Storms, Big Surf, and Why September Is One of the Most Exciting Times to Visit Cerritos Beach
If you’ve been following the weather lately, you’ve probably heard people talking about the possibility of a strong El Niño developing during 2026. Naturally, many visitors and residents are wondering what that means for Southern Baja and whether this year’s hurricane season will be more active than usual.
The short answer is: possibly—but nobody knows for certain.
What we do know is that September is historically the peak month for tropical storms and hurricanes affecting Baja California Sur, and forecasters are expecting an above-average Eastern Pacific hurricane season this year due to the developing El Niño pattern
When Does Hurricane Season Start?
Officially, the Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 through November 30, but for Southern Baja, the months that usually deserve the most attention are:
- August
- September
- Early October
September is often the busiest month, when ocean temperatures are at their warmest and tropical systems have the best chance of developing.
Does El Niño Mean Baja Will Get Hit?
Not necessarily.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that an active hurricane season means Baja is guaranteed to experience multiple hurricanes.
That’s simply not true.
El Niño tends to create conditions that favor more storms forming across the Eastern Pacific Ocean, but many of those storms remain far offshore, curve out to sea, or weaken before reaching land. Seasonal forecasts predict the overall number of storms—not exactly where they’ll go.
In other words:
More storms forming does not automatically mean more storms hitting Baja.
What Visitors Can Expect
Even when hurricanes stay hundreds of miles offshore, they often send powerful long-period swells toward Baja California Sur.
For surfers, photographers, and anyone who loves dramatic ocean scenery, this can be one of the most beautiful times of year.
You’ll often experience:
- Larger surf at Cerritos Beach
- Incredible sunsets after storms
- Cooler evening temperatures
- Crystal-clear air following rain
- Vibrant green desert landscapes a few days after tropical rainfall
Many locals actually look forward to this time of year because the scenery can become absolutely spectacular.
Safety Always Comes First
Of course, tropical weather deserves respect.
If a tropical storm or hurricane approaches Baja:
- Follow local weather forecasts.
- Respect beach closures and warning flags.
- Never enter dangerous surf.
- Avoid flooded roads and arroyos.
- Wait until local authorities declare conditions safe
Fortunately, storms usually pass fairly quickly, and Southern Baja often returns to sunshine within a day or two.
The Best Part? Watching Baja Come Back to Life
One of our favorite traditions at Big Fun Beach Club is seeing everyone return to the beach after a storm has passed.
The skies clear.
The ocean sparkles.
The desert smells fresh from the rain.
The sunsets become unforgettable.
Whether you’re celebrating the return of beautiful weather with friends or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere after Mother Nature puts on a show, it’s a uniquely Baja experience.
Visit Big Fun Beach Club After the Storm
Once conditions are safe again, there’s no better place to relax than right here at Cerritos Beach.
Come enjoy:
- Our famous wood-fired pizzas
- Our Margarita of the Day
- Ice-cold drinks with an ocean view
- Front-row seats to watch the waves roll in
Sometimes the best beach days aren’t before the storm—they’re the beautiful days that come afterward.
Whether you’re visiting Baja for surfing, sightseeing, or simply escaping everyday life, hurricane season offers a side of Baja that many travelers never get to experience.
We’ll have a cold drink waiting for you.
See you at Big Fun Beach Club.
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