Beaches
When thinking of what to do in Cabo San Lucas, your mind might go straight to the beach. After all, Cabo is renowned for sparkling beaches where the water is just right. Here’s your shortlist of must-visit beaches and what makes them special:- Medano Beach: This is the epicenter of beach life in Cabo San Lucas, considered one of the safest and most swimmable beaches around. You’ll find people enjoying a range of activities, from parasailing to taking a leisurely swim.
- Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor): This magical place is the postcard-perfect cove, accessible by water taxi, boat or kayak. Take a dip on the Sea of Cortez side and snap a romantic picture with El Arco in the background.
- Chileno Beach: This one is a family-friendly beach that’s popular with snorkelers. It’s clean, calm and ideal for spotting colorful marine life.
- Costa Azul: Surfers, this one’s for you. The waves here break reliably, and you’ll find a mellow local scene just minutes from San José del Cabo.
- Palmilla Beach: If you’re looking for a more private beach experience, visit Palmilla Beach. This beach is part of a luxury resort area, where you can find many upscale amenities and activities.
| Insider tip: For a quieter experience, hit Lover’s Beach early in the morning — there’s less boat traffic and better light for photos. |
Water activities
Cabo isn’t just about beach lounging — it’s where thrill-seekers and curious explorers come alive on the water. You can also take advantage of the luxury hotel amenities and activities available. Here are some Cabo activities to add to your vacation bucket list:- Snorkeling: Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Cove offer some of the best snorkeling in Cabo, with coral reefs teeming with life.
- Scuba diving: Dive into Cabo Pulmo, known as the Aquarium of the World, or enjoy the majestic sand falls at Neptune’s Finger. Don’t miss out on what’s under the sea.
- Jet skiing: Zoom past the coastline and feel the wind whipping through your hair. Rentals are readily available along Medano Beach.
- Flyboarding: Defy gravity over the Sea of Cortez with this extreme sport that looks as spectacular as it feels.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: Calm mornings are ideal for gliding over the water. Bonus: You’ll get close-up views of sea lions and marine birds.
- Parasailing: Soar high over the Cabo coastline and take in panoramic views of Land’s End and the downtown marina.
- Fishing: Known as the “Marlin Capital of the World,” Cabo offers top-notch sport fishing tours.
- Swim with dolphins and whale sharks: This one is a bucket-list favorite. Remember to choose ethical, licensed operators that are American Humane Certified.
- Clear boat tours: If you’d rather stay dry, this is the best option to take a crystal clear peek at Cabo’s underwater life.
Outdoor adventures
You can feel Cabo’s magic in many places, not just on the coastline. There are even beautiful places you can stay in Cabo that are deeper into the city. You can experience unforgettable adventures on land, too — think deserts, cliffs and mountains to be explored. These Cabo San Lucas activities are ones to check out:- Golfing: Cabo boasts some of the best golf courses in Mexico — even one designed by Jack Nicklaus.
- Hiking: Trails in the Sierra de la Laguna range from easy to intense, with breathtaking waterfalls, rich biodiversity and panoramic views as your reward.
- Sierra de la Laguna hot springs: After your hike, soak in the mineral-rich waters deep in the Cabo wilderness.
- Camel ride tours: Swap out your desert SUV for a camel and trek through the dunes.
- Camping and glamping: Whether you pitch a tent or book a luxury yurt, Cabo’s starlit nights are unbeatable.
- Horseback riding: Gallop along the coastline or explore desert trails.
- Mountain biking: Feel the sun and encounter picturesque cacti along the canyon’s rugged trails.
- Rappelling and ziplining: Feel the rush as you soar above the canyons.
- ATVing and offroading: Tear through sand dunes and riverbeds with guided tours.
| Insider tip: Make the most of your day by combining ziplining and ATV tours for double the adrenaline. |
Tourist attractions
Some activities in Cabo San Lucas are iconic for a reason. Here are the top things to do in Cabo that you simply can’t skip:- Visit the Arch: Known as El Arco, it’s the region’s most distinctive landmark. This extraordinary rock formation marks the spot where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez.
- Explore Todos Santos: Visit this small town about an hour from Cabo, filled with art galleries, historic architecture and gorgeous beaches.
- Visit the Cabo San Lucas Catholic Church: Go back in time and get a feel for the local traditions by visiting this historic landmark built in the 18th century.
| Insider tip: Hit Todos Santos on a weekday for fewer crowds and easier parking. |
Arts and culture
Cabo isn’t just sun and surf. It’s got soul, too. San José del Cabo, in particular, is known for its vibrant art and culture scene. Whether you love fine art or folk traditions, check out:- San José del Cabo Art Walk: This is definitely one of the best things to do in San José del Cabo. Every Thursday evening from November through June, the town’s galleries open their doors for a festive, pedestrian-friendly celebration of art and music.
- The Silver Route Museum: Discover Baja’s mining past and trade routes that shaped the region.
- Natural History Museum: This is a small but informative stop for learning about Cabo’s flora, fauna and fossils.
- Ivan Guaderrama Interactive Art Gallery: Looking for unique things to do in Cabo San Lucas? This isn’t your average gallery — think interactive exhibits and digital art that comes alive with color and feeling.
- AV Tequila Experience: Learn the craft of tequila making and enjoy guided tastings of artisanal varieties.
| Insider tip: Don’t miss the live mural painting events or the chance to meet the artists during the Art Walk. |
Nightlife
When the sun sets, Cabo’s club lights buzz and music spills into the streets. Taking in the nightlife should be at the top of your list of adult activities in Cabo. If you're looking for fun things to do in Cabo, check out these places:- Cabo Wabo Cantina: As expected from a place founded by Sammy Hagar, expect live music, flowing tequila and late-night dancing.
- El Squid Roe: A constant dance party and dive bar, this place marries the two for a great time.
- Jazz on the Rocks: This is a sleek spot for jazz, cocktails and views of El Arco.
- Baja Brewery: Here you’ll find craft beer of excellent quality. Sip while enjoying the beautiful rooftop views.
- Crania: Open-air nightlife meets surreal art installations.
- Dalton Gin Bar: Visit this hidden gem if you enjoy a speakeasy ambiance and a gin-forward menu.
- Materia Pastry Boutique: Start with an Instagram-worthy dessert, stay for the creative cocktails.
- Corazón Beach Club: Visit this sleek lounge where the ocean meets elegance.
- Mango Deck: It’s what you imagine a spring break party to be — think rowdy, loud and unapologetically fun.
| Insider tip: One of the main things to do in downtown Cabo San Lucas is party. So, remember to start slow and plan to get back late. Most clubs don’t get going until 10 p.m. |
Dining
One of the best things to do in Cabo is to experience the local gastronomy. From street tacos to fine dining, Cabo’s culinary scene is a treat for the taste buds. These spots are worth the reservation:- Omakai: This sleek sushi spot blends Baja seafood with Japanese technique.
- Rooftop 360°: Enjoy modern Mexican flavors and a chic, luxury resort ambiance.
- Metate Cabo: Farm-to-table and full of heart, this restaurant serves updated regional classics.
- El Farallon: Wine and dine perched on the cliffs with crashing waves as your soundtrack. It makes for a gorgeous view when the sun sets.
- Craft Open Fire Kitchen: Modern comfort food with Mexican flair. The steaks are highly recommended.
- Sunset Monalisa: Mediterranean meets Mexican on a lovely terrace above the sea.
- Flora Farms: Enjoy the flowery fields, bar, farm-to-table restaurant and shop.
- Los Tres Gallos: Enjoy classic Mexican dishes served in a charming garden courtyard.
| Insider tip: Make reservations in advance if you can and ask for the off-menu specials at Los Tres Gallos. |
Shopping
Looking for souvenirs to bring back home? These spots cover everything from local crafts to luxury labels:- Puerto Paraíso Mall: Here you can find a bit of everything — high-end retailers, souvenir shops and marina views all in one.
- Mercado Municipal Cabo San Lucas: Check out this bustling market offering fresh produce, local spices and handmade crafts.
- La Turquesa Jewelry and Art Store: Here you’ll find artisan jewelry and local art with a focus on authentic Mexican craftsmanship.
- Plaza Sendero Los Cabos: Check out this modern shopping center with everything from fashion to tech.
- Plaza San Lucas: If you’re looking to shop somewhere a bit more relaxed than the downtown scene, this is the perfect place for laid-back browsing.
| Insider tip: For the best deals on silver jewelry, buy direct from artisan co-ops. |
Turn your vacation spot into your second home
If your “one last sunset” keeps turning into “just one more day,” it might be time to make Cabo part of your regular rhythm. After all, there are so many things to do in Cabo, Mexico, that one trip just isn’t enough. With Pacaso’s luxury second home options, you can co-own a stunning Cabo home and enjoy the region all year without the stress of full-time home ownership. You’ll enjoy ongoing access to everything you love, from beachy mornings to art walks, in a space that’s truly yours. If you’re looking to time your stay with precision, here’s the best time to visit Cabo to enjoy the sunshine and events to the fullest.Things to do in Cabo FAQ
01: What are some things to do in Cabo with kids?
Some things to do in Cabo with kids include clear boat tours, beach picnics at Medano, snorkeling at Chileno or visiting the Natural History Museum. Many resorts also offer kid-friendly activities.
02: What are some non-touristy things to do in Cabo San Lucas?
Non-touristy things you can do in Cabo San Lucas are hiking the Sierra de la Laguna trails, exploring the local food markets and taking a cooking class in a local’s home or spending a day at the hot springs near Santiago.
03: Are there things to do in Cabo for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Cabo for adults, including golf, tequila tastings, romantic beach dinners, spa days and a world-class nightlife scene.
04: What are free activities in Cabo?
As for free activities in Cabo, you can visit public beaches, attend art walks, hike local trails or explore historic plazas in San José del Cabo.
05: Is 3 days in Cabo enough?
Spending three days in Cabo will give you a taste, but you'll want more. With a second home, you can explore and savor Cabo slowly, one unforgettable trip at a time.
