Explore Scorpion Bay: Best Surfing, ATV Rentals, and Outdoor Adventures in Baja California Sur, Mexico

Welcome to San Juanico, better known as Scorpion Bay, a secluded paradise nestled in the heart of Baja California Sur. Known for its stunning beaches, pristine waters, and laid-back surf culture, San Juanico is a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers and those looking to escape the crowds.

Why Visit Scorpion Bay?

San Juanico is renowned for its:

• World-class surfing with multiple breaks suitable for all levels.

• Secluded beaches offering a tranquil escape from the busy tourist hubs.

• Natural beauty including desert landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets.

• Authentic, small-town atmosphere, where you can truly disconnect and unwind.

• Fishing: The waters around San Juanico (Scorpion Bay) are excellent for fishing, making it a prime destination for anglers. Whether you want to fish from the shore or take a boat out, you’ll find great opportunities to catch tuna, dorado, and other local species.

Things to Do in Scorpion Bay

1. Surfing

Scorpion Bay is a mecca for surfers. Known for its perfect waves and long, consistent breaks, this destination draws surfers from all over the world. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you’ll find the perfect spot here to catch your wave.

• Multiple Surf Breaks: From beginner-friendly waves to challenging long rides, Scorpion Bay offers a variety of surf spots for all skill levels.

• Best Time to Surf: The best months for surfing in Scorpion Bay are typically from April to October.

• Surf Schools and Rentals: If you're new to the sport, there are local surf schools offering lessons and rentals.

2. ATV Rentals and Tours

For those looking to explore the rugged terrain of Baja California Sur, ATV rentals and guided tours are a must-do in Scorpion Bay. Get off the beaten path and explore the stunning desert landscapes, coastline, and hidden spots that you can only access by ATV.

• Guided Tours: Take a guided ATV tour through the desert hills and along the scenic coastline.

• Self-Guided Rentals: Rent an ATV for the day or week and explore the area at your own pace.

• Surf Racks: All ATVs come equipped with surf racks for easy transport of your boards. These racks can also be removed if not needed.

• Free Helmets: Helmets are available free of charge to ensure your safety while riding.

This is an exciting way to experience the area’s natural beauty and discover spots that are off-limits to regular vehicles.

3. Explore Ponga Beach

Ponga Beach is one of the most serene and untouched beaches in the area. Ideal for exploring, ATVing, sunbathing, swimming, surfing, or just soaking in the beauty of the landscape, it’s a perfect spot to relax and unwind.

• Pristine Beach: Enjoy the clear, turquoise water and soft sand.

• Quiet & Secluded: Ponga Beach offers a peaceful escape with fewer tourists compared to other beaches in Baja.

4. Hiking and Outdoor Exploration

The area around Scorpion Bay is filled with beautiful landscapes perfect for hiking. Explore the desert hills, rocky outcroppings, and breathtaking coastline.

• Desert Adventures: Experience the unique flora and fauna of the Baja desert.

• Hiking Trails: There are several easy to moderate trails around San Juanico, offering views of the coastline and ocean.

5. Fishing

The waters around Scorpion Bay are excellent for fishing, making it a great destination for anglers. Whether you want to cast off from the shore or take a boat out to deeper waters, there are plenty of opportunities to catch fish.

• Charter Boats: Hire a local boat for a fishing trip.

• Catch of the Day: Expect to catch tuna, dorado, and other fish native to the area.

6. Sunsets at Scorpion Bay

End your day by enjoying one of the most stunning sunsets in Baja. Whether you're at Ponga Beach or the main surf spots, the views are absolutely mesmerizing.

• Picture-Perfect: Don’t forget to snap a few photos as the sun dips below the horizon.

Restaurants in Scorpion Bay

San Juanico offers a variety of delicious local dining options, with fresh seafood and traditional Baja flavors taking center stage. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a laid-back lunch, or a casual dinner, these local spots will satisfy your hunger and give you a taste of the region’s culinary offerings.

Notable restaurants include:

Sandra’s, Christy’s, The Cantina, El Burro, Vaqueros, Casa Venezia, 7 Reads Coffee Shop, Taquitos Kali y Rosa, and the weekly Friday market with Dalia’s Sopes and Helga’s Fresh Tamales. Some tiendas also offer Costco items for a familiar shopping experience.

Every Friday there is a local market where you can get fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and more goodies.

Respecting the Locals & Cultural Awareness

While visiting San Juanico, it's important to embrace the community and its way of life. Here are some key things to keep in mind to help ensure a respectful and positive experience:

• Respect the Community: San Juanico is a small, tight-knit town with a local population that relies on the preservation of their environment and culture. Please respect the customs, local businesses, and the people who call this area home.

• Tread Lightly in Nature: Be mindful of the fragile desert ecosystem and avoid damaging the natural surroundings. Whether you're exploring on foot or ATV, always leave no trace.

• Engage with Local Businesses: Support local restaurants, shops, and tours to help foster a strong, sustainable economy in San Juanico. Spread your money to different tiendas and businesses to ensure the prosperity of the whole community.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Understand that some parts of Baja may have different customs or expectations than other tourist spots. It's always a good idea to ask locals for guidance if you're unsure of what is considered polite.

Respecting the town and its culture will not only enhance your experience but also help maintain the beauty and peace of San Juanico for generations to come.

More Activities in Scorpion Bay

Scorpion Bay is an adventure lover's dream with plenty of activities to explore beyond surfing and ATV tours. There’s also an opportunity for relaxation and personal wellness.

• Pickleball: Enjoy a fun and competitive game of pickleball with locals and fellow travelers at the local courts.

• Yoga and Meditation: San Juanico is a peaceful place to practice yoga and meditation. There are a number of spots where you can find classes and personal sessions in the serene Baja surroundings.

• Friendly Community: One of the most rewarding experiences in San Juanico is getting to know the locals. This small town thrives on a tight-knit community, so don’t hesitate to be friendly, ask questions, and make connections during your stay.

• Galeria Cure: Check out the local art gallery, showcasing handmade crafts, jewelry, and art from local artists. A great spot to pick up a unique souvenir.

Where to Stay in Scorpion Bay

Scorpion Bay is a peaceful town with a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a cozy beachfront cabin, a surf camp, or a guesthouse, you’ll find something that feels like home.

Accommodations Available:

• Lighthouse Surf Rental: Located directly in front of third point, Lighthouse Surf Rental is perfect for surfers—there is no better rental than this. It’s a great option for anyone looking to stay steps from the waves.

• Scorpion Bay Surf Society: A laid-back surf society offering beachfront accommodations, surf lessons, and an amazing surf vibe.

• Casa Verde: A beautiful property with spacious rooms and an ocean view (only a block away from the ocean), perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure in the gated, private property.

• Casa Pacifica: A newly designed home offering comfort and privacy with the bonus of being able to see the ocean.

• Cowabunga: A great spot to relax after a day of surfing and exploring, offering comfortable amenities with a fun surf atmosphere and oceanview just a block from the ocean.

• Camping on the Bluff: Just steps from the surf, you can pitch your tent on the bluff for a true Baja camping experience. Fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to incredible views of the ocean.

• Scorpion Bay Hotel: Located in the heart of town, the Scorpion Bay Hotel offers convenient, comfortable accommodations with easy access to the beach and surf breaks. This hotel is perfect for visitors seeking a relaxed, laid-back stay in a prime location in town.

Scorpion Bay Real Estate: Own a Piece of Paradise

If you’re falling in love with San Juanico (Scorpion Bay) and want to make it your home, or if you're interested in a vacation property, there are opportunities for real estate investments in the area.

• Beachfront Properties: Own a stunning beachfront home with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Real Estate Services: Work with local agents to explore available properties and make your Baja dreams a reality.

Scorpion Bay offers a unique opportunity for real estate buyers, with plenty of options for those seeking peace, beauty, and adventure.

Storage Yard for Trucks, Boats, Trailers & More

For visitors bringing trucks, boats, trailers, or other larger vehicles, San Juanico (Scorpion Bay) offers a convenient storage yard. This secure facility allows you to store your equipment while you explore the area, ensuring peace of mind during your stay. Whether you're here for a short visit or a longer stay, our storage yard can accommodate your needs and provide a safe space for your gear.

• 24/7 Security Cameras: The yard is monitored by security cameras around the clock, providing added peace of mind.

• Access Anytime: Customers can access their stored belongings at any time, making it convenient for those who may need to retrieve something during their stay.

Electricity in San Juanico (Scorpion Bay)

San Juanico (Scorpion Bay) has recently made significant improvements to its infrastructure. As of 2025, the town now has electricity, providing a more consistent power supply to the community. However, while the grid is operational, occasional power outages may still occur, particularly during stormy weather or seasonal changes.

• Reliable Electricity: As of 2025, San Juanico is now connected to the power grid, providing most homes and businesses with electricity.

• Solar Energy: Many local businesses and properties may still use solar power as a backup or for sustainability, especially in more remote areas of town.

• Generators: Some homes or accommodations outside the main town area may still use generators during certain hours or when the power grid is unavailable.

While the area is still adjusting to the new power infrastructure, the addition of electricity has made a big difference for residents and visitors alike. Visitors are encouraged to bring backup charging devices or portable power banks just in case of any temporary disruptions, but overall, the new electricity has been a big improvement!

How to Get to San Juanico (Scorpion Bay)

San Juanico (Scorpion Bay) is located approximately 6 hours north of Cabo Though the town is remote, it is accessible by car and offers an adventure of its own getting there.

• By Car: From La Paz, head north on Mexico Highway 1 (the Transpeninsular Highway). The road is well-paved, but some areas can be winding and narrow.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Loreto (LTO), about 2.5 hours away. From Loreto, you can arrange private transportation with Chino, available for either one-way or roundtrip service, or rent a car.