Cabo San Lucas

Travel Guide

Los Cabos
Santa Maria Beach featuring rocky coastline, a beach and general coastal views
Chileno Beach which includes general coastal views, boating and a sandy beach
St Maarten and St Martin which includes outdoor eating, general coastal views and night scenes
Los Cabos

Escape to a coastal getaway where dramatic landscapes, sun-drenched shores and some of the best nightlife in Mexico promise an unforgettable tropical adventure.

Perched at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a picturesque resort city between the desert and the sea. It’s where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, framed by dramatic rock formations like The Arch. Here, it’s all about living the good life, whether savoring plates of zesty fish tacos, lounging by the water or exploring the cacti-dotted desert on an ATV. When the sun goes down, this coastal destination turns into the peninsula’s party capital. Whether you want to chill, let loose or both, a Cabo San Lucas vacation is your ticket to sun, sand and awe-inspiring sights.

The best areas for accommodation in Cabo San Lucas

Downtown is one of the best areas to stay in Cabo San Lucas for first-timers, with plenty of stores, restaurants and attractions like Plaza Amelia Wilkes. It’s also a nightlife hot spot. Another excellent option is the marina, a lively hub where you can organize boat tours and water sports. Try parasailing and scuba diving, or enjoy a scenic coastal tour.

If you’re a couple seeking a romantic escape, Pedregal is one of the best places to stay in Cabo San Lucas. This upscale neighborhood is known for its cliffside dining options with spectacular views and a palm grove-shaded beach. When you’re ready for a change of pace, the stores, attractions and excitement of downtown are just a short drive away.

One of the best places for families to stay in Cabo San Lucas is around Medano Beach, a popular shoreline known for its safe swimming conditions and water sports. There are also plenty of casual dining options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. A good alternative for families that love the outdoors is El Tezal. This quiet residential neighborhood boasts hiking and biking trails and easy access to gorgeous beaches.

Cabo San Lucas Travel Guide Video

Best time to visit Cabo San Lucas

  • Winter (December to April): The most popular time to visit, with sunny, mild weather that’s perfect for beach lounging. Hotels are busier, so booking in advance is preferable.
  • Spring (Late April to May): Mild temperatures make this one of the best times to visit Cabo San Lucas for outdoor adventures.
  • Summer (June to September): Low season means the hottest days, occasional rain and great hotel deals.
  • Fall (October to November): Cooler, drier weather as the rainy season ends. This is the perfect time of year to go sightseeing in some of the area’s stunning natural spaces.

How many days to spend in Cabo San Lucas

Visiting Cabo San Lucas for three to four days is ideal to experience the highlights, including the 18th-century San Lucas Church and Divorce Beach, with time for a scenic boat tour. Consider five to seven days for trips to nearby towns and activities like scuba diving and hiking in the Sierra de la Laguna mountains.

The vibe of Cabo San Lucas

By day, the atmosphere in Cabo San Lucas is laid-back and casual: think swimsuits, flip-flops and sun hats, with locals and tourists mingling at oceanfront cafes. Meanwhile, the shoreline buzzes with activity, from volleyball and kayaking to snorkeling and paddleboarding. The pace picks up in the evening, especially around downtown and the marina, with crowds flocking to restaurants, lively bars and clubs. For a more tranquil night, Cabo’s quieter side is on display in the swanky hotel lounges and fine dining spots in Pedregal, as well as tucked-away rooftop bars overlooking the resort city.

What is Cabo San Lucas famous for?

Cabo San Lucas is famous for its golden beaches, glitzy resorts, legendary nightlife and stunning Land’s End rock formations. This idyllic setting has attracted Hollywood productions, including Troy and The Heartbreak Kid, showcasing its beauty on the silver screen. Beneath the waves, the underwater world is just as enchanting, with colorful fish and coral reefs attracting divers and snorkelers. Above the surface, sports like kitesurfing and parasailing provide plenty of thrills for adventure seekers. Cabo’s status as an A-lister getaway adds to its glamor, with stars like George Clooney, Jennifer Aniston and LeAnn Rimes often spotted along the sun-soaked Cabo San Lucas beaches.

Events in Cabo San Lucas

Parades, processions and parties: Cabo San Lucas’ annual fiestas are a lively celebration of Mexican culture. The year kicks off with Día de Los Reyes (Three Kings Day) in January, where you can try the traditional rosca de reyes, a crown-shaped cake decorated with candied fruits. Mexican Independence Day in September lights up the place with fireworks and parades. Time your visit for October to experience St. Luke’s Festival, when locals celebrate the city’s patron saint with music and dance. Another popular Cabo San Lucas event is November’s Altares en el Mar, a nautical parade of decorated boats celebrating Día de los Muertos.

Top attractions in Cabo San Lucas

One of the best things for first-timers to do in Cabo San Lucas is to visit the iconic Arch at Land’s End, a towering granite formation only accessible by boat. Afterward, explore the lively marina, filled with stores and restaurants. For insights into the area’s rich history, visit the Natural History Museum of Cabo San Lucas. If you’re feeling energetic, hike Mount Solmar for awesome sea and city views.

One of the best things for couples to do in Cabo San Lucas is picnic and sunbathe on Lover’s Beach, a secluded spot accessible by boat. Spend a couple of hours at The Glass Factory, watching skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces that you can purchase to take home. End the day with a romantic sunset view from a cliffside restaurant in the upscale Pedregal neighborhood.

Along with having fun in the sun on a beach, one of the best activities for families in Cabo San Lucas is to splash around together at the Wild Wet Fun water park. For a seafaring adventure, hop on a replica pirate ship to cruise the coastline. If your little ones love thrills, head to Wild Canyon Adventures for bungee jumping and zip-lining.

Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas

Mission of San Jose showing heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Downtown Cabo San Lucas

4/5(309 area reviews)

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Cabo San Lucas. A stop by Casa de la Cultura or Zen-Mar Mask Gallery might round out your trip.

Downtown Cabo San Lucas
Marina Cabo San Lucas featuring boating and a marina

El Medano Ejidal

4.5/5(380 area reviews)

While visiting El Medano Ejidal, you might make a stop by sights like Puerto Paraiso Mall and Marina Del Rey.

El Medano Ejidal
Los Cabos

Marina

4.5/5(787 area reviews)

Travelers to Marina praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Marina Del Rey and Solmar Beach.

Marina
Cabo Dolphins featuring a bay or harbor

Cabo San Lucas Centro

4.5/5(96 area reviews)

While visiting Cabo San Lucas Centro, you might make a stop by sights like Marina Del Rey and Cabo San Lucas Bay.

Cabo San Lucas Centro
Playa Las Viudas featuring general coastal views and a beach as well as a small group of people

Pedregal

4.5/5(1,311 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Pedregal. Make a stop by Solmar Beach or Playa Las Viudas while you're exploring the area.

Pedregal
Default Image

El Tezal

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife highlight some of the most notable features of El Tezal. Make a stop by Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California while you're exploring the area.

El Tezal
Hotel Riu Santa Fe - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Santa Fe - All Inclusive
3.5 out of 5
Bahia Cabo san Lucas KM 4.5, Camino Viejo San jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, BCS
Stay at this 3.5-star beach property in Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (5,102 reviews)
"The property was beautiful and well maintained (always being kept up). There are a variety of people (couples, families, bachelor/bachelorettes). This is definitely a party resort though with Vegas style pool parties 4 times per week. The resort food is subpar. We didn't experience illness, but each ..."

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2025

Hotel Riu Santa Fe - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas - All Inclusive
4 out of 5
Camino Viejo a San Jose del Cabo Km 4.5, Cabo San Lucas, BCS
Stay at this 4-star beach property in Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (4,385 reviews)
"Service was excellent"

Reviewed on Apr 26, 2025

Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California - Adults Only - All Inclusive
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California - Adults Only - All Inclusive
4.5 out of 5
Camino Viejo a San José, Km 3.5, Col. El Medano, Cabo San Lucas, BCS
The price is $385 per night from May 13 to May 14
$385
includes taxes & fees
$318 per night
May 13 - May 14
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury property in Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (3,996 reviews)
"The staff is wonderful and all the facilities and amenities are top notch. We always stay at RIU properties."

Reviewed on Apr 25, 2025

Hotel Riu Palace Baja California - Adults Only - All Inclusive
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cabo Vista Hotel - Adults only
Cabo Vista Hotel - Adults only
3 out of 5
Av. Cabo San Lucas / Revolucion 1910, Centro, Cabo San Lucas, BCS
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly aparthotel in Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the restaurant ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,044 reviews)
"Great customer sevice. Quick response to questions and additional services."

Reviewed on Apr 24, 2025

Cabo Vista Hotel - Adults only
Lumina at Cardinal Cabo San Lucas
Lumina at Cardinal Cabo San Lucas
4 out of 5
6 C. Cabo San Lucas Ildefonso Green, Cabo San Lucas, BCS
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (57 reviews)
"Very clean, great communication. Would stay here again."

Reviewed on Apr 8, 2025

Lumina at Cardinal Cabo San Lucas
The Ridge at Playa Grande
The Ridge at Playa Grande
5 out of 5
Av Playa Grande No 1 A, Cabo San Lucas, BCS
Stay at this 5-star luxury condo in Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy free parking, 3 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Medano Beach and Marina ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (208 reviews)
Great location, would come here again
"Beautiful views. Great customer service. Was treated very well and they were great with my food allergies. The Ridge is more exclusive than the regular Playa Grande. But you have full access to Playa Grande if you want. Plenty of pools, restaurants and walking distance to the Marina."

Reviewed on Apr 19, 2025

The Ridge at Playa Grande
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Food in Cabo San Lucas

From beachside taco bars serving Baja-style fish tacos to upscale restaurants creating inventive takes on Mexican classics, the eats here are a feast for every foodie. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sea of Cortez on the other, Cabo San Lucas is famous for its unbelievably fresh seafood, especially in oceanfront restaurants like those around Medano Beach. Pull up a chair in downtown or marina restaurants to savor local favorites like aromatic tamales and fresh chocolate clams (named for the color of their shells). If you’re looking for gourmet fine dining, Cabo San Lucas city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants.

Nightlife in Cabo San Lucas

Whether you’re after a chilled evening or a night of dancing, Cabo’s got the perfect spot to keep the party going. Ease into the evening with a piña colada at one of the bars on Medano Beach. Then follow the crowds to the downtown area and the marina, where bars, pubs and nightclubs keep the music pumping late into the night. And Cabo San Lucas’ LGBTQ+-friendly bars, clubs and inclusive spots ensure everyone feels welcome. End the night with a touch of magic at a Cabo San Lucas beach club, where you can feel the sand between your toes as you dance under the stars.

Shopping in Cabo San Lucas

Whether splurging or hunting for deals, shopping in Cabo San Lucas city offers a mix of malls, markets and fancy boutiques. To splash out on designer goods, visit Luxury Avenue boutique mall on the marina. Nearby is Puerto Paraiso shopping mall, featuring over 100 stores for all budgets. At the end of the marina, the flea market brims with unique treasures; be sure to bring your negotiating skills to snag a bargain. For local souvenirs like handcrafted pottery, textiles and other artisan goods, browse downtown stores or head to the shops on Plaza Gali.

Best beaches in Cabo San Lucas

One of the best swimming beaches in Cabo San Lucas is Medano Beach, a long stretch of soft sand, gentle waves and shallow water. Although it’s a busy downtown beach, there’s always room for a relaxing swim. Palmilla Beach, a short drive outside the city, is a great spot for a peaceful dip away from the crowds. Another gem is Playa Bledito, where man-made breakwaters create calm swimming conditions.

Chileno Bay Beach and Santa Maria Beach are among the best beaches for snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas, with crystal-clear waters home to a vibrant underwater world. Adventurous snorkelers should visit Pelican Rock, a short boat ride from the marina, known for its underwater rock formations and diverse marine life. The best time to snorkel is from April to June, as the water is warm and visibility is excellent.

Getting around Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is easy to explore on foot, especially around downtown and the marina, where attractions and beaches are close together. Water taxis provide a scenic way to reach nearby beaches and landmarks like Lover’s Beach. Public buses are affordable but limited to major routes. Renting a car is ideal for exploring distant beaches and towns like San Jose del Cabo. Taxis aren’t metered, so remember to negotiate the fare beforehand.

Cabo San Lucas currency and budget

Although U.S. dollars are widely accepted, you may get a better exchange rate using the local currency, the Mexican peso (MXN). To cover meals, accommodations, sightseeing and transportation, budget $120-$150 per day. Tipping 10%-15% in restaurants and a few dollars for hotel staff and taxi drivers is standard. Here’s an idea of typical everyday expenses:

  • A meal at an inexpensive restaurant = $13.00 USD
  • A pint of local beer = $2.50 USD
  • A regular cappuccino = $4.00 USD
  • A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant = $60.00 USD

*Prices are provided for informational purposes and are subject to change.

Local greetings in Cabo San Lucas

Although Spanish is Mexico’s official language, English is widely spoken in Cabo San Lucas, particularly in tourist areas. However, sprinkling in a few Spanish phrases is always appreciated and can add a personal touch to your interactions with locals, making your experience even more memorable. Try using greetings like “hola” (hello), “buenos dias” (good morning) and “buenas tardes” (good afternoon). “La cuenta, por favor” (the bill, please) will come in handy in restaurants.

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