Summary
Cabo San Lucas, commonly referred to as Cabo by many visitors, is one of the most captivating cities along Mexico’s Pacific Coastline. The city not only offers an enjoyable experience, but it also features numerous remarkable activities and attractions throughout the area.
Over the years, we have ventured to the premier locations in Tulum and discovered the most spectacular experiences in Cancun. Additionally, we explored cities such as Merida, which are equally incredible. However, these experiences primarily take place on the eastern coasts of Mexico.
What I appreciate about Cabo is its stunning western coastline, recognized as one of the best places in Mexico for observing whales, which are truly remarkable to see on a tour. Moreover, the coastline is breathtaking, making it an ideal destination if you’re headed to the west coast of Mexico.
To ensure you maximize your experience in Cabo, we have compiled a list of our essential recommendations that you cannot overlook. This way, you can devote your time to relaxation and exploration during your visit to Cabo.
1.) Playa del Amor (Lovers Beach)
Lovers Beach, situated just south of Cabo’s downtown area near Land’s End, is among the most frequented beaches in Cabo San Lucas, celebrated for its pristine natural beauty.
However, it is essential to note that Lovers Beach is relatively small and tends to be crowded during peak hours. That said, it is undeniably worth the visit, particularly if you are already exploring the broader region beyond the adjacent harbor.
Additionally, you can discover several charming beach coves in this location. First, there is Lovers Beach, aptly named for its calmer waters, making it a more family-friendly choice.
In contrast, on the opposite side, Playa del Divorcio is known for its rough waves and perilous waters, making swimming inadvisable—hence its name.
You are welcome to take a leisurely hike between these two beaches; however, it can be quite precarious due to limited health and safety regulations in the area. To simplify your journey, consider a short water taxi ride from the shore in Cabo San Lucas, which generally costs about $20-30 USD each.
2.) Whale Watching
Whale watching ranks as one of the premier experiences you can undertake in Mexico, and there is arguably no better location to engage in this activity than the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) and the Pacific coastline.
To seize this opportunity, you’ll want to visit Cabo San Lucas during the period from December to April when whales are present. However, you can also book a whale-watching tour as early as November and hope for sightings.
The waters surrounding Cabo San Lucas serve as a prime destination for migratory and breeding humpback whales. Thus, it is advisable to reserve your whale-watching boat tour in advance, as space fills quickly during peak times, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on this opportunity.
3.) Cabo Pulmo National Park
The natural environment around Cabo San Lucas is exceptional. If you’re staying in Cabo for several days, ensure you allocate time to experience Cabo Pulmo National Park.
This expansive park stretches along the coastline from Pulmo Point to Los Frailes Cape and is vast enough that it cannot be fully explored in just a day. However, you can visit nearby locations while you travel.
With abundant marine life around this UNESCO-protected coastline, you can easily explore by arranging a kayaking and snorkeling tour that departs from Cabo. This experience is particularly unique as Cabo Pulmo is home to one of only three living coral reefs in North America that visitors can access.
During the tour, which lasts approximately nine hours, you will stop at the sea lion colony and three snorkeling locations while enjoying a stunning drive from Cabo San Lucas—definitely worth it.
4.) Lands End
Technically, Lovers Beach is part of Lands End in Cabo, so if you are already visiting the shoreline, exploring more of Lands End is quite convenient.
Situated in the southern part of Cabo, Lands End is where Lovers Beach and Playa del Divorcio converge. You can visit at any time throughout the day, but the most enchanting experience occurs during sunset on this boat tour.
Moreover, it is an ideal location to relax and explore during a longer day through a chartered boat or a shared boat option, which tends to be more economical.
Once there, ensure you witness the Arch of Cabo San Lucas and investigate the small rocky islands, including Pelican Rock, which lend this area its unique charm.
5.) Marina Cabo San Lucas
A visit to the marina constitutes one of the most enjoyable activities available in Cabo San Lucas. Strategically located just before Lands End, this area features numerous boat tours, shops, and restaurants.
It serves as the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll along the harbor while enjoying a meal during the early evening. The views during sunset from this vantage point are simply stunning.
We particularly enjoy Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, which offers breathtaking views across the bay, especially at sunset. However, be sure to book a table in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly. Their octopus dish with red onions and zucchini squash is particularly recommended.
6.) San Jose del Cabo
If you require a break from the beaches and sea, a trip to San Jose del Cabo, the Old Town, is highly recommended. The taxi ride from the city center takes merely about 20 minutes, and there is no necessity for prebooking.
We thoroughly enjoy the ambiance there, and it stands out as one of the most noteworthy visits in Cabo San Lucas for a delightful day trip. San Jose del Cabo offers an insightful glimpse into the culture and history of Mexico.
While exploring, you may walk through the plaza and discover local dining establishments that present an authentic Mexican culinary experience. Weekly markets are conducted on Thursdays, where local vendors and artisans showcase their crafts and goods.
As an alternative, consider a beach day at Playa Hotelera, which is absolutely beautiful.
7.) Playa Santa Maria
Approximately 10 miles from the center of Cabo San Lucas, you will find Playa Santa Maria. This stunning horseshoe-shaped bay is part of the protected marine sanctuary along the coastline and is truly beautiful.
Although it does not receive the same level of attention as the beaches in Cabo San Lucas, it is worth a visit, especially if you’re already heading east along the coastline.
In fact, you can reserve this all-inclusive boat tour, which provides a complimentary bar and stops at Paya Santa Maria for snorkeling. Onboard, you will have the opportunity to swim with schools of fish and observe vivid marine life up close; it’s absolutely incredible.
8.) Todos Santos
Todos Santos is an essential destination and ranks among the top experiences to encounter in Cabo San Lucas if you enjoy day trips.
Offering a contrast to the sun-drenched beaches of Cabo, Todos Santos is nestled at the foot of the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range, adding to its allure as a travel destination. This charming town is one of our personal favorites near Cabo.
Interestingly, the original Hotel California, which inspired the well-known Eagles song, is located in Todos Santos—indeed, it’s the genuine article!
Located roughly a 55-minute drive from Cabo, careful planning is necessary to fully enjoy your journey. Depart early in the morning and make your way directly to Playa La Cachora, known for its pristine and unspoiled beauty. Do bear in mind to bring snacks, drinks, and sunscreen, as facilities on the beach are limited.
Afterwards, make your way to La Esquina to explore their delightful brunch menu, where their Mexican eggs served with beans and avocado are particularly noteworthy.
9.) El Squid Roe
In Cabo San Lucas, the nightlife flourishes once the sun sets. You can easily spend the entire night in town, with an abundance of bars and restaurants to select from.
El Squid Roe stands at the forefront of Cabo’s nightlife scene, renowned for its extravagant cocktails, consistent beverages, lively music, and dance parties that will keep you engaged. It offers a vibrant, exuberant atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to revel in a party environment.
Moreover, accessibility to El Squid Roe is straightforward when visiting the Marina in Cabo, located just a short distance from the shoreline.
10.) Medano Beach
Stretching the length of Cabo San Lucas, Medano Beach is unquestionably one of the region’s most frequented beaches.
This expansive, two-mile shoreline is lined with rental facilities, bars, restaurants, and several beach clubs. One of the distinguishing features of this beach is its mild and calm waters, making it ideal for various water-based activities or simply basking in the sun. Nevertheless, it is crucial always to be vigilant regarding riptides, as the Pacific Ocean can be vigorous.
Upon your arrival, consider dining at The Office on the Beach for a memorable lunch experience complemented by refreshing cocktails. This lively spot is perfect for spending a few enjoyable hours.
For those aiming for a more relaxed day at Medano Beach, venture further east. The further you progress, the less developed the beach area becomes.
