Playa Los Cerritos is the best-known surf beach in the Todos Santos and El Pescadero area. It is a long stretch of Pacific sand reached by a dirt road from Highway 19, with beach bars, restaurants and a few hotels along the shore, and free parking. The waves are the draw: Cerritos is widely regarded as a good place to learn, while stronger days bring experienced surfers to the main break. Even if you never stand on a board, the beach is a social place, with surf schools, a sunset crowd and plenty of space to walk. Most hotels in the area offer lessons, and the price normally includes the board, wetsuit, leash, wax and sunscreen. The Pacific here has real power, so swimming needs care and local advice.
How to enjoy it
Choose between a lesson, a rental and a lazy day on the sand. Beginners usually take a lesson with a local instructor, who will pick the right section of the beach for the day. Experienced surfers can rent a board and check the forecast. Facilities include toilets, and showers are generally for restaurant customers, so plan to buy a drink or a meal. Parking is free.
Safety
The Pacific side of Baja has strong currents and shifting sandbars, and conditions change with the swell. Ask your instructor or a local before you swim, avoid swimming alone, and watch children closely. If you are not a confident swimmer, stay in the shallows or choose a calmer beach such as one inside the oasis near town.
Plan around it
Late afternoon to sunset is the most social time, and mornings are quieter, with cleaner surf on many days. The beach is a short drive from the center of Todos Santos, so it fits a half-day trip with lunch on the sand. Some stays, including a beachfront hotel in our list, sit right here, which makes it easy to catch both sunrise and sunset waves. Bring sun protection and cash for small purchases.
What to expect
The experience
A free public beach with surf lessons, board rentals, beach bars and restaurants along the sand.
Best time
Morning for cleaner waves and fewer people, or late afternoon through sunset for the social scene.
How long
A half day, longer if you take a lesson and stay for lunch.
Tips
Ask your instructor or a local about conditions, avoid swimming alone and bring sun protection.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Surfers, first-time learners and sunset watchers.
- Families
- Fine for sand and shallow play with close supervision, but the surf and currents are strong.
- Couples
- A lesson together, then drinks on the beach as the sun goes down.
- Pair with
- Punta Lobos, a turtle release in season and a beachfront stay.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Is Los Cerritos good for beginners?+
It is widely regarded as a good place to learn, and lessons are easy to find. Always go with a local instructor and check conditions on the day.
Is it safe to swim?+
The Pacific here has strong currents and shifting sandbars, so swim only with local advice and never alone. Non-surfers may prefer a calmer beach.
Does it cost anything to visit?+
No, the beach and the parking are free. You pay for lessons, rentals, food and drinks.
What do surf lessons include?+
Prices typically include the board, wetsuit, leash, wax and sunscreen, though details vary by provider. Confirm what is included when you book.
How far is it from Todos Santos?+
It is a short drive from town, reached by a dirt road from the highway. A rental car or taxi is the easiest way to go.
