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Beautiful coastline, high-end resorts, and a hot nightlife make Cabo San Lucas a prime destination in Mexico for travelers from around the world looking to relax on the beach or dance the night away. Mexico is one of my all-time favorite places in the whole world. I’ve been visiting since I was a kid and this beachy paradise has a special place in my heart.
For me, Cabo has it all – from sipping Margaritas by the sea to adventurous activities and some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Located on the southern tip of Baja California, direct flights arrive daily from major destinations, which helps make this an easy getaway for sun-soaked fun year-round.
With plenty of different activities on offer, Cabo San Lucas is a popular honeymoon and wedding destination as well as a great spot for family vacations, romantic getaways, and bachelor or bachelorette parties. There’s this lively and exciting energy to this resort town that I love. While it is a prime tourist destination, you can still get a feel for authentic Mexican culture if you’re willing to venture outside of the ritzy all-inclusive spots.
With a reputation for being a playground for Hollywood stars beginning in the 1970s, the popularity of this beachy paradise has only continued to grow with celebrities and travelers like you and me!
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach with a fruity cocktail or try out some new hobbies like parasailing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. All that’s left to do is start packing your bags and planning your itinerary with the help of our list of things to do in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Don’t have time to read the full article? We love visiting Cabo San Lucas, and some of our favorite things to do are below:
- Visit El Arco and other areas on a glass bottom boat tour
- Go on a half-day snorkeling adventure with lunch included
- Ride a camel (you heard that right!) along the beach on this unique tour
- Have fun shopping – We love Plaza Artesanos
- Hike Mount Solmar for some epic views
- Things to do in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
- 1. Visit El Arco
- 2. Swim with whale sharks
- 3. Go on a sunset cruise
- 4. Scuba dive
- 5. Whale watching
- 6. Snorkeling boat tour
- 7. Stay at an all-inclusive resort
- 8. Visit Lovers Beach
- 9. Or, visit Divorce Beach
- 10. Ride on a camel
- 11. Go fishing
- 12. Go shopping!
- 13. Eat authentic Mexican on a food tour
- 14. ATV tour
- 15. Drink local craft beer
- 16. Go for a bicycle ride (or make it easy with an electric bike)
- 17. Indulge with cocktails and fresh seafood at Medano Beach
- 18. Join a cooking class
- 19. Hike to the top of Mount Solmar
- 20. Museum of Natural History
- 21. PARTY!
- 22. Beach day at Chileno Beach
- 23. Parasailing
- 24. Enjoy rooftop cocktails at The Rooftop 360
- 25. Jet skiing
- 26. Walk the Marina
- 27. Golf!
- 28. Ziplining
- 29. Tequila and mezcal tasting
- 30. Horseback riding
- 31. Relax on a private yacht
- Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Mexico
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
1. Visit El Arco
El Arco, or “the Arch”, is one of our favorite places to visit near Cabo San Lucas. The iconic landmark is a giant rock formation in the sea near the very tip of the Baja Peninsula, right where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.
El Arco is also known as Land’s End, and when you arrive, you’ll see why. It feels as though you’ve arrived at the very tip of the earth where the rugged Baja California coastline meets the sea.
You can’t reach El Arco by land, so the only way to see this spectacular natural wonder is to embark on a boat tour or a kayak expedition. If you’re feeling adventurous, a kayak trip is by far the most amazing way to experience the natural beauty and wildlife this destination has to offer.
This 3-hour kayak tour with a knowledgeable guide will take you through all of the famous rock formations. You’ll have the opportunity to view wildlife like sea lions lounging on the huge rocks as you pass by. Admire all kinds of tropical fish darting through the water from your glass-bottomed kayak before jumping into the pristine waters to enjoy snorkeling at Pelican Rock. The tour includes round-trip transportation if required and is $80 USD per person.
Don’t worry if kayaking isn’t your thing! You can still experience the beauty of El Arco from the comfort of a boat tour like this one. The large boat on this tour has a glass bottom, so you can admire the ocean life without getting wet. The bilingual guides will take you to the most popular attractions including El Arco, Pirate’s Cave, and Pelican Rock before taking a break to swim at some of the pristine nearby beaches. This tour leaves from the Marina in Cabo and is only $30 USD per person.
2. Swim with whale sharks
Feeling brave? If you’ve ever fancied yourself a marine explorer, then we’ve got the experience for you! This all-day tour takes you deep into the Sea of Cortez for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with the world’s largest fish – whale sharks!
Fear not, because whale sharks are completely harmless – unless you’re plankton. Their teeth are actually so tiny that they can only eat the smallest of sea creatures like shrimp, tiny fish, and plankton. They’re completely harmless to humans. In fact, they rarely even notice people at all.
Swimming with whale sharks around Cabo is one of the top activities to try while you’re here. If you’re visiting Cabo San Lucas between October and April, you’re almost certain to see them as they like to hang out in the water near Cabo during these months.
If you happen to be here in prime whale shark season, then this whale shark snorkeling tour is a fun way to spend a day. The tour shuttle will pick you up right from your hotel before dropping you off at the boat. You’ll cruise through the Baja California Sur desert before arriving at La Paz and hopping on the boat. Then you’re off to sea for hours of swimming and snorkeling alongside the magnificent whale sharks. Afterward, you can enjoy an included lunch of Mexican tacos on the boardwalk and visit the iconic Hotel California before heading back home. The entire experience takes about 8 hours, so plan for a full day.
Related Read: Going swimming with whale sharks, turtles, and dolphins are only some of the epic things you can do in Cancun as well as great day trips from the Cancun Hotel Zone!
3. Go on a sunset cruise
The sunsets in Cabo San Lucas are absolutely stunning with vibrant bursts of oranges and purples that take your breath away. It’s one of my favorite parts of the day. We really enjoy getting out on the water to enjoy the gorgeous views on a sunset cruise. You’ll not only have an unobstructed view of the pastel colors filling the sky, but also a fun experience — a 2-for-1 deal!
There are plenty of fantastic sunset cruise tours available in Cabo with vibes ranging from casual partying to upscale and luxury.
For a fun, casual, and affordable option we love this sunset cruise with an open bar option for about $50 USD per person. The trimaran boat will take you past the most popular Cabo San Lucas attractions like Lovers Beach and the sea lion colony on the rocks, as well as El Arco. You’ll need to get yourself to the main marina here about 20 minutes before the tour leaves at 5 pm. Once onboard, the open bar is a great touch with every cocktail option you could imagine and a variety of complimentary snacks. Listen to music on the deck with a drink in hand and the spectacular colors of the sun setting over the Pacific.
For a more high-end experience that is perfect for a romantic date night, try this Jazz and Wine sunset cruise. The Tropicat is a luxurious catamaran sailboat that will set sail in the early evening for a two-hour cruise along the coastline past landmarks like El Arco and Lovers Beach. Enjoy romantic jazz music while sipping wine and sampling delicious canapés as you admire the sunset. Round trip transportation to the dock is included in the tour price of $108 USD per person.
Related Read: For another unforgettable evening on the water, we love these sunset cruises in Cancun!
4. Scuba dive
Anywhere there’s an ocean where we travel, you’ll probably find us scuba diving! It’s something I absolutely love to do wherever we go. It’s just so peaceful under the water and you can get really close to all the amazing creatures underwater.
Scuba diving in Cabo is one of the most popular activities due to its unique ocean ecosystem, clear waters, and interesting rock formations. It has some of the best dive sites in Mexico! The Baja’s Sea of Cortez is one of the most biodiverse waters in the world and divers can expect to swim with huge schools of fish, seals, manta rays, sea turtles, and more. It’s one of the most breathtaking places I have ever dived!
Experienced divers will love it here, and I recommend booking an experience like this spectacular 2-tank diving tour. You’ll go on two dives inside Cabo San Lucas bay to get the chance to swim alongside manta rays, sea turtles, and colorful fish. One of the best parts is the chance to see the giant underwater cliffs that go down 300-600 feet! It leaves from the Marina in Cabo and costs $120 USD per person.
If you’re brand new to diving but want to give it a try without getting certified ahead of time, you can go scuba diving on a beginner’s scuba diving experience. For $125 USD per person, you’ll get a 4-hour guided dive experience that takes you into the waters of Cabo San Lucas Marine Park. You’ll practice with a certified instructor first before going on a real dive in a beautiful biodiverse setting.
Note: Make sure you book scuba diving once you’ve settled in Cabo as diving within 18 hours of flying isn’t recommended.
5. Whale watching
If you’re visiting Cabo San Lucas between December and mid-March you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of the planet’s most magnificent creatures. Humpback whales pass through Cabo yearly as the conditions are perfect for whale breeding. In fact, many travelers book their trips precisely to correspond with the whale migration – some even plan weekend trips to Cabo just to whale watch! I was in Mexico last February, so it was perfectly timed to see the whales!
During whale-watching season, you can take a humpback whale-watching tour with knowledgeable guides who will take you to some of the best spots. The 2-hour and 30-minute tour costs $96 USD per person. The groups are limited to 10 people, so you’re guaranteed an intimate experience. A marine biologist guide will take you to iconic locations like El Arco and the sea lion colony while you cruise the ocean in search of giant whales. The seas are calmest in the morning, but there are a variety of departures throughout the day to fit your schedule.
Related Read: These incredible whales can be spotted in waters across Mexico, so you may even see whales while exploring the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta like we did. It’s one of those incredible activities I never get tired of!
6. Snorkeling boat tour
The snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas is incredible! The waters of the Sea of Cortez around Cabo have even been called “The World’s Aquarium” by the famous oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau. You’ll see why as soon you enter this undersea paradise with your snorkel. Colorful fish will surround you and you’ll feel like you’re in a different world. It’s one of those must-do activities in Cabo!
The key here is finding the best spots to view all kinds of ocean life in the beautiful clear water. I suggest looking for a local tour like this half-day snorkeling adventure. You’ll board a luxury catamaran at the local marina and take a cruise to your first snorkeling spot – a secluded bay. You’ll have time to swim here and can even use state-of-the-art sea scooters to propel you around the ocean. After that, you’ll head to another incredible snorkeling location to see what other creatures you can find!
What’s great about tours like this one is all the extras! It also includes stops at the Arch of Cabo San Lucas and a sea lion colony. Transportation, all the snorkeling gear, lunch, and an open bar are provided, so this is a steal of a deal at $129 USD per person.
Snorkeling is one of my favorite ways to explore Cabo and see the amazing underwater creatures. It’s also good for kids and families as you don’t need a lot of equipment or experience. It’s easy to do and you’ll catch on quickly, even if you’ve never been snorkeling before.
7. Stay at an all-inclusive resort
Cabo San Lucas is a resort town meaning there are so many hotels and places to stay right on the beach. Staying at an all-inclusive resort is a fantastic way to ensure that your vacation is worry-free and as relaxing as possible. We really like these as properties like these typically include all you need to have a great vacation, so you can just show up!
Here are a few of our favorite places to stay in Cabo San Lucas when it comes to all-inclusive resorts:
Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa is located a mere 3-minute walk from the beach and has a fantastic spa, two pools, a waterslide, and three restaurants. In addition, there is a private beach area, a gym, and a business center. Nightly entertainment includes theatrical and musical performances. Rates start at around $300 USD a night.
Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is an all-inclusive resort that is right on the beach. There is an onsite restaurant, a bar, a lounge, and beautiful gardens as well as a swimming pool (with an incredible ocean view!) and gym. Nightly entertainment makes this 5-star resort a great choice at around $350-400 USD per night.
Riu Palace Baja California is an adults-only option located right on the beach with a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a lounge that is shared with their sister property. The breakfast buffet here is superb! Rooms here are more in the $400 USD range.
Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort is a luxury option with oceanfront rooms and suites, some even including their own private pools. There’s a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the ocean with a swim-up bar, restaurants with menus ranging from Mexican to Mediterranean or even Japanese cuisine, and top-rated golf courses nearby. Expect to pay a minimum of $400 USD per night and up to $1,000 USD per night for the suites.
8. Visit Lovers Beach
Playa del Amor, or Lovers Beach, is nestled within the rugged coastline of Cabo San Lucas. It forms a secluded area perfect for lovers to spend the day swimming and soaking up the sun. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the area due to its stunning location. Spending a day on Lovers Beach is easily one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas!
You can only get to this beach by boat. We like catching a water taxi from the marina as these are readily available and transport people to the beach and back all day. It’s really reasonable too – about $10 USD roundtrip.
You can also join a boat tour like this one that will visit the famous arch before dropping you off at Lovers Beach. It’s $40 USD per person and offers upgrades if you’d like snorkeling equipment to try out while you’re here.
If you’re feeling up for a little exercise, rent paddleboards or kayaks from Medano Beach across the bay and take a leisurely paddle to the beautiful Lovers Beach.
Related Read: Planning a romantic getaway to Mexico? Check out our complete guide to planning your honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta!
9. Or, visit Divorce Beach
A short walk from Lovers Beach, you’ll find the hilariously named Divorce Beach. With a long stretch of gorgeous white sand, this beach is perfect for sunbathing or laying out a blanket and reading a good book. It’s even a nice place to pack a picnic lunch.
One thing to note is that swimming can be dangerous here because of the big waves and strong riptides, so use caution if you choose to get in the water. Overall, it’s probably safer to swim at Lovers Beach, which escapes more of the harsher waves due to the bay.
10. Ride on a camel
Riding a camel might not be one of the activities you’d expect to find in a Mexican resort town, but it’s something you can check off your bucket list in Cabo! I’ve ridden a camel in Australia before and it’s so cool that this experience is offered in Mexico! It’s a unique activity that will be one you’ll never forget.
On this camel outback adventure, you’ll head from Cabo along the Pacific coast to Rancho Tierra Sagrada – an oceanfront ranch. Then you’ll meet your camel and climb atop for a 20-minute beach safari. You’ll get to enjoy the scenery from a totally new vantage point (they are taller than you think!) as the camel walks through the soft sands. You’ll also have a guide who will help tell you all about this amazing area.
This tour is around 4 hours and really showcases the beauty of the Baja Peninsula. It includes a tasty traditional Mexican lunch, as well as a tequila tasting! The tour departs twice a day, so there’s an option for early risers as well as an afternoon option for those of us who stay up late enjoying the Cabo San Lucas nightlife and prefer to have a long and lazy morning at the beach.
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
11. Go fishing
Interested in trying your skills as a fisherman? Sportfishing is a great Cabo San Lucas activity to get out on the water and hopefully reel in an impressive catch. We really enjoy the thrill of it and seeing what unique fish are at the end of the line!
Private tours like this fishing adventure are so much fun and you’ll learn a ton with a max of four people on the tour. It’s an all-day adventure that’s good for beginners who have never caught a fish or seasoned pros. The tour company welcomes everyone, including kids! This private excursion is $395 USD per group of four, but you will have to also purchase a fishing license and live bait at the dock before you set off (about another $50 USD).
I think this is a fun way to spend a day as you set off from the Marina in search of the best fishing spots for 8 hours of fun. All of the fishing gear is included and the talented guides provide instruction for everyone in the group so that no one leaves without having caught a fish.
12. Go shopping!
Cabo San Lucas is a shopper’s dream come true with everything from traditional Mexican items to high-end designers available. For high-end shopping head to Luxury Avenue and Paraiso Mall where you can find designer brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton.
If big brands aren’t your style or budget, don’t worry because there are a variety of touristy shops selling souvenirs as well as cute artisan shops selling locally made goods and traditional Mexican crafts. Art galleries and clothing boutiques selling cute beachy items are all available in Cabo San Lucas.
We particularly loved Plaza Artesanos, which features over 75 vendors selling handcrafted items like jewelry, clothing, pottery, and trinkets. It’s a nice spot to find something to bring home to remember your trip! We also enjoyed wandering through the local farmer’s markets in Cabo San Lucas, which had delicious baked goods and fresh seafood and veggies.
13. Eat authentic Mexican on a food tour
No trip to Mexico is complete without sampling the country’s delicious cuisine. If even the thought of traditional Mexican food has your mouth watering, you should definitely experience a food tour in Cabo San Lucas. You and your stomach won’t regret it!
On a three-hour walking culinary tour of Cabo San Lucas, you’ll have the opportunity to see and taste every possible Mexican delight. With a guide from Juan More Taco leading the way, you can discover local foodie favorites and hot spots all over the downtown district. You’ll have the chance to sample traditional tacos and quesadillas on the small tours which are limited to 12 people.
The guide will teach you about Mexican culture, traditions, and even folklore during this fun and educationally immersive experience. The tour includes water and various food tastings around the city with plenty of opportunities to purchase alcohol for an additional fee. Prices start at around $70 USD per person.
Related Read: Keep your tastebuds happy by eating at some (or all!) of the absolute best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta!
14. ATV tour
I love off-roading on an ATV in Mexico! It’s an exhilarating way to cover a lot of ground and see some pretty scenic spots. It’s also easy to do and super fun once you get the hang of it.
Take your own ride on the wild side with an off-road beach and desert ATV adventure. This 2-hour ATV tour is perfect for thrill-seekers and will take you deep into the desert through sand creeks, canyons, and narrow riverbeds before arriving on the white sand beaches of Margaritas Beach.
The ATVs on this tour are state-of-the-art and fully automatic with hydraulic brakes. You’ll also get all the gear you need including a helmet and goggles. The guides are especially good at making sure you’re comfortable and know what you’re doing before you hit the road. Once you’re off, make sure you take the time to enjoy the incredible view of the ocean and keep an eye out for whales! This exciting tour is $80 USD per person.
Related Read: Another spot for some fun offroading through the jungle is with an ATV tour in Cancun!
15. Drink local craft beer
If you love beer (like we do!), you’ll adore grabbing a drink at Baja Brewing Company. It’s located at Cabo Villas Rooftop, which serves tasty food and booze on top of Cabo Villas Resort and Spa.
You NEED to get a spot at the amazing rooftop bar, especially at sunset. The view is incredible! It’s located on the 7th floor in downtown Cabo San Lucas, so you’ll be able to take in all the action of the city from atop the cool outdoor lounge.
If you’re hungry, the menu has a variety of tasty pub food and international dishes and an extensive beer menu with tons to try. You can order yourself a large pint or get a tasting paddle. Personally, I know what I like so go straight for the IPA!
Baja Brewing not only serves up delicious beer but the view from the bar makes this without a doubt one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas – even if you aren’t a beer lover!
Related Read: Mexico has so many great breweries! Trying craft beers is also one of the best things to do in Bucerias.
16. Go for a bicycle ride (or make it easy with an electric bike)
Renting bikes is a great way to take in the sights of Cabo San Lucas. There are a bunch of bike rentals within walking distance to downtown including Thunder’s Bikes, Bicicletas Cayetano, and Bicicletas Piluchos Cabo San Lucas. You can usually get a great quality bike to use for the day for around $30 USD. Bike shops also typically offer hourly rates if you don’t need a bike for the whole day.
Alternatively, join a guided bike tour of Cabo! If you’re looking for a fun tour that won’t leave you sore the next day, this 4-and-a-half-hour guided electric bike ride is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Transportation to the Tierra Sagrada ranch is included in the $109 USD price tag. Once you arrive, you’ll have the chance to ride around sandy bike baths on the private ranch and up into the cacti-covered hills. Then you’ll ride down to the beach for an included lunch of tasty quesadillas. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors without any difficult pedaling!
17. Indulge with cocktails and fresh seafood at Medano Beach
Medano Beach is the main place to go swimming in Cabo with clear, blue water and soft sand. It’s gentle enough for swimming and wading in and is considered the safest swimming beach in Cabo San Lucas. It’s also the closest beach to town and the most popular spot to kick back and sunbathe or splash in the waves.
Medano Beach starts at the east part of the harbor around the marina entrance and follows the Cabo San Lucas Bay with two miles (3.2 kms) of golden sand all the way to Villa del Palmar. Parking can be a challenge around here, so taking a taxi or walking is best if you can.
Because of the excellent location and perfect beach conditions, this is a busy beach all the time and it’s crazy during spring break. Although you can usually walk northeast along the beach to find the quieter spots. If you want a party atmosphere, the main part of the beach is known for all-day happy hours at the bars lining the beach and tons of beach vendors to buy treats from.
This beach is also a fun spot to try out some of the best activities in Cabo like jet skiing, waterskiing, parasailing, and volleyball. Aries Water Sports has rentals right on the beach (look for the orange canopy) and is known for fun and fast jet skis you can rent for around $100 USD for an hour. Or if you’re feeling adventurous another unique activity to try is flyboarding where you’ll strap on a special board that shoots water out of the bottom to have you hovering over the ocean! Caboelectric offers flyboard lessons for about $150 USD.
Medano Beach also has a huge variety of places to eat whether you’re craving seafood or something else after you’ve finished playing in the waves. Tabasco Beach Restaurant is right on the beach so you can eat with your toes in the sand! They are known for their wood-fired pizzas – a pepperoni one here is about $15 USD or try the delicious shrimp tacos. For a fun beach club vibe, there’s always something happening at Mango Deck. They have super tasty breakfasts and an all-day happy hour.
18. Join a cooking class
Another fun activity for culinary lovers to enjoy in Cabo San Lucas is a cooking class. Once you’ve tasted the food here, you’re going to want to bring it home to your kitchen. We really like all the tips and tricks in local cooking classes, plus the best part is eating everything you make!
Learn how to prepare amazing traditional Mexican cuisine on a tour of the local markets and cooking class. The class takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes and will teach how to prepare an authentic Mexican meal from beginning to end. There are rotating menus each week so that you can choose the option that suits your tastes.
The class takes place in the home of a local chef and while the menu changes, tortillas are a staple. You’ll not only pick up fresh corn dough to make tortillas by hand but then get to eat them fresh from the grill! The small classes allow you to have personal instruction from a professional chef who will teach you techniques and recipes that are traditional to this region of Mexico. Lunch is included (of course!) and the class costs $107 USD per person.
19. Hike to the top of Mount Solmar
From the top of Mount Solmar, you can really take in all of the breathtaking sites and the natural beauty of Cabo San Lucas. There are plenty of guided tours available, but you can also do this hike all on your own starting at the Marina.
It’s a great way to balance out all the margaritas and tacos with some physical activity and it’s one of the best views of the rugged coastal landscape and desert.
The hike does have some challenging parts where you will need to hold onto rocks and scramble up a bit, but it is totally worth it when you make it to the top. All up, the trail is just under 2 miles (3.2 kms) out and back and should take about 45 minutes, so it’s not too long. You might just find this hike is the highlight of your holiday in Cabo San Lucas!
20. Museum of Natural History
In order to balance out the beach lounging and partying in Cabo San Lucas, you might consider an educational experience like a visit to the Museum of Natural History. It’s located in the heart of downtown in a building that once served as an elementary school.
History buffs and nature enthusiasts will enjoy this small but comprehensive museum which has a little bit of everything. There are displays dedicated to fossils, astronomy, geology, and paleontology as well as rotating special exhibits.
One exhibit focuses on the local history of Cabo San Lucas and the surrounding environment including exhibits dedicated to the ancient history of early people who inhabited the Baja Peninsula. There is even a display of instruments used by early sailors.
The museum is open 10 am – 7 pm every day except Monday. Admission costs around $1 USD.
21. PARTY!
One of Cabo San Lucas’s most popular attractions is unarguably the nightlife. People from around the world flock to this city to go out on the town and dance the night away while drinking tequila and partying until the sun comes up. There are so many amazing clubs located throughout the city with all types of vibes. So whether you’re looking for all-night DJ dance parties or rock and roll – there’s a place for you to get your party on.
If you’re into live music venues, head to the Cabo Wabo Cantina, which was founded by Sammy Hagar and the rest of Van Halen in 1990. Live music and great drinks make this an awesome stop on your tour of the Cabo San Lucas party scene.
If you lean more towards DJs and dance music, you’ll find no shortage of options. OMNIA is a popular day club with all-day partying and dance music.
If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, consider booking a VIP Nightclub Tour for $99 USD per person. You’ll have a guide who will escort you to three of the most popular clubs where you can skip the lines and enjoy five hours of unlimited drinks. All the bars are open bars when you attend this tour, making it worth the cost for the drinks and cover charges alone.
22. Beach day at Chileno Beach
Another incredible beach to visit on your vacation to Cabo San Lucas is Chileno Beach. It’s one of the best beaches in the area for swimming due to its calm waters and has more of a laid-back feel than the nonstop party at Medano Beach. If you’re looking for a place to kick back and relax and swim in the beautiful blue water, this is it!
You can take a boat from the Marina, or drive yourself as there is plenty of parking. Other amenities include showers and bathrooms. It’s a great area to take a nice long walk on the beach and experience the natural beauty of Cabo.
Related Read: If you can’t get enough of the beach, some of the best beaches in Mexico are in Playa del Carmen!
23. Parasailing
Feeling adventurous? Why not try out parasailing over the beautiful ocean high above Cabo San Lucas Bay.
Feel the wind in your hair as you glide high above famous landmarks like Lovers Beach and El Arco on this parasailing adventure tour. You’ll be hooked up to a harness securely underneath a parasail wing that catches the wind and lifts you into the air. You can choose to skim against the water or return to your boat without ever getting wet.
It’s the perfect activity for couples or a group of friends, and you’ll have the opportunity to take plenty of photos during your hour-and-a-half experience. The cost is $58 USD per person, making this an affordable tour that you’ll never forget.
24. Enjoy rooftop cocktails at The Rooftop 360
The Rooftop 360 bar and restaurant will have you feeling like you’re on top of the world. It’s the highest rooftop bar (on the 9th floor!) in Cabo San Lucas and you can’t beat the panoramic views of the gorgeous sunsets. The entire rooftop is open air and you can even see famous landmarks like El Arco in the distance.
There are tons of cool spaces like a beer garden pergola and a large terrace. The cocktails are out of this world one-of-a-kind handcrafted mixes that will make you want to sip all night. Try a Sunset Mimosa made with passion fruit, elderflower, and sparkling wine! There’s also a well-curated selection of local beers.
Rooftop 360 is open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 am to 11 pm Monday through Wednesday and until 1 am on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. It’s an amazing spot for an evening meal and then you can enjoy some drinks under the stars.
This is a popular spot, so while you can walk in and see if there’s a table, reservations are recommended to guarantee your spot.
25. Jet skiing
Jet skiing is one of the most thrilling and exciting ways to get out on the water. I personally love the speed and cooling off with the water splashing up around you. It’s one of the best things to do in Cabo!
Take your own fast ride along the Baja coastline on a private jet-skiing adventure and see top attractions like El Arco. If you’ve never tried jet skiing before this tour is an excellent option because they give you detailed safety instructions before you depart. It’s $80 USD per person for a 30-minute ride and all rentals include life jackets. Tours embark from El Medano Beach.
26. Walk the Marina
The Marina in Cabo San Lucas is the perfect place to take a walk and people watch. It’s always bustling with activity and there are so many things to do and see. Take a camera as there are bound to be plenty of photo opportunities, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.
Take in the views of the sea and scope out all of the amazing yachts. Or, wait for the fishing boats to come in and observe the fishermen and the day’s catches. It’s a great place to witness the mix of tourism and local culture co-existing.
27. Golf!
If golfing is your thing, you’ll love Cabo San Lucas. It’s a prime destination for golfers worldwide with more than 18 courses designed by famous golfers like Tiger Woods and Greg Norman.
There are golf resorts scattered all over the Baja Peninsula, but some of the top ones are:
Quivira Los Cabos – this beachfront golf course has stunning ocean views across the course, from every hole. It even made Golf Digest’s list of the World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses. You’ll need to be a guest at a Pueblo Bonito Resort to access this course and book a tee time. A morning round of golf is between $320 from June-September and $380 USD from October to May.
El Dorado -This 18-hole course was designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. It blends beach and desert with rugged coastlines, desert foothills, and shaded canyons. It’s good for golfers of all abilities and the scenery is so beautiful, that you’ll want to take your time! This is a private course though and doesn’t offer public tee times.
Cabo Real – This golf course opened in the 90s and helped define Cabo San Lucas as one of the world’s premier golf destinations. There are holes carved into hills at the bottom of mountain peaks and stunning beach views. Green fees range depending on the season but are typically around $245 USD for a morning round of golf or $175 USD for an afternoon time. If you need a lesson, there are also PGA pros on hand to help.
28. Ziplining
For an adventurous outing that everyone can enjoy, speed through a zipline course high above the Baja Peninsula.
There are a ton of tours to choose from, but the ones mentioned below are a couple of our favs. Both are good choices, and if you have time and love ziplining, you might even try them both!
Costa Azul Zipline Eco-Adventure includes an entire rope course with a swinging bridge, rope swings, and ziplines. At the end of the 3-hour tour, you can enjoy a tequila tasting before being shuttled back to your hotel. The cost is $85 USD per person.
The Outdoor Ziplining and UTV Adventure Tour is much longer and takes 6 hours to complete. You will zipline through desert canyons and the tour also includes an off-road adventure on UTVs. Hotel transportation is included as is bottled water. The cost for the experience is $129 USD per person.
29. Tequila and mezcal tasting
Mexico is known for the incredible variety of activities, its vibrant culture, delicious food, and of course – tequila! Complete your trip to Cabo San Lucas with a mezcal and tequila tasting at one of the many spots in town.
Pancho’s Restaurant & Tequila Bar has an awesome tasting menu that includes four types of tequila including Blanco, Resposado, Anejo, and Mezcal. It has a really nice vibe, and the added benefit of yummy food so you can balance out the booze.
If you’re interested in an extra special experience that will teach you all about tequila, try a Tequila Tasting experience that will take you through a workshop all about tequila. You’ll get to sample six tequilas and three mezcals while also enjoying traditional treats like dark chocolate and agave heart. The tour takes about an hour and a half and costs $35 USD per person. It’s well worth it for the curated experience.
Related Read: If you can’t get enough tequila, plan a visit to Tequila – the town, not the drink. Although the tequila here is really good too!
30. Horseback riding
There’s nothing quite like riding horses on the beach. It feels like something right out of a movie!
With this horseback riding tour in Cabo San Lucas, you’ll get that and so much more. Begin at a traditional Baja California ranch and explore before meeting a horse that is matched to your experience level. The hour-and-a-half-long tour will take you on a journey through the desert, the ocean cliffs, and onto the beautiful beaches.
Make sure you bring a camera to snap photos of cacti and learn about the native plants of the region from your experienced guide. One of the best parts of this tour for experienced riders is that they actually let you canter on the beach, which is truly an amazing experience. The tour includes transportation from your hotel as well as water and snacks for a cost of $89 USD per person.
31. Relax on a private yacht
Fancy experiencing Cabo San Lucas like the rich and famous? It’s a splurge at $1120 USD, but that can buy you and your group of up to four friends a private yacht …at least for a few hours.
This private yacht tour will have you sailing around the coastline for a three-hour experience of pure luxury. The 42-foot sport cruiser yacht will depart from the Marina at whatever time you choose and take you around to all of the landmarks while you enjoy open bar cocktails and high-end snacks. You’ll have the opportunity to stop and swim at beaches and try snorkeling all from the luxury of your own private yacht.
Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo has lodging options galore! From hostels to swanky resorts, and everything in between, you can find the perfect place to rest your head after a day of epic diving. If you’re watching your pesos, no worries, I’ve included some of my favorite budget options below. Or if you’re splurging for that special celebración, I’ve also included some great luxury options too!
Mayan Monkey Hostel Los Cabos – $
Located in downtown Cabo, Mayan Monkey Hostel keeps you in the action and party atmosphere Cabo is famous for while being easy on the wallet. It’s only five minutes from the beach or there’s an outdoor swimming pool to cool off in. There’s entertainment and activities like DJs in the evenings or ping-pong tables, and it’s a fun place to meet new people.
If you’re okay with sharing a room, you can stay here for SUPER cheap. You can find a bed in a dorm-style room with 6 to 12 beds for around $20-30 USD a night, or there are private rooms in the $100 USD range. You can grab your spot on Booking.com or Hostelworld.com.
Playa Grande Resort – $$
Located on a private beach in Cabo and close to the marina, you’ll love the feel of Playa Grande Resort. There’s a spa, three outdoor pools, and beautiful Mexican décor and tiled floors. You’ll also have a kitchen or kitchenette and a balcony. This resort has the option to be all-inclusive if you want meals taken care of, or you can enjoy all the local food in the area.
Rooms here are around $200-300 USD a night for just the room and $400-500 USD a night for the all-inclusive package. Check prices and book Playa Grande Resort online here.
Cabo Vista Hotel (Adults Only) – $$
If you’re planning to rent a car while in Cabo, then Cabo Vista Hotel is a great mid-range option. It’s a little out of the way, but still within walking distance of the city center and the beach. My favorite part of this place is that every room is a mini-suite, so you have lots of space and your own kitchen! You’ll also get free breakfast daily and complimentary towels and umbrellas for the beach.
The nightly rate here is around $100-200 USD a night. You can book online on Booking.com.
Grand Velas Los Cabos Luxury All Inclusive – $$$
Looking to go all-out on accommodation? One of the most luxurious resorts in Cabo San Lucas is Grand Velas, which even has its own private beach. This all-inclusive property also features three infinity pools, a spa, and every room has a view of the sea. There are also five restaurants on-site including Mexican, Italian, and French cuisine, so you’ll never get tired of the selection!
This is an upscale property, so rooms start at around $1,500 USD per night. You can check availability online here.
Breathless Cabo San Lucas – Adults Only – $$$
Location is a huge plus with Breathless Cabo San Lucas as it’s located right in front of El Medano Beach. You can walk out the doors of the hotel and be on the beach in under a minute! This is an all-inclusive property, so all your meals and snacks are included, along with 24-hour room service. There are also fun theme parties here!
It’s an average of $500 USD per night, but can be a bit more or less depending on when you book. You can easily check prices and book on Booking.com.
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
With so many incredible things to do in Cabo, the hardest part will be deciding what you want to do once you arrive. It’s a destination that has all you could want for a dream vacation from stunning beaches to fun party spots and some truly unique activities – like riding a camel or swimming with whale sharks!
If you found this guide to Cabo helpful, take a look around at our other travel blogs. We have tons of guides to places all around the world full of helpful tips and ideas for your travels. If Mexico is on your next boarding pass, check out some of our other Mexico blogs like:
50+ EPIC Things to do in Sayulita, Mexico