Shipwreck surf guide

Shipwreck is a surf spot located near San Jose del Cabo that offers some decent waves for surfers. It tends to pick up about the same amount of swell as Costa Azul, making it a fairly reliable choice, especially during the summer months. Accessing the place is easy; you just park at the top of the cliff and make your way down. While you will see a mix of expats and tourists here, the local surfers definitely represent and expect respect on the waves.

The main wave at Shipwreck is a right point/reef break found at the west end of the bay. This wave can get pretty zippy and connects through to the beach in various sections, ideal for those looking for longer rides. You can also find a small reef in the middle of the bay that can surprise you with some short, sweet lefts. The place handles swells from around 5ft to 10ft (1.5m to 3m) and works best on mid tides. It’s a good spot for intermediate and expert surfers, particularly when the wind is coming from the north or northwest. However, be prepared for a long paddle after catching a good wave.

In terms of surf conditions, Shipwreck is suitable during the spring, summer, and autumn seasons. The bottom consists of sand, rock, and reef, which adds some variety to the breaks. You'll want to ride a shortboard, fish, or longboard here depending on your style. While the crowd factor can get a bit intense, the presence of multiple take-off spots helps spread things out. Just remember to keep an eye on the ocean; turning your back to it can be risky.