If you've never surfed before — or you've tried a couple of times and want to actually get to your feet — Cerritos Beach is one of the best places in Mexico to learn. The wave is consistent, the beach is wide, the water is warm, and the vibe is relaxed in a way that makes the learning curve feel much less steep.
Here's what you need to know before you go.
What Kind of Wave Is Cerritos?
Cerritos breaks as a beach break over a sandy bottom. It produces a long, slow right-hand wave that gives beginners time to find their footing and experienced surfers room to practice technique. Unlike reef breaks (which break fast and shallow over rock or coral), the sandy bottom at Cerritos is forgiving when you fall — which, when you're learning, happens often.
The wave is most consistent from April through October during the Pacific swell season. November through March tends to be smaller and cleaner, which is actually ideal for absolute beginners who want gentler conditions.
Do I Need Experience?
No. The majority of first-timers at Cerritos are complete beginners. Lessons include everything: board, rashguard, instruction, and beach setup (umbrella and chairs) for the full day. Sessions run about two hours in the water, with time on the beach first to cover the basics — how to paddle, how to pop up, where to position yourself on the wave.
Most people get to their feet within the first session. Some take two. Either way, by the end of day one you'll understand the ocean in a way you didn't before, which is the whole point.
What About More Experienced Surfers?
Cerritos has something for intermediate surfers too — the right-hander offers enough wall to practice turns and the wave is long enough to work with. On bigger swell days, the peak gets more powerful and more interesting. If you're an experienced surfer looking for serious challenge, you'll want to day-trip to Todos Santos or the outer breaks — but for a week of enjoyable daily sessions while staying somewhere comfortable, Cerritos delivers.
What's the Water Temperature?
The Pacific side of Baja runs cooler than the Sea of Cortez. Water temperature ranges from around 65°F (18°C) in winter to 75°F (24°C) in summer. A 2–3mm shorty wetsuit is comfortable October through April; boardshorts and a rashguard are fine May through September. Rashguards are included with lessons.
What Should I Bring?
- Sunscreen (reef-safe — the ocean ecosystem matters)
- Water and snacks for between sessions
- Flip flops for the beach
- A change of clothes
Everything else — board, rashguard, wax, beach setup — is provided.
Best Time of Year to Surf Cerritos
May–October (Low Season)
Consistent Pacific swells, warmer water, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates. This is the best time for beginners who want reliable waves and space to learn without pressure.
November–April (High Season)
Smaller, cleaner surf — good for beginners, less interesting for advanced surfers. Busy season for tourism, so the beach has more energy. Whale watching is an added bonus during this period.
December 20–January 7 (Christmas / New Year)
Peak season — the beach is lively and the surf is generally small and clean. Accommodation books out well in advance.
Where to Stay
Luna Del Mar sits steps from the beach at Cerritos — close enough to hear the waves from your terrace, far enough back to be shaded and private. Our Surf Boot Camp package includes 6 nights accommodation, daily surf lessons, gear, two rest-day activities, a private chef dinner, and a welcome drink — everything arranged so you don't have to coordinate logistics yourself.
Or browse villas and book availability to arrange lessons at your own pace.