MileHacker Logo
Famous Landmarks in Cabo San Lucas

Famous Landmarks in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

These images define Cabo San Lucas, drawing visitors worldwide. The region's beauty spans from desert mountains to the Sea of Cortez.

Iconic natural formations and a lively marina shape the landscape, making them must-visit spots for any traveler.

Icons

  • El Arco (The Arch): A magnificent natural rock formation at Land's End.
  • Lover's Beach & Divorce Beach: Adjacent beaches at Land's End, accessible only by boat.
  • Cabo San Lucas Marina: A bustling hub for boats, tours, restaurants, shops, and bars.
  • Medano Beach (Playa El Médano): The main swimmable beach, lively and popular.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Natural History Museum of Cabo San Lucas

  • A small but informative museum with insights into the region's natural and human history.
  • Located downtown, near the main square of Cabo San Lucas.
  • It has a modest entrance fee, often just a few dollars.
  • Hours can vary, but it is generally open during weekdays and Saturday mornings.
  • Covers paleontology, anthropology, and marine biology specific to Baja California Sur.
  • It offers a quiet break from the bustling tourist areas.

San Jose del Cabo Art District

  • A concentration of art galleries in downtown San Jose del Cabo.
  • The renowned "Art Walk" occurs every Thursday evening from November to June.
  • During this event, galleries open late, often with complimentary wine and snacks.
  • Opportunities to interact with artists are present.

Discover contemporary art, traditional Mexican crafts, photography, and sculpture. It is a pleasant area for an evening stroll, presenting a different side of the Los Cabos experience.

Historical Sites

  • Mission San Jose del Cabo Anuiti: Original mission site, founded 1730, central in San Jose del Cabo.
  • Located in the main plaza (Plaza Mijares) of San Jose del Cabo; entrance is free.
  • A large mural above the entrance depicts a Jesuit priest's execution, a powerful historical story.
  • The church faces a peaceful plaza, ideal for relaxing.

El Faro Viejo Old Lighthouse

  • Context:

    The ruins of the first lighthouse in Baja California Sur, constructed in 1890.

  • Location:

    It sits on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering panoramic views.

  • Visitor Information:

    Located on a hill west of Cabo San Lucas. Access is free.

  • Highlights:

    The site has historical significance and stunning views, especially at sunset. It is a rugged, wilder spot compared to manicured resort areas, a sense of discovery.

  • Historic Districts:

    Downtown San Jose del Cabo preserves a traditional colonial Mexican feel with its main square and surrounding streets.

Natural Attractions

Cabo's natural beauty extends beyond its famous Arch, offering diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Marine & Mountain Wonders

  • Cabo Pulmo National Park

    A UNESCO World Heritage site and marine protected area with the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

  • Pristine Waters

    Teem with marine life, mainly visited for snorkeling and diving tours. Strict regulations protect its fragile ecosystem.

  • Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve

    A mountain range and protected area inland, with diverse ecosystems from desert scrub to pine-oak forests.

  • Freshwater Oasis

    A rare freshwater oasis in the desert, with significantly cooler temperatures than the coast.

  • Access & Exploration

    Access often requires a 4x4 vehicle or guided tours due to rugged terrain. Popular for hiking and exploring seasonal waterfalls.

  • Booking Attractions

    Explore and book tours for these natural attractions via GetYourGuide.

Noteworthy Beaches

Playa El Médano is the main swimmable beach. Chileno Beach & Santa Maria Beach are excellent for snorkeling. Playa Palmilla is a beautiful, calm, family-friendly beach.

Wildlife Viewing

Whale watching (Dec-Apr) for humpback and gray whales. Sea lions congregate around El Arco and the Marina. Bird watching opportunities exist at the San Jose Estuary.

Beach Essentials

For snorkeling at Chileno and Santa Maria beaches, bringing your own gear, like a Snorkeling mask, is advisable as onsite rentals are limited.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known sites, Cabo holds some quieter, equally rewarding places to explore for a different perspective.

  • Estuary of San Jose del Cabo: A freshwater oasis and natural reserve, a haven for migratory and resident bird species.
  • Flora Farms / Acre Restaurant: Farm-to-table experiences inland near San Jose del Cabo, with lush, organic dining.
  • Glass Blowing Factory (Mexican Blown Glass Factory): Watch skilled artisans create glass art; purchase unique, locally made souvenirs.

Cerro de la Z Mount Z

A hill located in downtown Cabo San Lucas, offering panoramic views of the city, the Marina, and Land's End. It has a rewarding view for those willing to make the climb.

The best times to hike are sunrise or sunset for incredible light and cooler temperatures. Bring water and wear appropriate footwear for the uneven terrain. Access is free.

Access & Preparation

The hike up Cerro de la Z requires some effort, but the views are well worth it. Be prepared for uneven paths.

Hiking Considerations

  • Requires a hike up a somewhat steep path.
  • Bring water to stay hydrated.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.

Views & Best Times

The summit of Cerro de la Z has unparalleled views of Cabo San Lucas and its surroundings.

Panoramic Highlights

  • Panoramic views of Cabo San Lucas city.
  • Views of the bustling Marina.
  • Clear sight of Land's End and El Arco.

Other Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, explore these unique spots for a appreciation of the region.

Estuary of San Jose del Cabo

  • A freshwater oasis and natural reserve.
  • A haven for migratory and resident bird species.
  • Explore on foot or by bicycle through peaceful pathways.
  • Offers a quiet escape from crowds, different ecosystem.

Flora Farms & Glass Factory

Discover unique dining and local craftsmanship off the beaten path.

Flora Farms / Acre Restaurant

  • Farm-to-table restaurants near San Jose del Cabo.
  • Lush, organic dining experiences; emphasis on sustainable practices.
  • Visit for lunch or early dinner to enjoy the setting.

Mexican Blown Glass Factory

Artisan Craftsmanship

  • Located in Cabo San Lucas.
  • Watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass art.
  • Witness traditional techniques in action.

Souvenir Opportunities

  • Purchase items directly from the factory.
  • Unique, locally made souvenirs that differ from mass-produced items.
  • Entrance is free to observe the process.

Planning Your Sightseeing

Optimize your visit to Cabo's attractions with smart planning. Consider guided tours for comprehensive experiences.

Tour Planning

For whale watching, snorkeling, or visiting Cabo Pulmo, booking tours through GetYourGuide simplifies the process and secures your spot.

Local Transport

For destinations like the Tourist Corridor resorts or San Jose del Cabo, taxis, ride-shares, or rental cars are needed, as walking exploration is limited.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning visits to popular sites like El Arco or Medano Beach mean calmer waters and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.

Additional Attractions Information

El Arco Boat Tours

Reach El Arco only by boat. Tours vary from short glass-bottom boat rides (approx. $20-40 USD) to longer snorkeling or sunset cruises.

Book an El Arco Tour on GetYourGuide

Lover's Beach & Divorce Beach Access

Accessible by water taxi from the Marina or Medano Beach. Bring your own water and snacks, as no facilities exist on these beaches.

Find Water Taxis on GetYourGuide

Cabo San Lucas Marina Experience

Walk around the Marina for free. It is great for people-watching, booking tours directly from operators, or dining with a view of the boats.

Explore Marina Activities on GetYourGuide

Medano Beach Activities

Public access is free. Vendors offer water sports rentals (jet skis, paddleboards), massages, and souvenirs. Beach clubs have chairs and umbrellas for rent.

Rent Water Sports Gear on GetYourGuide

San Jose del Cabo Art District Stroll

Galleries generally operate during standard business hours. The renowned "Art Walk" every Thursday evening from November to June is a highlight.

Discover Art Tours on GetYourGuide

Cabo Pulmo National Park Visits

A UNESCO World Heritage site and marine protected area, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas. It is home to the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Visitor Information

  • Mainly visited for snorkeling and diving tours.
  • Entrance fees apply for park access and specific activities.
  • Strict regulations protect its fragile ecosystem.

Sierra de la Laguna Reserve

A mountain range and protected area inland from the coast. This reserve offers diverse ecosystems, from desert scrub to pine-oak forests at higher elevations.

Features

  • A rare freshwater oasis in the desert.
  • Discover unique flora and fauna.
  • Significantly cooler temperatures than the coast.
  • Explore seasonal waterfalls and hiking trails.

Maximize Your Experience

Consider booking tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season, for popular attractions like whale watching or diving.

For a quieter, more authentic experience, visit San Jose del Cabo. Its Art Walk on Thursday evenings is a must-attend cultural event.

Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences

Beyond the well-trodden paths, Cabo has quieter, equally rewarding places to explore for a connection with the region.

Estuary of San Jose del Cabo

A freshwater oasis and natural reserve at the mouth of the San Jose River. This unique ecosystem contrasts sharply with the arid desert, creating a haven for migratory and resident bird species.

Features

  • Excellent birdwatching opportunities.
  • Explore on foot or by bicycle.
  • A peaceful escape from crowds.

Flora Farms / Acre Restaurant

While no longer truly "hidden," these farm-to-table restaurants are unique experiences. Located inland near San Jose del Cabo, they offer lush, organic dining experiences.

Dining Experience

  • Focus on sustainable practices and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
  • They have a rustic yet refined atmosphere.
  • Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.

Glass Blowing Factory

Located in Cabo San Lucas, this factory visitors can watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass art using traditional techniques. It offers an interesting insight into a traditional craft.

Visitor Highlights

  • Observe the glass-blowing process.
  • Purchase unique, locally made souvenirs.
  • Entrance is free.

A great place to find items that differ from mass-produced tourist goods.

Cerro de la Z Mount Z

A hill in downtown Cabo San Lucas, offering panoramic views of the city, Marina, and Land's End. It has a rewarding vista for those willing to climb.

Climbing Tips

  • Best at sunrise or sunset for light and cooler temperatures.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for uneven terrain.

Bring water. Access is free.

San Jose Estuary

A freshwater oasis and natural reserve at the mouth of the San Jose River. This unique ecosystem contrasts sharply with the arid desert.

Ecosystem & Birdlife

  • A haven for migratory and resident bird species.
  • Peaceful escape from crowds.
  • Explore on foot or by bicycle.

A quiet natural retreat for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Attraction Overview

Iconic Natural Wonders

El Arco, Lover's Beach, and Divorce Beach define Cabo's breathtaking seascape, accessible via boat tours from the Marina.

Cultural Immersion

The Natural History Museum and San Jose del Cabo Art District (especially during the Art Walk) offer insights into local heritage and art.

Outdoor Escapes

Cabo Pulmo National Park for marine life, Sierra de la Laguna for hiking, and various beaches like Chileno and Santa Maria for snorkeling.

Booking Your Tours

Many tours for attractions and sightseeing can be conveniently booked in advance through platforms like GetYourGuide, securing your spot and offering a smooth experience.