At Santa María Beach in Cabo San Lucas on Friday, June 13, a potentially tragic situation was averted thanks to the swift actions of two lifeguards who rescued a woman and her son, both of Chinese origin, after they were swept away by strong currents and waves.
The sea conditions quickly turned dangerous, catching swimmers by surprise. Lifeguards Raúl Sandez from ZOFEMAT Los Cabos and Miguel Ríos from the Montage Hotel responded immediately, acting decisively and in coordination to save both victims.
Authorities praised the bravery and professionalism of the lifeguards, who risked their own safety to help. Their actions highlight the importance of trained personnel on beaches, especially where strong waves are common.
Following the rescue, tourists were urged to respect flag warnings that indicate sea conditions and to follow safety personnel instructions designed to prevent accidents and save lives.
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks of ignoring coastal warning signs. The collaboration between agencies and the training of rescue personnel are critical in saving lives. While the Sea of Cortez is generally safe, beaches like Santa María and Las Viudas can experience dangerous shore-breaking waves that knock swimmers off their feet.
Just a week earlier, on Friday, June 6, at Las Viudas Beach, local authorities were again reminded of the need for water safety. A 16-year-old Portuguese tourist, Isabella N., was rescued by Alejandro Espinoza, an employee of the Federal Maritime Land Zone (ZOFEMAT), after being swept away by strong waves. “The waves were carrying me away, and there weren’t many people to hear me. Luckily, the ZOFEMAT staff arrived quickly. I am grateful for the care he gave me,” Isabella said.
Los Cabos is famous for its stunning beaches, but not all are safe for swimming due to strong currents and unpredictable surf. Authorities use a color-coded flag system to indicate water conditions:
- Green Flag: Safe for swimming
- Yellow Flag: Exercise caution; moderate surf and currents
- Red Flag: Dangerous conditions; swimming prohibited
- Black Flag: Beach closed due to extremely hazardous conditions
Flags are usually posted near lifeguard towers or beach entry points. If no flag is visible, ask a lifeguard or local for information. Better safe than sorry.
Some beaches remain consistently dangerous due to undertows, steep drop-offs, and powerful shore breaks. Travelers should exercise extreme caution or avoid swimming entirely at these locations:
- Las Viudas Beach is scenic but known for unpredictable waves and strong currents.
- Solmar Beach, adjacent to Playa Grande, has steep drop-offs and powerful Pacific waves; swimming is strongly discouraged.
- Divorce Beach is notorious for its year-round dangerous waves, earning it a reputation as a drowning hazard.
- East Cape Beaches are remote and less patrolled, often hiding currents that may not be visible until it’s too late. Even when calm, these waters can be deceptively dangerous.