Shipwreck

Surf Guide

Shipwreck picks up more swell than Costa Azul near San Jose del Cabo, as it faces south, not southeast, which makes it fairly consistent, especially in the summer. And while the star wave is a zippy right point/reef at the west end of the bay, which can connect all the way through to the beach in a series of different sections, there's also a little reef in the middle of the bay that can produce short-but-sweet lefts. Both waves are steeper and faster than Nine Palms.

Ability Level

All Abilities

BegIntAdv

Beginner to advanced

Local Vibe

Welcoming

WelcomingIntimidating

Not many locals; mainly expats and tourists.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

Can get bad, but there are multiple take-off areas.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Fun.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

It's a long paddle after a good one.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Clean

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

South

Wind

North

Surf Height

Head high to double overhead

Tide

Mid.