Isla Natividad

Between Isla Cedros [1] and Punta Eugenia [2], tiny Isla Natividad (pop. 400) was a Cochimí settlement until a Jesuit missionary convinced the group to relocate to Misión San Ignacio.

The island is better known today as a world-class surf destination, with the famous Open Doors break (south swell only). Open Doors breaks on the southeast side of the island, so the same westerly winds that blow the surf out along the mainland are barrel-grooming offshore waves all afternoon. Isla Natividad is known for advanced barreling waves and tough camping.

San Diego–based Baja AirVentures (toll-free U.S. tel. 800/221-9283, www.bajaairventures.com [3]) runs all-inclusive, safari-style trips to Isla Natividad May–October, but only when a south swell is running. Trips are often planned on short notice, depending on the surf conditions. This is the way to get in and out for a surgical strike. A four-day trip costs US$1,495, and a six-day trip runs US$1,595. All trips depart from San Diego.

From Punta Eugenia, chartered boat service to Isla Natividad should cost about US$20 one-way, and the trip takes about 30 minutes. Planes also make the short trip to the island’s dirt runway. Services are extremely limited here, but the island does have a clinic to handle small injuries.