LOS CABOS
Los Cabos is the sun-drenched tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the desert meets the Sea of Cortés. It is a dual destination, combining the lively energy of Cabo San Lucas with the traditional, artistic charm of San José del Cabo.
This Mexican paradise offers a dramatic landscape of granite rock formations and golden beaches. It is a world-renowned destination for luxury resorts, deep-sea fishing, and spectacular marine life.
Most Popular Attractions
Natural Wonders & Beaches
El Arco (The Arch of Cabo San Lucas): The iconic natural rock formation at the Land’s End, a must-see for boat tours.
Lover’s Beach & Divorce Beach: Two adjacent beaches at El Arco, one facing the calm Sea of Cortés and the other the wild Pacific.
Chileno Beach: One of the region’s few Blue Flag beaches, known for excellent snorkeling and calm, clear waters.
Santa Maria Bay: A protected marine sanctuary perfect for swimming and viewing colorful tropical fish.
Medano Beach: The most popular and lively beach in Cabo San Lucas, offering numerous restaurants and water sports.
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of only three living coral reefs in North America (accessible by day trip).
Estero San José: A protected estuary and bird sanctuary where the Río San José meets the Sea of Cortés.
Pedregal Viewpoint: A high-end residential area offering stunning panoramic views of Cabo San Lucas and the marina.
Cabo San Lucas – Core & Marina
Marina Cabo San Lucas: The hub of activity, lined with restaurants, shops, luxury yachts, and sport fishing charters.
Luxury Avenue Mall: An upscale shopping center on the marina featuring high-end international designer brands.
Cabo Dolphins: A popular attraction offering interactive programs to swim and interact with dolphins.
Museo de las Californias: A small museum offering a glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural history.
Galeón Curio Shoppe: A large, multi-level souvenir and artisan shop offering authentic Mexican goods.
San José del Cabo – Art & History
Historic Art District: The heart of San José, known for its numerous art galleries, design studios, and the weekly Art Walk (seasonal).
Mission San José del Cabo Anuiti: The main parish church, a beautiful Spanish colonial mission founded in 1730.
Plaza Mijares: The main historic square of San José del Cabo, surrounded by the mission and city hall, perfect for people-watching.
District Gallery: One of the oldest and most respected galleries in the Art District, featuring contemporary Mexican artists.
Mercado Orgánico San José (Organic Market): A Saturday market offering organic produce, local crafts, and prepared foods (seasonal).
Activities & Leisure
Golf Courses: Los Cabos is famous for its championship courses, including Cabo del Sol and Palmilla Golf Club.
Whale Watching: A major activity during the winter months (typically December to April) to see migrating Humpback and Gray whales.
Deep-Sea Fishing: The region is known as the “Marlin Capital of the World,” with charters available from the Cabo Marina.
Tequila Tasting Tours: Opportunities to sample and learn about the different varieties of tequila and mezcal.
ATV & Off-Road Tours: Guided tours through the desert landscapes and along the Pacific coastline.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Boat Trip to El Arco & Lover’s Beach: The iconic photo-op of the region. Take a water taxi or private boat to the famous stone arch, El Arco, and visit the secluded Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) and Divorce Beach.
Go Deep Sea Fishing: Los Cabos is known as the “Marlin Capital of the World.” Charter a boat for a world-class sport fishing experience, targeting species like marlin, tuna, and dorado.
Explore the San José del Cabo Art Walk: Every Thursday evening from November to June, stroll through the vibrant Gallery District in San José del Cabo, visiting art galleries and enjoying wine and appetizers.
Snorkel or Dive at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park: Take a day trip north to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez, offering unparalleled snorkeling and diving.
Go Whale Watching (Winter/Spring): Book a tour between December and April to witness the annual migration of Humpback and Gray whales in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez.
Take a Sunset Sail: Enjoy a luxury cruise as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, often including dinner, drinks, and views of El Arco.
Experience an ATV/Off-Road Adventure: Explore the desert landscapes and rugged coastline on an ATV or in a dune buggy tour through the Baja outback.
Enjoy Surfing Lessons: Head to surf spots like Playa Costa Azul or Cerritos Beach (near Todos Santos) for beginner to intermediate surfing lessons.
Relax at a World-Class Spa: Indulge in a signature treatment at one of the many award-winning spas, often incorporating local ingredients like desert herbs and sea salt.
Zipline Through the Canyons: Get an adrenaline rush by soaring over deep desert canyons on one of the longest and fastest zip lines in the region.
Take a Mexican Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Baja-style dishes, including fish tacos, ceviche, and local salsas, often followed by enjoying your creations.
Local Tips & Transport
Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available but can be expensive, especially between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo (the Corridor). Rideshare services like Uber operate in the region and are generally more affordable, though they may have restrictions on picking up directly at some hotel entrances or the airport.
Public Bus (Ruta del Desierto): An affordable way to travel the 20-mile stretch between Cabo San Lucas, the Tourist Corridor hotels, and San José del Cabo. Look for the large, purple-and-yellow buses labeled “Ruta del Desierto.” It’s slow but cost-effective.
Rental Car: A rental car is useful for exploring beyond the main towns, particularly for day trips to Todos Santos, La Paz, or Cabo Pulmo. Be prepared for toll roads and parking fees. Safety Note: Drive defensively and avoid driving at night outside of the main tourist areas.
Airport Transfer: Pre-booking a shared or private shuttle service is highly recommended for the transfer from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), as airport taxis can be very expensive. Taxis often have a fixed rate, so confirm before you get in.
Swimming Safety: Be highly cautious of swimming in the ocean, especially on the Pacific side of Cabo San Lucas. Strong currents and powerful undertows are common. Look for “Bandera Azul” (Blue Flag) signs for safe swimming beaches, such as Medano Beach and Chileno Beach.
Currency and Tipping: While US Dollars are widely accepted, you will often get a better exchange rate paying in Mexican Pesos ($MXN). Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-20%), for hotel services, and tour guides.
Cabo San Lucas vs. San José del Cabo:
- Cabo San Lucas is the more vibrant, party-focused town, centered around the marina, nightlife, and water activities.
- San José del Cabo is the quieter, historic, and arts-focused town, centered around the jardín (town square), mission, and Gallery District.
Dining Times: Tourists often dine early, but locals follow the late Mexican schedule. Dinner is generally after 8:00 PM, especially in San José del Cabo. Lunch is the main meal of the day, often eaten between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Hidden Gems:
- Flora Farms: Located in the foothills of San José del Cabo, this organic farm and restaurant offers a unique, high-quality dining experience. Reservation required.
- Todos Santos: About an hour north of Cabo San Lucas, this charming Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) is an artist colony with galleries, boutique shops, and a relaxed, bohemian vibe.
- The Mission of San José del Cabo: A beautiful, historic mission located right on the main town square in San José, offering a glimpse into the region’s colonial past.
- Local Taco Stands: Don’t be afraid to try the smaller, non-touristy taco stands, especially for authentic tacos al pastor or fresh fish tacos—this is where you will find the best, most authentic food.
Top Restaurants
Tacos Gardenias [$10-$20] – A quintessential local spot in Cabo San Lucas, renowned for its fresh fish, shrimp, and authentic smoked marlin tacos, served in a casual, vibrant setting.
Las Guacamayas [$10-$20] – A lively, no-frills institution in both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, famous for its tacos al pastor cut fresh from the spit, and its generous portions of regional Mexican food.
El Carboncito [$10-$20] – A simple, authentic taqueria in Cabo San Lucas, popular among locals for late-night meals and their excellent variety of charcoal-grilled meats and tacos.
Taqueria Rossy [$10-$20] – A small, family-run spot in San José del Cabo with a strong local following, specializing in perfectly grilled meat and chicken tacos and generous salsas.
Maria Corona [$20-$35] – Located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, this restaurant offers classic Mexican cuisine and a traditional atmosphere, often featuring live music in a charming colonial setting.
Mi Casa [$25-$40] – Set in a colorful, historic hacienda in Cabo San Lucas, this long-standing establishment serves well-prepared traditional Mexican dishes from various regions.
Jardín Secreto [$15-$30] – A hidden gem in San José del Cabo, offering a menu of traditional, homestyle Mexican cooking in a serene garden setting away from the main tourist crowds.
Flora’s Field Kitchen – Farm Bar [$15-$30] – While the main restaurant is high-end, the more casual Farm Bar at Flora Farms, located outside San José del Cabo, offers excellent, farm-to-table pizzas and salads in a rustic, beautiful setting.
La Lupita Taco & Mezcal [$20-$35] – Found in the Art District of San José del Cabo and also with a location in Cabo San Lucas, this spot elevates the taco experience with gourmet fillings and a superb selection of mezcals.
Don Sanchez [$30-$50] – A well-regarded restaurant in San José del Cabo known for its sophisticated take on Baja and interior Mexican cuisine, offering an extensive wine list and a beautiful courtyard setting.
Metate Cabo [$25-$45] – Tucked away just outside the main tourist area of Cabo San Lucas, this authentic spot focuses on traditional, slow-cooked regional Mexican recipes, often served in a clay pot.
Hacienda Cocina y Cantina [$30-$50] – Set in a stunning beachfront location in Cabo San Lucas, this restaurant delivers high-quality, authentic Mexican food with a focus on fresh ingredients and a breathtaking view.
Casianos [$40-$70] – Located in San José del Cabo, this distinctive dining experience features a “menu-less” concept, with the chef preparing a multi-course meal based on the freshest market ingredients of the day.
Mariscos El Toro Guero [$15-$25] – A beloved, casual, and highly-rated local seafood restaurant with locations in both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, famous for its massive plates of fresh ceviche, shrimp, and authentic Baja-style fish tacos.
El Marinero Borracho [$15-$30] – A no-frills, incredibly fresh seafood spot in Cabo San Lucas known for its incredible raw bar, shrimp dishes, and authentic local recipes.
Las Tres Islas [$20-$35] – Located near the marina in Cabo San Lucas, this classic seafood restaurant is a favorite for its whole fried fish, fresh ceviche, and traditional Mexican seafood cocktails.
Dax [$20-$40] – A newer, stylish seafood-focused restaurant in San José del Cabo’s Art District, known for its creative presentations and high-quality, locally sourced fish.
Los Claros [$10-$20] – A staple for locals in Cabo San Lucas, this place serves some of the best and most traditional Baja fish and shrimp tacos in a simple, open-air setting.
Pezgallo [$25-$45] – This San José del Cabo spot focuses on a modern take on Baja Med and traditional Mexican seafood, with a strong emphasis on fresh, coastal ingredients.
Baja Oyster Bar [$30-$50] – Located in the Cabo San Lucas marina, this is a must-visit for lovers of fresh oysters, clams, and other raw bar specialties.
El Merkado [$15-$35] – This is a large, contemporary food hall in San José del Cabo featuring various local vendors, with many excellent stalls specializing in fresh regional seafood and other culinary offerings.
Acre Baja [$40-$70] – Situated on a sprawling farm just outside of San José del Cabo, this restaurant offers a sophisticated, multi-course, farm-to-table dining experience in a stunning, natural, and trendy jungle setting.
The Jazamango [$35-$60] – Located in the heart of Todos Santos (a short drive from Los Cabos but a worthy inclusion for its quality), this restaurant, owned by a renowned Mexican chef, offers modern Baja cuisine with an emphasis on local and garden-fresh ingredients.
Carbon Cabrón [$40-$70] – A unique Cabo San Lucas restaurant where all the cooking is done over open flames and wood embers, resulting in flavorful, smoked, and grilled contemporary dishes.
Nicksan Sushi [$30-$50] – With locations in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, this spot is highly regarded for its creative Japanese cuisine with a distinct Mexican influence, specializing in unique sushi rolls and fresh fish.
La Forchetta [$30-$50] – A well-respected Italian restaurant in Cabo San Lucas, known for its authentic, quality ingredients and a focus on fresh pasta and traditional regional Italian fare.
Lum [$35-$60] – Located within the Art District of San José del Cabo, this contemporary restaurant fuses modern Mexican techniques with global influences, often featuring a rotating menu based on seasonal availability.
Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar [$40-$70] – Located in Cabo San Lucas, this trendy, pan-Latin restaurant offers a sophisticated menu of small plates and mains inspired by the cuisines of Central and South America.
Barrio de Tango [$30-$50] – A traditional Argentinian steakhouse in San José del Cabo known for its high-quality cuts of meat, extensive wine list, and lively South American atmosphere.
Flora’s Field Kitchen [$60-$90] – The main restaurant at Flora Farms near San José del Cabo, offering a truly high-end, elegant, and mandatory reservation dining experience focused on organic, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients.
Sunset Monalisa [$80-$150] – Located between the two towns, this cliffside restaurant is famous for its breathtaking views of the arch in Cabo San Lucas, offering a multi-course Mediterranean and Italian-inspired fine dining experience.
Cocina del Mar [$70-$120] – Set within the Esperanza resort near Cabo San Lucas, this stunning oceanfront restaurant offers exquisite seafood and Baja-inspired cuisine in an incredibly romantic, torchlit setting.
Arbol [$70-$120] – Located within Las Ventanas al Paraíso near San José del Cabo, this restaurant provides a high-end, unique Asian-inspired dining experience in a whimsical, luxurious atmosphere.
Manta [$80-$120] – Located in The Cape hotel in Cabo San Lucas, this critically-acclaimed restaurant, run by a celebrated Mexican chef, offers an innovative fusion of Japanese, Peruvian, and Mexican cuisine.
El Farallon [$100-$180] – Dramatically carved into a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Cabo San Lucas, this unique, high-end experience offers a “dock-to-table” menu of fresh seafood and prime cuts.
Edith’s [$60-$100] – A long-standing, iconic restaurant in Cabo San Lucas known for its stunning palapa setting, traditional atmosphere, and high-quality Mexican and steakhouse-style dishes.
Doña Pame [$10-$20] – A simple, hole-in-the-wall spot in Cabo San Lucas beloved for its incredible, cheap, and authentic tamales, both sweet and savory.
La Patrona [$20-$35] – A popular, casual, and highly-rated spot in San José del Cabo’s center that specializes in traditional Mexican breakfast and brunch dishes.
The Italian Job [$20-$40] – An unexpected and very popular spot in Cabo San Lucas for its authentic and delicious wood-fired pizzas, offering a break from traditional Mexican fare.
A Z U L C O C I N A [$25-$45] – Located in San José del Cabo, this modern restaurant focuses on Mexican fusion and high-quality, artfully presented plates, offering a great culinary exploration.
Outpost [$30-$50] – A stylish and contemporary eatery in the Art District of San José del Cabo specializing in wood-fired dishes and creative small plates, with an excellent cocktail menu.
Barrio Chico [$20-$40] – A cozy, local-favorite spot in Cabo San Lucas known for its artisanal wood-fired pizzas and casual, laid-back atmosphere.
La Capella [$40-$70] – Located in the Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach resort in Cabo San Lucas, this high-end Italian steakhouse offers stunning architecture and romantic views, focusing on prime cuts and authentic Italian dishes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sunset Monalisa: Perched on a cliffside overlooking the iconic El Arco in Cabo San Lucas, this is one of the most stunning spots in Los Cabos for signature cocktails and sunset views.
The Rooftop at The Cape: Located in Cabo San Lucas, this modern, open-air lounge offers panoramic views of the ocean and El Arco, specializing in hand-crafted cocktails and a lively, sophisticated atmosphere.
Acre Baja Cocktail Bar: Tucked away in the foothills outside San José del Cabo, this chic, farm-to-table retreat features unique cocktails crafted with fresh, local ingredients from their own garden.
Mixology Fusion Bar: Situated in the heart of the bustling Cabo San Lucas Marina, this bar is known for its inventive cocktail menu and mixology classes, creating a vibrant pre-party scene.
Dalton Destilería: A sophisticated speakeasy-style bar located within a resort in Cabo San Lucas, offering a deep dive into high-end Mexican spirits, particularly mezcal and tequila.
Candil Cocktail Bar: Found at a luxury resort in San José del Cabo, this elegant, dimly lit bar specializes in creative infusions and classic cocktails, perfect for a refined evening.
Flora Farms: Located on a 25-acre organic farm in the hills of San José del Cabo, their bars offer refreshing drinks using ingredients and herbs grown on-site in a tranquil, rustic setting.
The Drunken Sailor: A popular spot in downtown Cabo San Lucas, this casual bar offers a wide variety of drinks, including fun, oversized cocktails, with a lively, nautical theme.
Jardin Secreto at Hotel El Ganzo: Hidden within a boutique hotel in San José del Cabo, this intimate garden bar is known for its inventive presentation and relaxed, artsy vibe.
SHOREBar: An elegant, open-air cocktail bar at a beachfront resort in Cabo San Lucas, offering a refined menu of mixology in a tropical, chic setting.
Baja Brewing Company: While a brewery, their rooftop bar in San José del Cabo’s Art District also serves excellent cocktails alongside their craft beers, offering great views of the town.
Bar Esquina: Located near the beach in Cabo San Lucas, this stylish and popular spot is known for its excellent selection of wines, signature cocktails, and live music, making it a sophisticated pre- or post-dinner venue.
La Osteria Wine & Beer Bar: A cozy, local favorite in downtown San José del Cabo, offering a curated selection of cocktails, wine, and craft beer with a welcoming, neighborhood feel.
Mandala Beach Club: Located right on the beach in Cabo San Lucas, this spot functions as a lively day club but also serves excellent cocktails by the pool and in its lounge areas.
G-Spot Cabo: A trendy, casual cocktail bar on the main street of Cabo San Lucas, offering a relaxed atmosphere, great music, and a strong focus on unique, fun shots and drinks.
Cabo Wabo Cantina: An iconic and legendary rock and roll club in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, founded by Sammy Hagar. It features live bands, a high-energy atmosphere, and late-night dancing.
El Squid Roe: One of Cabo San Lucas’s most famous and wild clubs, this multi-level party spot is known for its high energy, dancing on tables, staff antics, and a mix of music that keeps the party going until the early morning.
Mandala Nightclub: Located in the center of the Cabo San Lucas party district, this club offers a stylish and modern setting with VIP sections, dazzling light shows, and high-energy music, primarily EDM and commercial hits.
The Pink Kitty: A chic and trendy nightclub in Cabo San Lucas, known for its lavish pink decor, international DJs, bottle service, and a fashionable clientele.
La Vaquita Cabo: A lively, open-air club on the main street in Cabo San Lucas with a fun, cow-print theme. It’s known for massive drinks, loud music (mostly reggaeton and commercial hits), and a youthful, carefree crowd.
NOW Club: A relatively newer, high-end club in Cabo San Lucas offering a modern, sleek design and focusing on international EDM and house music with top-tier sound and lighting systems.
Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos: Located at a major resort in Cabo San Lucas, this beach club transforms into a stylish nightclub after sunset, known for its house music, celebrity DJs, and stunning oceanfront setting.
Abolengo Cabo: Situated in the heart of Cabo San Lucas’s nightlife zone, this upscale lounge/club hybrid is known for its elegant ambiance, strong cocktails, and a mix of hip-hop and electronic music.
Finch Club Cabo: A subterranean club in downtown Cabo San Lucas with a sophisticated, darker vibe, offering a strong focus on electronic and techno music for those looking for a dedicated dance experience.
Oso’s Club: A smaller, more intimate club in Cabo San Lucas that is a favorite with locals, known for playing a great mix of Latin and commercial music in a welcoming atmosphere.