Thinking about surfing in Cerritos Beach, Mexico? Here’s your full first-timer’s guide to Cerritos Beach surfing, surf lessons, seasons, what to expect, and where to stay in this Baja California Sur surf town.
Welcome to Cerritos: Baja’s Coolest Surf Town
Located on the Pacific side of Baja California Sur, about 45 minutes north of Cabo San Lucas and just below the artsy enclave of Todos Santos, you’ll find Playa Los Cerritos, a surf-friendly beach in a relaxed, sun-soaked town that hits the perfect mix of fun and mellow.
Unlike other chaotic surf destinations, Cerritos Beach offers something rare: a genuinely inviting surf scene, warm(ish) water, consistent waves, sandy shores, and a vibe that makes you want to stay.
Whether you want to try surfing for the first time or you’re itching to paddle out again, Cerritos is the spot.
What Makes Surfing in Cerritos, Mexico So Special?
Cerritos Beach is one of the premier surf spots in Baja Mexico and is a rare treasure for surfers. The sandy bottom makes it beginner friendly, while the consistent waves mean more chances to ride throughout the day. As a beach break, it’s safer and easier to learn on than reef breaks, and the surf offers opportunities for all levels. Seriously, it’s for you.
Add in warm water nearly year-round and a welcoming local surf culture, and you’ve got a spot that feels like it was made for surf progression and good vibes. There aren’t many places where you can learn to surf, chill on the sand, grab tacos, and feel like a local all in one day. Cerritos pulls it off.
Playa Los Cerritos Surf Breaks: What to Expect
The main break at Playa Los Cerritos is a sandy beach break that’s perfect for beginners but still fun for intermediate and experienced surfers. The best swell directions tend to come from the northwest and west-northwest, while offshore winds from the east or northeast help keep conditions good.
High tide is typically your best bet for decent chest high waves before the onshore breeze picks up.
Best Surfing Season in Cerritos
You can technically surf all year in Cerritos, but some months offer better conditions than others. The best time to visit for surf is between October and April, with the sweet spot falling between January and March. During these months, you’ll find more consistent swells. However the crowds pick up during these months because this is when the snow birds from Canada and the US come down to surf.
Summer tends to bring smaller, more mellow waves, which are ideal for first-time surfers. Water temperatures generally range from 75°F to 82°F depending on the season, so you can usually surf comfortably in board shorts or a light wetsuit top.
First Timer’s Guide to Surfing at Cerritos Beach
If it’s your first time surfing Cerritos Beach, here’s what you need to know. Bring a rash guard or light wetsuit (optional), reef-safe sunscreen, plenty of water, dry bag with clothes, towel, sunnies of course, and maybe a few snacks for your beach day. If you forget the snacks, not to worry. There are plenty of beachside goodies!
Don’t worry if you don’t have a board. You can easily rent one right on the beach. For beginners, it’s smart to take at least one surf lesson to get the basics down. My personal recommendation is a multi-day lesson, if you’re in town for a few days. Some schools will include an umbrella and chairs so you can make a whole day of it.
You’ll likely start in the white wash zone where falling is expected and fun. For more experienced surfers, pay attention to swell forecasts and head toward the northern point for longer, cleaner rides.
Choosing a Surf School or Lesson in Cerritos
Cerritos has several surf schools operating right on the beach, most offering bilingual instruction and flexible lesson packages. When booking a lesson, ask about the student-to-instructor ratio, whether boards and rash guards are included, and how long the session lasts.
Many schools are casual and welcome walk-ins, but if you prefer to plan ahead, you can book via Instagram or WhatsApp. Check out surf schools and board rentals on Google maps.
What I Wish I Knew Before Surfing Cerritos
There are a few things I wish someone had told me before I hit the water. The sun is strong, even on cloudy days, so bring reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often. I also wish I would have eaten a bigger breakfast and brought more water. Hydration is important to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration while at the beach. I brought 1 liter but it wasn’t even close to enough. I got chairs and an umbrella with my lesson and wanted to stay out longer but was so dehydrated. Day 2 was better.
The best waves are usually early in the morning, before the wind kicks up. Don’t be afraid to fall; it’s part of learning. And keep an eye on the tides. Conditions can change quickly, and what looks calm in the morning might be punchy by afternoon.
I booked 1 lesson initially which was great for basics but I wanted more handholding so to speak so I ended up booking 3 days.
More Than Just Surfing: The Cerritos Beach Vibe
Surfing might be the main attraction, but Cerritos has plenty more to do. After your session, grab some tacos from a beach vendor, sip a cold Pacifico, or go wander through El Pescadero for handmade crafts and local color. Hopefully, this is a Baja beach experience, not just a surf trip. If you’re up for exploring, head to Todos Santos for its artsy, historic charm, or Cabo San Lucas if you’re in the mood for nightlife or a fancy dinner.
Where to Stay in Cerritos (Hint: Soon, Right Here!)
At the moment, Cerritos offers a variety of lodging options, including boutique hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and a few beachfront rentals and campsites. But here’s the exciting part: our very own condo rental is coming soon!
Located right in the heart of Cerritos surf town, it will offer walkable beach access, a full kitchen, comfy beds, and a terrace made for sunset views. Keep an eye out! This will be the perfect place to stay if you want to surf, relax, and live like a local.
Quick Travel Tips
Getting to Cerritos is easy. It’s about an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas and roughly 90 minutes from San Jose del Cabo airport (SJD). Renting a car is recommended if you want to explore the area, but there are also shuttle options available. The best time to visit is from November to March, when conditions are prime. Don’t forget to bring cash for beach vendors, a reusable water bottle, and your best surf vibes.
Is Cerritos Surf Right for You?
If you’re looking for a beach in Mexico where you can learn to surf, eat amazing food, soak in the sun, and feel welcome from the moment you arrive, Cerritos is the surf spot for you. It’s perfect for beginner surfers, solo travelers, families, and couples looking for a mellow surf adventure. Less hype. More heart.