Best time to visit Cabo San Lucas

Surfing in Cabo San Lucas

An all-time favorite surfing destination, with half a year swell on the ocean and another half on the sea

Best time: May–October (Sea of Cortez) | November–April (Pacific Ocean)

Surfing in Cabo San Lucas is available all year round. Between May and October, swells come from the Southern hemisphere, making this period the best time to surf in the Sea of Cortez. The second half of the year, November to April, is the season to surf on the Pacific side of Los Cabos.

Surfing in the Sea of Cortez (May–October)

The surfers who come to conquer the waves on the sea are mainly attracted to one of the two areas—East Cape and Costa Azul. The first one is nestled east of San Jose del Cabo and is often referred to as "La Laguna" owing to its scenic views. The rocky Costa Azul lies southwest of the town on the tip of the peninsula and is generally more crowded than East Cape. Its most famous point is The Rock or Old Mans.

Surfing on the Pacific Ocean (November–April)

Pacific Coast to the northwest of Cabo also boasts consistent rock reef breaks. Check out picturesque Cerritos Beach during west and northwest swells, but note that this destination could be extra busy on the weekends. San Pedriеo or Pescadero is an excellent surfing spot. Though Pacific surf season lasts from November to April, the most substantial west and northwest swells wind down by March.

Surfing lessons in Cabo San Lucas

Can't surf?–Don't worry. You'll find a number of surf lessons and tours in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. One of the best places to master the sports in the Sea of Cortez is still Costa Azul, as it has several breaks suitable for newbies. On the Pacific Ocean side, a great place to introduce yourself to the surfing world is at Los Cerritos Beach.

Practical info

When is the best time to surf in Cabo San Lucas?

Cabo San Lucas provides year-round surfing opportunities, but the best time for surfing varies depending on the area. The season for southern hemisphere swells peaks from May through October, making it the right time for surfing in the Sea of Cortez. From November to April, the waves break on the Pacific side of Cabo San Lucas, which is the perfect time to surf there. Show more

Which are the top surfing spots in Cabo San Lucas?

Costa Azul and East Cape are the two incredibly popular surfing spots in Cabo San Lucas. The Rock or Old Man's is a famous surf break in the southwest of the peninsula, at Costa Azul, although it can often be crowded. East Cape, located east of San Jose del Cabo, has breaks that are less crowded and more beginner-friendly, which is why it is sometimes called La Laguna. Show more

Are there surfing lessons for beginners in Cabo San Lucas?

Yes, anyone interested in surfing can take lessons from any of the available surf schools and tours in Cabo San Lucas. Costa Azul is a fantastic spot for beginners since it has several surf breaks ideal for novices around the Sea of Cortez. Another popular option for beginners is Los Cerritos Beach, located on the Pacific Ocean side of Cabo San Lucas. Show more

During which time of the year does the Pacific Ocean receive the most significant swells in Cabo San Lucas?

The Pacific Ocean side of Cabo San Lucas receives the most significant swells from November to April. The strongest west and northwest swells usually dissipate by March, and Cerritos Beach is an attractive destination during this time. It is worth noting, however, that it can be extra busy on weekends. Show more

Where can surfers find the least crowded surfing spot in Cabo San Lucas?

For those who want to avoid the crowds, East Cape, also known as La Laguna, is the perfect spot. East Cape has breathtaking views, many beginner-friendly surf spots, and is less crowded overall than some other Cabo San Lucas areas. On the other hand, the Pacific side of Cabo San Lucas can be busy. Advanced surfers looking to avoid the crowds can check out San Pedriеo or Pescadero. Show more

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Last updated:
Authors: Olha Savych