info Quick Facts
The Los Cabos Open of Surf is one of Mexico’s biggest surf competitions and the largest action-sports festival in Latin America. Held at the legendary Zippers Beach in San José del Cabo, the event draws professional surfers from around the world and tens of thousands of spectators for a week of competition, concerts, food, and beachside culture.
Here’s everything you need to know to attend.
History and background
The event launched in 2013 as an ASP (now WSL) 6-star qualifying event, immediately establishing Cabo as a serious surf destination. Over the years, it has grown well beyond surfing — hosting live music from major Mexican and international artists, a food fair with Baja cuisine, fashion shows, skateboarding exhibitions, and beach volleyball tournaments.
Notable surfers who have competed include Carissa Moore, Tatiana Weston-Webb, and several Mexican national champions. The event typically runs for 5–7 days in June and attracts 50,000+ visitors over the course of the festival.
Where is Zippers Beach?
Zippers (officially part of Costa Azul) is located on the Pacific side of San José del Cabo, about 25 minutes from Cabo San Lucas and 10 minutes from downtown San José.
- Location — Playa Costa Azul, along the Tourist Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo
- Access — the beach is public. During the event, designated viewing areas are set up on the sand
- Nearby landmark — The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, sits right on the beach at Zippers and offers VIP viewing options
What to expect at the event
The Los Cabos Open of Surf is more than a surf contest — it’s a full beach festival:
- Professional surf competition — WSL-sanctioned heats running throughout the day. The best viewing is from the beach, right at the waterline
- Live concerts — major artists perform evening shows on the beach stage. Past headliners have included popular Latin rock and reggae acts
- Food fair — local restaurants and food trucks set up along the beach with tacos, ceviche, craft beer, and cocktails
- Fashion and art — surf and streetwear brands showcase collections, and local artists display work
- Skateboarding and beach volleyball — side competitions and exhibitions throughout the week
What to know before you go
Spectator tips
- • Dates — typically held in June. Check the official Los Cabos Open of Surf social channels for exact dates
- • Entry — beach viewing of the surf competition is free. Some concerts and VIP areas may require tickets
- • Arrive early — parking is limited along Costa Azul. Get there by 9 AM on competition days or take an Uber
- • Bring — sunscreen, a hat, water, and cash for food vendors. There’s little shade on the beach
- • Hotels book up — if you’re planning to visit during the event, book accommodations at least 2–3 months in advance
Things to do nearby
If you’re in the area for the Open of Surf, make time for:
- Surf lessons at Cerritos Beach — about 45 minutes north toward Todos Santos. Gentle, beginner-friendly waves and several surf schools right on the sand
- San José del Cabo Art Walk — Thursday evenings from November to June. Galleries, live music, and street food in the historic art district
- Dinner in San José — the downtown restaurant scene is excellent. Farm-to-table Baja cuisine, seafood, and mezcal bars
- Palmilla Beach — a calmer swimming beach just down the coast, perfect for a mellow morning before heading to the competition
Frequently asked questions
Is the Los Cabos Open of Surf free to attend?
The surf competition on the beach is free to watch — just show up and find a spot on the sand. Some evening concerts and VIP areas may have separate admission, but the core event is open to the public.
Where exactly is Zippers Beach?
Zippers is part of Playa Costa Azul, on the Pacific coast of San José del Cabo. It’s along the Tourist Corridor, roughly halfway between Cabo San Lucas and downtown San José. The Cape hotel is the main landmark.
Can beginners surf at Zippers?
Zippers is an advanced break with a rocky bottom and powerful waves — it’s not suitable for beginners. If you want to try surfing, head to Cerritos Beach near Todos Santos, which has sandy bottom, gentle waves, and several surf schools.
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