With its beautiful weather year-round, picturesque coastline with impeccable beaches, and lively atmosphere, Cabo San Lucas is one of the top destinations to visit in Mexico. Located on the southern tip of Baja California Sur, Cabo San Lucas is the popular tourist area of Los Cabos, where you’ll discover incredible tours, beaches, nightlife, dining, and more.
Visitors have plenty of exciting things to do in Cabo San Lucas that immerse them into the region’s beauty, both above and below the surface. Check out famous landmarks like Land’s End Arch, sip margaritas on the sandy beaches, or go for a rare swim with the biggest sharks in the world. Then, head into town to browse the local talent exhibited in the art galleries lining the art walk. The world-class resorts offer plenty of comforts for the modern-day traveler if you’re looking for a place to relax.
This travel guide includes some of the top things our Marchay travel agents recommended to do in Cabo San Lucas for our members. Feel free to include them in your upcoming travel plans!
Table of Contents
#1. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling At Santa Maria Bay
Santa Maria Beach is a premier destination for snorkeling and scuba diving the Santa Maria Bay. Located less than a 15-minute boat ride from shore, it boasts one of the most vibrant reefs in the region.
The clean, tranquil waters of Santa Maria Bay are the ideal conditions for exploring underwater marine life with high visibility. Tread the shallow waters of the bay at a depth of 10-ft where the coral reef creates a habitat for many species of colorful tropical fish and sea turtles. Then, continue the journey further out for scuba diving, where the ocean floor drops off at 45-ft.
Santa Maria Bay has some of the most diverse specifies of fish near Cabo San Lucas. There are several tour companies located in Cabo San Lucas with tours available. Tours last a few hours where guides take guests to multiple dive sites and even get lessons on scuba diving.
#2. Watch The Sunset From Medano Beach
Spending time on Medano Beach is one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. This famous beach is known for its picturesque sunsets over the most beautiful scenery on the coast.
Medano Beach is a crescent beach where the golden sands meet the blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. It’s one of the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas for swimming, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and boating near the shore in a kayak. But undoubtedly, the favorite time to visit the beach is during the sunset.
Make your way to the beach during the evening, where the sun sets below the horizon of the sea with views of El Arco in the distance. With views like these, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular area for beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars that all showcase the best views of the sunset.
Sunset cruises also sail near Medana Beach to take advantage of the scenery.
#3. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedegral
Los Cabos has several upscale resorts, but none as premium as the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedegral. It’s one of the most exclusive luxury resorts in Los Cabos, situated on the beachfront.
Guests can pamper themselves in upscale hospitality offered by the Pedegral Los Cabos Luxury Resort. Rooms feature Mexican-inspired décor with custom-made furniture and updated tech for a comfortable stay. Wake up to views of the Pacific Ocean. And upgrade your suite for butler service.
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedegral offers many guest amenities that help you truly relax while visiting Los Cabos. Make reservations for the onsite spa for a relaxing massage. There is also an infinity pool with views looking out to the sea. Staying at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedegral puts you steps away from Los Cabos Beach, the Cabo del Sol golf course, and other local activities.
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers exclusive amenities reserved only for members of the Marchay membership. Travel in uptimale luxury with VIP Airport Lounge tickets provided with qualifying room category reservations. Our members also benefit from complimentary room upgrades when available.
#4. Private Sailboat Charter Through The Land’s End Arch
Land’s End Arch, or El Arco, is the iconic symbol of Cabo San Lucas. This natural arch is visible from the shore, but for the best views, charter a private sailboat.
Taking a boat tour to Land’s End Arch is one of the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas. It’s located on the southernmost tip of the Baja peninsula, where it derives its name. It was formed over many centuries due to erosion of the limestone cliffs. Other limestone rock formations protrude from the sea, offering a unique view you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Private sailboat charters take tourists on a sightseeing tour of Land’s End Arch. The charters take you close to the arch, providing an excellent photo opportunity. Charters can also be a water taxi to Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) and Divorce Beach, located adjacent to the arch.
One of the best times to visit Land’s End Arch is during the sunset.
#5. Deep-Sea Sport Fishing Off Of Gordo Banks
Situated at the mouth of the Sea of Cortez is Gordo Banks. These deep waters are excellent for deep-sea fishing excursions in Cabo San Lucas.
Gordo Banks is a popular area for fishing, thanks to the abundance of fish readily caught in the area. It’s one of the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas, where you’ll have a chance to catch fish, including wahoo, marlin, sailfish, dorado, and much more.
Join one of the deep sea fishing tours for a guided experience through Gordo Banks. Tourists ride on traditional panga boats, which reach lengths of over 25-feet. You’ll be accompanied by experts who utilize their knowledge of the bay to always reach parts of the bay with many marine creatures.
#6. Zipline Through Canopy Costa Azul
Get ready for a thrilling ride as you soar high above the verdant canopies at the Canopy Costa Azul. Feeling the cool breeze against your face while zipping through the course makes it one of the favorite activities in Cabo San Lucas.
Canopy Costa Azul is located outside San Jose del Cabo, only a 30-minute drive outside of Cabo San Lucas. The resort-lined beaches transform into a lush forested area of Los Cabos. This local company offers the best Cabo adventures with different activities designed for all ages to have fun.
Canopy Costa Azul is an eco-adventure company that offers unique excursions to tourists in Los Cabos. It was one of the first zipline companies established in Cabo San Lucas, now with nearly 15 years in operation. The zipline course at Canopy Costa Azul has three miles of courses set up high above the forest ground. Zip from one platform to the next while enjoying views from the canopy.
After making it to the end of the course, next up is rappelling down a natural wall at the height of 180-ft, walking across a suspension bridge, or riding along one of the thrilling ATV tours. There is even a designated kids’ area featuring a Tarzan swing.
#7. Chow Down On Skirt Steak Tacos
There’s nothing better than eating authentic Mexican tacos, made to order with the freshest ingredients. Tacos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and Los Cabos has plenty of places to try their world-famous dish.
The first place that comes to mind for tacos in Los Cabos is street tacos. Vendors all over town serve tacos all day to experience tacos as the locals like them. You can also order tacos in the restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. Dining venues taste just as good as the street tacos and typically serve them topped with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and a side of refried beans, guacamole, and pico de Gallo.
Sinking your teeth into one of the popular tacos like skirt steak tacos or seafood tacos is one of the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas that you’ll look forward to every day of your stay.
#8. Swim With Whale Sharks
It’s not every day you get to swim with sharks. That’s why you should take advantage of swimming with the largest species of sharks when you visit Cabo San Lucas.
Whale shark tours are one of the top things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Tourists have the opportunity to swim with the massive sharks that grow over 40-ft long and weigh upwards of 20,000lbs. And don’t worry, these marine creatures are harmless and very safe to swim around.
The best time to see whale sharks in Cabo San Lucas is when the fish migrate past Baja California between October and February. At the peak of the season, there are nearly 100 sharks that swim in the waters off the coast.
A trip to La Paz Bay gives the best places to swim with whale sharks. Catamaran boats take guests out to see before gearing up to dive or snorkel for a few hours.
#9. Whale Spotting
Cabo San Lucas is one of the most popular places in the world to see whales. Whale watching tours are among the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas, with private and group tours available for tourists.
The waters off the coast of Los Cabos are in the migratory path of humpback whales and grey whales. These whales travel in flocks concentrated around the migratory season of December to April, where you’ll have the highest chance of seeing the whales—although they are spotted year-round.
Take a whale-watching cruise aboard a catamaran boat with a guide that takes you to the best spots near Cabo San Lucas for whale spotting. You’ll see whales come to the surface to breathe or, if you’re lucky, see them jump out of the water to impress female whales. Keep your camera ready to snap pictures, as you’ll have plenty of chances to see them over a few hours.
In addition to whale spotting, these tours are an educational experience to learn about whales and the conservation efforts to protect their habitat.
#10. Tour Of Flora Farms
For one of the most unique dining experiences in Los Cabos, visit Flora Farms. Located right outside San Jose del Cabo, it’s one of the popular day trips from Cabo San Lucas.
Flora Farms delivers a farm-to-table experience, serving guests with only the freshest of ingredients grown locally. The restaurant sits on a 25-acre farm nestled in the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, where it grows most of the food served.
The restaurant offers farm tours to give a behind-the-scenes look at how the food is grown before reaching your plate. Guests walk through colorful flower beds, vegetable gardens, and manicured lawns for a scenic vista of the expansive working farm.
After the tour, grab a seat to dine on the outside patio for incredible views of the farm. Order a farm omelet if you come for breakfast or try the Catch of the Day for dinner.
The Bottom Line
Cabo San Lucas is a tourist favorite in Los Cabos, where the vibrant coastal town offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Adventure travelers will have a lot of fun going for a refreshing swim in the warm waters while exploring the depths of the ocean. In contrast, leisure travelers can experience the town’s luxurious resorts, spas, and sunset cruises.
It’s also a convenient location for day trips to hotspots on the peninsula like Todos Santos, a “pueblo mágico,” or Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park.
Los Cabos is an international destination where you don’t have to speak Spanish, and many places accept USD.
Any time of year is excellent for visiting Cabo San Lucas. The amazing weather, beaches, and friendly locals showcase why it’s one of Mexico’s best places to visit.
Becoming a member with Marchay gives you access to members-only amenities, upgrades, and other exclusive done-for-you services while traveling to incredible destinations like Los Cabos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Los Cabos known for?
Los Cabos is located in the southernmost part of Baja California in Mexico. It’s known as a beach resort destination with many all-inclusive resorts lining the pristine beaches line Chileno Beach and Playa Las Palmas on the Baja California peninsula. These resorts offer lots of things to do in Cabo San Lucas for enjoying a relaxing vacation or the outdoors with water sports and tours offshore.
Visit Los Cabos for a getaway vacation where the vibrant Mexican culture blends with upscale amenities.
Is it safe for tourists in Los Cabos?
Los Cabos is a popular travel destination for international visitors. Traveling to Los Cabos is safe for foreign visitors, but stay aware of any tourist traps and scams due to the popularity of the area for visitors.
The safest areas in Los Cabos are near the hotel resorts, popular beaches, and other places frequented by tourists. Be mindful when traveling outside of these areas. Try to avoid wearing flashy jewelry and keep your personal belongings safe, especially when spending time in crowded areas or lounging on the beach.
As with all destinations, stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings regardless if you’re walking around alone or with a group. It’s possible to have a safe, fun time in Los Cabos!
What is the best time of year to visit?
Los Cabos is a year-round destination. It has great weather with lots of sun for most of the year.
There are certain times of year that are more popular for visiting Los Cabos. The most popular time to visit Los Cabos is between December to early Spring. The weather is slightly cooler to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities. It’s also the migratory season for whales.
The rainy season in Los Cabos is during the late summer to early winter months. These months have daily storms, but there is still plenty of sunshine every day to enjoy the outdoors. Rates are typically lower during this season, and fewer crowds on the beach and other attractions.
Do I have to be fully vaccinated to visit Cabo San Lucas?
For up-to-date information and travel guidance, please refer to the CDC’s (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) official resource on international and domestic travel during COVID-19.