Destination Guide: Cabo San Lucas

Aug 8

Cabo San Lucas is a resort city in the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California peninsula, known for its beaches, nightlife, and beautiful resorts. Plus it's one of my favorite places to visit! If you're planning your next travel experience with friends, family, or your significant other, you'll want to strongly consider this destination.

When is the best time to visit?

It's warm all year round in Cabo and with 300+ days of sunshine, you can't go wrong. In the summer, the average high is around 94 °F and the low is around 80 °F. The cooler temperatures are typically December - April with highs around 80 °F and lows around 62 °F. Technically the hurricane season is June-November; however, most of the stormy weather occurs in September. October and November are nice months to visit - but book early as rates are higher during this time. If you like whale-watching, plan to visit from December to April.

Foods to Try

Baja Fish Taco

Baja California-style fish tacos are the specialty here. Find a spot with homemade tortillas and breaded fish, caught fresh that day. Pair it with tequila or mezcal, plus some tortilla chips and you've got a meal to remember.

Oaxacan Molé

Made with fresh local ingredients, this specialty - done right - takes hours to make. Dozens of ingredients are combined and cooked to create this dark, rich traditional chocolate-spiced salsa. Enjoy it on enchiladas, chicken, and tamales.

Tipping in Cabo

Tipping is both appreciated and expected now in Cabo, yet still optional. You can tip in USD or pesos, but pesos are easier for the locals to use. Tips at restaurants are the same as tipping in the US. Tip 15-20% for the waiters, depending on service, but make sure a service charge isn't already included in the bill. For housekeeping, plan $1-3 per day when staying at a resort. For spa and massage services, this is also the same at 20% for the service. Tipping for taxi service is not expected unless the driver helps with baggage, then plan to tip about $1 per bag. If you're planning to take any tours during your trip, offer about 10% of the tour cost as a tip for the tour guide.

Things to Do

Cabo Pulmo Marine Park

This is a protected national marine park recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, representing one of the most impressive achievements in ocean conservation and the only hard coral reef in the Gulf of California. The reef of Cabo Pulmo is considered a treasure of the Baja Peninsula and has over 800 species of marine life. Visiting this park is ideal for those seeking a quieter and more natural side of Cabo. Explore this beautiful marine park with a snorkeling and kayaking excursion.

San Jose Estuary

Enjoy a birdwatching trip to the San Jose Estuary, one of the most important wetlands in Mexico. Originally the Pericues people settled here and survived in this area by hunting and gathering. After that, it became what we now know as San Jose del Cabo. Walk or bike the paved path that runs along a portion of this lush, green safe haven and enjoy the many exotic plants and animals. This estuary is home to more than 100 species of birds, fish, turtles, and other marine animals.

Chill on the Beach or Go Sailing

Medano Beach is considered one of the most popular swimmable beaches in Los Cabos. It's lined with resorts, walking distance to the Marina (for shopping and dining), has turquoise blue waters, and plenty of water activities. There's plenty of restaurants and bars, and vendors that walk along the beach selling all sorts of items such as jewelry, sombreros, swim cover-ups, and blankets. While on the beach, consider a boat tour. There are plenty of full and half-day excursion options that range from sunset cruises to partying pirate ships.

Fun Facts

Los Cabos means "The Capes" in Spanish
El Arco or "The Arch" is the iconic landmark at "Lands End", where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean
Rock star Sammy Hagar chose this location to open his rock 'n roll restaurant and nightclub - Cabo Wabo

Transportation Options

The main airport is the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which welcomes domestic, international, and private or charter flights. There are several car rental agencies available; however, taxis are easy to find. Pre-arranging a transfer from the airport to your hotel is recommended (don't worry, I can help you with this!). Transfer services that include a bottle of water or ice-cold beer are my personal choice.

Where To Stay

There are many options for where to stay when visiting Cabo San Lucas. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.

Good for Romance

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

When you’re dreaming of sparkling seas, white-sand beaches, and romance, head to Esperanza. Choose ocean-view casitas and suites or villas ranging in size from 925 to 4,000 square feet. Enjoy the private terraces with sweeping ocean views (many have private hot tubs). After an indulgent treatment at the spa, check out the oceanfront swimming pool – and the beach, for water sports, sport fishing, luxury yacht excursions, and whale watching. Finally, dine in style at the newly redesigned Cocina del Mar, built right into the cliffside.

Good for Families

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Located at the base of Pedregal Mountain, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal can only be accessed via a private tunnel carved through the center of the mountain. Travel + Leisure readers have voted this the best hotel in Mexico. Each guest room features a private plunge pool, fireplace, outdoor terrace, and beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a relaxing day in the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Spa and an incredible meal at one of four restaurants: Don Manuel’s, El Farallon, The Beach Club, or Crudo. This resort is especially good for families because they offer a Kids Club and dedicated shallow pool for young children.

Good for All-Inclusive

Grand Velas Los Cabos

This AAA Five Diamond resort offers the next generation of all-inclusive amenities and facilities, with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces. Grand Velas Los Cabos features a variety of gourmet restaurants; a coffee shop; a mezcal and tequila tasting room; wine-based decor, inspired by Mexico’s wine region; a spa with hydrotherapy facilities; a fitness center with programs and personal trainers; three oceanfront pools; and a convention center with 16,370 square feet of flexible event space. Families will enjoy recreational activities, as well as a Teens’ Club and Kids’ Club. Concierge service is available 24/7.

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