Where is our favorite place in Baja? When we get asked this question, I always chuckle to myself before answering, because let’s be honest — every place in Baja is a favorite in its own special way. It might be the tranquil beach, the scenic views, the delicious comida, or in this case, the people, that make my heart swell with love.
We discovered El Pescadero and Cerritos almost by accident while looking for places to camp nearby. The amazing people, endless outdoor activities, incredible dining options, and the raw beauty along the Pacific coast all unite to create this hidden gem.
About El Pescadero & Cerritos
El Pescadero is a small farming village along the Pacific coast in Baja California Sur, only 15 minutes from Todos Santos and one hour north of Cabo San Lucas. The Todos Santos/Pescadero area was originally developed by Jesuit padres in 1724, who introduced farming to the local Natives.
Today you can still see juicy mangoes hanging from trees, as well as farmland producing the sweetest strawberries, corn, tomatoes, greens and more. El Pescadero is relatively undeveloped compared to its neighboring cities, making it a haven for surfers, van lifers and nomads. The town is slow-growing, with mostly dirt roads getting you to and from places, however more and more visitors are finding El Pescadero to be the perfect place to build a vacation or permanent home.
A quick note — El Pescadero and Cerritos are separated by a small mountain. Many people also refer to El Pescadero as Cerritos, which is a nearby beach. If you hear the two names intertwined, folks are usually talking about the same area, although every year Cerritos is becoming its own unique spot!
You shouldn’t have any issues with cell service while in this area.
What to Do & See in El Pescadero & Cerritos
Hang Out at the Beach
Playa Los Cerritos
There are several awesome beaches in the the Cerritos/Pesky area that are worth spending the day at. Playa Los Cerritos is the most popular beach in the area, and is the best known for surfers and those wanting surf lessons. It’s also the only swimmable beach in the area, making Cerritos the ultimate family-friendly destination. There are plenty of umbrellas along the beach available for rent, and occasionally vendors will come by with jewelry, blankets, ice cream or margaritas (score!). Our boys love playing in the water, and with lifeguards on site I always feel better about that.
More recently, a new development added more restaurants along the beachfront, providing delicious options all day that you can enjoy on-site or take to go. Barracuda’s is a Cerritos classic (we recommend the fish burrito), and La Tuna has some of the best Surf and Turf tacos available. Big Fun Beach Club is positioned right behind the volleyball courts, where you can pick up a game practically any time of the day with friends or about-to-be new friends alike. Our kids love the wood-fire pizza from Big Fun after a long day at the beach.
Playa San Pedrito
We also spent time at Playa San Pedrito, which is much quieter and chill than Cerritos. While the surfers come in and out during the day, it’s also a nice, relaxing spot to enjoy during the day. It does require driving down an old, bumpy dirt road to get there, but you’ll realize it’s totally worth it when the sun starts to set and the whales breach along the coastline! Just note that there aren’t any bio facilities available — please leave NO trace, and whatever you pack in, pack it out, as with all places in Baja.
Playa Las Palmas
If you’re really hoping to escape the crowds, consider Playa Las Palmas. Although it’s technically on private property, the Mexican government states that all beaches need to allow for public access. Once you arrive, you’ll take a short path through a lush palm forest to a serene, hidden beach. There’s a fresh water river that runs along the beach, where the kids played when they weren’t jumping the waves in the Pacific Ocean!
Keep in mind that it is perfect and tranquil… until the wild horses show up and start pushing you out! It was clear that we were on their turf — Steven almost got hind-kicked twice — and we had heard that a week prior to our visit, a tourist was seriously injured by one of the horses. It shouldn’t be enough to deter you from visiting, but it kept us on guard for most of the afternoon. Also, do not feed the horses!
Enjoy Delicious, Farm-to-Table Meals & Mouth-Watering Street Food
One thing you’ll quickly learn about El Pescadero and Cerritos — there’s always a new restaurant to try. It felt like every day, someone told us about a “new spot” they discovered. There is no shortage of amazing dining in this area! Here are a few of our faves.
Shaka’s Cantina
If you don’t go to Shaka’s while visiting Cerritos, were you ever really there??? This place is a staple for all tourists. The owner Brando is a great dude, who personally checks on every table during every single service. The staff is awesome, the food is consistent and the vibes are fun. It’s a great spot to catch a game, live music or contribute to one of the many local charity events hosted here.
Pescadero 62 / Jerry’s
This gem is one of our favorite places to patronize. The vibes are always high (especially on Mondays when it’s industry night) and Pescadero 62’s food is STELLAR. You can find fresh oysters, ceviche, BBQ, burgers, beet salad, pizza, cocktails, cerveza, and more here, and trust us when we say you’ll look for a reason to come back. These guys also deliver too!
Noah Japanese Food
Sushi lovers, rejoice! This spot is so delish – we go here at least once a month! Fresh fish is brought in daily, so you literally couldn’t ask for better sashimi, poke bowls or sushi. Overall, this open-air restaurant offers a great ambiance and the sushi is reasonably priced. Don’t skip this restaurant!
Taquería y Birrieria Luison
This is our go-to spot for birria in Pesky, and for good reason. The meat and broth is to die for, and the tortillas are homemade – right there on the spot! We literally dream about this joint when we’re not here. (I have since removed the Google link because they have changed locations a few times, but just do a quick Google search and you’ll find it! Or message me on the ol’ Instagram.)
Palmar Pescadero
Palmar Pescadero is an amazing café that offers breakfast and lunch (and Airbnb rentals if you’re flying in!). This family-owned place is located in the heart of the farmland of Pescadero, just a few minutes to the beach.
The restaurant is set up for dining outdoors in their beautiful garden area, or inside the open-air café. The menu is simple, but there’s literally something for everyone. My go-to is the Salmon Ahumado Bagel (smoked salmon), while the kids enjoyed the Pan Francés (French toast). Be sure to try their salsa macha, which is my personal fave. During our dining experience, the boys ran around with other kids, which just tickled the owners. It’s evident that the owners love making new friends, embracing new cultures and creating great experiences for their guests!
Same Same But Different
Same Same But Different has the tastiest avocado toast, and their salsa macha is fire. Literally! The café is open every day from 7:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. serving coffee, smoothies and breakfast/lunch.
Agricole Cooperativa
And at least once every couple of days we made our way to Agricole, which we dubbed “the Whole Foods of Baja.” There we’d stock up on organically grown produce, sparkling water, fine wine, craft beer and other tasty treats. We became obsessed with their totopos (homemade tortilla chips), their super fresh strawberries and of course, their fresas con crema!
Señor Beans Cafe (formerly Baja Beans)
For a cheap, simple breakfast, look no further than Señor Beans Cafe, also known as Baja Beans. It’s one of my favorite spots to work and enjoy a post-workout breakfast, or take the kids for brunch. The eggs benedict or chilaquiles are my personal go-tos. The owners and staff are super nice too, and always remember repeat patrons!
Barracuda Cantina
If you’re hanging at Cerritos beach all day, then you definitely need try Barracuda Cantina, where you can order fresh fried or grilled fish and shrimp tacos, ceviche, quesadillas and burritos. Or cocktails! I highly recommend the fish burritos, the shrimp tacos, al planca (grilled) or the avocado tacos.
Lucky 23 Restaurant
Want something a bit more upscale? Try Lucky 23! Ignore the name – it totally doesn’t fit the vibe and ambiance. They make pasta from scratch, and have delicious cuts of steak, pork chops and lobster on hand as well. Their staff always goes above and beyond to ensure excellent service and meals.
Besos de Mezcal
This is another date night fave of ours! The Besos de Mezcal bartenders are some of the nicest we’ve met down here, and the service is impeccable. We go for the cocktails (try the Jardin Fizz) and sushi. This is a fabulous spot to take in sunset!
Additional Local Favorites
Cerritos Beach Inn – Awesome wings, EPIC spot to whale watch at sunset
Paleta’s Restaurant Bar & Grill – Great owners, good food and awesome views from the balcony.
Señor Hoagie – Subs to go, perfect for the beach!
La Comuna Café – Coffee and breakfast
Quesadilla Muñe – Large stuffed quesadillas, tacos and menudo
Los Claros – seafood tacos, papas rellanos and more
Peruse the Local Farmer’s Market
Every Sunday, Baja Beans hosts a weekly Farmer’s Market where local artisans, farmers and craftsmen sell fresh produce, paintings, jewelry, blankets, locally-made clothing, and much more. Along with the delicious food at Baja Beans, I loved perusing the beautiful handmade, ethically-sourced goods at Zócolo.
Visit Cerritos Beach Dogs
Hear us out — even if you’re not looking to adopt a new furry friend, there’s nothing better than getting (and giving) some love to pups in need. Cerritos Beach Dogs operates as part cafe, part dog rescue and is 100% non-profit. This organization works around the clock to rescue dogs and puppies in need, as well as spay and neuter local four-legged friends. We rescued our pup Frankie from CBD in May 2024 and saw firsthand just how much each person there cares for not only each dog they rescue, but their fosters and adopters too. When you order a smoothie or a latte, your contribution helps keep their efforts going! And you can also help out their volunteers by offering to take one of the dogs for a beach stroll. It’s a win-win!
Stroll through Todos Santos
Todos Santos is only a 15-minute drive from El Pescadero, and is totally worth the quick trip. Check out our Todos Santos post for more info on this adorable art village!
Play Volleyball
You can always find a volleyball game going in the mornings or afternoons near the main entrance of the beach. It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice or semi-professional – all players are welcome! It’s a great group of people, and a nice way to plug into an instant community. If you want to be added to the WhatsApp chat, send us a DM on Instagram and we’ll get you plugged in.
Take a Yoga or Workout Class
When we get down here, one of the first things I do once we’re settled is sign up for a yoga or workout class. The yoga classes here are like master classes – the instructors are amazing! I enjoy going to classes at Cuatro Vientos, where there is a myriad of classes hosted daily.
Tap Into Local Events
There is no shortage of events, activities, fundraisers and more to do here. I recommend tapping into the Baja Western Onion for the full scoop!
Where to Camp in Cerritos & El Pescadero
Camp Cerritos
We’re excited to announce that we have opened our very own campground in Playa Los Cerritos!
After a year of clearing the land and building our dream camp, we’re officially accepting guests at Camp Cerritos. Come enjoy this beautifully designed RV campground in the heart of Cerritos Beach, BCS. Only a 15-minute walk or a five-minute drive from the beach, grocery store and restaurants, our campground is perfectly nestled to provide easy access to everything you need, while still enjoying the tranquility of the desert landscape.
Common areas include a spacious palapa with the iconic Hacienda view, a kitchen, bathroom and an outdoor shower. The palapa is the perfect space to prepare and share family meals, socialize with fellow guests, play games, enjoy one of our lending library books, work remotely and homeschool. You can also enjoy bocce ball just outside the camp entrance too! Additionally, our outdoor shower is great for rinsing off after a day at the beach. We offer Starlink WiFi on site to all guests as well.
We have five full hookup sites available (limited to 30’-34’ trailers), as well one dry camping option for vans and truck campers. Discounted rates available for weekly, monthly and longer term stays. To see availability and book directly, visit CampCerritosBeach.com/BookNow. Reservations are required.
Places to Rent in Cerritos & Pescadero
Luxury Accommodations
Little Piece of Cielo
This penthouse suite is the ultimate slice of heaven if you’re looking to elevate your vacay to the next level. At this gorgeous condo, you can enjoy the sound of the ocean from every room, whale watch and catch the sunsets on the rooftop, or soak in your own private hot tub. And it’s all walking distance to Cerritos Beach!
Rental Homes for Families & Couples
Casa Cardon Cerritos
Looking for a longer term rental that fits your familia? This home is perfect for you! This family-friendly, three bedroom, 2.5 bath house is centrally located in the heart of Cerritos. Just a short walking distance from the beach, as well as restaurants, making it the perfect location for your extended vacation. To book your stay, shoot a message to the owners here on Instagram!
Final Thoughts on Cerritos & El Pescadero
After coming back to Baja for so many years, it was really the fellow travelers we met that made this place so special. It’s why we chose to buy land and build a campground here, and honestly, build a part-time life here. We created lifelong friendships with the most amazing people and enjoy plugging back into the community while we’re here. Watch this post as this area evolves and we continue adding more resources!
And if you have a Cerritos/Pesky business you’d like us to check out, please leave a comment!
