The Complete Guide to Cerritos Beach: Baja's Hidden Gem
Tucked between Todos Santos and Pescadero along Baja California Sur's stunning Pacific coast, Cerritos Beach has earned a reputation as one of Mexico's most beloved beach destinations—yet it remains blissfully uncrowded compared to its famous neighbor, Cabo San Lucas.
Whether you're a surfer chasing consistent breaks, a family seeking swimmable waves, or a traveler looking for authentic Baja charm, Cerritos Beach offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back luxury.
Why Cerritos Beach Stands Out
The Goldilocks of Baja Beaches
Cerritos occupies a sweet spot that's rare in beach destinations: it's developed enough to offer excellent amenities and dining, yet untouched enough to maintain its natural character. You won't find high-rise hotels or crowded beach clubs—just golden sand, rolling waves, and a welcoming community.
Swimmable, Surfable, Perfect
Unlike many Pacific-facing beaches in Baja that can be too rough for comfortable swimming, Cerritos offers consistent waves that are challenging enough for surfers but gentle enough for confident swimmers. It's one of the few beaches in the region where the entire family can enjoy the water safely.
The Surf Scene: World-Class Breaks for All Levels
Why Surfers Love Cerritos
Cerritos Beach has become a pilgrimage site for surfers worldwide, and for good reason:
Consistent Waves: The beach picks up south, west, and northwest swells year-round. While summer (May-October) brings the most consistent surf, winter months still offer plenty of rideable days.
Multiple Breaks: The beach features several distinct breaks:
The Point: A right-hand point break for intermediate to advanced surfers
The Beach Break: Consistent peaks along the beach, perfect for beginners
South End: Less crowded section with fun, forgiving waves
Beginner-Friendly: This is one of the best learn-to-surf beaches in all of Baja. The sandy bottom, consistent rollers, and long rides make it ideal for first-timers.
Surf Schools and Rentals
Several reputable surf schools operate directly on Cerritos Beach:
Cerritos Surf Colony: Full-service with lessons, rentals, and a beachfront café
Mario Surf School: Local favorite with experienced instructors
Various independent instructors: Look for signs on the beach
Rental rates typically run $15-25 USD per day for boards, with lessons starting around $50 USD for a 2-hour session.
Best Surf Seasons
Summer (May-October): Most consistent swells, warmer water (75-80°F), larger waves
Winter (November-April): Smaller but still surfable, cooler water (65-70°F), less crowded
Year-round: You'll rarely find flat days; Cerritos almost always has something rideable
Dining at Cerritos Beach
One of Cerritos's greatest pleasures is eating with your toes in the sand, watching surfers catch waves as the sun descends into the Pacific.
Beachfront Restaurants
Cerritos Beach Club The original and most established restaurant on the beach. Known for:
Fresh fish tacos and ceviche
Cold beer and margaritas
Beach loungers for customers
Sunset views from their palapa
Barracuda Cantina A lively spot offering:
Grilled seafood platters
Wood-fired pizzas
Live music on weekends
Friendly, casual atmosphere
La Antigua For a more upscale experience:
Contemporary Mexican cuisine
Craft cocktails
Romantic ambiance
Reservations recommended for sunset tables
Pro Tips for Beach Dining
Arrive before 5:30 PM to secure the best sunset viewing tables
Cash is preferred at most beachfront spots, though cards are increasingly accepted
Service is relaxed—embrace Baja time and enjoy the moment
Try the local catch of the day; it's always the freshest option
Activities Beyond Surfing
Beach Walks and Tidepools
At low tide, the southern end of Cerritos reveals fascinating tidepools teeming with marine life. It's an educational adventure for kids and adults alike. The beach extends for miles in both directions, perfect for morning or sunset strolls.
Horseback Riding
Several operators offer sunset horseback rides along the beach—a quintessentially Baja experience. Watching the sun sink into the Pacific from horseback is unforgettable.
Yoga and Wellness
The area around Cerritos has become a hub for wellness activities:
Beach yoga sessions at sunrise
Wellness retreats in nearby properties
Massage services available at local spas and some beach clubs
Fishing
Cerritos offers excellent fishing opportunities:
Surf fishing directly from the beach (permit required)
Panga fishing trips can be arranged through local captains
Species include roosterfish, dorado, yellowfin tuna, and marlin (seasonal)
The Cerritos Community
A Welcoming Vibe
What sets Cerritos apart from more touristy Baja destinations is its authentic, welcoming community. You'll find a mix of:
Long-term Mexican residents
Expat families who've made Baja home
Digital nomads enjoying the laid-back lifestyle
Respectful travelers who value the area's charm
The vibe is unpretentious and friendly. Locals remember regular visitors, and there's a genuine sense of community rather than tourist-vendor transactions.
Nearby Towns: Todos Santos and Pescadero
Todos Santos (15 minutes north)
Historic "Pueblo Mágico" designation
Art galleries and cultural events
Boutique shopping
The famous Hotel California
Weekly farmer's market (Saturday mornings)
Pescadero (5 minutes south)
Authentic Mexican town
Local markets and taco stands
Less touristy, more residential
Gas stations and basic services
Planning Your Cerritos Beach Visit
Getting There
From Los Cabos Airport:
45-60 minute drive north on Highway 19
Rental car recommended for flexibility
Private transfers available through most hotels
From La Paz:
1.5 hours south through Todos Santos
Scenic drive along the coast
Where to Stay
Options range from budget-friendly to luxury:
Beachfront hotels: Cerritos Beach Hotel, Cerritos Surf Town
Private villas: Including Villa Alma del Mar with its unique amenities
Vacation rentals: Various options through Airbnb and VRBO
Camping: Some areas permit beach camping
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (November-April):
Perfect weather (70-85°F)
Drier conditions
More crowds (though still manageable)
Higher accommodation rates
Shoulder Season (May and October):
Great balance of weather and value
Fewer tourists
Good surf conditions
Summer (June-September):
Warmest weather and water
Occasional rain (brief afternoon showers)
Best surf swells
Lowest accommodation rates
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory in Baja)
Sun protection (hat, rash guard, sunglasses)
Water shoes for rocky areas
Light layers for evening breezes
Insect repellent for dusk
Reusable water bottle
Safety and Practical Information
Ocean Safety
Always respect the ocean—riptides can occur
Swim near lifeguarded areas when available
Beginners should take surf lessons before paddling out
Check surf reports and local conditions
Never swim alone in unfamiliar waters
General Safety
Cerritos is remarkably safe, but standard travel precautions apply:
Don't leave valuables unattended on the beach
Avoid walking on empty beaches after dark
Keep copies of important documents
Have emergency contacts programmed in your phone
Money and Services
Bring cash; not all establishments accept cards
Nearest ATMs are in Todos Santos or Pescadero
Cell service is generally reliable
Medical services available in Todos Santos
Why Stay at Villa Alma del Mar for Your Cerritos Beach Experience
While Cerritos Beach itself is the main attraction, where you stay can dramatically enhance your experience. Villa Alma del Mar offers:
Prime Location: Just minutes from Cerritos Beach, positioned above Sunset Cove with ocean views, yet private and secluded.
Active Amenities: After your beach session, continue the adventure with your private tennis court, bocce, ping pong, pool, and jacuzzi.
Space and Privacy: Unlike beachfront hotels where you're surrounded by other guests, enjoy a full private villa perfect for families or friend groups.
The Best of Both Worlds: Easy beach access while maintaining the peace and comfort of a private estate with modern luxury.
The Cerritos Experience: More Than Just a Beach
Cerritos Beach represents something increasingly rare: a place that's been discovered but not overdeveloped, popular but not crowded, equipped with amenities but still wild at heart.
It's where professional surfers train alongside families building sandcastles. Where you can start your day with yoga on the beach and end it with fresh ceviche and cold cerveza. Where the sunsets are so reliably spectacular that locals still pause to watch them.
Whether you're planning a week-long surf trip, a family vacation, or a romantic escape, Cerritos Beach delivers an authentic Baja experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
The waves are waiting. The fish tacos are calling. Your Cerritos adventure begins now.
Experience Cerritos Beach from Villa Alma del Mar: Private luxury meets beachfront access.
