Famous for its lively atmosphere and 350 days of sunshine each year, Cabo San Lucas stands out as one of Mexico’s most attractive travel destinations. It draws a diverse crowd from the western U.S., Canada, and various other locations throughout Mexico. Whether you’re looking to unwind or embark on exciting adventures, Cabo offers ample opportunities to create memorable experiences. Below are some essential tips to help you save money while planning your trip to this paradise.

1. Welcome to Cabo San Lucas

The Cabo San Lucas region features a 20-mile coastline at the southern tip of Baja California. This area consists of two cities, Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, linked by Route 1. Visitors can conveniently access the international airport located just north of San José del Cabo, with direct flights arriving from multiple U.S. and Canadian cities, including Chicago, Detroit, Newark, and Vancouver.

2. When to Visit

The weather in Cabo is remarkably consistent throughout the year. The summer months can get quite warm, and while hurricane season may introduce some moisture, cloudy days are infrequent. Most visitors favor the winter months, particularly enjoying the Fiesta de San José del Cabo held in March, and the bustling spring break period that brings in many younger travelers.

3. Cabo Basics

Visitors often find themselves drawn to the luxury of all-inclusive resorts, where relaxation by the pool is a common pastime. However, Cabo also offers a wealth of outdoor activities such as whale watching, deep-sea fishing, and diving or snorkeling, making it an ideal locale for both leisure and adventure.

4. Where to Eat

Dining in Cabo presents various options, particularly with many resorts offering all-inclusive meals. However, for the budget-conscious traveler who wishes to explore local cuisines, many small restaurants and bar food establishments can be discovered in both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The marina area features numerous American chain restaurants, but taking the time to seek local culinary gems is often rewarding.

5. Getting Around

Transportation in Cabo can be a bit pricey. Larger resorts provide shuttle services to nearby towns at a fixed cost, with rides from the airport typically ranging from $30 to $40. With this in mind, renting a car could be a more economical option if you plan to explore the area extensively.

6. Where to Stay

Deciding where to stay in Cabo involves a choice between larger resorts that offer numerous amenities or smaller budget-friendly accommodations where you’ll need to seek out meals and activities. The aftermath of Hurricane Odile in September 2014, which devastated the area, still affects some hospitality options, although many resorts, such as the Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar, have successfully reopened.

7. Day Trips

Cabo’s stunning landscape is characterized by its proximity to the Sea of Cortez, which attracts numerous tourists each year. From mid-December to mid-April, visitors can enjoy whale watching trips, while deep-sea fishing remains a year-round favorite. External excursions, such as those offered by Pisces Sportfishing, typically provide fantastic experiences for fishing enthusiasts.

8. More Cabo Tips

• After clearing customs at the airport, avoid aggressive timeshare salespeople. They can create confusion and are persistent in offering high-pressure sales pitches.
• Familiarize yourself with the geographical orientation: the Sea of Cortez is to the east, while the Pacific Ocean lies to the west, where you can catch stunning sunsets.
• Consider taking a boat ride to Lands End for picturesque views. Local vendors in the Cabo San Lucas marina offer affordable options.
• Remember to keep your Mexican Tourist Card with your passport; losing it incurs fines and potential delays for replacement.
• For music lovers, check out Rock & Brews in San José del Cabo for a fun atmosphere with live bands.
• Don’t miss trying local specialties such as flash-fried shrimp and ceviche, along with cowboy steak, a regional favorite.
• Exercise caution regarding beach conditions, as many beaches may pose risks for swimmers due to strong undertows.