Mexico

Cabo

From its stunning beaches to its amazing nightlife, Los Cabos is one of the best vacation spots in Mexico. Relax on one of the many white sand beaches, enjoy sailing in the crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez, or dine at one of the award-winning restaurants. There are many adventures to be had in Cabo whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family. This ultimate Cabo travel guide will help you plan a fantastic beach vacation, which includes the best places to stay, eat, and see in Cabo.

What to Expect in Cabo

Language: While English can be common, the main language spoken in Cabo is Spanish.

Currency: The Mexican Peso is used throughout Mexico.

Credit Cards and Banks: Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Cabo. However, credit card fraud is common when you get away from resorts, like in restaurants out in town and on excursions. It is best to take money out of an ATM and use cash for outings that are away from resort areas.

Climate: Cabo has very mild weather year-round. Most days throughout the year are sunny, however in mid-July to September there could be a few rainy days.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cabo is between April to May and October to November. These are the months when the weather is perfect and the chance of rain is very low. However, if you are looking for a great deal and don’t mind the chance for a little rain, then July to September can be great with lower crowds and cheaper accommodations and outings.

Safety: While major crime is uncommon, there is petty theft across the state. Fraud is one of the major crimes reported in Cabo. These crimes deal with bank transactions and consumer fraud. When planning a trip to Cabo, make sure you exercise caution when arranging accommodations or excursions that may not have reputable reviews. In addition, make sure you are aware of your surroundings when traveling off resort grounds.

Getting Around in Cabo

By Foot: Getting around by foot is easy if you plan on staying within Cabo San Lucas or within San Jose. All restaurants and shops are in one area, so it makes it easy to get around without a vehicle.

By Taxi: Taxis are common, but you will want to agree on a price before starting. There are no meters. Trips between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose is about $60.

By Bus: There is also a bus that drives between San Lucas and San Jose. Buses will drive by every ten to twenty minutes and can be waved down to stop.

By Car: It is very easy to rent a car in Los Cabos and it can be fairly affordable. Car rentals can be found at the airport and out in town. While it may be busy near resorts, the highways are easy to navigate.

Travel Tip

When traveling to Los Cabos, it is best to have some cash on hand, either dollars or pesos. While many places take credit cards, some smaller shops, restaurants, and taxis may not.

Where to Stay in Cabo

Los Cabos has some of the most luxurious beachfront hotels in Mexico. From private small villas to grand resorts, there is a place for everyone in Cabos.

When coming up with where to stay in Los Cabo, finding the best hotels in Cabo does not have to be overwhelming. While many of these resorts and villas have luxurious pricing, there is something in Cabo for every budget. I’ve compiled a list of the top hotels to stay in Cabo that include budget hotels and luxurious resorts.

VRBO (Vacation Rental)

VRBO has a variety of private apartments and villas you can rent on a nightly basis, for great prices! Just be sure to read reviews and do your research before booking!

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Cabo

All Types

$-$$$$

Chileno Bay

Chileno Bay is a 5-star resort that is a part of the Auberge Resorts Collection. Guests can enjoy catching some sun at El Chileno Beach, which is just steps from the property or relaxing in the hotel pool. Chileno Bay Resort also provides a buffet breakfast each morning, Spa services, and an on-site bar.

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Corredor Turístico

Luxury

$$$

Garza Blanca - All Inclusive

When you are trying to find the best hotels in Cabo, look no further than Garza Blanca. This is an all-inclusive luxury resort in Cabo that has everything on the property for a fun and relaxing vacation. Guests can take a small walk to Boca del Tule Beach where they have access to the private beach. Guests can also enjoy a restaurant and bar on-site, a full fitness center, and multiple pools with lounge chairs nearby. Check out my review here.

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Corredor Turístico

Luxury

$$$

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

Esperanza is one of the best resort hotels in Cabo. This luxurious hotel will make any guests feel like they are at home in their cabana-style rooms, with a private terrace and modern décor. The hotel is beachfront with an infinity pool that has a swim-up bar. Guests can catch a free yoga session, relax at the spa, or roam the on-site art gallery. The resort has two restaurants to enjoy Baja-inspired cuisine and American dishes.

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Cabo Bello

Luxury

One&Only Palmilla

If you don’t like crowds, then One&Only Palmilla in Cabo San Lucas is perfect! The resort has 13 private villas that are right on the beach. Guests can enjoy spa services, dine at one of the onsite restaurants, or play a game of golf or tennis. If you want to stay at one of the best hotels in Cabo, One&Only Palmilla was ranked in the Top 100 Hotels and Resorts in the World.

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Corredor Turístico

Mid-Range

The Cape, a Thompson Hotel

If you are looking for where to stay in Cabo that is more affordable and beachfront, then The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, is a great place to start. The hotel offers guests two outdoor pools and an outdoor spa. Guests can enjoy dining at one of the two restaurants while taking in the ocean breeze.

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Misiones del Cabo

Luxury

$$$

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

This Los Cabos resort is next-level! Perched on a dramatic cliffside, it feels like a secluded retreat, worlds away from the buzz of Cabo. From impeccable service and incredible dining to dreamy rooms with private plunge pools—every detail exceeded my expectations. A true 10/10 experience, check out my review here.

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Pedregal Los Cabos

Luxury

$$$$

Where to Eat in Cabo

Los Cabos has some of the best seafood and fresh dishes in Mexico. Cabos doesn’t just serve up some of the best Mediterranean and Mexican dishes, there are many restaurants in Cabo that provide an array of dishes from around the world.

Here I have compiled a list of some of the best restaurants in Cabo that will fit any and all budgets and tastebuds.

Acre

Farm-to-Table

Acre is one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in San Jose. All dishes and drinks are made with ingredients from Acre’s 25-acre farm or locally sourced from ranchers and fishermen. Chef Larbi Dahrouch will make sure that all dishes going out are made with love and creativity. Definitely make sure to try some of their signature cocktails, like the Ginger Mezcalita.

Los Tres Gallos

Mexican

Los Trest Galos has two locations, one in Cabo San Lucas and the other in San Jose del Cabo. This charming restaurant serves delicious Mexican cuisine. Some local favorites include mole con pollo and pit-roasted cochinita pibil. If you want some of the best traditional Mexican food in Cabo, this is the best place to be.

Mi Casa

Mexican

Mi Casa is a great family-friendly restaurant in Cabo that offers authentic Mexican dishes. From fresh seafood to traditional starters, you will not be disappointed with any of the meals at Mi Casa.

Sunset da Monalisa

Fine Dining

Sunset Monalisa has been voted as one of the best fine dining experiences in Cabo. Visitors can choose between three different dining experiences: the prefixed a la carte menu, the 5-course “The Signature” menu, or The Monalisa Experience. No matter what the experience, guests will enjoy fresh ingredients and beautifully displayed meals.

Sunset Dinner at Cucina Del Mar – Esperanza

Seafood

Cocina Del Mar Restaurant is at Esperanza Resort and Spa and offers one of the best sunset dinners in Cabo. Each table is set on a cliff that overlooks the beautiful ocean which makes for an amazing seat as the sun goes down. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood and some of the best signature cocktails in Cabo.

Flora Farms

Local

Flora Farms is not just a unique farm, but also home to one of the best restaurants in Cabo. All food served is either grown at the 25-acre farm or sourced from local providers. The delicious dishes include homemade pizzas, pasta, and local meats like pork chops.

Hacienda Cocina y Cantina

Mexican

Hacienda Concina y Cantina has been awarded the best restaurant experience in a hotel. Guests will enjoy Mexican cuisine in a beautiful atmosphere overlooking the ocean.

What to Do in Cabo

Whether you are looking for an adventure on the water or a relaxing time on the land, Los Cabos has something for everyone. Figuring out what to do in Cabo can be a bit overwhelming, but hopefully, this list of some of the best things to do in Los Cabo will help you plan accordingly.

Flora Farms

Besides being a farm-to-table restaurant, this farm also has shops, a bakery, a spa, and other so much more. Be sure to carve out a few hours to enjoy lunch and the other amenities the farm has to offer.

Rent a Sailboat

The crystal blue waters of Cabo are amazing, especially when you are out sailing on a private sailboat. There are many sailing excursions, so make sure to book your sailing adventure while in Cabo.

Whale Watching

Cabo can be the perfect place to whale watch during the winter months between December to April. Many whales such as orcas, gray whales, and humpback whales migrate past Cabo.

Nightlife

Cabo has amazing nightlife. Some of the best clubs in Cabo provide dancing, live music, and bar entertainment. Make sure to check out Cabo Wabo Catina, The Nowhere Bar, and the Jungle Bar.

ATV Rides

ATV Rides is a great adventurous outing that allows tourists to see both the sand dunes and beaches of Cabo.

Horseback Riding

If you want an unforgettable experience, take a horseback riding tour along the beaches of Cabo.

Parasailing

What better way to see Cabo than from high above the water? Parasailing offers some great views of Los Cabo and is an experience you will never forget!

Snorkeling

Cabo’s crystal-clear water makes it perfect for snorkeling. Discover the variety of tropical fish that lie underwater in Cabo on a snorkeling tour.

Land’s End Arch & Lover’s Beach

There are many beaches in Cabo, but one of the best beaches is Lover’s Beach. This beach can only be reached by water taxi or tour but is perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Know Before You Go

Getting There

The Airport: Travelers will fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), just 8 miles from San Jose del Cabo and 23 miles from Cabo San Lucas.

Getting to Hotel from the Airport •Taxi: Getting to a hotel or resort from the Los Cabos International Airport is relatively easy by taxi, which you can catch outside the airport. Taxis are roughly $80 and take about twenty minutes. •Hotel Transfer: Some hotels offer shuttle service if guests make arrangements ahead of time. These services can be free or for a charge. Contact your resort or hotel to reserve.