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If you’re dreaming of turquoise water and sun-drenched sand in Los Cabos this week, you’re in for a treat—but you’ll want to pack a healthy dose of respect for the ocean along with your sunscreen. A significant southern swell is rolling into the tip of the Baja Peninsula, promising a spectacular show of Mother Nature’s power and prompting authorities to urge caution for anyone planning a dip on Cabo’s famous beaches.
This isn’t a reason to cancel your trip, but it is a reason to be smart, stay aware, and maybe switch out a few ocean swims for some poolside lounging.
What’s Happening With The Waves?
Think of it as the Pacific Ocean deciding to flex its muscles for a few days.
The powerful waves are being generated by a distant storm system in the Pacific, a phenomenon closely monitored by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Based on their models, local authorities are urging caution as the swell is expected to build and peak on Monday, June 16th, with potentially hazardous waves reaching up to 9 feet (2.7 meters).
While that’s a dream come true for professional surfers who flock here for these conditions, it’s a different story for the average vacationer. For most of us, waves of this size are best enjoyed from the safety of a beachfront restaurant with a cold drink in hand.
Why The Extra Caution In Los Cabos?
Los Cabos has a bit of a reputation, and it’s not just for its amazing tacos and nightlife. Many of its most stunning beaches are famously not safe for swimming, even on the calmest of days. Beaches along the Pacific corridor, like the beautiful but treacherous Divorce Beach, are known for their bone-rattling shore breaks and powerful undertows that can pull even the strongest swimmer out to sea.
This incoming swell will amplify those existing dangers. Even Medano Beach, Cabo San Lucas’s main swimming beach, will feel the effects. The normally gentle lapping waves will be replaced by a much stronger surge, creating potentially hazardous conditions, especially for children and inexperienced swimmers.
How To Stay Safe And Still Have Fun
So, how do you enjoy your vacation when the ocean is throwing a bit of a party? It’s all about being ocean-aware and shifting your plans slightly.
First, pay close attention to the beach flag system. It’s simple and could save your life. A red flag means the conditions are dangerous and you should not go in the water. A black flag is the most serious warning, meaning the beach is closed to all swimming. A yellow flag means proceed with caution, which during this swell, should be treated with the utmost respect.
Our main goal at Travel Off Path is to help you have a great trip, and that always starts with safety. Here are a few more tips to keep you safe:
- Listen to the Lifeguards: They are the experts on local conditions. If they tell you to get out of the water, don’t argue.
- Never Turn Your Back: It’s the oldest rule in the book for a reason. A single, unexpected wave can easily knock you off your feet.
- Find a Great Vantage Point: This is a perfect excuse to grab a front-row seat at a place like The Office on Medano Beach, order some guacamole, and watch the show. The power of the ocean is truly awe-inspiring from a safe distance.
- It’s Pool Time!: Your resort’s pool is looking pretty good right about now, isn’t it? Embrace the swim-up bar and enjoy a guaranteed-safe swimming experience.
- Explore on Land: Use this as an opportunity to explore other parts of Cabo. Take a stroll through the charming art district of San José del Cabo, go on a desert ATV adventure, or do some world-class shopping.
Cabo is still the incredible destination you were hoping for. This swell just adds a little bit of wild drama to the scenery. Enjoy the view, respect the power, and you’ll have a fantastic and safe vacation story to tell.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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