Cabo San Lucas? Oh, it’s a surfer’s dream, no doubt about it. We’re talking epic waves and scenery that’ll make your jaw drop. Whether you’re a seasoned pro ripping barrels or just looking to catch your first wave, there’s a perfect spot waiting. Knowing the best season to surf in Cabo San Lucas can seriously level up your surf trip.
Here at Surf Shop Cabo, we’ve got the lowdown on planning your next aquatic adventure. We’re diving deep into the best times to visit, killer spots for every skill level, and all the insider tips you’ll need. So, get ready to wax up that board and chase those perfect Pacific and Sea of Cortez swells. It’s time to get stoked!
Cabo’s super unique location, right on the tip of the Baja California peninsula, gives us access to two totally different coastlines. That means an awesome variety of waves and conditions all year round. From mellow rollers perfect for cruising to powerful, barreling beasts, Cabo truly serves up everything.
Figuring out those seasonal shifts in swell direction and intensity is key to scoring the rides of your life. We’re about to break it all down so you can perfectly align your trip with the waves you’ve been dreaming of. Let’s pump up the volume and get ready to surf in stunning Cabo!
Oh, and remember, at Surf Shop Cabo, we’ve got a huge selection of surf accessories and apparel to cover all your needs. Come check us out!
Summer: The Swell Season (May to October)
Summer in Cabo is absolutely prime time if you’re a serious surfer hunting for some major waves. This is when we see those consistent south swells rolling in, mostly from the mighty Pacific. And the water? It’s like a warm bath, often over 80°F, so leave that wetsuit at home!
The East Cape totally comes alive during these months, dishing out some incredible breaks. Swells born way down in the Southern Hemisphere travel all the way north, delivering powerful, long-period waves right to our shores. If you’re looking for an adrenaline spike, this is your sweet spot.
Hot spots like Zippers, La Roca, and Shipwrecks are absolutely firing in the summer. These breaks are famous for their super-fast, powerful rights and those challenging barrels that’ll test your mettle. Intermediate and advanced surfers will find endless chances to really push their limits.
Yeah, the weather gets hot and humid, but the ocean is your ultimate cool-down. The whole surf scene is buzzing with energy, making it a fantastic time to link up with other wave riders. Just a friendly reminder: slather on that sunscreen, because that Baja sun doesn’t play!
Fall: Uncrowded Perfection (September to November)
Fall in Cabo? It’s a total secret weapon for surfers, often blending awesome swells with way fewer crowds. The water stays deliciously warm, and the air temperature starts to mellow out, giving you that perfect balance. This season can really offer a fantastic mix of conditions.
South swells can still hang around, setting up some great sessions, especially early in the fall. As the season progresses, you might start noticing the shift towards more northerly swells gracing the Pacific side. This means even more variety to choose from, no matter your preference.
September and October, in particular, can be ideal if you’re keen to dodge the main tourist rush. Lots of folks are back at work or school, and the big holiday crowds haven’t descended yet. It’s truly a golden window for snagging uncrowded, epic sessions.
Even those more remote breaks on the East Cape, like Shipwrecks and Nine Palms, become easier to access and way less packed. Making the journey to these spots is totally worth it for the pristine conditions and the real chance of having waves all to yourself.
Winter: Pacific Power (November to April)
Winter brings a cool change, with consistent northwest swells pounding the Pacific coastline. While the air might be a bit cooler, the water stays super pleasant, usually hovering in the low to mid-70s°F. Some folks might even find a light springsuit pretty comfy.
This is the season where those Pacific-facing beaches really shine bright. Legendary spots like Cerritos, just north of Cabo San Lucas, are famous for their consistent and super-friendly waves. It’s an absolute go-to destination for surfers of all levels.
Beginners will totally dig the gentler, more manageable waves you’ll find at breaks like Old Man’s and Acapulquito. These spots provide killer conditions for learning the ropes and progressing without feeling totally swamped. Plus, surf lessons are always easy to find here.
For the more experienced crew, Monuments Beach offers a quick, often hollow left break. While it can get a bit busy since it’s close to town, the waves are definitely worth battling for. Get ready for some zippy rides!
Spring: Transition and Variety (April to May)
Spring in Cabo is like that sweet in-between phase, giving you a mix of lingering winter swells and the first hints of those glorious summer south swells. This can lead to some really varied conditions, so you get a taste of the best of both worlds.
The weather? Generally spectacular, with comfy temps and sunshine galore. The ocean’s warming up nicely, making for super pleasant sessions where you probably won’t even need a heavy wetsuit. It’s just a beautiful time to soak up all that Baja goodness.
You might just stumble upon some killer waves on both the Pacific side and the Sea of Cortez during this time. Keep a close eye on those forecasts, though, because swell patterns can be a little more playful. Being flexible is your best friend in spring.
Spring is also an awesome time if you love exploring different breaks and experiencing various wave types. It’s a prime season to discover new favorite spots and truly enjoy the ever-changing conditions across this incredible region.
Finding Your Perfect Wave: Spot Recommendations
For all you beginners out there, Playa Acapulquito (aka Old Man’s) and Cerritos are absolutely top-notch choices. Old Man’s offers a long, mellow right-hand point break, just perfect for learning or cruising on a longboard. Cerritos, a little further north, dishes out consistent beach breaks that are great for all levels. Both spots even have surf schools and rentals right on the sand, making it super easy.
Intermediate surfers, you’ve gotta check out Costa Azul, which is home to a few different breaks like The Rock and Zippers. Zippers is that fast, powerful right-hand point break that’s basically legendary in Cabo. The Rock is a bit more forgiving than Zippers but still throws down a solid challenge. Just a heads up, these spots can get crowded, so be ready to share the stoke!
And for the advanced chargers, you’ll find your thrill at spots like Shipwrecks on the East Cape or La Roca. Shipwrecks is a more remote, powerful right-hand point break that absolutely lights up on south swells. La Roca, also on the East Cape, is known for its heavy, hollow barrels over a shallow reef, so it demands precision and some serious experience. Always check the conditions and chat with the local crew before you tackle these beasts!
Ultimately, the best season to surf in Cabo San Lucas really boils down to your skill level and what kind of waves get you buzzing. Summer delivers those powerful south swells for the pros, while winter brings consistent Pacific waves perfect for everyone. Fall is your ticket to uncrowded perfection, and spring offers a versatile, fun mix. No matter when you decide to visit, Surf Shop Cabo is always here to get you geared up for the surf adventure of a lifetime!
Ready to catch your perfect wave?
