Los Cabos comprises two cities: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Although they share a shoreline, they are worlds apart. The area has a lot to offer in terms of exciting things to do Cabo San Lucas, especially for such a tiny city.
Cabo San Lucas, located on the southernmost tip of Baja, California, is where the desert meets the sea. It’s a spot where the water is only a block away no matter where you are.
This is where you may participate in a variety of outdoor sports, shop till you drop, and drink, dance, and party until dawn! There is never a shortage of things to do in Cabo San Lucas.
Cabo San Lucas was a place I visited once. It was a spur-of-the-moment addition to our itinerary, but this popular Mexican tourist destination seriously impressed.
Sunbathing is the main attraction in Cabo, especially along the beaches of Playa Medano and the famed Playa del Amor. Just make sure that when you need to go for a swim, you’re at a swimming-safe beach.
This area of the ocean contains powerful undertows, even more powerful riptides, and destructive waves that smash down on swimmers. Away from the beach, Los Cabos is home to some of the most gorgeous and demanding golf courses in the world.
If you’re looking for a place to eat while in Cabo San Lucas, look no further. – Check out the following article to find out which restaurants in Cabo are a must-visit:
Traveling around the region? More guides to help you navigate the delicious Mexican cuisine:
While in Cabo San Lucas, don’t miss out on activities that will help immerse yourself with the city (hurry while they’re hot!):
- Cabo San Lucas: Los Cabos Beach and Desert ATV Adventure
- Cabo San Lucas: 4-Hour Snorkeling Cruise with Open Bar
- Cabo San Lucas: Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Cabo San Lucas: Snorkel Tour with Open Bar & Snacks
- Los Cabos: The Arch and Lover’s Beach Kayaking + Snorkeling
- Best Things To Do In Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
- Whale Watching Cruise (one of Cabo San Lucas’s most thrilling activities!)
- Swimming at Lover's Beach (Playa del Amor)
- Climb the Pedregal
- Sip a cocktail and gaze at the sunset
- Take a cruise around the coast of Land's End
- Tacos & Guacamole to the Rescue
- Beach Adventure on an Electric Eco-Bike and an Eco-Farm
- Go Whale Shark Swimming
- (one of the most memorable things to do in Cabo San Lucas)
- Kayaking + Snorkeling in Los Cabos: The Arch and Lover's Beach
- Los Cabos: Zip Lines and UTVs with Mexican Lunch and Drinks
- Cabo San Lucas: 35-Minute Powered Paragliding Flight
- Cabo Luxury Sunset Sailing Adventure with Open Bar
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Best Things To Do In Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Whale Watching Cruise (one of Cabo San Lucas’s most thrilling activities!)
The Sea of Cortez is one of the greatest sites in this region of the globe to see a gigantic humpback whale up close and personal, and you can join a whale-watching cruise right from Cabo San Lucas.
The optimum time to go whale watching in Mexico is as early as November, although the season typically spans from December through April. If your visit is within that period, this is one of the best things to do in Cabo.
The waters surrounding Cabo are considered to be a breeding hotspot as well as a migratory stop for humpback whales, so your chances of seeing one of these magnificent creatures are excellent.
We were fortunate enough to see a pod of four whales frolicking in the ocean, and jumping in and out of it multiple times. One of the most spectacular things to do in Cabo San Lucas is to see these whales in the wild.
Make a reservation for a Whale Watching Cabo Safari with Cabo Adventures. These men know how to spot whales using the sounds and vibrations of the water, starting at $89 for an adult.
The boats are small to provide the least amount of disturbance to the whales, so expect to get wet! Throughout the day, you will be provided with round-trip transportation from your accommodation, light refreshments, and bottled water. You won’t want to miss this Cabo San Lucas excursion adventure.
Swimming at Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor)
On their tiny island off the coast of Land’s End, Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach are joined. Lover’s Beach is a gorgeous, quiet stretch of water that faces out into the bay, and is ideal for swimming and water sports.
Divorce Beach, on the other side of the island, features choppy, tumultuous waves and is not recommended for swimming, owing to the dangerous circumstances. Two beaches with names that couldn’t be more fitting.
Lover’s Beach is the ideal spot for a swim in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez. It’s a good idea to arrive early, as the beach may become quite crowded and congested during the day.
For a nominal cost (about $10 return), several fishermen and boat operators will provide you a ride over to Lover’s Beach. Make sure you schedule a time for them to pick you up.
If you’re searching for a different way to cool yourself, head to Santa Maria Beach, which is a short drive from Cabo San Lucas. You’ll be at the beach in 20 minutes if you take the bus or hire a vehicle on the east coast.
Which ever beach you choose, swimming and relaxing waterside is one of the best things to do in Cabo.
Climb the Pedregal
Pedregal, which means “rocky ground,” is the rocky peak towering behind Cabo San Lucas.
It’s home to uber-swanky, multi-million-dollar luxury homes clinging to the hillside within a private gated community, where the roads are formed of rock and stone slabs (Sylvester Stallone is rumored to be a house-owner).
Walking up the steep switchback roads in Pedregal is also a terrific way to get a terrific outdoor cardio exercise in Cabo San Lucas.
The trek also provides spectacular vistas, making this one of the best things to see in Cabo San Lucas.
On the Sea of Cortez side, you can see the marina well down below, as well as the infinite expanse of the Pacific Ocean on the other.
Walk west on Lazaro Cardenas and cross Miguel Hidalgo from town. To enter the Pedregal gated neighborhood, you must pass through a security gate with a guard. Soon after, the road begins to ascend; your goal is to reach the peak near the white spherical observatory. If physical activity is in your playbook, this is a great way to see the sights of Cabo San Lucas.
Sip a cocktail and gaze at the sunset
Nothing beats watching a sunset with a martini in your hand and your toes on the beach. I enjoy coastal pubs with a sand-floored floor and no dress code.
In Cabo San Lucas, several bars and restaurants border the shore and provide a stunning view of the sunset. Choose one of the smaller restaurants for pleasant treatment and quick service to avoid the crowds.
Mangos On The Beach is one of the most popular beach restaurants, with a reputation for chaos and a party vibe. Instead of attending the party, we chose to have a blue drink at Omega Sports Bar next door, where everyone is seated outside.
This location has a sandy floor and friendly employees who were nice enough to provide us colorful blankets to keep us warm as the sunset and the temperature dropped.
At Omega, you can enjoy a meal for two for 500 pesos (less than $25) included beverages. One of the nicest things to do in Cabo San Lucas is to watch the sunset while sipping a martini.
Take a cruise around the coast of Land’s End
One of the most popular things to do in Cabo San Lucas is to go to Land’s End. Cabo’s Land’s End (El Arco de Cabo San Lucas) is a well-known landmark.
At the point of the Baja Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Gulf of California, these natural structures may be found. This is one of Cabo San Lucas’ most popular attractions, and with good reason.
Take a relaxing sail around Lands End to see some of the amazing rock formations, such as El Arco and Scooby Do Rock.
Many tour businesses sell their services at the marina. They’re all about the same price, but some will be willing to work out a deal.
However, while you may be conversing and bargaining with someone on the docks who knows English, you will be sent on a cruise with an assistant who does not.
If you prefer a more structured and guided tour and someone who knows English, make sure you specify that during your talks. Either way, this is one of the best activities in Cabo.
Tacos & Guacamole to the Rescue
Tacos are unquestionably among the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas… It’s also one of the most popular things to do in Mexico!
You won’t find more fresh or tasty tacos or guacamole than in Mexico, and I’ll be honest, Cabo San Lucas is where my love of Mexican food blossomed. There are a variety of taco ingredients available, but because Cabo is located on the coast, fresh fish tacos are the finest option. They’re delicious!
Tacos and guacamole are served almost everywhere in Cabo San Lucas, so you’re never far from a tasty snack. You’ll feel like a native if you pair your tacos with tequila.
We discovered the tastiest guacamole on the beach at Omega Sports Bar, and I believe that is when my guacamole addiction began. If you’re in the area, make your way to Las Guacamayas for some great tacos.
Tacos in Cabo are frequently priced between $1.50 and $2, making them both affordable and excellent, removing any objections to one of the fun things to do in Cabo San Lucas.
Beach Adventure on an Electric Eco-Bike and an Eco-Farm
Ride down paths, through the mountains, and over a lovely, soft-sand beach alongside the glittering Pacific Ocean as you’ve never seen before. This new tour takes you on an excursion on an easy-to-use electric bicycle, which is ideal for a sunny day of fun.
A short lecture will be given by a professional guide before you start into the outback fully equipped with protective pads, gloves, and a helmet. These unusual bikes feature broad wheels that perform well in the sand or the mountains, and the electric motor takes care of everything!
Discover the most amazing views of the mountains, the desert, the ocean, and the area flora and wildlife all in one trip around the Baja desert! Adrenaline Bay is the perfect treatment for individuals who can’t get enough of adventure.
Enjoy a fantastic ocean view while learning to prepare Tequila margaritas and molcajete salsa, which you can then spread on delicious homemade quesadillas for a traditional central Mexican lunch.
Finish your journey with a visit to an eco-farm, where you can meet rescue animals, create your chocolate, and learn about mezcal. You can pick any or all of these activities in Cabo; either way, it will be a memorable day.
Go Whale Shark Swimming
(one of the most memorable things to do in Cabo San Lucas)
Swimming with whale sharks is one of life’s most wonderful experiences. These gentle giants are herbivores and will gently swim by you before continuing on their voyage, despite their size (18-33 feet or 5.5-10m).
Whale shark season runs from September to April at Cabo San Lucas, when they migrate across the Sea of Cortez.
Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience. It does come at a cost, however. Day tours to La Paz to snorkel with whale sharks start at around $190USD, but it’s well worth it, in my opinion.
Kayaking + Snorkeling in Los Cabos: The Arch and Lover’s Beach
Paddle across the most southerly tip of the Baja Peninsula into the Pacific Ocean on a kayaking and snorkeling excursion in Cabo San Lucas’ harbor. When you snorkel, you may marvel at the renowned Arch, see a sea lion colony, and view unusual aquatic creatures.
Enjoy a hassle-free ride from your San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas hotel to the launching beach in Cabo San Lucas’ core. Before entering the water, listen to your experienced guide’s lecture on kayaking tactics and safety protocols.
Set sail from Cabo San Lucas’ harbor along the coast of Land’s End, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. Admire The Arch, one of Cabo’s most well-known structures, before paddling through a sea lion colony to see them frolic in the ocean.
Arrive at Lover’s Beach and take some time to examine the granite cliffs that rise suddenly from the water. As you reach the Divorce Beachside of Lover’s Beach, be mindful of the smashing Pacific surf; the surf here is harsh.
Then get your snorkeling gear and head to Lover’s Beach to snorkel around Neptune’s Finger. Alternatively, get out of your kayak and snorkel around Pelican Rock to see the schools of tropical fish and other exotic marine creatures that call these rugged habitats home. Finally, return to your lodging by a short kayak ride back to the starting point.
For a combination of exercise, and sightseeing some of the beautiful areas and wildlife of the regions, this is one of the best activities to do in Cabo.
Los Cabos: Zip Lines and UTVs with Mexican Lunch and Drinks
Enjoy a day of outdoor fun with the whole family. The Outdoor Zipline trip combines an amazing selection of sports in a gorgeous canyon in the middle of Boca de la Sierra, which is protected by UNESCO.
The experience begins once you are in the canyon. Fly through the anyon on double-safety zip lines while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The commando bridge allows you to cross canyon torrents. Climb up the canyon walls on the Via Ferrata and test your balance on the hanging bridge and crazy ladder (natural rock climbing wall).
Take a Tarzan swing across the canyon. Rappel to the canyon’s floor, then finish your journey with a 500-meter zip line to the camp’s base. You will get refreshments there, and you can also relax and enjoy the landscape while taking a well-deserved break.
This thrilling excursion is ideal for the entire family and requires no prior expertise, making this a must-do activity in Cabo San Lucas. We offer the best standards of safety, security, and service, as well as a ton of fun, as the number one zip line business in Cabo!
Following the thrilling Superman zip line, you’ll board Polaris RZR off-road UTV buggies and ride across the stunning desert. These sturdy and powerful vehicles are built to withstand the worst off-road situations.
Your guides will lead you across the desert on an interesting and thrilling track that will take you through sand, boulders, sandy roads, and dry riverbeds. This adrenaline-pumping excursion is a fantastic way to cap off an unequaled tour. Unlimited scrumptious homemade quesadillas and a fresh salad bar round off your journey.
Cabo San Lucas: 35-Minute Powered Paragliding Flight
Enjoy spectacular views of whales (when in season), rays leaping, and the coast, which features beautiful beaches, world-famous surf breaks, and the Sierra Laguna mountain range in the distance. This 35-minute private trip is a fantastic opportunity to get your feet wet with powered paragliding! An efficient and highly memorable way to see the sights of Cabo.
Powered paragliding (Paramotor) is the simplest, safest, and most enjoyable method to take in the breathtaking views of Baja California Sur’s coastline and mountain ranges. In only a few minutes, you can fly like a bird and soar across the skies with paragliding.
Our tandem pilot/instructor will take you up and provide you an amazing experience with the initial tandem flights. Allow your feet to hang far over the Baja coastline as you enjoy the pleasure of floating through the air like a bird.
Cabo Luxury Sunset Sailing Adventure with Open Bar
Head out from Cabo San Lucas for a 2.5-hour sunset experience onboard a beautiful Beneteau Cyclades yacht if you enjoy sailing, sunsets, and a little romance.
Cabo has a reputation for having some of the most magnificent sunsets in the world. As you pass the crystal-clear seas where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, relax in luxury on the deck with a beverage in hand.
Marvel as the sky glows bright gold, crimson, and pink as you look out over the Pacific. You’ll cruise down the beach toward Cabo’s historic lighthouse as the sun sets.
You’ll continue your voyage around the iconic Baja point of El Arco and Lovers Beach as the sunset fades into a starlit night.
A sunset sailing cruise is the best way to commemorate a special occasion such as a birthday, honeymoon, or anniversary, or simply to cap off another fantastic day in Cabo San Lucas. Relax with some good wine, cheeses, and an open bar of top-shelf liquors. Keep this tour on your must-do list of activities in Cabo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe in Cabo and San Jose del Cabo, Los Cabos? There has been a lot of media attention recently.
Yes, Los Cabos is probably safer than most of the places you’ll be visiting. Contrary to popular belief and the “internet,” Baja California Sur is a highly safe destination.
It’s still a good idea to be cautious. Don’t go alone into rural regions at night, don’t flaunt cash, and be cautious of your surroundings. Stay with a friend or in a group. Traveling to other places like Cabo, you’ll get the same reasonable travel recommendations.
There are private concierge businesses that provide private protection services for high-end customers and those with public notoriety.
What is the best way to go to Los Cabos, Mexico?
Aeromexico, Aero California, Alaska Airlines, America West, Continental, Mexicana Airlines, United Airlines, and a variety of charter flights travel into the Los Cabos International Airport from most major cities in the United States and Mexico.
Cabo is reachable by land through Highway 1, which traverses the length of the Baja California peninsula from the US border to the Mexican border.
Greyhound Bus service is available from Los Angeles to Tijuana through San Diego, followed by Autotransportes Aguila or Tres Estrellas de Oro from Tijuana to La Paz, and then on to Cabo San Lucas, or by various other tour bus operators.
The journey from Tijuana is long (22 hours by auto, 30+ hours by bus). The roads are small, so take caution and keep an eye out for cows!
In Mexico, what is the legal drinking age?
In Mexico, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Please be cautious, as overindulging is very prevalent and usually results in problems. While drinking alcoholic drinks in public is accepted to some extent, it is unlawful to do so on the street, in automobiles, at the beach, and in other public locations. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal.
Los Cabos is in what time zone, and does the time change with daylight savings time?
The Mountain Time Zone applies to Los Cabos and Baja California Sur. When Daylight Savings Time changes, the time changes here as well. In Mexico, there are two different changing dates.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a relaxing or action-packed holiday, a trip to Cabo should be on your itinerary. One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re searching for a swimming beach, the Los Cabos location may not be for you.
While swimmable at Medano Beach in Cabo San Lucas, most beaches outside of Cabo San Lucas have a strong undertow and are not advised for swimming.
Cabo San Lucas is a vibrant city with plenty of shopping, excellent restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. There’s something for everyone to do in Cabo, regardless of age. The marina, which is known for its sport fishing, also provides first-class excursions.
A water taxi ride to The Arch is a must-see. Popular beaches include Lover’s Beach on the Sea of Cortez and Divorce Beach on the Pacific Ocean.
The weather is almost always sunny, 300 days a year, with temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s and minimal humidity to keep things cool. With all these activities and things to do in Cabo, a visit should definitely be on your bucket list.
Which of these things to do in Cabo San Lucas did you book for yourself? Let us know in the comments section below!
Travel writer and owner of the blog. My work has been featured on Fodors, Eater.com, International Living, and Great Escape Publishing, among many others. My story? Nearly six years ago, I left my job at an Oklahoma City law firm and embarked on a journey around the world. At the time, I thought I would only be gone for 6 months, but the more I traveled, the longer my bucket list became. Flashpacker describes how I travel. Rather than traveling as the normal world wise backpacker and staying in hostel dorms, I prefer a more comfortable experience, and typically stay in private rooms, take Ubers instead of taxis, and now use a suitcase instead of a backpack. Foodie, on the other hand, describes one of the key reasons why I travel. I love to pick a central “base camp” and then explore the surrounding area, really immersing myself in the culture and interacting with the people, and enjoying and exploring the food of an area is an essential part of this experience.