BAJA SURFING

Baja California, a rugged peninsula stretching along Mexico’s northwest coast, offers a breathtaking blend of raw natural beauty and thrilling surf adventures. Its pristine beaches and powerful Pacific swells draw surfers from around the globe, eager to ride waves framed by dramatic cliffs and golden sunsets. From the legendary breaks of Rosarito to the hidden gems near Ensenada, the region boasts diverse surf spots catering to beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

The vibrant coastal culture, infused with local hospitality, fresh seafood, and laid-back vibes, enhances the allure of every surf trip. Adventurers can explore uncrowded beaches, remote coves, and world-class waves, making every session an unforgettable experience. Baja’s unique mix of accessibility and wild, untamed shores creates a perfect playground for those chasing the thrill of the ocean.

Whether you’re carving through glassy barrels or camping under starlit skies, surfing in Baja California promises both adrenaline and serenity. This sun-soaked paradise invites surfers to embrace the rhythm of the waves and the spirit of adventure.

K-28 Baja Malibu Surf Spot

Baja Malibu is a fast-breaking beach break reminiscent of its California namesake, offering punchy waves that can provide barrel opportunities for skilled surfers. It's popular among locals and cross-border visitors due to its proximity to Tijuana and consistent performance on south swells. The spot can get crowded on weekends but rewards with powerful sections when conditions align.
Favors mid-tide with solid south swells and offshore winds for clean, glassy faces; suitable for advanced surfers seeking high-performance rides.
Access via a short dirt road off the coastal highway; no special directions needed, but watch for pollution after rain. Kilometer marker: K-28.

K-32 Rosarito Beach Surf Spot

Rosarito Beach features a long, exposed beach break with multiple peaks and sandbars that create fun, rideable waves for all levels. It's a vibrant spot surrounded by nightlife and amenities, making it ideal for a full-day surf trip. However, relics from beach activities like horseback rides can litter the sand, so booties are recommended.
Favors mid-tide with combo swells (NW and SW) for peaky, playful conditions; beginner-friendly with forgiving waves.
Easily accessible directly from Rosarito town center; park along the beachfront road. Kilometer marker: K-32.

K-34 Popotla Surfing Spot

Popotla is a reef break with left and right peaks that break over a rocky bottom, providing punchy and hollow waves when the swell hits right. It's less crowded than nearby spots but requires careful navigation to avoid the urchins and rocks at low tide. The area is known for its scenic rocky coastline and nearby fishing village vibe.
Favors low to mid-tide with SW swells and north winds for clean, barreling sections; intermediate to advanced surfers.
Access through a gated community or dirt path off the highway; may require a short walk or local knowledge to find the best entry. Kilometer marker: K-34.

K-35 Calafia Surf Spot

Calafia offers a quality right-hand point break with long, peeling walls that allow for extended rides and maneuvers. The wave wraps around a headland, creating consistent shape even on smaller days. It's a favorite for longboarders and those looking for a mellow session amid beautiful cliffs.
Favors SW swells with offshore north winds for glassy, ripable conditions; suitable for all levels but best at mid-tide.
Park at the nearby resort or pullout; easy access via stairs down to the beach. Kilometer marker: K-35.

K-38 Surf Spot Rosarito

K-38 is a classic right point break with multiple sections including The Point, The Left, Maria’s, and Theresa’s, offering bowly and fun waves year-round. The reef setup provides consistent rides, but rocks and urchins are hazards at low tide. A nearby surf shop and motel make it a convenient hub for surfers.
Favors mid to low tide with any swell direction, especially west or south; intermediate level with clean offshore winds.
Direct pullout off the highway with easy beach access; no 4x4 needed. Kilometer marker: K-38.

K-43 Las Gaviotas Surf Spot

Las Gaviotas features a mellow right-hand peeler over a mix of sand and reef, ideal for longboarding and beginners. The waves are generally smaller and more forgiving than neighboring breaks, with a family-friendly atmosphere. Tropical vacation homes line the shore, adding to the relaxed vibe.
Favors smaller swells in summer or winter with offshore north winds; all tides but best mid-high for cleanliness.
Access via the residential area; park in designated spots and walk down to the beach. Kilometer marker: K-43.

K-58 La Fonda/Alisitos Surf Spot

La Fonda is an exposed rivermouth point break favoring lefts, perfect for goofy-footers with long, workable walls on the right swell. It can hold size and gets crowded when pumping, but quieter peaks are available nearby. The surrounding pueblo community offers a cultural touch to the surf experience.
Favors mid-tide with solid west or south swells for shaped, powerful waves; intermediate surfers.
Pay for parking at Alisitos campground and scope from cliffs; 4x4 not required but helpful for dirt roads. Kilometer marker: K-58.

K-65 Salsipuedes Surf Spot Baja California North

K-65 Salsipuedes Surfing

Salsipuedes features an A-frame reef to the north and a hollow right point to the south, translating to "leave if you can" due to its challenging cliffs. It transforms into a high-performance wave on big SW swells, with fast sections and potential tubes. The remote feel adds adventure, but it's not for beginners.
Favors low tide with powerful southwest swells and offshore winds; advanced surfers only.
Access through Playa Saldamando campground ($19/night); requires 4x4 vehicle for the steep dirt track. Kilometer marker: K-65.

K-92 San Miguel Surfing Baja California North

K-92 San Miguel Surfing Ensenada

San Miguel is a renowned right-hand point break over cobblestones, offering peeling walls and occasional barrels similar to California's Trestles. It's historically significant as a birthplace of Mexican surfing and protected within a state park. The black-sand beach and consistent shape draw crowds on good days.
Favors long-period NW groundswells in winter with offshore winds; intermediate to advanced.
Park and camp at Arroyo San Miguel State Park; easy highway access with facilities. Kilometer marker: K-92.

K-98 Tres Emes/3M's Surfing Spot

Tres Emes mirrors San Miguel with cruisy right shoulders in winter and A-frame peaks in summer over a similar cobblestone setup. It's slightly less punchy but provides fun, uncrowded alternatives across the bay from Ensenada. The spot works well on mixed swells and offers scenic views of the area.
Favors SW swells in summer or NW in winter with glassy offshore conditions; all levels but best for intermediates.
Access via coastal road west of San Miguel; free parking along the pullouts. Kilometer marker: K-98.

Volcanoes Surfing San Quintin Baja California North

KM 400 Volcanoes San Quintin Surfing

Description: Volcanoes, near San Quintin, is a rugged, remote beach break with powerful waves that reward adventurous surfers. The bumpy dirt road access deters crowds, offering a raw surfing experience. It’s known for handling larger swells well, attracting skilled surfers.
Conditions Favored: Best on northwest winter swells (November–April), with mid to high tide and offshore winds for optimal shape.
Access Directions: Exit Highway 1 near San Quintin (~400 km) at the yellow “Entrada y Salida De Vehs Militares” sign, follow the dirt road west to the beach.