Riding the Waves at Playa Los Cerritos: A Surfer’s Guide
Located on the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico, Playa Los Cerritos is a popular surfing spot for locals and tourists alike. With its consistent waves, warm water, and stunning views, it’s no wonder that surfers flock to this beach year-round.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know to ride the waves at Playa Los Cerritos. From the best time of year to visit, safety tips, and accommodation, we’ll cover the basics and then some in our surfer’s guide to this beautiful area.
At High Tide Los Cabos, we’re passionate about sharing the ocean with visitors to Baja California Sur. With options to learn how to paddleboard, kayak, and take surf lessons in Los Cerritos, you can explore the waves with our friendly, professional guides.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or want to catch a wave for the first time, our lessons are suitable for all ages and abilities. We want you to feel confident on a board and go at a pace that suits each learner. Have any questions, about surfing or otherwise? Just get in touch!
(When to Go to Playa Los Cerritos
The best time to surf at Playa Los Cerritos for experienced boarders is during the winter months, from November to March. During this time, the waves are larger and more consistent, with swells reaching up to 12 feet.
The water temperature is also slightly cooler, but still comfortable enough to surf in a wetsuit. The summer months, from June to August, are also a great time to surf, with smaller waves and warmer water temperatures. This is an awesome vacation activity for all ages!
And if you want to partake in some seaside activities while you’re here, you may want to consider joining us for our Cabo Surf Lessons at Cerritos or Guided Los Cabos Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour.
Surf Breaks at Playa Los Cerritos
Playa Los Cerritos offers several surf breaks, each with its own unique characteristics. The main break is a sand-bottom beach break that offers fun, mellow waves that are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. The views are unparalleled from the sea and shore.
The waves here are usually waist-high to chest-high, with occasional larger sets. The best time to surf this break is during high tide.
For more experienced surfers, there is a reef break located to the south of the main break. This break offers larger, more powerful waves that can reach up to 10 feet during the winter months. The best time to surf this break is during mid-tide to low tide.
Another surf break, known as the Rivermouth, is located to the north of the main break. This break offers fun, mellow waves that are great for beginners and intermediates alike. The waves are usually waist-high to chest-high, with occasional large swells. Again, the best time to surf this break is during high tide.
What to Bring to Playa Los Cerritos
When surfing at Playa Los Cerritos, there are a few essential items that you’ll need to bring with you. These include:
Surfboard
Depending on your skill level and the conditions, you’ll want to bring either a longboard or a shortboard. If you’re a beginner, a longboard is the best option as it provides more stability and easier paddling.
Of course, if you’re taking a lesson at Los Cerritos with High Tide Los Cabos, we’ll provide you with a soft deck surfboard as well as rash guards or a wetsuit. The maximum number of surfers we take is 30, meaning you’ll have plenty of time with your instructor.
Wetsuit
Even though the water temperature is warm, a wetsuit is still necessary for surfing at Playa Los Cerritos. During the winter months, a 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended, while a 2mm wetsuit is suitable for the summer months.
Get in touch with us if you’d like detailed recommendations about where to buy your wetsuit or rent one.
Wax
Make sure to bring plenty of surf wax to keep your board from slipping while you’re surfing. You don’t want anything to get between you and the waves, other than your surfboard!
Sunscreen
The sun in Baja California Sur is strong, even on cloudy days, so make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.
Towel
A towel is essential for drying off after your surf session.
Water and Snacks
Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized. Surfing is a vigorous activity, so you’ll want to fuel up after your session.
Accommodations Near Playa Los Cerritos
Here are a few local recommendations for accommodation if you’re planning to stay in Los Cabos during your surf adventure.
Cerritos Surf Town Beach Hotel: Located just steps away from the beach, this hotel offers oceanfront rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
Rancho Pescadero: This boutique hotel is located a short drive from Playa Los Cerritos and offers luxurious accommodations, a pool, and a restaurant.
Cerritos Beach Inn: This hotel is located a short walk from the beach and offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
Though, with all of these accommodation options, the biggest pool you’ll have is the ocean itself!
Safety Tips For Playa Los Cerritos
While surfing at Playa Los Cerritos is generally safe, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind to ensure a fun and safe surf session:
- Always check the conditions before surfing and be aware of any hazards such as rocks or reefs.
- Never surf alone, and always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
- Respect other surfers and the local marine life.
- Stay hydrated and be aware of signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
- Always wear a leash to keep your board from drifting away if you fall off.
- Be mindful of rip currents and how to escape them.
If you’re a surfer looking for a new spot to catch some waves, Playa Los Cerritos should definitely be on your list. With its consistent waves, warm water, and beautiful views, it’s no wonder that surfers from all over the world come here to surf.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Playa Los Cerritos has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your board, and head to Baja California Sur for an unforgettable surf experience.
If you’d like more local recommendations, get in touch with our bilingual team who will be happy to help guide you on your surfing journey. We also offer plenty of other outdoor activities in Los Cabos, so take a look at our website for some further destination inspiration!
