Calafia surf guide
Surf: The right pointbreak at Calafia features disco music blaring from the cliff-side bar, but is mushy without a strong S swell and gets rocky at low tide. There is a much heavier right just to the NW.
Surf: General: A mainstay of the northern Baja surf experience, Calafia is one of the first waves many visitors surf in the area, due to its user-friendly nature and proximity to the border. The long, right-hand point works on a solid south, is offshore in the daily northwest wind, and can be quite fun when the conditions line up. That being said, the nearby reefs tend to pick up swell from just about any direction, so there is nearly always something to surf in the area. Hotels, restaurants, and clubs line the cliff, which is great if you are looking for an easy adventure south of the border—just don’t expect to be alone in the desert with nothing but the stars and your thoughts.
Tides: Mid-high.
Size: Waist high to a few feet overhead
Wind: North, NE, E. Offers some shelter from NW winds.
Swell: South, SW.
Bottom: Rocks.
Paddling: When there’s a solid south running, the current tends to run.
Spot Rating: Good when it’s on, but not exactly world-class.
Access: Drive 30 minutes south of the border, walk down the cliff, and paddle out.
Crowds: Crowd Factor: Aside from the handful of days each year that are absolutely cooking, the lineup is pretty mellow.
Local Vibe: You are more likely to get vibed by a grumpy old expat than a true local.
Environment: Calafia sits just south of Rosarito, so expect “urban” water quality.
Hazards: Rocks, corrupt cops in Tijuana, grumpy old guys from California.
Season: June through September.