The beach lifestyle has long been associated with California along its extensive shoreline. The perfect wave might be out there for surfing enthusiasts, but pioneers of this sport soon learned that heading south is a better alternative. In the 1960s, surfers slowly migrated down to Southern Baja where Los Cabos, Mexico resides. History was made with Californian surfers taking in the waves that boast shorter lines for the rider, and coupled with warmer temps, it soon become the “Disneyland for surfers”. Travelers have considered this area sacred ever since, so explore the best surf breaks in Mexico as you stay in a nearby chic beachfront villa called El Colibri.
Getting to Know Southern Baja
Southern Baja isn’t really far when you realize that a two-hour flight from LAX is your only travel time. Surfing is a way of life in this region along with Mexican cuisine and inexpensive drinks to pass around. You really only need a few items to get started on your travel experience, including:
- Swimsuit or shorts
- Sunscreen and hat
- An adventurous and easy-going spirit
The unique shoreline and less populated beaches are what draws travelers to these Mexican surf breaks. A narrow strip of land is all that divides the Sea of Cortez from the Pacific Ocean. Because of this peninsula, you have multiple breaks in three main areas: South-facing East Cape; south-east facing Costa Azul in San Jose del Cabo; and the west-facing Pacific side near Todos Santos where the water and air temps are typically cooler. When the summer south swells come in, be ready for some of the best waves and surf conditions around.
But if you’re more interested in being a spectator, the Cabo Surf Open is a perfect opportunity to watch the professionals in action. Every June since 2013, Costa Azul beach in San Jose has become home to the Cabo Surf Open where local and international riders meet. Stay at El Colibri during the Open, so that you can mix the event activities in town with a relaxing getaway on the East Cape.
A Hidden Treasure – Shipwreck’s Beach
Our villa is situated just 25 minutes outside of San Jose del Cabo, where you will find internationally acclaimed restaurants and art galleries, but that’s not the only attraction in the area. For years it’s been a local secret that the best surf break in the area is Shipwrecks. Derek Dodds of Wave Tribe Company describes it this way: “Shipwrecks is a nice right-hander off a beautiful point and is a hotdog wave where mostly short-boarders hang out.” You’ll only find locals here when most other people travel over to Zippers and Old Man’s breaks.
If you stay at El Colibri, you have a perfect view of the waves as you look out across our infinity pool. When you’re ready for an adventure, tiptoe down our beach stairs and into the sand. Shipwrecks is a short, five-minute walk from the El Colibri front door. Check out this link for more info on Shipwrecks break.
The smartest way to keep up with the local surf forecast is by visiting Surf Forecast. This site gives you exact information about the waves just outside of our solar-powered villa, that will keep the rest of your crew luxuriously entertained. Fire up the barbecue grill, eat a feast and work it off in the deep-blue waters off of the Baja shore.
Explore the Sea of Cortez – East Cape
As mentioned, the East Cape area has a south-facing coastline, which allows distinct swells to roll into shore during most of the summer months. You can always beat the heat by visiting in the springtime where you can use your surf expertise to time the swells just right. The surrounding beaches are nearly perfect because these breaks tend to be local secrets. Enjoy the open waters with few tourists as you explore the region surrounding El Colibri.
When you are looking for some variety, there are four to five different breaks along the coastline only minutes from the front door of El Colibri. Take a look at the break map at mexbound.com. You’ll find more popular breaks in the area, such as:
La Fortuna
When you leave El Colibri drive about 5 minutes or 2-3 kms to the north and you will come to a farm and what used to be a taco restaurant – that is where the La Fortuna break is located and a local’s favorite.
Nine Palms
Nine Palms is located about 20 minutes north of El Colibri – there is a group of palm trees close to the beach in a small valley where you will see a trailer homestead. Nine palms is a fun right reef break and is typically gentle enough for surfers and SUP’s of all ages.
Punta Perfecta
As you drive past Nine Palms you will find a little-known surfing spot with a powerful right reef point break. A strong south swell will produce some of the largest waves in the area between 5-10 feet. You have to paddle out to get them, but you will most likely have them to yourself!
Boca del Tule
This series of breaks, both sand and reef, has easy access with driving right to the break because of the wide river mouth delta shape. Once you past Vida Soul hotel, it is another 5-10 minute drive.
When you want to know more details about surf experiences in Cabo, look up surfline.com. You’ll find current statistics, cultural information and other details to guide your adventures.
Book your vacation escape with El Colibri today because the East Cape is one of the most natural and fun places to start your surf retreat experience!
