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Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Cabo's diverse landscape, from ocean to desert mountains, supports a wide array of thrilling outdoor activities.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Cerro de la Z

An easy to moderate urban hike, rewarding with panoramic views of Cabo San Lucas, the Marina, and Land's End.

Pedregal Trails

Located within the exclusive Pedregal community, some resorts offer access to these private trails. They have moderate difficulty with good views.

Sierra de la Laguna

For challenging and immersive treks, explore this Biosphere Reserve. Multi-day treks are possible, often requiring a certified guide due to remote, rugged terrain.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Snorkeling & Diving: Excellent conditions in the Sea of Cortez. Popular spots include Santa Maria Bay, Chileno Bay, and Pelican Rock.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Popular around Medano Beach and for self-guided trips to El Arco. Rentals readily available.
  • Jet Skiing: Available for rent on Medano Beach for speeding across calm bay waters.
  • Parasailing: From Medano Beach, incredible aerial views of the coastline, El Arco, and the city.

ATV & Off-Roading

  • Explore rugged desert trails and beaches on guided tours.
  • Combine desert scenery with ocean views.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes.
  • Bring a Bandana to protect from dust.

Zip-lining

  • Adventure parks in desert canyons outside Cabo San Lucas.
  • Extensive zip-lining courses.
  • Thrilling rides over breathtaking landscapes.
  • A great outdoor experience.

Extreme Thrills

  • Bungee Jumping/Giant Swing available at some adventure parks.
  • For those seeking extreme thrills.
  • Seek specialized tour operators.
  • Safety briefings are always provided.

Important Note on Wildlife Encounters

Engage only with responsible operators. Observe wildlife from a respectful distance to protect both animals and yourself. Never interact with or feed wild animals.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Mexican culture through hands-on experiences and traditional performances.

Workshops & Classes

  • Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Mexican or Baja Med dishes. Many include a market visit.
  • Tequila/Mezcal Tastings: Educational tours on history, production, and subtleties of agave spirits.
  • Art Workshops: Some galleries in San Jose del Cabo's Art District offer workshops, especially during the Art Walk.
  • Language Learning: Private tutors or small schools offer Spanish lessons, from basic to intensive.

Cultural Performances & Festivals

Mexican Fiesta Nights

Many resorts host "Mexican Fiesta" nights with live Mariachi music and traditional folk dances.

Community-Based Tourism

Less prevalent in main Cabo, some tours to smaller villages offer interaction with local communities and support their livelihoods.

Local Cultural Events

Occasional local cultural events or patron saint festivals offer glimpses into traditional customs and celebrations.

Wildlife Encounters

Whale watching tours (mid-Dec to mid-Apr) observe humpback and gray whales. Dolphin swims are available at marine parks. Sea lion colonies are near El Arco.

Cycling Adventures

Limited dedicated cycling infrastructure in busy areas. Mountain biking tours in desert and mountain trails present a challenging and scenic way to explore the interior.

Cultural Sensitivity

Be mindful of cultural differences.

Relaxation & Wellness

Cabo San Lucas offers abundant opportunities for rest and rejuvenation, from luxurious spas to tranquil beach settings.

Spa & Wellness Center Recommendations

  • Most luxury resorts boast extensive spas with wide ranges of treatments, hydrotherapy circuits, and state-of-the-art fitness centers.
  • The Spa at The Resort at Pedregal, Auberge Spa at Esperanza, and SE Spa at Grand Velas are noteworthy examples.
  • These venues present indulgent experiences with a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Independent massage therapists and smaller wellness centers are also available.

Yoga, Meditation & Natural Therapy

Yoga and Meditation Retreats

Many resorts offer daily yoga classes, often with ocean views. Dedicated yoga studios and occasional retreats exist in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Nearby Wellness Hub

Nearby Todos Santos is a known hub for wellness, with more extensive retreat options.

Natural Therapy Options

No natural hot springs directly in Cabo. Some spas offer mineral-rich treatments or thermal pools designed to mimic hot spring benefits.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Medano Beach Clubs

Numerous beach clubs line Medano Beach. They offer day passes, cabanas, lively music, and full food and drink service (e.g., Mango Deck, The Office).

Resort Pool Areas

Many resorts feature impressive pool areas, often with infinity pools, swim-up bars, and private cabanas, creating a luxurious setting for relaxation.

Booking Platforms

Find great deals on accommodations for relaxation via platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, or through specific hotel groups like IHG Hotels.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Cabo San Lucas comes alive after dark with diverse entertainment options for every taste, from live music to dance clubs.

Live Music Venues

  • Many restaurants and bars, especially around the Marina and downtown, feature live bands playing rock, pop, and traditional Mexican music (Mariachi).
  • Cabo Wabo Cantina: Sammy Hagar's famous rock club, legendary for its live music performances, expects a lively crowd.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: Dedicated venues are limited, but resort entertainment programs might host occasional shows.
  • Combine dinner with live music for a memorable evening experience.

Nightclubs & Bar Districts

Iconic Nightclubs

Squid Roe and El Squid Roe are multi-level, energetic clubs with a reputation for wild fun, dancing, bottle service, and theatrical elements like waiters dancing on tables.

Downtown Nightlife

Other smaller bars and clubs line Lazaro Cardenas street in downtown Cabo San Lucas, offering diverse music and atmospheres.

Pub Crawls

Several companies organize pub crawls, a good way for solo travelers or groups to experience multiple venues and the nightlife scene.

Traditional Markets

  • Mercado Mexicano: Stalls near the Marina for souvenirs and crafts.
  • Mercado Municipal: Local market with food and basic crafts.
  • San Jose del Cabo Organic Market (seasonal): Local produce and artisan goods.
  • Polite haggling sometimes expected in local markets.

Artisan Crafts

  • Glass Blowing Factory: Watch artisans and buy unique blown glass items.
  • San Jose del Cabo Art District: Galleries with high-quality art, sculpture, and jewelry.
  • Support local artisans directly to benefit producers.
  • Look for quality and authenticity.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Tequila/Mezcal (from reputable stores).
  • Local Pottery: Hand-painted ceramics.
  • Silver Jewelry (authentic pieces).
  • Embroidered Textiles (blankets, clothing).
  • Leather Goods (wallets, belts).

Shopping Guidelines & Logistics

Ethical Shopping
  • Support local artisans directly.
  • Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species (e.g., sea turtle products, coral).
  • Be wary of imitations and mass-produced items presented as "handmade."
Shipping & Customs
  • Many larger shops arrange international shipping for bulk or fragile purchases.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for imported goods (alcohol, tobacco, agriculture).
  • Keep receipts for customs declarations upon your return.

General Shopping Tip

When shopping at local markets, polite haggling is sometimes expected for non-fixed-price items, but keep it respectful and light-hearted. Do not haggle in formal stores with price tags.

Activity Planning Summary

Activity Types

  • Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, water sports, and adrenaline activities.
  • Cultural Immersion: Workshops, tastings, and performances.
  • Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, yoga, and beach clubs.
  • Entertainment & Nightlife: Live music and clubs.

Booking Resources