San Juanico (Scorpion Bay)

Baja California, Mexico

Ready to Explore the Off Beaten Path?

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 Breaks 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:

Fourth Point Casa: Located directly in front of fourth point, there is no better access to the surf than this luxury home.
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.

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Scorpion Bay Properties for Rent

4th Point Casa

Casa Pacifica

Casa Verde

Surf Society

ATV Rentals and Storage

About the Area

San Juanico—better known as Scorpion Bay—is Baja at its most authentic: a small, laid-back surf town where desert meets the Pacific and the days revolve around tides, tacos, and sunsets. It’s truly off the beaten path, which is exactly why people fall in love with it.

What makes it special

One of Baja’s longest waves with a legendary chain of point breaks—perfect for long rides when the swell is on.

Quiet, uncrowded beaches and wide-open landscapes that feel a world away from the resort scene.

Things to do (beyond surfing)

Quad/ATV rentals & coastal exploring: Cruise the desert roads, chase views, and access remote spots—many rentals even have surf racks.

Ponga Beach days: Bring a towel, a book, and your sense of wonder—this area is all about simple, beautiful beach time.

Pickleball + yoga/meditation classes: A fun way to meet people and keep your routine while you’re here.

Fishing: Shore fishing or hiring a local panga/boat—fresh-catch dinners are a Scorpion Bay classic.

Local art & culture: Pop into spots like Galeria Cure for handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Eat, shop, and support the community

San Juanico runs on local love—spread your shopping across the tiendas, grab a coffee, try the neighborhood favorites, and don’t miss the Friday market for fresh produce and local bites. Let's Do Mexico

Good to know (this is part of the charm)

San Juanico connected to grid electricity in 2025, but many homes and businesses still rely on solar (and occasional outages can happen). We recommend leaning into the slower pace—this is Baja, beautifully unplugged.

Check out this surf film created by local brothers of San Juanico, Chino and Marco

FAQs

How far is Loreto to San Juanico?

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

Is there electricity in 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.

What are the best surfing months in Scorpion Bay?

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.

Are there ATM's in Scorpion Bay?

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.

Is Scorpion Bay safe?

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.

Do you need a 4x4 to get to Scorpion Bay?

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.

What is the best time of year to visit Scorpion Bay?

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.

Is there cell service in Sc orpion Bay?

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.

Are there grocery stores in Scorpion Bay?

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.

How many point breaks are there in Scorpion Bay?

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.

How long are the waves at Scorpion Bay?

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.

Is Scorpion Bay crowded?

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.

What is the water temperature in Scorpion Bay?

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.

Can you see whales in Scorpion Bay?

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

Is Scorpion Bay good for families?

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.

Is Scorpion Bay worth visiting?

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.