Nine Palms

Nine Palms is a right-hand point break on East Cape's reef bottom that produces long, walling waves with mushy sections suited to longboarders and intermediate surfers. It fires from March through October on south or southeast swell, working best when overhead height, with northwest wind keeping the inside section clean. The break requires a mid-tide window to shape properly, dropping to flat conditions below head-high and closing out over double overhead.

Nine Palms has held a consistent place on the East Cape surf circuit for decades, drawing a steady stream of traveling surfers and establishing a small resident community of locals and expats. The vibe is generally uncrowded and relaxed, with opportunities for extended solo sessions, particularly outside peak season.

Access is via a rough dirt road through the desert landscape east of Los Cabos, located minutes before or after nearby Shipwrecks depending on direction of travel. The break lies within reach of Zacatitos, a small community that serves as a base for exploring several nearby points along this stretch of coastline. Reef booties are essential, as submerged rocks and sea urchins present hazards during lower water levels.