The surf breaks
Costa Azul has several breaks along one stretch. Zippers is a fast right over reef for experienced surfers; La Roca is a step down but still for competent intermediates; Middles is gentler; and Acapulquito (Old Man's) at the south end is the beginner wave. Summer south swells are the season, and Zippers has hosted pro contests.
Swimming and safety
When the surf's up, this isn't a swimming beach: reef, rips and surfers everywhere. In winter it often goes flat enough for a swim and snorkel. Authorities closed it in September 2024 for a possible bull shark sighting, which is rare but worth knowing.
After heavy rain, the state health agency (COEPRIS) sometimes advises staying out of the sea until test results come back; it did so for several Los Cabos beaches, including this one, in early September 2026. Give it a couple of days after a storm.
Eating
Zipper's, right on the beach, is the classic post-surf burger and beer with a view of the break. For a proper dinner, San José del Cabo is five minutes away.
Getting to Costa Azul Beach from Villa 1
About 29 km east of Villa 1 on Highway 1, 30 to 35 minutes, at around km 28 to 29 on the southwest edge of San José del Cabo. Access is on the ocean side near Zipper's restaurant.
What to bring
- Your board or a rental arranged in advance