Los Cabos

Where the desert drops into the sea

Region

Mexico · Mexico

Best time to go

Sunny and dry for most of the year, with the most comfortable weather from late fall through spring. Late summer and early fall are hot and carry some hurricane risk, and gray whales and humpbacks pass through in the winter months.

Getting there

Nonstop flights from many West Coast and major US hubs into Los Cabos International; connections from elsewhere.

Why go to Los Cabos

Los Cabos is the region at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, built around Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and the corridor between them. It is known for desert-and-sea scenery, boat outings, seasonal whale watching, and beaches where swimming conditions vary sharply.

Golfers Anglers Wildlife lovers Spa and wellness travelers Wedding couples and groups

Things to do in Los Cabos

NatureEl Arco at Land's EndEl Arco is the rock arch at the tip of the Baja peninsula, reached by water from Cabo San Lucas marina. Take a boat trip when conditions are suitable, and keep the day flexible because wind and sea conditions affect routes.Explore related tours

BeachMedano BeachMedano Beach is Cabo San Lucas's best-known swimmable beach, close to the marina and central activity. It can be lively and busy, so arrive early for more space and continue to watch for changing water conditions.Explore related tours

BeachSanta Maria BaySanta Maria Bay is a horseshoe-shaped bay along the Tourist Corridor, valued for its sheltered shoreline and snorkeling potential. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and assess the current water before entering, since calm conditions are never guaranteed.Explore related tours

BeachChileno BeachChileno Beach is a public beach on the corridor with clear water and an accessible shoreline when sea conditions cooperate. Pack water and shade, and follow local safety guidance before swimming or snorkeling.Explore related tours

CultureSan José del Cabo Art DistrictThe Art District centers on the historic streets around San José del Cabo's main square, with galleries and a more relaxed evening pace. Visit in late afternoon or evening when the heat eases, and allow time to wander without a fixed route.Explore related tours

NatureSan José EstuaryThe San José Estuary is a protected wetland near the town, offering a contrast to the region's dry landscape and a chance to spot birds. Stay on marked paths, keep noise low, and treat it as a nature walk rather than a swimming spot.Explore related tours

AdventureCabo Pulmo National ParkCabo Pulmo National Park on the Sea of Cortez protects a living coral reef and is reached by a long road trip from Los Cabos. Go with a plan for transport and weather, and use responsible local guides for water activities.Explore related tours

CultureTodos SantosTodos Santos is a small town on the Pacific side with galleries, historic streets, and a noticeably different feel from Cabo San Lucas. It makes an easy cultural change of pace, but use caution at nearby Pacific beaches where surf can be powerful.Explore related tours

AdventureWhale watchingFrom winter into early spring, boats from Los Cabos can encounter whales moving through the region's waters. Wildlife sightings depend on season and conditions, so choose a licensed operator and follow distance rules throughout the outing.Explore related tours

NightlifeCabo San Lucas marinaThe marina is the departure point for water taxis, fishing boats, and many sea excursions, with views toward Land's End. Walk it in the morning or near sunset, and confirm the exact meeting location for any boat reservation.Explore related tours

AdventureSierra de la LagunaThe Sierra de la Laguna mountains rise behind Los Cabos and offer a cooler, more rugged setting for guided hiking and nature outings. Terrain and heat demand preparation, so bring proper footwear, water, and a guide for routes beyond easy access areas.Explore related tours

FoodFlora Farms areaThe agricultural area outside San José del Cabo shows another side of the region, with fields and a slower rural landscape. Access differs by property, so treat it as a scenic stop or planned food experience and confirm details before going.Explore related tours

Where to stay in Los Cabos

Cabo San Lucaslively, marina centered, social, convenientCabo San Lucas is the busiest part of the region, with the marina, Medano Beach, nightlife, and straightforward access to Land's End boats. It suits groups and travelers who want activity nearby, but it is less quiet than San José del Cabo.nightlifeboat tripsgroups

San José del Cabocalm, historic, artistic, walkableSan José del Cabo centers on a historic square and art district, with a slower pace than Cabo San Lucas. It is a good choice for couples and travelers who enjoy local streets and galleries, while ocean swimming should always be assessed beach by beach.couplesart districtquiet evenings

Tourist Corridorcoastal, resort oriented, spread out, scenicThe Tourist Corridor runs between the two main towns, placing travelers near bays, beaches, and major coastal views. It works for a stay centered on relaxation and day trips, though a taxi or rental car is useful because sights are spread along the highway.beach stayscouplesscenic drives

East Caperemote, quiet, rugged, outdoorThe East Cape faces the Sea of Cortez and feels more remote, with open beaches and access toward Cabo Pulmo. It suits independent travelers seeking quiet and water activities, but services are limited and road conditions require more planning.quiet escapesoutdoor tripsCabo Pulmo

When to go

Comfortable dry season

November through April

Weather: Days are generally sunny with lower humidity and cooler evenings.
Crowds: Winter holidays and spring breaks are busier.
Value: highest rates around peak weeks

Late spring shoulder

May through June

Weather: Warm, dry weather becomes hotter as summer approaches.
Crowds: Visitor levels are often lighter outside holiday periods.
Value: usually the best value

Summer and early fall

July through October

Weather: Heat, humidity, and tropical weather risk increase, especially later in the season.
Crowds: Crowds can be lower, except around some holidays.
Value: often lower rates

Whale season

December through March

Weather: Dry, pleasant weather overlaps with seasonal whale activity offshore.
Crowds: Water excursions and holiday dates can be especially popular.
Value: often higher rates

Getting the best value

The driest winter months, holiday periods, and spring-break windows usually bring the highest rates. Late spring and parts of summer can offer better value, but hotter weather and tropical-weather risk should be weighed before booking.

Check tour dates

Getting there and around

Getting there

Los Cabos International Airport, SJD, serves Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and the Tourist Corridor.
Nonstop flights are available from many West Coast cities and major US hubs, with connections through a hub from many other locations.
US citizens need a valid passport for Mexico and should check current entry rules before booking, including requirements that may apply to their itinerary.
Prearranged airport transfers, rental cars, taxis, and shared shuttles cover the main visitor areas. Book or confirm your transfer before arrival, especially for a stay outside the two towns.

Getting around

A rental car is useful for the Tourist Corridor, San José del Cabo, and independent trips to Todos Santos or the East Cape.
Taxis and prearranged drivers work well for evening trips between major visitor areas, but agree on the fare or booking details in advance.
Water taxis and boat excursions leave from Cabo San Lucas marina for Land's End and nearby water activities.
Walking works inside central Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, but the broader region is too spread out to explore on foot.

Eat and drink

Fish tacosFresh fish in a tortilla with salsa, cabbage, and lime is a Baja classic and an easy casual lunch after a beach morning.Chocolate clamsThese large local clams are a regional seafood specialty, often prepared simply to highlight their briny flavor.Smoked marlinSmoked marlin appears in tacos, dips, and tostadas, giving a richer taste than the area's lighter seafood preparations.Baja-style cevicheCitrus-marinated seafood is common along the coast, and ordering it from a busy, reputable kitchen is the sensible approach.Damiana liqueurThis regional herbal liqueur is associated with Baja California Sur and is often offered as a local after-dinner drink.Fresh tortillas and salsasSimple tacos become memorable when made with warm tortillas and a choice of salsas, but ask about heat levels before adding more.

Day trips from Los Cabos

Todos SantosDrive to this Pacific-side town for galleries, historic streets, and a change from Los Cabos resort areas. Give yourself time for the road, and treat nearby ocean beaches cautiously because surf can be strong.Explore related tours

Cabo Pulmo National ParkThis long outing reaches a protected reef on the Sea of Cortez with snorkeling and diving opportunities. Plan transportation and water activities carefully, since the route is remote and conditions can change.Explore related tours

East CapeThe East Cape offers a quieter coastal drive with open Sea of Cortez views and a less developed feel. Bring water, fuel, and a clear route plan, as services can be widely spaced.Explore related tours

San José del CaboFrom Cabo San Lucas or the corridor, spend the day in San José del Cabo for its historic square, galleries, and estuary walk. It is an easy cultural contrast to the marina and beach scene.Explore related tours

Sample itineraries

5 days in Los Cabos

Day 1Arrive at SJD, settle into your chosen area, and take an easy walk in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo.
Day 2Take a boat outing to El Arco and Land's End, then spend time at Medano Beach if sea conditions are suitable.
Day 3Visit Chileno Beach or Santa Maria Bay, following ocean guidance before swimming or snorkeling.
Day 4Explore San José del Cabo's historic center, Art District, and estuary, with time for a relaxed meal.
Day 5Choose a whale-watching trip in season, a marina walk, or a final beach morning before departure.

Browse activities for this itinerary

7 days in Los Cabos

Day 1Arrive, arrange transport, and settle in without planning a long drive after your flight.
Day 2See El Arco and Land's End by boat, then return to Cabo San Lucas for the marina and Medano Beach.
Day 3Spend a slower day at Chileno Beach or Santa Maria Bay, using the warmest hours for shade and rest.
Day 4Explore San José del Cabo's plaza, Art District, and estuary on a low-key cultural day.
Day 5Take a road trip to Todos Santos and enjoy the town while respecting Pacific beach warnings.
Day 6Choose an East Cape or Cabo Pulmo outing with transport planned in advance, or book a seasonal whale excursion.
Day 7Use your final morning for a coastal walk, local food, or a short marina visit before transfer to SJD.

Browse activities for this itinerary

Good to know

Do not assume a beautiful beach is safe for swimming. Check posted flags, ask locally, and avoid water with strong surf or undertow.
Use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and regular water breaks, because the desert climate can dehydrate visitors quickly.
Arrange airport transport before arrival and confirm the exact meeting point, especially if staying outside central Cabo San Lucas.
Carry pesos for small purchases and tips, though card acceptance is common in major visitor areas.
Book seasonal whale watching and popular boat trips in advance during winter travel periods.
Keep valuables out of sight in parked cars, and use normal nighttime awareness in busy entertainment areas.

Questions people ask

What is the best month to visit Los Cabos?

November through April is usually most comfortable for dry weather, while winter adds a chance for whale watching. Late spring can offer warm weather with lighter crowds.

Can you swim at Los Cabos beaches?

Some beaches, including Medano Beach and often Chileno Beach or Santa Maria Bay, can be suitable when conditions allow. Many Pacific-facing beaches are unsafe for swimming, so check locally each day.

Do I need a car in Los Cabos?

A car is useful for exploring beyond one town or the Tourist Corridor. If you plan only to use resort facilities and organized transfers, you may not need one.

Is Los Cabos safe for tourists?

Major visitor areas are accustomed to tourism, but standard precautions apply. Use reputable transportation, protect valuables, and follow local safety advice on land and water.

What currency is used in Los Cabos?

Mexico uses the Mexican peso. Some businesses accept US dollars, but pesos are generally more useful for local purchases and tips.

Is Los Cabos family friendly?

Yes, especially for families who choose beaches and activities suited to children's swimming ability. Adult supervision matters because many beaches have powerful surf.

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