Surfing at Monuments
Monuments is the closest real surf break to downtown Cabo San Lucas: a left that breaks over reef and rock off the point. It's for experienced surfers, not lessons; beginners are better off at Acapulquito near San José or Cerritos on the Pacific.
Swimming and snorkeling
On a flat day the rocks hold reef fish and you can snorkel close in, but conditions change fast and there's no lifeguard. If you're coming to swim, Santa María and Chileno are a few minutes further east and much safer.
Even if you don't get in, it's worth the stop for the view back along the coast to Land's End. Sunset Monalisa sits on the cliffs nearby for a drink or dinner with the same view.
Getting to Monuments Beach from Villa 1
About 7 km east of Villa 1 on Highway 1. Turn off at Misiones del Cabo around km 5, stop at the security checkpoint and say you're going to the beach, then park at the top of the hill and walk down the path.
What to bring
- Reef booties
- Water and snacks