9 Best Cabo San Lucas surfing lessons to book (2024)

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SO YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SURFING LESSONS IN CABO SAN LUCAS?

This article is for you!

Located on the tip of the Baja California where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, Cabo San Lucas is one of the best places for surfing in Mexico where you can find many beaches for all levels whether you are a pro or a newbie looking to improve your surfing technique.

Many beaches in Cabo are more suitable for surfing than swimming, due to powerful waves and strong currents. Whether you decide to surf along the Pacific Side of Cabo like Playa Cerritos near Todos Santos or Costa Azul, one of the most popular places for surfing in Cabo San Lucas, you will have a blast. 

There are no surfing classes in Cabo San Lucas. The core of the city has a marina and several beaches, but no surfing. But you can find a surfing community along the corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo, home to several surfing beaches and the best surfing schools in Cabo, including Mike Doyle, named after the famed surfer inside Cabo Surf Hotel on Acapulquito Beach.

How do I know about all that?

I’ve spent much time in Cabo and go back frequently because Baja California is one of my favorite destinations in Mexico. I know the best surfing beaches in Cabo that you can reach by car or Uber ride, and in this article, I will share my expertise and experience with you.

Don’t have transportation? Don’t worry!

In this guide, I sourced the best lessons from top surfing schools in Cabo where you can improve your skills and get advice from surfing pros with many years of experience. 

Best surfing classes in Cabo by category: 

• Best surf lesson with tacos 🌮
• Best full day surfing expedition in Cabo ⛴️
• Best private lesson at Costa Azul 💙
• Best surfing boat safari in Cabo 🏄🏽‍♂️
• Best custom surf lesson in Cabo 🌊

9 Best Cabo San Lucas Surfing Lessons

⭐️ 5 stars – 40 reviews ⌚️duration – 7 hours ✅ free cancellation

1. Surf Lesson at Playa Cerritos near Todos Santos

Located just south of Todos Santos, Playa Cerritos is one of the most popular surfing beaches in Cabo accessible by a dirt road from the main highway. 

Playa Cerritos is better for intermediate surfers who feel more confident on a surfboard, but don’t worry! You too can ride those fun waves, even if you don’t have a lot of experience.                           

All you need to do is book a surfing class with one of the local pros. 

Playa Cerritos has several surfing schools and board rentals, but if you go by yourself, you have to negotiate prices and explain things. You might also need at least a basic level of Spanish to communicate, although many surfing schools in Cabo have English speaking staff.

But don’t worry. When you book a surfing tour in Playa Cerritos, you don’t have to go in the water alone – an experienced instructor will show you all the moves and allow you to practice on the board while you are at the beach before heading into the water. 

No matter how much surfing experience you have, this private lesson will be tailored to your level and skills. 

Another bonus of booking your surf lesson online is that you won’t have to pay extra for equipment. Surfboards and wetsuits are provided, and snacks and bottled water are included but lunch can be added as an optional. 

What’s included: 

• Professional surf instructor
• Surfboard
• Rash guard
• Lunch – fish tacos, shrimp, chips, sauces and guacamole. Vegetarian options available
• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or cruise port

What’s not included: 

• Gratuities
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic beverages

Guide was simply fantastic. Positive, encouraging, patient, professional and didn’t miss a beat. Great drive and conversation along the way. Perfectly tailored to my energy/requests.

andrea

⭐️ 5 stars – 61 reviews ⌚️duration – 6 hours ✅ free cancellation

2. Private Surf Lesson & Tacos

Whether you’re riding waves for the first time or want to improve your surfing skills, you will have fun on this awesome private tour that includes a surf lesson followed by a taco session. 

It’s no secret that surfing is a challenging water sport with a high percentage of injuries. 

But rest assured, your guide will offer you their undivided attention and offer practical tips and techniques on how you can become a better surfer, so you will leave this class more knowledgeable and prepared to tackle the waves on your next adventure. 

After you practice the moves on the beach and spend time practicing in the water under the Cabo sun, you will get hungry! This class also includes a delicious Mexican lunch with tacos made from local catch.

The tour also includes round-trip transportation to and from your hotel, so you don’t have to rent a car or look for a meeting point.

What’s included:

• Surfboard
• Snacks
• Surf instructor
• Bottled water
• Private transportation
• Beach chairs, cooler and umbrellas 
• Wetsuit

What’s not included:

• Alcoholic drinks
• Lunch
• Gratuities

We appreciate Max and Carlos working with all of us. It was a successful day! They were extremely accommodating and very professional. 100% recommend this tour.

sara

⭐️ 5 stars – 34 reviews ⌚️duration – 7 hours ✅ free cancellation

3. Full-Day Surf Expedition in Cabo San Lucas

While Cabo San Lucas has plenty of surfing areas, some of them are away from the shore, so you will need a boat rental or car rental to get there. 

Renting a boat in Cabo is not cheap, but the good news is that you can join a full-day surf expedition from Cabo San Lucas, which will take you to the hidden surf spots in Cabo free from crowds, so you will all the waves to yourself. 

The tour is headed by professional instructors who will teach you about surfing culture and lifestyle. 

Thanks to the small size of the operation, you can enjoy a personalized service customized to your skill level. Your crew will find just the right waves for you and teach you everything from technique and etiquette that you will need if you want to level up your surfing game. 

You also have a professional photographer take pictures of you while you enjoy a memorable surfing session along the Cabo’s stunning coastline. 

The tour includes a meal and transportation to and from your hotel. 

What’s included:

• Private transportation
• Breakfast – coffee, healthy snacks, fruit and fresh water
• LunchLight lunch
• Chairs, shade and ice chest
• Professional photography

What’s not included:

• Gratuities

Enmartin was a great host. Carlos was very good at providing in-water instruction. Phenomenal experience.

anup

⭐️ 5 stars – 30 reviews ⌚️duration – 2,5 hours ✅ free cancellation

4. Private Los Cabos Surf Lesson at Costa Azul

Want to learn to surf like a pro?

Book a private surfing lesson at Costa Azul, one of the best surfing spots in Cabo for beginners. 

Costa Azul is well-known for its consistent waves, making it a favorite among surfers of all skill levels. The area offers a range of surf breaks, with Zippers being one of the most famous, especially during the summer months when the south swells hit. Zippers is a great spot for intermediate to advanced surfers.

Costa Azul has a nice break where you can hone your skills under the supervision of your instructor who will teach you the techniques and go in the water with you. 

The tour begins with a pick-up at your hotel and takes a few hours, so you can enjoy a nice, comfortable ride before you hit the waves. 

What’s included:

• Surf Board
• Bottled water and granola bars
• Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
• Private guide
• Rash guard or wetsuit
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan

What’s not included:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities

Had lots of fun with our family of 5 catching larger waves than we anticipated! Thanks for a great experience, we will be back!

karl

⌚️duration – 2 hours ✅ free cancellation

5. Small-Group Surfing Tour in San Jose Del Cabo 

If you are not staying in San Jose Del Cabo, a sister city of Cabo San Lucas, and don’t want to travel too far, book this small-group adventure in San José del Cabo that offers more personalized attention from your instructor.

The lessons are customized to your skill level, whether you are a beginner or a more advanced surfer. The company limits tours to a few participants to help students have a one-on-one interaction with their instructor.

Small group tours also offer one-on-one interaction with your instructor and great camaraderie, as you will interact and learn from other surfers on a tour. 

These tours are committed to preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the surf spots we visit. They adhere to strict environmental practices, emphasizing sustainability, conservation, and respect for the marine ecosystem.

What’s included:

• Bilingual guides
• Drinks
• Snacks
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

What’s not included:

• Gratuities

⌚️duration – 5 hours ✅ free cancellation

6. Surf Safari from San Jose del Cabo

Do you want to explore the best surfing spots in Cabo San Lucas?

Join the first and only Boat Surf Safari in Baja California Sur! 

This popular expedition bills itself as the pioneer of surfing. The tour includes a boat safari to multiple breaks around Cabo San Lucas – a fun and memorable experience as you enjoy the views of Cabo’s spectacular coast from the comfort of your boat before jumping in the water. 

If you have a preference for a certain break you want to check out, you can contact the company and let them know about your preferences ahead of time, so they create a custom tour for you.

This tour is conducted in partnership with the best surf companies in Cabo- a group of dedicated surf professionals who take pride in showing the best surf spots in San Jose del Cabo. 

What’s included:

• Roundtrip transportation
• Soda

What’s not included:

• Gratuities

⭐️ 5 stars – 20 reviews ⌚️duration – 7 hours ✅ free cancellation

7. Baja Surf Expedition for Experienced Surfers

Are you an experienced surfer looking for more challenging waves in Cabo San Lucas? 

It’s no secret that Cabo boasts many great surfing spots, most of which can be reached by a relatively quick drive from your hotel. Many surfing schools in Cabo take their students there, so it’s common for them to get busy, especially during the high season. 

If you want to enjoy secluded breaks without tons of people, join a Baja surfing expedition, that will take you on a fun ride in a 4X4 as you search for the best waves around Cabo. 

The tour includes all the necessary gear and is headed by local surf experts who know the area’s best spots. When you arrive at your destination, your guide will set up a surf camp with plenty of water, snacks, and shade, while you can enjoy surfing the breaks. 

What’s included:

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• Surf instructor
• Surfboard
• Beach gear (chairs, shade, cooler, shower, frisbee)
• Snacks

What’s not included:

• Lunch
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities

This was hands down the best thing we did while in Cabo. Max was super prepared (comfortable car, beach chairs & umbrella, snacks & water) as well as a great instructor. It was our second day surfing and we were able to catch waves ourselves & ride them almost to the beach by the end of the day. Really highly recommended, would go again tomorrow if I could.

lucas

⭐️ 5 stars – 10 reviews ⌚️duration – 2 hours ✅ free cancellation

8. A Fun Lesson with Mexico Surf Champ

Learn the secrets of surfing from a Mexico surfing champ at Catman Surf School, one of the best places to start surfing in Cabo.

All lessons start with an introduction to ocean awareness and safety briefing. 

Your instructor, Sergio, will teach you how to position yourself on the surfboard, paddle, and stand on the board. Following the briefing and a demo on the beach, jump in the water and try your hand at surfing small, white water waves. 

Your safety is always a priority, and Sergio will be by your side at all times during the tour. He will teach you to read the waves, take off correctly, and go over surfing etiquette. His private lessons are built to make your adventure on the waves one to remember. 

Send a message via WhatsApp to arrange a meet-up +52-624-119-8945

What’s included:

• Soft top surfboard
• Umbrella for shade

What’s not included:

• Gratuities

So so good he was the best teacher and super kind and paddled us out and helpful would recommend to any beginners but had such a good eye for the waves good for advanced too knows the best spots

hallie

⭐️ 5 stars – 14 reviews ⌚️duration – 2 hours ✅ free cancellation

9. Custom Surf Lesson in Cabo 

Enjoy the 2-hour wave riding session along the gorgeous coast of Cabo San Lucas along with your instructor who can guide you along the way and help you to avoid mistakes and provide a fun and safe environment. 

Your instructors have a wealth of expertise and can help you to ensure you have a memorable surf lesson that will help you to improve your skills and get a better understanding of the surfing culture. 

This customized session is designed to meet your goals and objectives, regardless of your skill level. Your instructor will also provide surfboards and rash guards and the meeting point provided ahead of the lesson is easy to find, so you don’t need to worry about getting lost. 

What’s included:

• Snacks
• Boards
• Rash guards
• Chairs and umbrellas

What’s not included:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Private transportation
• Gratuties

My 14 year old son and I had the greatest experience with Jorge learning how to surf. Very professional, safe, super friendly, would definitely recommend. It was the highlight of our trip

tripadvisor reviewer

Where to stay near the best surfing beaches in Cabo: 

If you are serious about improving your surfing skills, it’s better to book a hotel near surfing beaches. 

• Cabo Surf Hotel – A gorgeous boutique hotel that’s home to Mike Doyle Surfing School, this property boasts stunning beachfront views and delicious breakfast. The hotel is located along the highway between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas within a few steps from the beach. 

✅ BOOK YOUR STAY AT CABO SURF HOTEL

• Casa Azul Hotel – If you want to surf along Cabo’s Costa Azul, book this hotel. The bright rooms at the Casa Costa Azul feature tile floors and you can also try Mexican food at an onsite restaurant. The beach next to Casa Costa Azul is popular for surfing, and water sports equipment is available for rent.

✅ BOOK YOUR STAY AT CASA COSTA AZUL

• Cerritos Beach Inn – Located a few steps from Cerritos Beach, this cute hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. An à la carte, continental, or American breakfast is available daily. 

✅ BOOK YOUR STAY AT CERRITOS BEACH INN

Cabo San Lucas Surf Camps 

If you are looking for a surf camp in Baja California Sur, Cabo is your best option. There are several surf camps within a quick driving distance from Cabo where you can spend multiple days honing your surfing skills.

El Pescadero Surf Camp 

El Pescadero Surf Camp is one of the best surf camps in Cabo San Lucas located just outside of Todos Santos. The surf camp offers multiple sessions, board rentals, and a large communal kitchen where you can cook amazing meals.

Renting a car in Cabo San Lucas 

Renting a car is a great idea if you want to explore the best surfing beaches in Cabo San Lucas, which can’t be reached by public transportation. 

You can rent a car at San Jose Del Cabo International Airport (SJD), which has many car rental companies, including Alamo, Hertz, Budget, and Avis. Your best move is to rent a car in Cabo San Lucas after you land at the airport, because you will need either to take a public bus, private shuttle or taxi to your hotel.

Where to rent a car in Cabo San Lucas?

The best place to find car rentals in Cabo is DiscoverCars, an online platform, where you can find listings from many major car rental companies. DiscoverCars boasts budget-friendly rates and a good selection of cars or different makes and models. It’s a great place to find your car rental ahead of your trip to Cabo.

Once you select your car, fill out the paperwork, and when you arrive in Cabo, a representative of a car rental company will pick you up at the airport. I’ve rented a car with DiscoverCars at Cabo Airport several times and always had a great experience with them.

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San Jose Del Cabo surfing

San José del Cabo is a sister city of Cabo San Lucas, located on the southern tip of Baja California Sur, offers some excellent surf spots that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers. Zippers is one of the most famous surf breaks in the area with fast, powerful waves that are best for experienced surfers.

What is the best time to surf in Cabo?

The best time to surf in Cabo San Lucas is from June through October, with consistent southern swells, which bring good waves to many of the region’s breaks. It’s particularly good for spots like Zippers, Acapulquito, and other south-facing beaches. The water is warm during this time, typically ranging from the mid-70’s to low 80’s degrees Fahrenheit (24-28 °C), so a wetsuit is usually not necessary.

What are the best surfing beaches in Cabo San Lucas?

There are many surfing spots in Cabo San Lucas that offer excellent surfing conditions, each catering to different skill levels and wave conditions. Here are some of the best spots:

1. Costa Azul

Costa Azul is one of the most popular surfing spots in Cabo San Lucas that has several beaches where you can ride the wave. Known for its fast right-hand reef break, Zippers is one of the most popular surf spots in the region. The Rock is another popular spot that offers a more challenging wave for more experienced surfers.

2. Monuments Beach

Located closer to Cabo San Lucas, Monuments Beach offers a left-hand point break with rocky conditions. It’s best for advanced surfers due to the reef and strong currents.

3. Acapulquito Beach (Old Man’s Beach)

Playa Acapulquito is a great spot for beginners and longboarders, offering a more mellow wave. The beach is located near the Palmilla area and is a favorite for surf schools.

4. La Roca

Located in Cabo’s little-explored East Cape region, La Roca offers a right-hand reef break with a fun, rippable wave. It’s suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.

5. Todos Santos

While not in Cabo San Lucas proper, Todos Santos is worth the trip. It offers a variety of breaks, including Cerritos Beach, which is good for all skill levels, and La Pastora, known for its more challenging waves.

6. East Cape Beaches

Shipwrecks: A right-hand point break for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Nine Palms: A long, gentle wave perfect for longboarders and beginners.

7. El Tule

Located between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, El Tule offers a variety of waves, from beginner-friendly beach breaks to more challenging reef breaks.

Tips for Beginner Surfers in Cabo:

1. Start with a lesson

Even if you’re tempted to jump right in, book a surfing lesson from a certified instructor can provide a solid foundation and ensure you’re aware of safety practices and can handle the waves.

2. Use the right equipment

Soft-top boards are recommended for beginners because they are more forgiving and stable.

3. Be mindful of conditions

Always check the surf conditions and be aware of tides, currents, and local hazards.

4. Practice safety

Learn about rip currents, surf etiquette, and local hazards. ALWAYS check conditions before getting in the water.

Surfing lessons in Cabo: FAQ’s 

Is Cabo a good place to learn to surf?

Cabo San Lucas is a perfect place to learn surfing. The area has many beginner-friendly beaches like Playa Cerritos and Playa Acapulquito, which offer a nice mellow wave.

Where can beginners surf in Cabo?

Beginners can surf in several places in Cabo including Acapulquito Beach, Costa Azul, and La Bocana, which offer gentle waves and a sandy bottom, ideal for beginners looking for a more laid-back spot to practice.

Is there good surfing in Cabo San Lucas?

Yes, Cabo San Lucas and its surrounding areas offer excellent surfing opportunities for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. The Cabo area is known for its diverse surf breaks, warm waters, and scenic beaches.

Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Cabo?

If you plan to surf in Cabo during the fall months, wearing a wetsuit is a good idea. A good rash guard is also an excellent idea to keep the sun off your skin and avoid a bad sunburn, especially if you go to areas further away from Cabo. 

You don’t need a wetsuit, but a wetsuit top or a good rashguard will protect you from the harsh sun. You can be pretty exposed at some surfing spots further away from town.

Is the ocean water in Cabo cold?

The ocean in Los Cabos is generally warm, especially during the summer months. The average temperature ranges from around 72°F to 84°F, making it great for water activities.

Surfing lessons in Cabo: Final word

Cabo San Lucas is one of the most popular surfing spots in Mexico that boasts a variety of surf spots suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. If you are looking for classes or surf camps, you will love Cabo’s warm waters and consistent waves making it an ideal location to learn and practice surfing. Many surf schools in Cabo offer lessons from experienced instructors. 

I hope you enjoy surfing in Cabo and learn about this popular water sport.

Cabo trip planner

Do I need a visa for Cabo?

If you are traveling to Cabo from the United States and Canada or Western Europe, you don’t need a visa. Click here to check Mexico visa requirements for your country. iVisa website that can help you with a visa to Mexico.

Do I need a car in Baja California?

You need a rental car to see the best places in Baja California, as most places aren’t accessible by public transportation. I use DiscoverCars for car rentals in Baja and other parts of Mexico, and love their budget-friendly prices and flexible cancellation policy.

Click here to check prices on car rentals in popular detsinations in Baja. 

Do I need a travel insurance in Baja California?

Personal travel insurance in not required in Baja, but it’s a good idea to get one ahead of your trip. Travel Insurance Master will cover you in case of hospital visits, missed flights, lost or stolen belongings and other accidents that could happen on the road.

Do I need a car insurance to drive in Mexico?

A Mexico car insurance is required for ALL vehicles entering the country. Note that your US insurance will not be valid in Mexico. Baja Bound Mexican Insurance is a popular website to find insurance for your car, RV, boat, motorcycles and other types of transportation.

Where can I find the best Baja tours?

the best websites for finding tours all over Baja is Viator. Guided tours are usually available in bigger cities like Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, La Paz and Tijuana.

Where can I book flights to Baja?

Click here to find cheap airline tickets to Baja.

Where do I find cheap hotels in Baja?

Booking.com is the best website to find hotels all over Baja, but you can also use HostelWorld to find hostels. VRBO is a perfect place to find apartments and home-style places to stay in Baja. 

Can I drink water in Baja California?

While major cities like Cabo and La Paz treat their water, it’s generally not advised to drink water in Baja California. Always carry your water bottle with you, or better yet, buy a water bottle with filtration for your trip.