Quick Navigation show

Los Cabos Travel Guide – Desert Meets Ocean in Baja Bliss

Intro to Los Cabos Travel Guide

Los Cabos delivers a rare fusion of wild desert cliffs, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and authentic Mexican soul. Stretching from Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo — and stitched together by the stunning Corridor — this Baja gem offers whale sightings, surfing, canyon hikes, street tacos, and celebrity hideaways all in one coastline. Los Cabos is more than a vacation — it’s a mood.

Start your journey with our Los Cabos Tours and uncover what makes this destination unforgettable.

Nearby Places to Explore from Los Cabos

💡Quick Facts:
Continent: North America
Country: Mexico
State: Baja California Sur
City: Los Cabos Municipality (includes Cabo San Lucas + San José del Cabo)
Area: 3,760 km² (1,452 mi²)
Population: ~350,000 (2024 est.)
Density: ~93 people/km²
Capital: No – state capital is La Paz
Regions/Subregions: Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, Tourist Corridor, East Cape, Pedregal, El Tezal
Official & Regional Languages: Spanish; English widely spoken in tourism zones
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN); USD widely accepted
Time Zone(s): Mountain Time (UTC−7)
Airports: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), Cabo San Lucas Intl. (CSL – limited use)
Climate: Desert/semi-arid – hot, dry, with a defined hurricane season
Known For: Luxury resorts, El Arco, sport fishing, whale watching, nightlife, beach clubs, golf courses

🛂Arrival Info:
– Visa-free entry for 180 days for U.S., Canada, EU, Australia, Japan, and many Latin American nationals
– FMM tourist card required (obtained on arrival or online)
– Passport must be valid for duration of stay
– Entry via Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) or cruise port in Cabo San Lucas
– Official immigration info

💉Health Info:
– Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus
– High-quality private clinics in both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo
– Major hospitals: H+ Hospital, BlueNet, Amerimed
– English-speaking care widely available
– Drink bottled water; avoid tap
– Travel insurance with medical evacuation recommended for remote excursions
✅ Check travel insurance options for travel emergencies, delays, and medical needs abroad — Get coverage here
✅ Stay Informed with Official Updates: WHO – International Travel & Health | CDC – Travel health updates

🚨Travel Advisory:
– Safe for tourists; most crime is cartel-related and not targeted at visitors
– Petty theft can occur in nightlife areas (watch bags, phones, valuables)
– Cabo San Lucas is lively but safe with police presence in Marina and Centro
– Be cautious in rural/remote East Cape zones after dark
– U.S. State Dept: Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution
✅ Stay Informed with Official Updates: US Travel Advisory | UK Foreign Travel Advice

📅Holidays:
– February 5: Constitution Day
– March 21: Benito Juárez’s Birthday
– September 16: Mexican Independence Day
– November 1–2: Día de los Muertos
– December 12: Virgin of Guadalupe Day
– Local: Festival of San José (March), Cabo San Lucas Patron Saint Festival (Oct)

💰Visitor Info:
– Currency: MXN; USD accepted nearly everywhere in tourism corridors
– Credit/debit cards widely accepted; ATMs available in resorts and towns
– Tipping expected: 10–20% in restaurants and tours
– Tourist tax: ~20–25% added at hotels (IVA + lodging tax + visitor fee)
– Daily budget:
– Budget: $70–$100
– Midrange: $130–$250
– Luxury: $300–$500+

✈️Airports:
– Los Cabos International Airport (SJD): primary entry point, ~12 km from San José, ~45 km from Cabo San Lucas
– Served by major airlines from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico
– Direct flights from LAX, PHX, DFW, YVR, YYZ, MEX, GDL
– Transport: shared shuttles, taxis, Ubers (limited pickup), rental cars
– Cabo San Lucas Intl. (CSL): limited private and charter flights
✅ Delayed or canceled flight? Check if you’re eligible for compensation

🚍Transport:
– Public buses run along the Tourist Corridor but are limited after dark
– Taxis are plentiful but unmetered – always negotiate fare in advance
– Uber and Didi operate but may face resistance from taxi unions
– Rental cars popular for exploring East Cape, Todos Santos, or La Paz
– Marina and beach zones are walkable; driving discouraged in downtown Cabo San Lucas due to congestion
✅ Book reliable airport transfers and in-city rides in advance. Reserve your ride here

📶Connectivity:
– Mobile providers: Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar
– Tourist SIMs available at airport, OXXO, and Telcel shops
– 4G coverage excellent in main zones; weaker in rural East Cape or desert interior
– Most hotels, cafes, and beach clubs offer Wi-Fi
– U.S. and Canadian phones may roam seamlessly with North America plans
✅ Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data packs. Get your eSIM here

📜Laws & Etiquette:
– Legal drinking age: 18; ID may be checked at clubs or bars
– Public drinking prohibited; fines for open containers
– Recreational cannabis is illegal, even if decriminalized in small amounts
– LGBTQ+ travelers welcomed in tourist areas; local attitudes vary
– Dress casual-beach during day; upscale resort wear at nightclubs and restaurants
– Bribery attempts discouraged – follow local law enforcement procedures if stopped

🛡️Emergency Info:
– Emergency: 911 (nationwide)
– Tourist police and Navy patrols frequent in Marina and resort zones
– U.S. Consular Agency: Blvd. Marina, Plaza Nautica
– Hospitals: H+ San José, BlueNet Cabo, Amerimed
– Travel insurance helplines available through tour operators and resorts
✅ Use embassy locator tools: Embassies Worldwide

🌦️Weather:
– Dry season: November–May – sunny, 25–30°C (77–86°F), low humidity
– Hot season: June–August – 30–36°C (86–97°F), dry inland, humid coast
– Hurricane season: August–October – risk of storms and tour disruptions
– Whale watching: December–April
– Surf season: May–October on Pacific side
✅ Stay prepared—check the weather forecast for your destination — Weather Forecast

Get to Know Los Cabos – Neighborhoods & Districts

Los Cabos spans two main towns and several distinct regions along the southern tip of Baja California Sur.

Cabo San Lucas
The livelier, party-forward Cabo. Expect nightlife, marina views, water sports, and easy beach access.

San José del Cabo
Quieter, artsier, and rooted in Mexican tradition. Colonial architecture, galleries, and farm-to-table dining define its slower vibe.

The Tourist Corridor
A scenic 20-mile stretch connecting the two Cabos — home to luxury resorts, golf courses, and dramatic coastline.

El Médano Beach Area
Swimmable sands, buzzing beach clubs, and sunset views of El Arco. Great for first-timers and water lovers.

Marina District (Cabo San Lucas)
Where tours depart, yachts bob, and seafood restaurants line the waterfront.

Art District (San José del Cabo)
Thursday night Art Walks, boutique galleries, and cobblestone charm.

Palmilla & Chileno Bay
Luxury enclaves with protected beaches and upscale accommodations.

Where to Stay in Los Cabos

Best for nightlife: Cabo San Lucas
Best for culture: San José del Cabo
Best for luxury: Corridor (Palmilla, Chileno)
Best for beach access: El Médano

Top Attractions & Iconic Sights

Skyline Views and Icons

El Arco (The Arch)
A natural rock formation where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez. Best viewed by glass-bottom boat or kayak.

Land’s End
Dramatic cliffs, Lover’s Beach, and sea lion colonies mark this photogenic southern tip.

Cabo Wabo Cantina
Owned by Sammy Hagar, this iconic spot mixes live music with tequila-fueled nights.

Mirador Cerro de la Z
Hike or drive for panoramic desert-meets-sea views over Cabo San Lucas.

Museums and Cultural Gems

San José del Cabo Church (Mission San José)
A 1730s mission site and anchor of the town’s historic square.

Casa de la Cultura
Local events, dance performances, and workshops in a historic setting.

Galería de Ida Victoria
Top-tier art gallery featuring contemporary Mexican artists — a cornerstone of the Art Walk.

Local Tip: Visit the Art Walk on Thursdays (Nov–June) in San José del Cabo — free wine, open studios, and live music.

Family Favorites

Wild Canyon Adventure Park
Ziplines, camel rides, and ATV circuits in the desert hills.

Cabo Submarine
A semi-submersible boat tour — perfect for kids eager to see tropical fish without getting wet.

Cabo Dolphins
Interactive marine encounters with dolphins and sea lions in a controlled, ethical environment.

Natural Escapes Within and Near Los Cabos

Los Cabos excels in wild beauty — between sea cliffs, desert plains, and marine reserves.

Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach)
Accessible only by water taxi — calm and romantic on one side, powerful surf on the Pacific-facing Divorce Beach.

Chileno Bay & Santa Maria Bay
Two of the safest swimmable beaches in the region, known for snorkeling and calm water.

Estero San José (San José Estuary)
A quiet oasis of birds and mangroves, steps from the art district.

Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere
Hikeable mountains, waterfalls, and oases inland from the Corridor — ideal for adventure lovers.

Los Cabos Day Trip Ideas

Todos Santos
Distance: 1.5 hours | Pacific Coast
A Pueblo Mágico famed for surfing, art galleries, and boho cafes.

La Paz
Distance: 2.5 hours | Sea of Cortez
Swim with whale sharks, stroll the malecón, and explore nearby beaches like Balandra.

Cabo Pulmo National Park
Distance: 2 hours | East Cape
One of the world’s most successful marine reserves — perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Santiago Hot Springs
Distance: 1.5 hours | Sierra interior
Hidden thermal pools amid desert palms — accessible via short hike and dirt road.

Culture, History, and Local Identity

Despite its resort reputation, Los Cabos has deep Baja roots and evolving local expression.

Flora Farms & Acre Baja
Not just restaurants — these are farm-based culinary and design experiences that highlight Baja’s organic movement.

Indigenous Heritage
The Pericú people once thrived here; today, fragments of rock art and place names preserve their story.

Art Walk (San José del Cabo)
Thursday nights become a celebration of local artists, musicians, and chefs.

Cabo San Lucas Historical Timeline
A walkable history path detailing pirate raids, Jesuit missions, and the rise of tourism.

Walking Tour Idea: Start from Plaza Mijares and explore the historic downtown to understand San José’s evolution.

Book immersive Los Cabos tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Los Cabos — from whale shark encounters and canyon ziplining to glass-bottom kayaks and mezcal tasting walks.

Local Food, Markets, and Artisan Vibes

Los Cabos cuisine fuses Pacific seafood with Baja-Mediterranean creativity.

Explore delicious things to do in Los Cabos by sampling tacos, ceviche, and craft cocktails under desert skies.

Tacos Gardenias
A local favorite for shrimp, fish, and carnitas tacos — casual, consistent, and authentic.

La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
Creative tacos and mezcal flights in a trendy cantina with live music.

Flora Farms
Organic dining and artisanal market in a palm oasis. Expect seasonal menus and relaxed elegance.

San José Organic Market (Saturdays)
Farmers, artisans, musicians, and international expats gather for this beloved local scene.

Taste Tip: Baja’s signature flavors include chocolate clams, smoked marlin, fresh mango, and tamarind drinks.

Events, Nightlife, and Seasonal Fun

Los Cabos comes alive with whale migrations, sunset parties, and art fairs — all against its desert-sea backdrop.

Festival of San José (March)
Parades, music, and cultural events in San José’s historic core — celebrating the town’s patron saint.
Los Cabos International Film Festival (November)
An A-list gathering that merges global cinema with Cabo’s luxury allure.
Whale Watching Season (Dec–April)
Humpback, gray, and blue whales pass through — best seen on eco-certified tours.
Sabor a Cabo (December)
A premier food and wine fest, featuring local chefs and international cuisine.

Nightlife

Cabo San Lucas: Downtown is packed with clubs like El Squid Roe and Mandala
Corridor: Upscale cocktail lounges and live music at resort lounges
San José: Laid-back wine bars and jazz nights in bohemian venues

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Art Walk finale and lush desert blooms
Summer: Best hotel deals, but hot and humid — great for surfers
Fall: Ideal water clarity for snorkeling and diving
Winter: Peak whale season and major holidays (book early)

Which Airport Should You Use?

Los Cabos International Airport (SJD)
Located near San José del Cabo, it serves the entire region with excellent domestic and international connections.

Major carriers: Aeroméxico, American, Delta, Alaska, Southwest
Flights from: US West Coast, Mexico City, Canada, and seasonal European routes

Transit to Cabo:

Taxis and private shuttles available
Shared airport shuttles must be pre-booked
Rental cars at terminal, but road signage favors experienced drivers

Tip: If staying in San José, travel time is only 20–25 minutes. For Cabo San Lucas, plan for ~45 minutes.

Getting Around Los Cabos – Transport Tips

Distances between towns and resorts make transport planning essential.

Car Rentals
Best for day trips and Corridor exploration. Watch for added insurance costs and highway tolls.
Airport Shuttles
Shared and private options connect to major hotels and resorts — pre-book to avoid delays.
Taxis
Expensive compared to other Mexican cities — fares are fixed and rarely metered.
Public Buses
Ruta del Desierto bus runs between Cabo San Lucas and San José — clean, air-conditioned, and very affordable.
Ride Apps
Uber exists but is not officially recognized — expect limited availability.
Walkability
San José and Cabo’s town centers are walkable. The Corridor and resorts require vehicles or shuttles.

Tip: Always confirm fare before boarding a taxi. Use pesos, or clarify exchange rate for USD.

Best Time to Visit Los Cabos

Los Cabos is warm and dry most of the year, with two peak seasons and rewarding shoulder months.

Spring (March–May)
Mild weather, great for hiking and beach days. Whale season tapers off in early April.
Summer (June–August)
Hot, humid, and prone to short rains — but hotel deals and surfing are excellent.
Fall (September–November)
Clear waters, fewer tourists, and the return of art and cultural events.
Winter (December–February)
Peak season with perfect beach weather and migrating whales. Expect higher prices and reservations needed.

Photo Tip: Sunset from Divorce Beach or a sunrise paddle near El Arco offers prime light.

Los Cabos Travel Essentials – Key Insights

SIM & Connectivity
eSIMs work well. Telcel and AT&T Mexico have kiosks in airport and town centers.
Transit Costs
Public bus: ~$2 USD between towns
Taxi from airport to Cabo: ~$70 USD
Rental cars: ~$40–60/day (insurance extra)
Arrival Points
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), Cabo San Lucas Marina (for cruise ships and tours)
Local Vibe
Warm, welcoming, and a blend of high-end tourism and local tradition. Bilingual service is common.
Walkability
Good in town centers; not feasible between resorts or along the Corridor.

Quick Picks

Best for food: San José Art District & Flora Farms
Best for views: Land’s End & Cerro de la Z
Best for families: Chileno Bay & Wild Canyon
Best for nightlife: Cabo San Lucas
Best for slow travelers: East Cape & Todos Santos

Live Like a Local – Hidden Gems & Authentic Spots

Los Cabos isn’t all about resorts — quiet corners still hold deep cultural roots.

Tamarindos Farm
Lesser-known than Flora Farms but equally magical — with cooking classes and rustic charm.

Miraflores & Santiago Towns
Small inland communities with leather markets, waterfalls, and true Baja culture.

Local Taco Stands
Skip the tourist joints — try El Paisa (Cabo) or Rossy’s (San José) for affordable seafood tacos.

Cactus Sanctuary
Located in El Tule, this peaceful nature preserve showcases Baja’s desert diversity.

Local Etiquette:
A simple “Buenos días” goes a long way. Tip at least 10–15% in restaurants, and say “Gracias” often.

Nearby Places to Explore from Los Cabos

La Paz Sea of Cortez Calm
Gentle beaches, whale sharks, and authentic malecón life await just 2.5 hours north
Todos Santos Surf & Soul
An artist enclave with big waves, organic cafés, and a Pueblo Mágico designation
East Cape Raw Baja Beauty
Off-road adventures, empty beaches, and hidden surf breaks near Cabo Pulmo
Loreto Coastal History
A quieter coastal town with historic missions, islands, and kayaking

Final Tips for a Smart Los Cabos Adventure

Use pesos for better value — especially with taxis and local shops
Bring reef-safe sunscreen — many beaches sit within marine-protected zones
Book boat and whale tours in advance during peak months
Eat outside resort zones for better pricing and authenticity
Carry small change for toll roads and tips
Watch Pacific-side currents — many beaches are not swimmable
Rent a 4×4 for East Cape or Sierra trips
Join a local mezcal tasting to understand regional spirits beyond tequila

Unlock the Best of Baja with Confidence

Los Cabos isn’t just about luxury — it’s where the Baja desert kisses the sea, and adventure is always a few minutes away. Whether you’re sipping craft mezcal under the stars or paddling past sea lions at dawn, the memories here go beyond the brochure.

Visit our main travel site for more Baja insights, planning tools, and expert travel tips.