introduction

Baja California Sur is one of the 31 states of Mexico. It is on one of the longest peninsulas in the world.
The state has a population of 2,844,469 (2005 census), much more than the sparsely populated Baja California Sur to the south. Over 75% of the population lives in the capital city, Mexicali, or in Tijuana.

There is a large immigrant population from the United States due to its proximity to San Diego and the cheaper cost of life compared to San Diego. There is also a significant population from Central America. Many immigrants moved to Baja California for a better quality of life and the number of higher paying jobs in comparison to the rest of Mexico and Latin America.

surfing

The Mexican surf potential is enormous. Mexico can be surfed all year round and gets consistent surf. You can be surfing plenty of world class spots within a few hours of the border. There is a large variety of waves to suit everyone from beginner to the most experienced surfer.Mexico has over 6000 miles of coastline with over 1500 miles on the mainland Pacific. April to October is the main season and with nice weather, warm water temperatures and good waves you would not ask for anything more.

Waves are generated all year round by the deep Southern Ocean low pressure systems and more localised tropical storms, June to October being hurricane season. The surf Mexico gets along the Pacific coast comes mainly from storms off New Zealand and Antarctica to the south and the Arctic storms that bring swell in winter to west facing beaches.

A great place for a surf trip is Baja, the easiest place to get to from the California, and very accessable.  - the place is a swell magnet and it is totally lacking crowds.

travel

To make the most out of your journey, try to travel primarily by car, plane or bus. Toll roads can be relatively costly, but they are the best (much faster and better maintained), if you choose to go by car. Just note that near the borders with the US and Guatemala there are several checkpoints operated by the Mexican Army searching for illegal weapons and drugs. Also it's not recommended to drive at night time. Chances of hitting an animal at night time are usually much higher than during the day, so drive carefully.

Plane is a good option, as you can manage to get ridiculously cheap fares if you book in advance. If you have to go by bus, try to take the bus called DIRECTO, they are the express ones.

where to stay

Todos Santos, named as "Pueblo Mágico" in 2006, is a city in Baja California Sur north of Cabo San Lucas on the Pacific side. It has big wave surfing comparable to Mex Pipe in Mexico, Jaws (beach), Hawaii, Mavericks and Cortes Bank. These waves are produced by seasonal storms in the North Pacific ocean, in the Bering Strait and the Gulf of Alaska.

This is the same phenomenon that produces wave action for California and Hawaii, which are also ideal surfing destinations. 

Las Casitas Todos Santos, is a a loving and peaceful "bed and breakfast" inn with wonderfully decorated casitas. It was one of the first five bed and breakfast inns to exist in all of Baja California Mexico.

what to pack

This region has different climate zones, including really dry, desert climate and rainy climate with mild winters. So better to pack some loose clothing and warm things as well.

All the gear if you plan to camp: a good sleeping bag and tent that are good for lower temp; special gas container u can use for heating food and water; a sturdy backpack or a cargo pack with a good daypack. Invest in a portable water filter or at least take some puri-tabs or boil the water. 

Definitely take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. A small backpack makes a good carryon bag and will be useful in daily life. Also, take a flat pair of shoes, whether it's sneakers, thongs or casual flats, for walking. You will be doing alot of walking....

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