
Tuesday-Saturday
9:00 am – 9:30 pm

Sardina Cantina Restaurant
Telephone no: 526241726365
Website: http://www.sardinacantina.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
8:30 am – 10:30 pm

La Forchetta Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 624 130 7723
Website: http://www.laforchetta.mx
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
5:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Blue Fish Cabo Seafood Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 1726652
Website: http://bluefishcabo.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Teo Restaurant Bar And Grill
Telephone no: +52 624 105 2408
Website: http://teobarandgrill.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
9:00 am – 12:00 am

Retro Burger Bar Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 624 130 7042
Website: http://retroburgerbar.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
11:00 am – 12:00 am

Habanero’s Gastro Grill Restaurant
Telephone no: 52 624 142 2626
Website: http://www.habanerosgastrogrill.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
8:00 am – 10:30 pm

El Herradero Mexican Grill and Bar Restaurant
Telephone no: 624 14 26350
Website: http://www.html5website.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
7:00 am – 10:00 pm

Mariscos La Pesca Restaurant
Telephone no: 624-130-7438
Website: https://www.facebook.com/mariscoslapesca
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
11:00 am – 10:00 pm

El Matador Restaurant
Telephone no: 526241570443
Website: http://www.elmatadorrestaurante.com

Mi Cocina Restaurant
Telephone no: (624) 1467100
Website: http://casanatalia.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
8:00 am – 11:00 pm

Jazmin’s Restaurant
Telephone no: (624) 142 1760
Website: http://jazminsrestaurant.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
1:00 pm – 3:00 am

Casianos Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 624 142 5928
Website: http://www.casianos.com 
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

7 Seas Seafood Grille Restaurant
Telephone no: 8589645117
Website: http://7seasrestaurant.com 
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
7:00 am – 11:00 pm

Petit Masala Restaurant
Telephone no: 526241040013
Website: http://www.petitmasala.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
2:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Cuervo’s House Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 624 142 5650
Website: http://www.cuervoshouse.com 
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
7:00 am – 4:00 am

Dvur at Casa Don Rodrigo Restaurant
Telephone no: 624 142 04 18
Website: http://dvuratcasadonrodrigo.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
11:00 am – 11:00 pm

La Salsa’s Restaurant
Telephone no: 526241727009
Website: http://www.escapetobajasun.com 
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm

CJ’s New York Deli Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 624 105 2566
Website: http://www.nydelicabo.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Shooters Restaurant
Telephone no: 624 146-9900
Website: http://shootersbar.com.mx
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
9:00 am – 11:00 pm

Mi Casa Restaurant San Jose del Cabo
Telephone no: (624) 146-92-63
Website: www.micasarestaurant.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
4:30 pm – 12:00 am

Bars San Jose

11:11 Disco Room San Jose
Telephone no: +(52)016241420271

The Barn Bar
Telephone no: 52 624 100 7892
Website: http://www.thebarnbar.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
6:00 pm – 12:00 am

La Reserva Rock & Beer Bar
Telephone no: 6241298635
Website: https://www.facebook.com/lareservabar
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

La Casa del Vino de Baja California
Telephone no: 624-142-3885
Website: http://www.lacasadelvinobc.com

La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
Telephone no: +52 624 688 3926
Website: lalupitatym.com
Open Hours:
Tuesday-Sunday
2:00 pm – 2:00 am

Shooters Sports Bar
Telephone no: +52 624 146 9900
Website: shootersbar.com.mx 
Open Hours:
Tuesday-Sunday
2:00 pm – 2:00 am

Jazz Tapas
Telephone no: +52 624 130 7267
Website:  jazztapasbar.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Sunday
1:00 pm – 12:00 am

Acre
Telephone no: +52 624 171 8226
Website:   acrebaja.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Sunday
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Suviche
Telephone no: +52 624 146 7000
Website: palmilla.oneandonlyresorts.com 
Open Hours:
Monday-Sunday
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

El Wine Shop
Telephone no: +52 624 105 2065
Website: ecmdevinos.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
8:00 am – 7:00 pm

La Vaca Tinta
Telephone no: +52 624 142 1241
Website: lavacatinta.com
Open Hours:
Tuesday-Sunday
5:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Hotels Todos Santos

Posada La Poza
Telephone no: 00 52 55 4164 2560
Website: http://www.hotelposadalapozatodossantos.com

Todos Santos Inn
Telephone no: 00 52 612 145 0040
Website: http://www.todossantosinn.com

Guaycura Boutique Hotel Beach Club & Spa
Telephone no: 00 52 33 5004 7273
Website: http://www.guaycura.com/es/

Hotel California
Telephone no: 00 52 55 5350 8725
Website: http://hotelcaliforniabaja.com/index.html

Hacienda Todos Los Santos
Telephone no: 00 52 81 4160 5457
Website: http://www.tshacienda.com

Villa Santa Cruz
Telephone no: 00 1 760-230-4855
Website: http://www.villasantacruzbaja.com

The Hotelito

Telephone no: 00 1 760-230-4855
Website: http://www.thehotelito.com/

Rancho Pescadero
Telephone no: 00 52 33 4170 8561
Website: http://ranchopescadero.com

Villas de Cerritos Beach
Telephone no: 00 1 747-200-1533
Website: http://www.villasdecerritosbeach.com

Cerritos Surf Colony
Telephone no: 00 52 55 4164 2330

Website: http://cerritossurfcolony.com

Restaurant & Bars Todos Santos

La Casita Tapas – Wine & Sushi Bar Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 612 145 0192
Website: http://lacasitatodossantos.com

Tequila’s Sunrise Bar & Grill Restaurant
Telephone no: (612) 145-0073
Website: http://www.todossantosguide.com 
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
11:00 am – 6:00 am

La Copa Cocina Restaurant
Telephone no: +(52)612 145 0040
Website: http://www.todossantosinn.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Los Adobes de Todos Santos Restaurant
Telephone no:
Website: http://www.losadobesdetodossantos.com 
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
11:00 am – 7:00 pm

La Esquina Restaurant
Telephone no: 016121450851
Website: http://www.laesquinats.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
7:00 am – 7:00 pm

Rumi Garden Restaurant
Telephone no:+52 612 145 1088
Website: http://www.rumigarden.com 
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Tacos Y Mariscos El Sinaloense Restaurant
Telephone no: 526121450336
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Tacos-Y-Mariscos-El-Sinaloense-206627032712641/ Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Chez Laura Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 612 145 0847
Website: http://www.chezlaura.com.mx

La Coronela at The Hotel California Restaurant
Telephone no: (011.52) 612.145.0525
Website: http://www.hotelcaliforniabaja.com
Open Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday
5:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Ristorante Tre Galline Restaurant
Telephone no: 612-145-0274
Website: https://www.facebook.com/www.TRE.GALLINE.BAJACALIFORNIA#
Open Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday
5:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Cafelix Restaurant
Telephone no: (612) 145-0568
Website: http://www.todossantosguide.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
8:00 am – 9:00 am

Michaels at the Gallery Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 612 145 0500
Website: http://galeriatodossantos-com.webs.com

Landi’s Restaurant

Telephone no: +52 612 145 0130
Website: http://www.landis.mx
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Guaycura Restaurant
Telephone no: +52 612 175 0800
Website: http://www.guaycura.com.mx

Posada La Poza Restaurant
Telephone no: 011-52-612-145-0400
Website: http://www.hotelposadalapozatodossantos.com
Open Hours:
Sunday-Saturday
1:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Shut Up Frank’s Restaurant
Telephone no: 612 145 0707
Website: http://www.shutupfranks.com

Gallo Azul Pizza Bar & Art Restaurant
Telephone no: 612 145 0707
Website: http://www.shutupfranks.com
Open Hours:
Monday-Saturday
3:00 pm – 10:00 pm

El Gusto Restaurant
Telephone no: +526121450400
Website: http://www.hotelposadalapozatodossantos.com 

Bistro Magico Restaurant
Telephone no:526121699200
Website: http://bistromagico.com 

La Santena Restaurant
Telephone no: 9704754120
Website: http://hotelcasatota.com   

Surf Schools & Tours

Costa Azul Surf School
Telephone no: 6241422771
Website: www.costa-azul.com

Mario Surf School
Telephone:  52 1 612 142 6156
Website: http://mariosurfschool.com
Open hours: Sun 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Mon – Sat 8:00 am – 7:00 pm

Eco Adventures: tosea.net (hiking, whale watching, fishing trips, bird-watching, etc.)

Cabo Magic: Sportfishing Adventures

San Jose Spas and Massages

There is nothing like a good deep massage after several days of surfing. Every time I return to Cabo, I see more and more spas springing up. The one I have been going to for years is next to the Pescadero mall (where Rock & Brew is located).

The spa is called Moonlight and they offer one hour massages for $40. I highly recommend this place—no happy endings here, I am sure you can find those types of ‘treatments’ elsewhere in Cabo. Tel. +52 123 51 40 Email. pepe_emiliano@hotmail.com

Real Estate

Did you love Cabo so much that you’d like to move there or maybe build a surf shack to escape the winters? Check out these site for real estate investment opportunities:

  1. For properties all over in cabo (my favorite site): http://ricardoamigo.com/
  2. For properties all over Mexico: Investment Properties Mexico
  3. For properties in Cabo and surrounding areas: Baja Smart
  4. For properties around Todos Santos and the surrounding towns: Ricardo Amigo

Event Schedule in Todos Santos

www.JournaldelPacifico.com/blog

Surf Forecasts

Surfline Cabo

Derek Dodds

Derek Dodds is founder of the world's first ecological surf company Wave Tribe, surfboard shaper, world traveler, author and Mini Simmons enthusiast.

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75 comments

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  • Nice article, thanks!
    Question: How is Internet access around Cabo?
    Is high-speed Internet access widely available and affordable?
    Where do you get it?

    • Hey Dave.

      Plenty of fast interest everywhere . . . coffee shops, bars, hotels.

      No worries with that.

      Derek, Wave Tribe

      • Thanks! I’m planning to stay semi-long-term, so more interested in what is available for residents, perhaps in the way of mobile broadband.

    • Hi Cindy.

      There are a few links in the article that would be great options.

      Derek, Wave Tribe

  • great bit of info, Im heading out there for the first time and any tips help.

    Also I can only take one

    7s aussy fish 6’3 22’wide 2.74 or custom 6’5 x 19.25x 2

  • Derek

    Great write-up. Done lot of surf trips to CR an even Indo before, but this is my first trip to Cabo/Baja. Longing for some points…coming in early September.

    Got any advice on good rental car agencies? Prices seem to vary wildly.

    Thanks,
    Justin

    • Thanks bro, you should catch the tail-end of hurricane season and the beginning of the norths swinging into the Todos side.

      Not sure about car rental agencies, I’d try and book before you go and definitely get insurance.

      Have a great trip and let us know how it goes.

      Derek, Wave Tribe

  • That surf guide looks amazing, it’s wonderful what you’re able to do while in Cabos, now we need to wait for the restoration of that so I can drive using BestMex car insurance and enjoy some good waves.

  • How hot is it in July? Especially camping. The average temps I could find online are in the 90’s. I’m thinking of driving down there from the US for a month or so.

    • Hi Sung.

      It’s REALLY hot in July, I would say that it is the most uncomfortable time to be there.

      You won’t find many tree for shade either, it is doable but not ideal.

  • Thank you for the insight!

    I am leaving the second of april and im staying right by monuments. Do you think it will be good that time of the year or do you have any suggestions

  • Hey Derek, just found cheap tickets for mid June into Cabo. Where should we stay for flexibility on surf spots within the region? Does the pacific side catch any swell during this time? Would love to travel up and down the coast but don’t think south swell would light up west coast in June?

    How are the crowds in June? On a scale from 1 to Lowers?

    • Hey Jon, June is a great month bro—the souths are in full swing and there is still some action on the Pacific side too. Water is warm and the days aren’t scorching like July (I’ll never go back in July again). You’ll get some wrap around from a big south up the coast, but for me the jewels are always on the Eastern Cape. I’d stay in San Jose, that way you’ll be right in teh middle of both swell windows with surf right in town too. There is a hotel out on teh Cape but I didn’t hear many good things about it and also there is nothing out there so if you want cold beer and good food then you’ll need to venture back to town—it’s not that far, one hour tops.

  • Hi Derek,
    I’m planning a trip for early January, after reading your write up I’m thinking it would be good to go somewhere between Cabo and Cerritos/Todos Santos area and hopefully catch some Northerly swells. I’ll be travelling by myself at this stage, I was wondering if you knew of any surf camps or guides that I could meet up with? I reckon if I have someone show me the ropes for the first week I’ll find my feet from there. I’m coming from New Zealand, its quite daunting from here!
    Cheers,
    Josh

    • Hey Josh. You’ll have a blast bro—it’s an easier set-up than it appears. That time of year you’ll def want to stick to the Pacific side, check the dudes out at http://surfingcabo.com for a local guide. Let me know how it goes and have a great trip!

  • HI Derek,

    Great post! We are thinking about going in mid-late August and would stay near Costa Azul. Is it still pretty hot then?

    Thanks!

    • Extremely—but as we move into the hurricane season it does cool down a bit.

      Have a great trip!

      Derek

  • Hi Derek.
    I want to go and surf Cabo at Christmas time with my wife. Don’t really want to party so much just have a good time. Just want to know of any good places to stay and the biggest question is it safe in the Cabo area???
    Don’t know how much of it true but I have been told not to go driving and just looking around by my self. Thanks for your help bro.

    • Luke—How are you bro?

      Cabo is likely the safest part of Mexico right now which is why I have been there so often over the past few years. I friends that drive from SD every few months, just don’t drive at night bro and you should be fine. There are some recommendations for places to stay in the blog post, I recommend those or anything that get’s you near the surf.

      During X-mas I’d look at staying in Todo Santos as that’s where the surf will be that time of year.

      Have a great trip—Derek.

  • I had a question about surfing this coming mid-january. I am a pretty much beginner surfer. I understand this time of year the surf is better on the pacific side. However, for a beginner who will probably want just some mellow waves where is the best place to go this time of year. I am trying to find lodging somewhere in cabo that would be closest to this ideal beginner surf spot. Any suggestions? Thanks!

    • Hey Jake! Playa Acapulquito—one is one of the best beginner surfing beaches on the Los Cabos peninsula. Check out the Mike Doyle Surf School (cabosurfshop.com/surfschool.htm while you’re there! 🙂 Have an awesome trip!

    • hey Jake, there are lots of schools around Cabo and plenty of inside sections where you can learn to surf better. Cabo is a great place for beginners. Check out the resources sections for some surf schools in the area.

      D. WT

    • The Pacific side has waves year round and the Eastern cape is better when the souths run {March-September}.

      Let us know how it goes.

      Derek

    • Most in the airport are fine. Just don’t but insurance online, get it from the company when you grab your car in Cabo.

  • Hi Derek!

    I was wondering if you would be interested in creating a feature article about a rad new surf hotel that is currently being built in front of shipwrecks! We want to be able to finally accommodate all the people who were previously forced to camp out and give them more of a community experience with our accommodations!

    Get in touch, we will let you come see, surf and enjoy the location!

  • Hello, Im going to cabo this dic 9, wich breaks do you recomend for north swells, the bigger the better, i suppose i should bring my wtsuit right?

  • This is a fantastic resource. Really appreciate the tips and details about restaurants and other hidden gems. My question: Can you drive through the mountains from Cerritos to Shipwrecks? Or do you have to drive south through los cabos and then up the east cape? Thanks so much for this fine web guide.

    • Hi Chris.

      You have to drive around, back toward Cabo, but you can take the new pay road to San Jose which saves about and hour. So you would go road to Cabo, toll road to San Jose, new paved road to Shipwrecks. Much quicker than a few years ago. Once you get to San Jose, look for the road to the new harbor area, over the bridge. The ngo up the hill toward the Eastern Cape.

  • Hey! I have read all your Blog this So Nice and Awesome service you have provided, I learn many new things from here and want implement my website. If you are also Know for something New related to this then visit my website

    • Hey Tours Cabo! Thanks for the stoke! Awesome we’ll check it out for sure. Have a great weeek 🙂

  • Hey guys! Is it possible to stay in San Jose, and then walk down to the main beach and rent surf boards on the beach? I can’t seem to find any info on that. Thanks!

    • Hey Ashanti! I’m actually not sure myself but I bet if you ask the nice people where you’re staying they can point you in the right direction! Have an awesome trip 🙂

  • Going to Cabo next Friday 14th, only me and my wife and staying at Las Las. Is the drive to shipwrecks bad? 4×4 is super expensive. What do you suggest? Looks like some S swell 5-6 for next week. Do you think only one shortboard should be fine to bring down there?Thank you

    • The road is not bad, you don’t need a 4×4. I’d brind 2 boards for sure with this swell, it’s going to be macking. Have a great trip bro. Derek

  • This is a fantastic resource!! Thanks so much for sharing it. Made a huge difference to my trip planning already.

    I’m heading over from AUS in December for some RnR, and banking on getting a few waves while I’m at it.

    I know you mentioned already December is more likely Pacific Coast side, is there anywhere I can reference average swells etc for December?

    Also, you mentioned “New paved road to Eastern Cape complete” – which road is this? How long is the drive from San Jose to Shipwrecks more or less?

    Cheers!
    Tommee

    • Hey Tomee!

      That’s awesome. Thanks so much! I get most of my swell info from MagicSeaweed.com. The drive from San Jose to Shipwrecks is about 25 mins. Hope this helps! Have a great trip!

  • Hi, i am heading to Todos Santos/Cerritos for Labor Day next weekend..looks like it may storm and waters may get choppy..but in the case where i’ts surfable is it not recommended to surf in the rain there? is there water pollution like southern california’s 72 hour rain rule?

    thanks!

    • Hey Jon!

      So I did a little research and although I couldn’t find anything mentioning the rain rule specifically in that area I did read that it’s a good idea to avoid surfing pretty much anywhere 72 hrs after it rains especially So Cal. Better safe then sorry!

  • Planning on flying into Cabo airport for a 10 day trip to chill on the beach and do some beginner/intermediate surfing this winter, January or Feb. I don’t want to have to rent a car so looking for something within walking distance to hotels/town. Any advice on best spot for 10 days for beginner/intermediate surfer, specifically for Jan or Feb?

    • Hi Ron! There are recommendations in the guide for hotels, depending on where you want to surf and stay there are options listed there. Have an awesome trip!

  • Hello Derek and/or Laura!

    Questions for you: surfing the Pacific side in January, I realize it is recommended to bring a wet suit. What about booties?

    Can you recommend a surf shop on the Pacific side? Do you know of a place that will rent wet suits?

    Also, regarding rental cars, I’m having trouble determining online if the car has 4 wheel drive or not. Recommendations for how to negotiate this and a company to go with?

    Also, what can you tell me about Punta Conejo?

    Thanks so much!
    -Hadden

    • Hi Hadden!

      Sorry about the delay in getting back to you. Booties are recommended only if surfing in San Jose, on the Pacific side they are not necessary. See guide for surf shop recommendations.

      You don’t need a 4×4 unless there is a ton of rain before or during your trip.

      Never made it to Punta Conejo, but I have heard good things about it. Have an awesome trip!!

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Meet Surfer Derek Dodds

Derek Dodds | Surfer, Shaper, Traveler
I'm Derek Dodds, the guy behind Srfer.com.com. I love surfing, shaping, adventure travel, IPAs, useful gear, and all things related to the sea.