It is about a 3 hour drive from Loreto (LTO) to San Juanico (Scorpion Bay).

San Juanico now has electricity as of 2025, but not every property is fully connected yet. Many homes still use solar or hybrid systems depending on location.

May – September is considered the prime surf window. During this period, south swells travel up from the South Pacific and light up the famous right-hand point breaks.

No. There are currently no ATMs in San Juanico, and most small businesses in town operate cash-only (pesos). We recommend bringing enough Mexican pesos with you before arriving.

The easiest place to withdraw cash is at the Loreto Airport (LTO) when you land. There is an ATM inside the airport.

If the airport ATM happens to be out of service, there are several banks with ATMs in the town of Loreto, just a short drive from the airport, where you can withdraw pesos before continuing your trip to Scorpion Bay.

Yes. Scorpion Bay (San Juanico) is generally considered a very safe and quiet surf town. It’s a small, tight-knit community where most visitors come specifically for surfing, fishing, and relaxing. Like anywhere, it’s always a good idea to take normal travel precautions, but San Juanico is known for its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals.

A 4x4 is not strictly required, but it can be helpful depending on road conditions. Much of the route is now paved, but some sections of road can still be rough, especially after storms. Many visitors make the trip in regular vehicles, but a higher-clearance vehicle or SUV can make the drive more comfortable.

The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for.

Surfing:
May through September is the best season for south swells, with June–August typically being the most consistent months.

Whale watching:
January through March is when whales migrate along the Pacific coast.

Weather:
Fall and winter offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

Cell service is limited but improving. Some areas of town have signal depending on your carrier, but coverage can be inconsistent.

Many homes and businesses now use Starlink satellite internet, which provides reliable Wi-Fi for guests.

Yes. San Juanico has a few small local tiendas (markets) where you can find most everyday essentials like snacks, drinks, canned goods, tortillas, eggs, and basic groceries. The selection is smaller than in larger cities, but you’ll usually find what you need during your stay—and it’s a great way to support local businesses in the community.

There is also a local market every Friday morning, where many residents stock up on fresh vegetables and homemade foods. It’s a fun experience to walk through the market and try things like freshly made tamales and sopes, along with other local specialties.

Scorpion Bay is famous for having multiple long right-hand point breaks that can connect on the right swell. Surfers often refer to seven different sections of the point, sometimes called Points 1 through 7.

On a good south swell, waves can peel from one section to the next, creating incredibly long rides that make the spot one of the most unique surf breaks in North America.

When the conditions line up, Scorpion Bay produces some of the longest waves in Baja. On a solid south swell, rides can last 30 seconds to over a minute, and occasionally even longer when multiple sections connect.

These long, peeling right-handers are what make Scorpion Bay a legendary longboard and point-break destination.

Scorpion Bay is still considered much less crowded than many well-known surf destinations, largely because of its remote location. That said, on larger south swells the lineup can get crowded, especially when several sections of the point are working. The busiest time of year is typically during the summer months (June–August) when consistent south swells attract surfers from around the world.

Water temperatures in Scorpion Bay vary throughout the year, and the wind coming off the Pacific can often make it feel colder than the actual water temperature, especially in the mornings or on windy days.

Coldest months:
The coldest water is typically March through June, when many surfers recommend wearing a 4/3 or even a 5/4 wetsuit, particularly for longer sessions or early morning surf.

Warmest months:
The water usually warms up the most August through October, when many surfers are comfortable in a 3/2 wetsuit, spring suit, or even boardshorts on warmer days.

Another important tip: reef booties are recommended year-round. Many of the point breaks require walking across sharp reef and rocks to enter the water, and booties make getting in and out of the water much easier and safer.

Because conditions can vary with wind and weather, it’s a good idea to bring a couple wetsuit options if you’re planning a surf trip to Scorpion Bay.

Yes. Whale watching season runs January through March, and whales can often be seen migrating along the Pacific coast.

Yes. While Scorpion Bay is best known as a surf destination, it can also be a special place for families to slow down and reconnect. The town’s remote setting and simple lifestyle create the perfect environment to spend quality time together.

Families often enjoy beach walks, fishing, surfing, exploring tide pools, and outdoor adventures in nature. Without the distractions of large resorts or busy tourist areas, many visitors find it’s a great place to connect more closely with family and enjoy the beauty of Baja together.

Yes. Scorpion Bay is one of the most unique surf destinations in Baja California Sur. It’s known for its incredibly long right-hand point breaks, relaxed surf-town atmosphere, and beautiful Pacific coastline. For surfers and travelers looking for a quieter, more authentic Baja experience, it’s absolutely worth the trip.