Hello, Cabo! Top FAQs Answered

Cabo San Lucas has evolved from a quiet fishing village to a bustling tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. Its natural beauty, diverse attractions, and welcoming atmosphere make it a sought-after vacation spot for relaxation, adventure, and entertainment. I'm so grateful to call Cabo my home away from home. Cabo San Lucas is located in Mexico's southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It is part of the municipality of Los Cabos, which also includes the neighboring town of San José del Cabo. It's known for its stunning beaches, water activities, vibrant nightlife, and natural beauty. If you're planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas, here are some frequently asked questions and attractions.

Travel Advice:

Health and Safety: Cabo is considered a safe travel destination; however, precautions should be taken as they would be in any city. Pay attention to your surroundings, don't walk alone at night, be alert for petty crimes, and don't leave public spaces with strangers. While enjoying Cabo's nightlife, keep an eye on your drink and don't accept drinks from people you do not know and trust; additionally, be cautious of excess inebriation. Avoid overt displays of wealth; I always tell others to keep expensive jewelry at home and avoid flashing cash. While exploring the region, stick with at least one other person from your party, and don't walk away alone. The temperatures in Cabo can be very hot, so stay hydrated; it's best to drink filtered or bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Use sunscreen routinely as directed, and don't forget the back of your neck, the top of your ears, and your feet.

Language: While Spanish is the official language, many locals in tourist areas speak English. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience; even an attempt shows courtesy and respect.

Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions. Mexicans are generally friendly and welcoming, so please reciprocate the kindness.

Attractions:

Beaches: Cabo San Lucas boasts picturesque beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters. Medano Beach is one of the most famous and bustling beaches, offering water sports, beachfront bars, and a lively atmosphere. Lovers Beach and Divorce Beach are popular spots known for their unique rock formations and stunning vistas; you can hire a water taxi in the Marina to take you to them. In my FAQs below, I address other popular beaches and safety.

El Arco (The Arch): This iconic natural rock formation stands at the tip of the Baja Peninsula and marks the meeting point of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. El Arco is a must-see landmark often visited by tourists on boat tours. El Arco marks the location of the end of the Baja peninsula known as Lands End.

Water Activities: The waters around Cabo San Lucas teem with marine life, making it a paradise for water activities. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, some of the best scuba diving in the world, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sport fishing. The area is mainly known for its excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities. Cabo is well known for sport fishing Tournaments such as Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing, the Bisbee's East Cape Offshore, and "Little Bisbee," the Bisbee's Los Cabos Offshore. If you love fishing or want to try it for the first time, many charters are available for hire.

Whale Watching: Cabo San Lucas becomes a prime destination for whale watching from December to April. Humpback and gray whales migrate to the area during this time, providing tourists with unforgettable whale-watching experiences. The whale-watching season is discussed in my FAQ below. While sitting on the beach, keep an eye on the water; it's not uncommon to see whales from the comfort of your beach chair.

Golf Courses: Golf enthusiasts will find a variety of world-class golf courses in Cabo San Lucas. The region's natural beauty and stunning ocean views provide a scenic backdrop for a round of golf. Trip Advisor provides a nice overview of the top 10 courses in Cabo San Lucas; check out the course at Quivira Golf Club; it offers breathtaking views.

Luxury Resorts and Spas: The area has numerous luxury resorts and spas offering upscale accommodations, relaxation, and indulgence. Many of these resorts offer stunning ocean views and a range of amenities. If you are looking for an upscale dinner reservation, check out the hotel restaurants and those spread throughout Cabo San Lucas. El Farallon, built on a cliff overlooking the ocean, is located in the Waldorf Astoria; it is a perfect spot for an upscale romantic dinner.

Art and Culture: Cabo San Lucas is also home to a growing art scene, with galleries and studios showcasing the work of local and international artists. San José del Cabo, the neighboring town, is known for its charming historic district and art galleries.

Marina: The Cabo San Lucas Marina is a hub of activity featuring luxury yachts, fishing charters, and various shops and restaurants along the waterfront. If you are looking for high-end boutiques, stop by Luxury Avenue, next to the Puerto Paraiso shopping mall on the Marina.

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas?

I have visited Cabo during all seasons; I enjoy the peak tourist season, from November to March when the weather is most comfortable. Peak season is also the perfect time if you plan on a whale-watching experience. Whale-watching season is from December to April; I recommend January to mid-March for the best sightseeing opportunity. As with any popular destination, be prepared for higher prices and crowds during peak season. My last trip to Cabo was in late May; May to June is perfect since the wintertime and spring break crowd have gone home. I never had to worry if I would have an issue getting the perfect seat next to the infinity pool or getting preferred dinner reservations. August and September will bring muggy and sweltering temperatures; as long as you know what to expect and if the timing works for your schedule, go and enjoy a lot of pool time with a cold drink in hand. The truth is that Cabo is beautiful year-round; you can enjoy its beauty and everything it has to offer during any season.

What should I pack?

One item you need in Cabo, regardless of season, is a few swimsuits or trunks; bring a Speedo if you want. During the winter season, you will want a light jacket or sweater for early morning or evening excursions. Breathable, lightweight fabrics are recommended for the summer season. Your daily attire will likely be T-shirts, sundresses, and shorts with flip-flops, sandals, or athletic shoes. Bring resort smart casual outfits for evenings if you plan to go out for a nice dinner or stay at an upscale resort. Don't forget your reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunscreen; I often wear SPF rash guards to avoid getting too much sun.

Is it safe to swim in the waters around Cabo?

It's generally safe to swim, but be cautious of strong currents. Avoid swimming in areas with warning signs and follow local advice. Not all beaches are swimmable due to strong undercurrents and steep drop-offs near the shoreline. Please take this very seriously; undercurrents can be deadly, and not all beaches will have a lifeguard on duty. You will find beaches along the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. Follow any posted signage or beaches marked with red warning flags. The most popular swimmable beaches are Medano Beach, Lover's Beach (accessible by boat or water taxi), Chileno Beach, and Palmilla Beach.

How much should I tip, and can I use U.S. dollars? Tipping is customary in Mexico; it is very much appreciated, and those in the service industry rely on it. Tip around 10-20%; 15% is a good standard; tip service staff like bellboys, waitstaff, concierge, and maids. I recommend tipping maids daily as the same person may not care for your room daily. The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). While some businesses accept U.S. dollars, Pesos are recommended for better exchange rates and to avoid confusion. You can tip in U.S. dollars, but you pass on the exchange rate when doing so; tipping in Pesos makes it easier for the recipient to use. Never tip using U.S. coins, as they cannot be used as currency in Mexico. Always have some local currency on hand for small purchases; credit cards are widely accepted in Cabo.

What is the best way to get around Cabo?

Many private transportation companies provide roundtrip airport transportation or transportation around Cabo for a few hours or the day. Taxis are common but unregulated, so you should always negotiate the fare before getting in. Car rental companies are available at the airport; I recommend both Ten Car and Cactus, guarantee no surprises with an all-inclusive upfront price. It is relatively safe to drive in Cabo; be aware of fast and aggressive drivers and, when possible, avoid driving at night; the highways are not well-lit. In some areas, stop signs seem optional; always proceed cautiously and not assume that other drivers will stop. I enjoy renting a car when I want to explore the region and take day trips or have the flexibility to go downtown. During my most recent trip to Cabo, I went with a small group of friends; we relied on Uber to get around, which is a great alternative. I like using a ride-sharing app since the price is agreed upon upfront, and tipping is easy.

What travel documents are required for entry? A valid passport or visa will be required when entering Mexican territory by any means of transportation. To avoid surprises upon arrival, check the entry requirements for Mexico based on your nationality. Regardless of age, each individual must complete a tourist card Multiple Migratory Form (FMM); they are available online. However, in my experience, they are never accepted, and visitors must step aside and fill out a new form. There is a lot of information about completing the FMM online in advance and printing it out, but I've never seen one accepted in Cabo. Wait until you arrive at SJD to get the form and complete it before going through immigration. Once you clear immigration, you will be given the stamped portion of your FMM; you must keep it safe as proof of legal entry into Mexico, and it will be returned upon departure. One customs form per family must be completed before speaking with a customs agent; whether you will be given a customs form to complete on the airplane is hit or miss.

What can I expect at the airport? When arriving at the airport (SJD), you will need to go through customs and answer a few questions about your visit; next, you will collect any bags you may have checked, and lastly, speak with a customs agent. The agent will ask a few questions, and then you will be asked to press a button. If you get a green light, you are free to leave; if you get a red light, you will have a physical inspection of your luggage. A red light is entirely random and part of their protocol. As you leave the airport, you must go through the "shark tank"; you will receive offers for free excursions or transportation, but they come at a cost, which is your precious time in Cabo. The catch is usually a timeshare presentation, which can take upwards of half a day. Just say no, gracias, and get your vacation started. If you pre-booked transportation or a rental car, you will find a transportation representative outside the doors.

What can I bring into Mexico duty-free? If you are visiting Mexico, there are limitations on certain personal effects, whether new or second-hand. Know before you go so you don't pay a duty before leaving the airport. Goods for personal use, such as clothing, footwear, and beauty products, should be appropriate for the length of the trip. You may bring baby items like portable cribs, strollers, and walkers. Regarding electronics, it is essential to note that only two photographic cameras or video recorders are allowed. They allow three portable items: cell phones, wireless networks, laptops, tablets, or notebooks per person. Older adults or those with disabilities can bring in a walker, wheelchair, and cane, to name a few. Individuals over 18 may bring in a maximum of 10 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars, 6 liters of wine, and 3 liters of alcohol. Check the website if you intend to bring sports equipment, fishing rods, DVD players, CDs, video game consoles, camping equipment, or hand tools. Even when the above items are for your personal use while in Mexico, they can still be subject to tax.

Where can I experience Cabo's nightlife?

Downtown Cabo is known for its lively, vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Marina area is also popular for evening entertainment if you want a casual experience with live entertainment and cold drinks. The downtown area features many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and socializing. Cabo Wabo Cantina offers the best live entertainment; if you want a traditional nightclub, try the VIP treatment at Pink Kitty. Pink Kitty is the place to be seen in Cabo; they offer high-end bottle service and a rotation of international DJs. Enjoy the beat and dance the night away. El Squid Roe, the largest venue in town, has three entertainment floors and offers a private VIP area. It's a popular spot for celebrities, locals, and tourists looking to have a great time and dance the night away. You can reserve a table on their website. Abolengo Bartina has something for everyone; if you want to catch a game and watch your favorite sports team in a calm atmosphere or enjoy a full menu and bar, this is a perfect daytime spot. It becomes a hot spot at night for those looking for an in-comparative experience. This is a very short list of recommendations; there is something for everyone who wants to experience Cabo when the sun goes down.

What is the local cuisine like?

Cabo offers a variety of cuisine; visitors can savor authentic Mexican cuisine, fresh seafood, which is a highlight, and international dishes. You can find a great meal at any price point; there are a lot of popular spots. Some restaurant groups get a lot of hype, but as someone who regularly visits Cabo and is aware of questionable business practices, they will not be named. I will only recommend places that I have personally tried and loved. This is not an inclusive list; I must reserve that for another blog.

Restaurant Recommendations:

Flora Farms (organic Farm to Table) is located slightly north of San Jose Del Cabo, tucked away in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. I never leave Cabo without a visit to the 20-acre organic working farm. Flora Farms offers year-round experiences such as cooking classes, farm tours, and art classes; the farm has a spa and several boutiques. This place is Instagram-worthy! They offer a Field to Table sustainable, seasonal menu and their most popular classic offerings. The farm is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and can cater to those with dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. Go early to enjoy everything Flora Farms offers and enjoy one of the many curated cocktails at the Farm Bar; I love their hibiscus margarita. Mama's Pizzeria offers 15 varieties of wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza; my favorite is their fennel sausage and mozzarella. Reservations can be made on their website.

Pitahayas (Pacific Coast Cuisine) is located beachside within the Hacienda del Mar Resort; the Executive Chef offers contemporary flavors with their innovative Mexican-Asian fusion cuisine. Pitahayas is considered one of the most iconic restaurants in Los Cabos. La Cava de Santiago, a wine cellar underneath the restaurant, offers over 400 wine labels worldwide. The dress code is upscale casual; reservations are recommended and available on Open Table. Pitahayas offers a quiet, relaxing atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Cabo. Before or after your meal, enjoy one of the martinis at Pitahayas Bar.

Mariscos Las Tres Islas (Seafood) is an open-air cantina-style restaurant serving the freshest seafood combinations in Cabo San Lucas at reasonable prices. They offer an authentic, clean, casual atmosphere and vibe; it is not presumptuous, and there is a reason why they have 2.6K 4.6 and above Google reviews and over 1k Trip Advisor reviews. The quality seafood and the friendly, efficient staff are why you will find locals and tourists lined up at the door; the wait is worth it. Since this is a covered open-air restaurant, there is no air conditioning; they have large fans to circulate the air. Mariscos Las Tres Islas is located towards the outskirts of downtown; it's well worth taking an Uber or cab to get there. They offer a variety of seafood, from octopus, lobster, shrimp, and snapper, to name a few. Locals often recommend this restaurant.

Salvatore G's (Authentic Italian) is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown Cabo, located in the courtyard of the boutique Siesta Suites Hotel. This family-owned Italian restaurant offers heirloom recipes and hospitality that make you feel part of the family. If you have a big appetite, you will appreciate the generous portions at a very reasonable price. Whether you are in the mood for a salad, chicken, seafood, or meat, they have something for everyone. They offer gluten-free pasta and vegetarian dishes for those with dietary restrictions. Try one of their house specialties, like their marinated pork shank, lasagna, or Mama's Sunday Gravy. My favorite is their Mama's Sunday Gravy, made with homemade meatballs, Italian sausage, herb-roasted pork, and braised beef bolognese sauce served over pasta. After dinner, your stomach will want to say no más, but you can't leave without dessert; get a piece of Tiramisu to share; it is outstanding. Call to make a reservation; they fill up quickly during peak dining hours.

Remember that travel information can change, so checking for updates closer to your travel dates is a good idea. Enjoy your trip to Cabo San Lucas!