Ever dreamed of leaving the daily rush for a peaceful place? Welcome to El Pescadero, a hidden gem in Baja California Sur, Mexico. This small village by the Pacific coast has beautiful beaches, great surfing, and farm-to-table food. It’s a place where time moves slowly, making you feel like a local.
So, what makes El Pescadero stand out? Is it the friendly community, the natural beauty, or the chance to live simply? The truth is, you have to see it for yourself to understand.
Key Takeaways
- El Pescadero is a small, largely undeveloped farming village in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
- The area offers pristine beaches, excellent surfing, farm-to-table dining, and a relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere.
- El Pescadero is a haven for surfers, van lifers, and those seeking to build vacation or permanent homes in a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path setting.
- The town is located just 20 minutes south of Todos Santos and less than an hour north of Los Cabos.
- Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and local culinary delights in this hidden gem of Baja California Sur.
Discovering El Pescadero: Location and Overview
El Pescadero is a charming spot on Baja California Sur’s Pacific coast. It’s known for its natural beauty, history, and relaxed vibe. Jesuit padres started farming here in 1724, growing mangoes, strawberries, corn, tomatoes, and greens.
History of El Pescadero
The area’s history is tied to the native Baja California Sur people. Jesuit padres brought farming to the area in the 18th century. Today, El Pescadero is a farming center with a small-town feel.
Getting to El Pescadero
Getting to El Pescadero is easy. The closest airport is Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), about 1.5 to 2 hours away. Rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive north to the town.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from November to April. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for outdoor fun. You can explore beaches, hike, and try local food.
El Pescadero is great for a quiet getaway, surfing, or learning about local culture. It’s a top spot in Baja California Sur.
El Pescadero's Most Beautiful Beaches
El Pescadero is a charming coastal town in Baja California Sur. It has many beautiful beaches for different tastes. From the famous Playa Los Cerritos for surfers to the calm Playa San Pedrito, each beach is special.
Playa Los Cerritos is the top beach here, loved for its great surfing and amenities. You can find umbrellas, vendors, and lifeguards. It’s a favorite among surfers worldwide, a place for surf culture and lessons.
Playa San Pedrito is quieter and perfect for those wanting peace. It’s great for camping, letting you enjoy the Pacific’s beauty.
Playa Las Palmas is a hidden treasure. You get there through a lush palm forest. It has a freshwater river and golden sands, creating a calm vibe. But, watch out for wild horses that can be protective.
| Beach | Highlights | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Playa Los Cerritos | – Popular surfing destination – Amenities like umbrellas, vendors, and lifeguards | – Surfing – Surf lessons – Swimming |
| Playa San Pedrito | – Quieter and more serene – Ideal for camping | – Camping – Relaxing |
| Playa Las Palmas | – Hidden gem with a freshwater river – Lush palm forest access | – Exploring the natural environment – Caution for wild horses |
El Pescadero’s beaches have something for everyone. Whether you love the surf at Playa Los Cerritos, the quiet of Playa San Pedrito, or the secret of Playa Las Palmas, there’s a beach for you.
Surfing Paradise: Top Surf Spots and Schools
El Pescadero, Mexico, is a top spot for surfers from all over. Playa Los Cerritos is at the center of this surfing paradise. It has right and left breaks, a sandy bottom, and sometimes barrels. This makes it great for all skill levels.
Playa Los Cerritos Surf Scene
Playa Los Cerritos is loved by both new and experienced surfers. The waves are consistent, from gentle rollers to big, barreling swells. You can rent boards from the beach stalls, making sure you have the right gear.
Best Surf Schools and Rentals
Playa Los Cerritos is perfect for learning to surf. Schools like Mario Surf School and CRT Surf School offer lessons for beginners. They also rent out boards and wetsuits, with half-day rentals starting at 400 MXN.
Surfing Tips for Beginners
- Start with smaller, gentler waves to build your confidence and technique.
- Listen to your instructor’s guidance on proper form and safety.
- Be patient and persistent – learning to surf takes time and practice.
- Always wear a leash to prevent losing your board in the water.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and other surfers in the lineup.
El Pescadero’s Playa Los Cerritos is a must-visit for surfers. It has great surf schools, rentals, and a lively beach culture. This place is a true El Pescadero surfing paradise.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
El Pescadero, Mexico, has many places to stay for all kinds of travelers. You can find unique RV parks and cozy surf camps. Each offers a special way to enjoy this beautiful coastal town.
Casa Caravan is a great choice for a unique stay. It’s an RV park with a lively community vibe. It has good WiFi and clean facilities, starting at $35 US per night. Another favorite is Pescadero Surf Camp, with camping and cozy casitas. It has a pool and a BYOB cantina. Camping starts at $10 US per night, and casitas are $35 US per night.
If you want to camp for free, Playa San Pedrito is perfect. For a more luxurious stay, there are upscale hotels and resorts nearby. Hotel San Cristóbal is a 32-room place from Bunkhouse Hotels in El Pescadero.
El Pescadero has everything from budget-friendly surf camps to luxurious oceanfront hotels. Its beautiful beaches, lively surf culture, and wide range of places to stay make it a top spot for your next beach vacation.
El Pescadero, Mexico: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
El Pescadero in Baja California Sur is more than just surfing. It’s a place full of activities and experiences. From outdoor fun to cultural adventures, this coastal town has something for everyone.
Outdoor Activities
Nature lovers will find plenty to do in El Pescadero. Take a whale watching tour on a luxury catamaran. You’ll see humpback whales up close. It’s a memorable experience for those who care about the environment.
Release baby sea turtles into the wild. It’s a special moment for eco-friendly travelers. For more excitement, hike the desert trails or go horseback riding.
Cultural Experiences
Dive into El Pescadero’s culture by visiting artisanal farms. These farms show off the area’s farming traditions. Check out the art galleries to see local artists’ work.
Join in on community events and festivals. They celebrate the town’s rich culture. It’s a great way to connect with the locals.
Local Tours
Discover El Pescadero’s secrets with guided tours. Visit the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve to see different bird species. Or head to Balandra Beach for its beautiful waters and sand.
These tours offer a deep look at the area’s nature and culture. They’re perfect for anyone looking for adventure or a chance to connect with nature.
El Pescadero has something for every traveler. From outdoor fun to cultural experiences, it’s a place to explore. Find out why Baja California Sur is so special by visiting this coastal town.
Culinary Scene: Best Restaurants and Cafes
El Pescadero, in Baja California Sur, is known for its vibrant food scene. It offers everything from street food to fancy farm-to-table meals. There’s something for everyone’s taste.
For real Mexican street food, try Carnitas Machin. They have tasty tacos with many toppings. Palmar Pescadero, a family café, is perfect for a laid-back meal. They serve fresh breakfast and lunch in a lovely garden.
Same Same But Different is great for something different. They have creative avocado toast and homemade salsas. For sushi fans, Noah Sushi has fresh rolls and poke bowls.
Seafood lovers should check out Barracuda Cantina at Cerritos Beach. They have amazing fish and shrimp tacos. Pura Playa Bar offers beautiful sunset views, cool drinks, and live music.
Agricole, a local organic store, is full of fresh produce and artisanal goods. It’s a great place to find a taste of El Pescadero to take home.
“El Pescadero’s culinary scene is a true celebration of the region’s Baja California Sur cuisine, with a focus on farm-to-table dining and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.”
El Pescadero has it all, from street food to fancy meals. Its diverse food scene offers a memorable experience. It truly showcases the best of Baja California Sur.
Shopping and Local Markets
El Pescadero’s shopping scene is vibrant and full of local culture. You can support small businesses here. Every Sunday, the Baja Beans Farmer’s Market is a must-see. It offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique local goods.
Farmer's Market at Baja Beans
The Baja Beans Farmer’s Market is a weekly event. It brings together local farmers, artisans, and craftspeople. You can find organic fruits, vegetables, jewelry, paintings, and textiles here.
This market is great for connecting with the community. You can learn about local traditions and find unique souvenirs.
Local Artisan Shops
El Pescadero has many artisan shops and galleries. Here, you can find unique, locally-made products. Mangadora offers handwoven baskets and textiles, while Etnica has stunning pottery and ceramics.
The Zócolo area is full of shops like Besame Mucho and Ohm. They sell ethically-sourced goods that help the community.
Shopping in El Pescadero is a true reflection of the town’s culture and creativity. Whether it’s the Baja Beans Farmer’s Market or the local shops, you’ll find something special.
Day Trips from El Pescadero
El Pescadero is a great spot for exploring nearby attractions. Just 15 minutes away is Todos Santos, a “Pueblo Mágico” by the Mexican government. Here, you can see art galleries, historical sites, and beautiful streets. It’s a place full of culture and heritage.
For excitement, drive south to Cabo San Lucas, about an hour from El Pescadero. Cabo is perfect for water sports like snorkeling, diving, and fishing. It also has a lively nightlife with fancy resorts, marinas, and bars.
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, is a relaxing day trip. It’s about 1.5 hours from El Pescadero. You can walk along the malecón, enjoy beaches, and swim with whale sharks (seasonally).
