Overview
Shipwreck is a right-hand point and reef setup at the west end of a bay in Baja California Sur, and the star wave is a zippy right that can connect all the way through to the beach in a series of sections. There's also a small reef in the middle of the bay that throws up short-but-sweet lefts. Both waves are steeper and faster than Nine Palms, and the bottom is a mix of sand, rock, and reef. The water is clean, and the overall verdict is a fun wave.
When It Works
Shipwreck picks up about the same amount of swell as Costa Azul near San Jose del Cabo, which makes it fairly consistent, especially through summer. It draws swell from northeast through south to south-southwest, with south swell the best match. The wave is usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft. The season runs April through October, covering spring, summer, and autumn.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest offshore wind, with a workable wind window from west to north. Mid tide is best, and a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate and expert surfers, and it takes shortboards, fish, and longboards depending on the day. Expect a busy lineup when it's on, though multiple take-off areas spread things out. The atmosphere is friendly, with plenty of expats and tourists in the mix, but the locals who surf here hold it down, so mind your p's and q's. Be ready for a long paddle back after a good one, and never turn your back to the ocean.
Access
Park at the top of the cliff.
