23 Best Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas (Our Favorites!)
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Beaches with buzz? Eye-popping resorts? Stunning coastal scenery? Check, check, check!
Welcome to Los Cabos, Mexico’s chic desert-meets-the-sea playground at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula.
Celebs like Jennifer Aniston, Justin Bieber and George Clooney escape here – and so do we!
We’ve visited Cabo umpteen times, ticking off just about all the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas and nearby.
And there’s plenty to keep you busy beyond sipping margaritas by the pool! From whale watching and sunset sailing to snorkeling, sportfishing and even hiking, we’ve tried it all – and loved every sun-drenched minute.
As seasoned travel writers, we’ve also written about Cabo for top magazines, newspapers and our own Los Cabos travel guide and Cabo Visitor blog.
So, where to start? Here’s our ultimate list of 23 awesome ways to enjoy Cabo – including our personal favorites.
Featured reader comments
Our Cabo hit list: The good stuff
Just want the quick version? Here’s your cheat sheet to Cabo’s can’t-miss experiences! ❤️
When to visit
Winter is peak whale season, with sunshine galore. Summer brings fewer crowds and tempting hotel deals. October and November are ideal for snorkeling and diving.
So there’s no single best time to visit Cabo.😎
Must-do Cabo activities
- SEE THE ARCH → Take a water taxi around Land’s End, perhaps stopping at Lover’s Beach.
- WATCH WHALES → Visiting between December and April? Whale watching is a must!
- GET OUT ON THE WATER → Sail and snorkel at Santa Maria or Chileno Bay.
- CHILL ON MEDANO BEACH → Swim, people-watch and soak up Cabo’s beach scene.🏖️
- EXPLORE SAN JOSE DEL CABO → Wander its historic center and enjoy the Thursday evening Art Walk in season.
- CATCH A SUNSET AT SEA → Cabo’s fiery sunsets are even better on a sunset cruise.
Eat well
- FOR FARM-TO-TABLE DINING → Flora Farms is our go-to.
- FOR SHRIMP TACOS → We can’t get enough of Tacos Gardenias.
- FOR ITALIAN → Salvatore G’s serves up huge yummy portions.
👉 Want to cook up your own Mexican feast?🎉 We had a blast on this Mexican cooking class! (Margaritas included, of course.)
Where to stay
Three tried-and-personally-tested favorites:
- CLASSIC BEACHFRONT LUXURY → One & Only Palmilla (5-star)
- DELUXE ALL-INCLUSIVE → Grand Velas Los Cabos (5-star)
- ARTSY BOUTIQUE DIGS→ Hotel El Ganzo (4-star)
👉 For more choices, browse our guides to Cabo’s best luxury resorts, adults-only escapes and alluring hotels with private pool suites).
Pssst! The area in brief
Los Cabos (“the capes”) includes the two main cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. People often say “Cabo” to mean the entire area, though sometimes they just mean Cabo San Lucas.
Here, we use “Cabo” to describe the whole fabulous destination.
1) See the Arch by water taxi
You’ve seen tons of photos of the Arch (El Arco) – Cabo’s iconic natural rock formation – and now you want to see it for real.
One of the easiest – and cheapest – ways to get up close is by water taxi. It’s pure Cabo!
These small open wooden boats zip back and forth all day between the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Medano Beach and Land’s End, where the Arch rises dramatically from the sea.
And it’s quite the sight!
The three-story-high Arch is a natural wonder, sculpted by wind and waves over thousands of years.
Then there are those humongous sea lions
They bask on the rocks at Land’s End.
Chances are you’ll hear – and smell – them before you see them! We always know we’re getting close when we hear their loud barking and that pungent whiff of sea lion poop comes wafting across the water.
Water taxi need-to-knows
- Cost – Budget about $20 to $25 USD p.p. roundtrip from the Cabo San Lucas Marina or Medano Beach.
- Lover’s Beach stop – Water taxis can drop you at Lover’s Beach and pick you up later. (See #7 below for more on visiting the beach.
- Prefer to book ahead? – This inexpensive water taxi ride from the marina (just under $20 USD p.p.) is one of the cheapest we’ve found. It’s a shared ride of about an hour on a 30-foot boat.
Elevate the experience!
For an even cooler trip, go on a completely transparent boat. Its clear bottom and sides give you wrap-around views of fish and marine life as you cruise around Land’s End.
2) Go whale watching
Every year from mid-December to early April, thousands of whales migrate to the warm waters off the Los Cabos coast to mate and give birth.
Humpbacks are the stars of the show!
They’re the most acrobatic, and we often spot them spouting and breaching right from shore (especially on the Pacific Ocean side).
But for a closer look, hop aboard a whale watching boat tour – hands down one of the best things to do in Los Cabos in winter! You’ll cruise past Land’s End, then head off in whichever direction the whales are hanging out.
Sightings are almost guaranteed
We’ve been whale watching in Cabo at least nine times and had fantastic sightings on all but one trip.
Whale watching tours we’d happily book again
- For whale geeks – This marine biologist-led tour with Whale Watch Cabo (max. 12 guests) won us over with its responsible approach to whale watching. The spickety-clean boat had comfy cushioned seats and shade and our guide shared tons of cool whale facts. Bonus: Free photos are included!
- For luxury lovers – Sip mimosas, munch on tasty snacks and listen to whale songs through a hydrophone on this deluxe catamaran cruise. We were seriously impressed!
- For thrill-seekers – Zip across the waves on this small-group Zodiac adventure with Cabo Expeditions. It’s fast, fun, educational and led by expert guides trained in whale rescue.
3) Sail and snorkel at Santa Maria or Chileno Bay
With their clear turquoise waters and colorful fish, Santa Maria and Chileno are two of Cabo’s top snorkeling spots. (And if you’re lucky, you might even see whales spouting offshore!)
There are several ways to explore these lovely bays.
Take a deluxe snorkeling cruise
We loved every minute of this 4-hour luxury sailing-and-snorkeling cruise with Cabo Adventures!
From sipping mimosas after boarding the yacht to snorkeling, swimming, enjoying a seafood lunch (with specialty cocktails!) and sailing back with the wind as we fed sea gulls in the air, the whole experience was a treat.
You snorkel at either Santa Maria or Chileno Bay, depending on conditions.
Go kayaking and snorkeling
For a more active adventure, we’ve also had a great time on this kayaking and snorkeling trip with Cabo Outfitters. You paddle from one bay to the other, stopping to snorkel at both.
It’s a fun eco-friendly way to see the coast!
Visit Santa Maria Bay independently
Prefer to explore on your own?
Bring your snorkeling gear and head to Santa Maria Beach early in the morning by car or bus. You’ll beat the tour boats – and you might have the beach and water almost to yourself!
Get all the details in our DIY guide to snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay.
4) Chill on Medano Beach
Not all Cabo San Lucas activities cost money. One of our favorites is totally free – hitting the beach!
There are plenty of fabulous beaches in Cabo. But Medano beach is the it beach.
Golden sand and calm waters? Oh yes! It’s one of the few beaches in the area where you can safely swim (when conditions are right).
You can also get your adrenaline fix with jet skiing, parasailing and other fun water sports.
The colorful beach vendors
Dressed in white, they stroll up and down the sand, hawking everything from silver jewelry and sun hats to ceramic plates, beach wraps, Mexican blankets and children’s toys.
We inevitably end up buying something whenever we visit. Once, we even bought a pair of polished wooden grizzly bears. (Go figure! Must be because we’re Canadians.)
Of course, a little good-natured haggling is all part of the fun! (See our tips on how to bargain in Mexico.)
Where to hang out on Medano Beach
For a lively scene, the stretch of sand closest to downtown Cabo San Lucas is where you’ll find the happening beach bars and clubs.
Prefer peace and quiet? The farther you walk along Medano Beach away from town, the quieter it gets.
5) Take a sunset cruise
One of the most romantic things to do in Cabo San Lucas for couples is to set sail on a sunset cruise.
You sail past Land’s End, see the last sun seekers lingering on Lover’s Beach and watch the sky turn brilliant shades of pink and fiery orange.
Then, as darkness falls, you glide back across the water under a canopy of stars.
Sunset sailing is pure romance
You can even charter a private sailboat for two. What a magical way to propose!
Of course, romantic sailing cruises aren’t your only option. Cabo’s sunset cruises run the gamut from elegant dinner cruises to booze party cruises.
Check out these sunset cruises
- Our pick for romance – Sailing, hands down! We’ve gone out twice on this private 2½-hour sunset cruise aboard a 33-foot sailboat, complete with drinks and tasty appies. Or save some pesos and join a shared sunset sailing cruise (maximum 14 guests) aboard a 38- to 42-foot sailboat.
- Our pick for dinner – We’re torn. Tu Enamorado is a gorgeous wooden sailing yacht for an elegant sit-down dinner. But at around half the price ($85 p.p.), we’ve also chowed down on BBQ ribs, chicken, salad, guacamole and chips on the Rissalena, a classy power catamaran operated by a much-loved family-run Cabo business dating back to 1997.
- Our pick for fun – The Cabo Blue sunset trimaran cruise is affordable, with an open bar, an upbeat music playlist and a party vibe. We haven’t tried this one ourselves, but we can’t argue with all the glowing reviews!
6) Go on an Art Walk
On Thursday evenings from November to June, San Jose del Cabo comes alive with its vibrant Art Walk.
The town’s historic art district buzzes as dozens of galleries and shops stay open until 9:00 pm. You can browse beautiful artwork, sip wine and chat with artists.
Best of all? It’s free!
Over the years, the Art Walk has become one of Cabo’s most popular cultural events – and for good reason.
We also love browsing for Mexican souvenirs in San Jose del Cabo, from colorful ceramics to handcrafted jewelry. You never know what little Cabo treasure you might find!
Planning to stay for dinner in San Jose del Cabo?
Book your table well in advance. Restaurants fill up fast on Art Walk nights!
7) Escape to Lover’s Beach
Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) is one of the prettiest beaches in Cabo – and one of the coolest places to see in Cabo San Lucas!
Tucked between soaring granite cliffs at Land’s End, this golden patch of sand has generally calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling when conditions are right (usually early in the morning).
The only way to get there is by sea.
Most people hop on a water taxi (see #1 above), but you can also rent a kayak or SUP board from Medano Beach and paddle over when the water is calm.
A word of caution
Lover’s Beach (on the Sea of Cortez side) is connected to Divorce Beach (on the Pacific Ocean side).
Don’t go into the water at Divorce Beach! The powerful surf, shore break and dangerous currents make swimming here extremely hazardous.
Want to kayak to Lover’s Beach with a guide?
- Go with Cabo Outfitters – This highly rated kayaking and snorkeling tour takes you past the Arch and sea lion colony, with a stop at Lover’s Beach. We’ve done other tours with Cabo Outfitters and have always been impressed by their guides and smooth organization. Plus, we love learning about the local marine life from the experts!
- Paddle a glass-bottom kayak – For a different perspective, try this glass-bottom kayaking tour. You’ll paddle past the Arch, peek at fish through the clear bottom of your kayak, snorkel near Pelican Rock and stop at Lover’s Beach.
8) Visit Flora Farms
Flora Farms has been a favorite of ours for years – and it just keeps getting better!
Hidden away at the end of a bumpy sand road near San Jose del Cabo, this 25-acre organic farm grows a colorful bounty of flowers, veggies and herbs.
At its heart is its farm-to-table restaurant.
A great way to experience Flora Farms is to take a free walking farm tour (reserve here), then savor a leisurely lunch or early dinner.
Maybe order lemon chicken, zucchini-and-fresh-herb pasta, wood-oven pizza or organic salad with home-made burrata cheese? Better yet, share everything family-style for the maximum flavors.
Farm-to-table restos near Cabo San Lucas
If you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas and don’t fancy the 30- to 40-minute drive to Flora Farms, try these instead:
- El Huerto – Surrounded by orchards and fruit trees just outside town, this gorgeous restaurant is pricey (especially the wine), but worth the splurge. Pssst! Try the El Camino cocktail, made with mezcal, chili syrup, ginger, rosemary, grapefruit and lemon.
- Torote Restaurant – Think delicious food, stupendous Cabo views, friendly farm animals (we had fun feeding the goats before dinner!) and gentler prices than El Huerto.
9) Hike up Mount Solmar
Who says Cabo San Lucas attractions are all about beaches and boat trips? For a great outdoor cardio workout, try the Mt. Solmar hike – led by a local guide and accompanied by energetic rescue dogs.
We’ve done it and loved every sweaty minute. It’s a heart-pumping climb, with some serious rock scrambling along the way.
The reward at the top is huge – breathtaking views over Cabo San Lucas, the town’s marina, Land’s End and both the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez.
Allow about 2 hours roundtrip, including time to catch your breath and soak up those incredible views.
Mt. Solmar dog hike details
- Where – Meet at the Dog Training Camp near the west end of the Cabo San Lucas Marina.
- When – Sunday to Friday at 8:00 am (no hikes on Saturdays). In summer, hikes start at 6:00 am.
- Cost – It’s free, but please leave a tip to help support the dogs.
10) Chow down on seafood tacos
One of the funny quirks we’ve cottoned on to about Mexican food? Not all tacos are cut from the same tortilla. Some are ho-hum, while others are seriously scrumptious!
Simple but delish tacos
After trying countless taco joints, we’ve found some of Cabo’s best tacos are served at Tacos Gardenias.
Once a humble hole-in-the-wall, this local favorite has tidied itself up over the years. Even high-heeled, mini-skirted, 20-somethings spill out of taxis for a bite before going clubbing.
But “Mama” (the founding grandma) still runs the kitchen and takes orders.
While we sometimes mix things up with fish tacos, it’s the fresh shrimp tacos we love most.
With all the fixings on the side, and your choice of corn or flour tortillas, it’s taco perfection – at a very wallet-friendly price. A strong margarita makes it even better.
More creative tacos
We also regularly hit La Lupita Taco & Mezcal for a creative twist on tacos. We’re talking shrimp tempura tacos with curry sauce (divine!) and pork pastor tacos with a cheesy crust, stuffed with onion, cilantro and pineapple.
Bonus: There’s rocking live music after 7:00 pm.
Tacos (and margaritas) never taste the same back home. Sigh…
Got a serious crush on tacos?
This award-winning 3-hour downtown Cabo San Lucas taco tasting tour will be right up your alley. Run by a 100% locally owned family business, it’s one of Cabo’s original food tours.
- Eat like a local – Follow your guide to tucked-away taquerias and tiny haunts you’d probably not find on your own.
- Taste your way through Cabo – Sample tacos, tostadas, elote (Mexican street corn) and churros, with tequila tastings too.
- Go when you’re hungry – Choose from several departure times, from lunchtime through dinner.
11) Ride a camel
Say what? Yep – camels in Cabo are a thing. And we can confirm it’s every bit as fun (and unexpected) as it sounds.
This popular camel safari adventure takes you to a desert ranch about a 45-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas.
After posing for photos with a camel (they have big personalities!), you set off on a 15-minute ride along the edge of the ocean – desert on one side, sea breeze on the other. Totally surreal! We joked it felt like Lawrence of Arabia, Part II.
Afterward, there’s a Mexican buffet lunch, tortilla-making demo and mezcal and tequila tasting.
We loved how it’s not just a quick ride, but a whole experience – and it ended up being one of the most unique excursions we’ve done in Cabo.
Want to double the adventure?
This camel ride and ATV combo packs two bucket-list thrills into one outing. Start with the camel ride, then hop on an ATV and follow your guide through desert canyons and sandy riverbeds.
12) Take a Mexican cooking class
We prefer eating to cooking. But this fun Mexican cooking class totally won us over! It gets rave reviews for a reason.
First, you swing by a teeny tortilla factory to pick up just-made dough, then shop (with your chef/guide) for fresh ingredients at a local market.
Then it’s off to Cookin’ Cabo’s headquarters in Cabo San Lucas (sometimes even the chef’s own home), where you learn how to make classic Mexican specialties. Think mole poblano, tamales, beef birria in adobo sauce, Baja-style seafood, pork tacos, chiles rellenos and more. The menu changes daily.
The best part? Sipping margaritas as you cook – and again when you tuck into the feast you created. We had such a good time, we even wrote all about it!)
13) Stroll around the marina
The Cabo San Lucas Marina is the town’s bustling hub – and a fun place to wander, day or night.
There’s always something happening along the waterfront promenade, from boats coming and going to pelicans hoping for a fishy handout.
Here’s what you can do:
- Stroll the waterfront – Admire luxury yachts and fishing boats bobbing in the water.
- Browse the shops – Poke around the boutiques and souvenir stalls.
- People-watch – Grab a beer, cappuccino or ice cream at a waterfront café and watch the world go by.
- Spot pelicans – The cheeky pelicans hanging out at the marina always make us laugh with their antics as they angle for a free fishy meal.
- Catch a movie – Escape the heat at the Cinemex multiplex in Puerto Paraiso Mall. Many Hollywood flicks play in English with Spanish subtitles. We always spring for a VIP ticket with a plush reclining seat!
14) Explore Todos Santos
Ahhh… Todos Santos – a true gem among Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos or “magic towns.”
Visiting this small colonial town is one of the nicest day trips from Cabo San Lucas.
Surrounded by a lush oasis of palm groves, mango trees and avocado orchards, Todos Santos once thrived as a sugar-producing town in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Then, in the 1980s, artists began discovering its charms, helping transform it into the laid-back artsy Baja community it is today.
What’s there to experience in Todos Santos?
Wander art galleries, craft studios and jewelry shops, scattered higgledy-piggledy among cute coffee bars and garden courtyard restaurants. Have lunch. Walk a wild beach…
Tips for your Todos Santos road trip
You can zip up to Todos Santos from Cabo San Lucas in about an hour on the smooth, upgraded highway. The scenic 50-mile drive follows the Pacific coast through rolling desert scrubland.
- On your way – Stop at Los Cerritos Beach to watch surfers shoot in on the waves.
- On your return – Swing by Agricole for their famous fresas con crema (strawberries and cream) – a sweet ending to your day!
15) Taste different tequilas
Did you know tequila is made only from blue agave in Jalisco (and other designated certain regions of Mexico)?
Mezcal can be made from various types of agave and is often smoky, thanks to the traditional method of roasting agave hearts in underground pits.
We’ve become such fans that we now prefer mezcalitas to traditional tequila-based margs!
Sip, savor and learn on a tequila tour
This 1½ hour private tequila-and-mezcal tasting (at Tequilera Santos Destilados in downtown Cabo San Lucas) is a fun way to learn all about Mexico’s ionic spirits.
- Nine tastings – Sip six handcrafted tequilas and three artisanal mezcals.
- Tasting tips – Learn to appreciate the subtle differences, from Blanco to Extra Anejo tequila.
- Tasty pairings – Nibble on agave hearts, dark chocolate, cheese and even grasshoppers!
Forget knocking back shots! You’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for these legendary drinks.
16) Learn to stand-up paddle board
The SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) craze has hit Cabo!
It’s pretty easy to learn when the water is calm. Otherwise, it’s “fall-down paddleboarding,” as George calls it.
We love heading out early in the morning from Medano Beach and paddling to Land’s End and back!
Renting a SUP board
Several beach shacks on Medano Beach rent paddleboards.
Prices vary depending on how busy they are (and how well you negotiate), but expect to pay around $25 to $30 USD an hour.
Best time to paddle to the Arch
If paddling to Land’s End from Medano Beach on your own in winter, set off well before 8:00 am and aim to be back by 9:30 am (10:00 am at the absolute latest).
After that, boat traffic gets heavy, with cruise ship tenders and tour boats zipping back and forth.
The wind also tends to pick up around 10:00 am. And paddling back against it? Not fun!
Important: Only paddle out when conditions are calm and it’s safe to do so. Watch for boat traffic, and don’t attempt the trip unless you’re a confident paddler.
Guided SUP experience to the Arch
New to paddleboarding? A guided tour makes it easy! This excellent morning SUP and snorkeling adventure includes:
- SUP instruction – Learn the basics before paddling toward Cabo’s famous Arch.
- Snorkeling or beach time – Snorkel at Pelican Rock or simply relax on the sand.
- All the gear – Your paddleboard, life jacket and snorkeling equipment are included.
- Hotel transfers – Roundtrip transportation is also included.
17) Try deep sea sportfishing
Hook up with one of Cabo’s fishing charters for a “reel” adventure!
Known as the “Marlin Capital of the World,” Cabo’s waters teem with marlin, dorado (mahi-mahi), yellowfin tuna, wahoo, snapper and more.
Some 12,000 marlin are caught annually (most are released). And every October, Cabo hosts the world-famous Bisbee’s Black & Blue, one of the richest fishing tournaments on the planet.
With everything from modest fishing boats to luxury yachts available, sportfishing is one of the most exciting Los Cabos activities.
The big prize? Hooking a trophy marlin weighing several hundred pounds!
Prime fishing grounds like Gordo Banks, Golden Gate Bank and Jaime Bank are within about 40 miles of the Cabo San Lucas Marina.
Fishing is good year-round
The seasons vary though:
- Striped marlin – November to March is especially good.
- Blue and black marlin – July to October is prime time. Summer in Cabo is hot for marlin fishing (pun intended!).
- Dorado – July to November is particularly productive.
You’ll need a fishing license, which your charter operator can often arrange.
Expect to pay roughly $500 to $1,500 USD for many private fishing charters, with luxury boats costing considerably more.
Check whether the charter price includes fishing licenses, bait, fuel, food and drinks. Some operators charge separately for these.
18) Play one of Cabo’s spectacular golf courses
Are you a golfer? With more than a dozen championship courses, Los Cabos is a golfer’s paradise!
Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf and Tiger Woods have all designed spectacular courses here. Several have earned spots on prestigious lists of the world’s top 100 golf courses.
Three great golf courses you can play as a visitor
- Puerto Los Cabos – Near San Jose del Cabo, Puerto Los Cabos has 27 holes designed by Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus, winding through desert foothills, with sweeping Sea of Cortez views. And here’s a delicious twist! Its “culinary palapas” serve up food and drinks between holes.
- Solmar Golf Links (formerly Rancho San Lucas) – Solmar Golf Links is an 18-hole beauty designed by Greg Norman. Hugging Cabo’s Pacific Coast, it weaves through massive sand dunes and desert arroyos. Playing in winter? Keep an eye out for whales spouting offshore!
- Cabo Del Sol Course – Designed by Tom Weiskopf, the Cabo Del Sol Course carves its way through rugged desert canyons and rocky hillsides, with spectacular ocean vistas at almost every turn. Six of its 18 holes got a makeover in 2023. Don’t confuse it with the neighboring, private Nicklaus-designed Cove Club course (formerly the Ocean Course).
19) Swim with whale sharks
Whale sharks aren’t whales at all. They’re the largest sharks in the world, growing up to 40 feet long!
But don’t let their size scare you. They feed on tiny plankton and krill, filtering them through their cavernous mouths.
During whale shark season (typically October to April), they gather in the waters near La Paz, about a 2-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas. Tours depend on sightings and official permits.
And take it from us… Swimming with whale sharks in La Paz is one of the most unforgettable bucket-list experiences in Mexico!
Get up close with these gentle giants
You can book an epic all-day adventure, with transfers from Cabo (like this top-rated tour), to swim alongside these magnificent creatures, while peering at them through your snorkel mask.
Because whale sharks feed near the surface, you can swim surprisingly close – sometimes just a few feet away!
It’s a jaw-dropping experience, especially when one of these spotted behemoths glides right past you.
20) Hike to a canyon waterfall and pools
Tucked into the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, the Canyon of the Fox is a lush oasis of freshwater rock pools, giant boulders, towering cacti and a beautiful 45-foot waterfall (Sol de Mayo).
When we want to escape Cabo’s buzz, hiking and swimming here is one of our favorite off-the-grid adventures.
The waterfall is about a 90-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas, on the privately owned Rancho Ecologico Sol de Mayo.
From the ranch, it’s a short scramble down to the waterfall. Or do as we do and hike farther upstream to discover hidden swimming holes.
A guide is recommended for the longer hike, and a 4WD is handy for the final stretch of rugged dirt road.
Guided Fox Canyon hikes
- Cabo Outfitters’ adventure – We’ve hiked a couple of times with Casey, who runs this adventure company, and this tour is a fantastic choice.
- Waterfall hiking day trip – We’ve also enjoyed this tour with High Tide Los Cabos, another excellent outfitter.
Ask for the longer hike when booking. You’ll see more of the wild canyon scenery, enjoy secluded pools and get a satisfying workout to boot!
22) Fly on a zipline!
Looking for some high-flying adventures in Cabo? Try ziplining!
Strapped into a harness, you step off a platform high above the ground and go whizzing through the air along a steel cable, with nothing but open space beneath your feet.
It’s an exhilarating way to experience Cabo’s rugged desert canyons and dramatic mountain scenery!
There are three main places to go ziplining in Cabo.
Cabo Adventures
Three generations in our family had a blast on this action-packed ziplining adventure in the rugged canyons of Boca de la Sierra Natural Reserve, part of the UNESCO-protected Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve.
And get this! Its Superman zipline is billed as Mexico’s longest and fastest, stretching more than 4,000 feet and reaching speeds of up to 60 mph!
Along with soaring over deep canyons on ziplines, we climbed rock walls, rappelled down cliffs and crossed a wobbly commando bridge. The grand finale? Driving a 4×4 UTV along dusty desert trails.
Homemade quesadillas and a fresh salad bar round out the fun.
Be prepared for some uphill walking and climbing!
Wild Canyon Adventures
Get psyched! At Wild Canyon, you can pack several adventures into one day.
Besides ziplining over desert canyons, there’s camel riding, horseback riding, off-road ATV and UTV adventures, bungee jumping and a giant canyon swing.
One of the coolest thrills? Driving a UTV across the 1,000-foot-plus Los Cabos Canyon Bridge, one of the world’s longest hanging wooden bridges.
Different park passes offer different combinations of activities, so check what’s included before booking.
Canopy Costa Azul
Set in a desert canyon near San Jose del Cabo, Canopy Costa Azul offers seven ziplines, including racing cables where you can zip alongside someone else.
There’s also a suspension bridge and a 180-foot rappel down a natural rock wall.
Tip: What to wear ziplining in Cabo
Wear lightweight long shorts or pants and closed-toe shoes, such as runners. Expect some walking and climbing between platforms – and bring clothes you don’t mind getting dusty!
22) Scuba dive in Cabo Pulmo
Still wondering what to do in Los Cabos? how about scuba diving?
We’ve dived at several spots around Cabo, but Cabo Pulmo takes the prize for our most memorable dive. This protected marine park is famous for its thriving coral reef and incredible marine life.
October and November are two of the best months for diving, with warm water, clear viz and lovely weather topside too.
Sharks are a big draw. We spotted bull sharks and even a tiger shark. Talk about thrilling!
You’ll likely see huge schools of fish, colorful porkfish, moray eels, octopuses and sea turtles too.
Guided Cabo Pulmo diving day trip
Here are two great options for certified divers, with roundtrip transfers from Los Cabos included:
- Cabo Pulmo diving with Manta – Our pick! This small-group adventure includes dives led by a PADI-certified divemaster or instructor, plus a Mexican lunch at a local restaurant. We can’t say enough good things about our day trip with Manta.
- Cabo Pulmo 2-tank diving tour – A full-day (10-hour) excursion with Cabo Adventures, including two guided dives and lunch.
23) Party at El Squid Roe
You haven’t experienced Cabo if you haven’t partied at El Squid Roe.
Clubbers rave about its three stories of throbbing energy with flashing neon lights and dance cages.
You can’t beat the people watching! Servers with tequila spray tanks roam the crowds, and revelers hang over railings above to watch dudes and divas shake it up on the dance floor below.
While El Squid Roe is open for meals during the day (try the guacamole made at your table), the real party heats up after 11:00 pm.
Some nights the non-stop fun continues long after official closing. (Is that the sun coming up?)
Looking for hotels?
Cabo is the place to pamper yourself silly at a seriously fabulous hotel. (Unlike Puerto Vallarta, Cabo has a particularly impressive collection of uber-luxe resorts.)
Some favorites?
Over the years, we’ve stayed at many of the swankiest hotels in Cabo, including:
- Grand Velas Los Cabos – This ultra-luxe all-inclusive blew us away with its stylish suites and foodie-worthy restaurants. It’s a winner for couples and families alike.
- The Cape, a Thompson Hotel – Jaw-dropping Arch views meet a hip contemporary vibe at one of Cabo’s coolest adults-leaning hotels.
- One & Only Palmilla – This legendary hideaway spoils you with Mexican-inspired suites, a gorgeous swimmable beach and Michelin-starred dining.
Luxury without the splurge?
You don’t have to torch your travel budget on a great Cabo hotel!
Take Hotel El Ganzo. We’ve stayed at this artsy boutique hotel many times before moving to our timeshare club. It’s surprisingly affordable, and we love its killer rooftop pool and beach club on a swimmable beach.
Now you’re set to experience the best of Cabo!
We love Cabo, Mexico. And we’re pretty sure you’ll love it too!
The weather is glorious, the beaches are beautiful, the resorts are cushy and the people are friendly.
And as you can see, there are scores of fun and unique things to do – more than enough to to make your vacation one of your best trips ever!
Have questions? Check out the reader comments below (or leave one of your own!).
And don’t forget to see our Cabo Visitor blog too – it’s all about Los Cabos, with tons more insider tips to help you plan an amazing trip.
More Cabo activity guides
- What a Fluke! Whale Watching in Cabo
- Snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach: All You Need to Know
- Flora Farms Dishes Up Yummy Farm-to-Table Eats
- Swim With Whale Sharks in La Paz: Best Tours
- Explore Beyond Cabo: 10 Cool Day Trips
Like this travel guide on Cabo? Then pin it!
Our top travel tips and resources
→ Hotels | Booking.com is our go-to for scoring a “wow” hotel – or at least a decent one – often at lower rates than the hotel’s own website. (We especially like Booking.com’s flexible cancellation policy!) You can also find excellent discounted rates on Expedia, especially for hotels in the U.S. and Mexico.
→ Vacation homes, condos and rentals | We prefer and use Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner).
→ Flights | For the best flights, we search on Google Flights first. Expedia and Kayak are then perfect for snagging the cheapest tickets. (They’re often non-refundable, though, so for more flexibility, we book directly with the airline, even if it costs more.)
→ Airport lounge access | We love (and have) Priority Pass for comfy lounge seats, free snacks and drinks, complimentary WiFi and sometimes even showers and spa services!
→ Tours | For the best local food, walking and other guided tours, plus skip-the-line tickets to attractions, check out Viator (a TripAdvisor company) and GetYourGuide.
→ Car rental | Renting a car can be a great way to explore off the beaten path. Discover Cars searches car rental companies for the lowest rates.
→ Travel insurance | SafetyWing is designed for frequent travelers, long-term adventurers and digital nomads. It covers medical expenses, lost checked luggage, trip interruption and more. We also have and recommend Medjet for global air medical transportation.
→ Travel gear | See our travel shop to find the best luggage, accessories and other travel gear. (We suggest these comfy travel sandals for city walking, the beach and kicking about.)
→ Need more help planning your trip? | Check out our travel tips and resources guide for airline booking tips, ways to save money, how to find cool hotels and other useful trip planning info.
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Hi there!
This is great information. How long is the Flora Farms farm tour? How much time would you recommend there, separate from the time for a meal? Thanks!
The farm tour isn’t very long, maybe 30 minutes or so?
They’re conveniently scheduled for late afternoon, so you can do the tour, then have dinner afterwards. In October, for example, tours are offered at 4:30 and 5:00 pm. (There’s also a 10:30 am tour.)
An hour is ample to do the tour and to also browse the gift shops.
Have fun and enjoy Flora Farms!
This is a great guide! I will be using this for my trip to Cabo in the next month.
We’re happy you found our Cabo article helpful! Thanks for letting us know…
This is a super helpful list, even for those of us who’ve visited Cabo numerous time! I’m looking forward to my next trip in a few months and will definitely check off a few of these items while there.
There’s a surprising number of things you can do in Cabo. We’re always delighted when we discover a new tour or adventure :-).
You mentioned that August and September are not great times. Can I ask why? We are planning to visit Cabo next September.
August are September are particularly hot and humid months in Cabo. September, in particular, also falls smack in the rainy hurricane season (but Cabo usually isn’t hit by major hurricanes).
With the heat and humidity (and perhaps a little rain too), you might not feel like doing more than sitting in the pool, sipping on a cool one.
On the other hand, rates are cheaper and crowds will be fewer these months! And September is a good fishing month if you like sportfishing.
So the best time to go to Cabo all depends on what you want to do. If you want to golf, for example, you won’t like September :-).
Check out our other blog, Cabo Visitor. You’ll find posts there on what Cabo is like in specific months, e.g., January, October, November and so on.
Hi!
I love all of your suggestions and keep coming back to your site for excursion ideas.
When I look up Dolphin Discovery, it says it is currently closed. Any idea why and when/if it will reopen?
Also, are there places to rent snorkel gear if we just want to go to a beach and snorkel ourselves without a tour (e.g., Chileno Beach)?
Would you suggest booking excursions prior to leaving home? Or should we wait until we get there and book them through our resort or look for deals around the marina? I noticed Cabo Adventures had great deals around the 4th. Are there certain days to look for deals through them?
I appreciate all of your help! I’m looking to do a lot of fun things with my kids while getting the best deals. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Thank you!
Hi Jennifer,
Glad you’ve found our site helpful!
Dolphin Discovery: We too found it closed the last time we were there but we couldn’t find any information as to what’s going on there. (We’ll add a note about this on the blog.)
Rental gear: We haven’t found places that rent snorkel gear. All the snorkeling tours will have gear. But for DIYers, your best bet is probably to buy gear from Walmart or Costco while down there (or buy before you leave and pack it with you).
Tours: That depends. If you’re traveling in high season, you might want to book your absolute preferred tour(s) in advance so you’re guaranteed to get the day(s)/time(s) you want. Some people also like to book in advance so they’ve done all their planning beforehand and can just enjoy when on their vacation. But you don’t have to worry that all the tours will sell out – you can certainly book while on location. For water taxi rides, in particular, you can often get good deals when you’re at the marina (except if a cruise ship is in port and you’re competing with a lot of cruise ship passengers who also want tours).
We hope this helps, and have a wonderful family vacation!
Hello!
My sister and I are vacationing in Cabo for one week, staying at One and Only Palmilla.
What recommendations do you have for transportation from the airport? We are looking at a shuttle or semi-private transfer. We were supposed to have visited pre-Covid and I did book with a transportation company then. But when I tried to cancel the booking, they kept ignoring me. Now, I am fearful to book with a company that’s unreliable.
Also, what tours would you recommend? We are coming from Alberta.
Thanks for the feedback!
You’ve picked a lovely hotel for your vacation!
Have you seen our post on the best Cabo San Lucas airport transfers? We found all the transfer companies we’ve used (covered in that post) totally reliable and responsive to emails.
The tours you can do will depend on the time of year that you’re going.
For example, definitely go whale watching if you’re visiting Cabo in winter! If you like hiking, you’ll love hiking to the Sol de Mayo waterfall. We’d also recommend swimming with the whale sharks in La Paz and going on a sunset cruise.
And don’t miss the Thursday night Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo!
I just want to thank you so much for your blog. I have been to a friend’s timeshare at the Westin (about half-way between San Jose and Cabo San Lucas) two years in a row now, and your blog has helped us plan both trips.
– We swam with whale sharks, which I never would have known about had it not been for your blog.
– We went to the Thursday night art walk in San Jose del Cabo. Not only did I not know about the art walk, I had never been to San Jose. I typically go to Cabo.
– Flora farms
– Zodiac whale watching
– The transportation company from the airport you recommended
The list goes on.
Thank you thank you thank you. There are people out there reading, and you literally changed my entire Cabo experience.
Warmest wishes,
Natalie
Oh, wow, thank you!
It’s so nice to hear that our information helped you with your Cabo trip planning! Thanks for taking the time to let us know :-).
How many nights would you recommend to get it all in?
If you have 1 week of vacation time, go for the full week. The time of year will dictate the activities – golf and whale watching in winter, for example. There’s certainly enough to do in Los Cabos that you won’t get bored. Plus you’ll want some downtime, just kicking back in your pool or beach chair.
If you’re from the west coast (e.g., L.A. or San Francisco), the flight time is short, so you can go for just 4 or 5 nights. And 4 nights in Cabo is better than no nights in Cabo :-).
25 things to do and one of them is not taking an ultralight flight? Should easily be in the top 10. And at least in a list of top 25…
Hi Sean,
Thanks for alerting us :-). We’ve seen the ultralights buzzing overhead. And we have family members who are pilots and have taken a spin in the plane and enjoyed the ride. It’s something we’ll just have to cover when we do an update…
Best!
You have so many great tips and my head is just swimming with all of the information that you’ve shared! I’m glad that we’re not leaving for a couple of months so I can digest more:)
I’ve been reading about the Passport Card for Cabo. Do you think it’s a good investment? We are new, new, new to everything. Using my dad’s timeshare and new to Mexico.
Glad you like all the tips we’ve shared! Yes, there’s lots of information. We’ve visited Los Cabos many, many times and have written lots about Cabo.
As for the Passport Card, we don’t have any personal experience with it, so we can’t really answer your question on that one, sorry :-).
Just check the details as to what it covers, discounts on what restaurants (and if those would be the restaurants you’d want to go to), etc.
Have fun on your trip! You’re sure to love Cabo :-).
We are staying here for a honeymoon in June. Can’t wait!
Hi Pamela,
Lucky girl :-). You’ll love Cabo – it shines even better since resorts have been busy renovating and fixing things since Hurricane Odile last year.
Make sure you hit San Jose del Cabo for an evening – the historic center is very pretty at night, with many great restaurants.
When we were at Punta de Mita, a couple was raving about Cabos and insisting that we visit it on our next trip to Mexico. These things to do definitely make it seem like a fun and luxurious place to relax for a bit!
Cabo is definitely the high-end beach resort destination in Mexico – and the most expensive – with plenty of luxury resorts to kick back in and soak up the sun…
I love that whale shark…beautiful all around.
We visited Los Cabos for the first time in November and loved it. We’ll be sure to check out some of these places on our next visit.
These are great finds! Always something new to see or savor in Los Cabos!
Those hotels look like the ultimate in luxury! And snorkelling with gentle whale sharks?? I’d be scared but I’d give it a go! Los Cabos is one of those places I’m desperate to go to but just quite far from England so will start saving!