Cabo Activities

Sandsational: Our Favorite Beaches in Los Cabos & Beyond!

Cabo San Lucas Beaches
Lover’s Beach is tucked among the iconic rock formations of Land’s End

Whether you’re getting your daily dose of vitamin D, keeping an eye out for frolicking whales or catching a wave, you’ll find plenty of beachside fun in Baja Sur. Boasting pale sands and brilliant turquoise-colored waters, the stunning beaches of Los Cabos are among the world’s most photographed. Explore via kayak, hop on a stand-up paddleboard, surf or snorkel with the breathtaking marine life and stroll the beach to glimpse an amazing ocean sunset. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Heart of Cabo

Without a doubt the heart of Cabo San Lucas lies at Médano Beach. Lined with resorts, this scenic stretch of sand unfurls for over 2 miles from the Hacienda Beach Club to well past the Riu resorts. Overlooking the waters of Cabo San Lucas Bay and the majestic formations of Land’s End, this is Cabo’s best spot for swimming and people watching. Grab a seat at one of the beachside restaurants to watch the parade of vacationers. Strolling beach vendors peddle everything from jewelry to hair-braiding, panga boats zip along and cruise ships anchor in the distance. This is vacation central for both families and the party-loving set. Médano Beach changes in personality along its length, from spirited beach cantinas to quieter spots to stretch out your beach towel. To visit, take a water taxi from the marina, access via one of the resorts or take a cab, as parking is limited.

Chileno Bay
Chileno Bay offers wonderful snorkeling and is home to Villa Cielito

Tucked at the base of Land’s End is another striking Cabo landmark, Lover’s Beach. This incredibly scenic stretch of sand is accessible via water taxi from Médano or the marina, via kayak or stand-up paddle. With marvelous views of Cabo San Lucas, this is a prime spot to spend a few hours. When conditions are good, you can snorkel in the bay side and at Pelican Rock. The adjacent Pacific-facing beach is called “Divorce Beach” and is unsafe for swimming due to strong surf. Bring what you’ll need for the day when visiting Lover’s Beach, as there are no services. Be sure to arrange your return pickup time from the beach with your boat operator.

Underwater Paradise

If you’re a fan of snorkeling, you’ll find no shortage of undersea wonders in Los Cabos. The Sea of Cortez was once called the “World’s Aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau for good reason. Among Cabo’s beloved local spots, Chileno Bay shines. This picture-perfect bay is located in the Tourist Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo near Km. 14.5 on the main highway and offers abundant tropical marine life in protected waters. This is a great spot for families and a popular snorkel-dive destination. Overlooking Chileno is beautiful 7-bedroom Villa Cielito, an incredible vacation retreat just steps to the beach. Nearby, Santa Maria Bay is a gorgeous half-moon shaped bay accessible near Km. 13 on the highway (follow the dirt road to the parking area). Snorkelers will find many species of tropical marine life in the water here. For a truly unforgettable experience head to Cabo Pulmo. A day-trip from Cabo San Lucas, this protected marine sanctuary on the East Cape is home to one of North America’s few living coral reefs. This is a world-class diving destination with an astonishing abundance of marine life, from colorful fish to giant mantas. It’s also a wonderful spot for snorkeling and kayaking.

Surfer Faves

Pedregal Beach in Cabo San Lucas Mexico
Pacific-facing beaches are great for sunsets and long strolls

If catching a wave is on your vacation to-do list, Los Cabos invites you to try your luck at carving the waters. Costa Azul (near Km. 28 on the main highway) is one of the area’s best-known surf spots, home to the famous Zipper’s break. A beachside restaurant and bar offers a prime spot to watch the surf. Monuments Beach (located near Misiones del Cabo at Km. 5 on the main highway) is a spot popular with skilled wave riders. Near Todos Santos, several beaches on the Pacific Ocean are a big draw for experienced surfers, including San Pedrito and Los Cerritos. There are numerous outstanding local surf sites dotting the coastline from Cabo San Lucas to the East Cape. Some are closely guarded secret spots while other well-known locations can get a bit more crowded. As anywhere, observe respectful surf etiquette and you’re sure to have a great time. If you’re a surfing newbie, local tour operators offerlessons for all ability levels – and even kids’ programs!

Beachcombing & Sunsets

Long beach walks and radiant sunsets are always a vacation highlight in Los Cabos. Head out for a sandy stroll on the Pacific beaches (accessible via resorts or the Pedregal neighborhood when staying in one of our villas), including Solmar Beach, Pedregal Beach and Sunset Beach. These are prime spots to watch the sun melt into the sea. Exercise caution as the beaches along the Pacific Ocean are usually dangerous for swimming due to strong rip currents and surf conditions. In San José del Cabo, Hotel Beach (accessible via the hotels lining the sands) is another hot spot for beachcombing, strolling and sunbathing, but is generally not safe for swimming. At the eastern end of this stretch, the verdant San José Estuary drains into the Sea of Cortez. This area is a natural oasis and home to lush palms and diverse species of birds.

Local Gems

Bay of Dreams Baja California Sur
The Bay of Dreams is a tranquil getaway spot

Beautiful vistas, tranquil landscapes and plenty of sunshine await those visitors heading out to treasured local favorites. Cannery Beach in Cabo San Lucas is a small beach (accessible at the end of Blvd. Marina past the Navy base) that’s popular with locals. This spot is great for swimming, kayaking or just relaxing on the sand without beach vendors. Near the Hilton and Melia resorts on the Tourist Corridor (near Km. 19.5 on the main highway), you’ll find Bledito Beach, also known as “Tequila Cove”. This gorgeous long stretch of sand offers good swimming near the breakwater (depending on conditions). Water sports equipment rentals are located on the beach. Palmilla Bay (located near Km. 27 on the main highway) is protected and often good for snorkeling, swimming or kayaking. Near the magnificent new development of Puerto Los Cabos just beyond San José del Cabo, La Playita is a quiet spot where a small fishing community has traditionally made its home. It’s fun to watch local fishermen return to shore in the late afternoon.

Away from it All

When you’re looking for tranquility on a quiet beach, head out to the East Cape where pristine stretches of sand, quiet coves and the incredible blues of the Sea of Cortez will leave you breathless. Further afield, you’ll find the Bahía de los Sueños (Bay of Dreams) about 45 miles south of La Paz. This stunning bay is lined with white sand beaches and a few luxury villa rentals, including spectacular Rancho de Costa. Here, you’ll find an authentic taste of the old Baja Sur pace of life.

Contact us today to start planning your getaway!

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Sharing the latest information about Cabo San Lucas travel, events, and fun from the CaboVillas.com team. For over 35 years, our team has specialized in Los Cabos, Mexico travel representing over 120 private vacation rentals in Cabo and 50 beachfront resorts. In addition to our outstanding accommodations and villa rentals, we offer an exceptional level of personalized guest service. To start planning your Los Cabos vacation, contact our reservations team at 1-866-434-9008

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