Mexico › Los Cabos
Updated: April 5, 2026
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Los Cabos – or just “Cabo” – is a popular Mexican resort area at the tip of Baja California, and one of our favorite places to go in Mexico for sea and sun. With a coastline that takes in the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez, Cabo is best known for its fine beaches, luxury hotels, beautiful desert scenery, surfing, and vibrant beach, dining, and nightclub scene.
Aerial view of Medano Beach in Cabo San Lucas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Los Cabos
Where is Los Cabos?
Los Cabos is a municipality at the southern tip of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur. Bordering the Pacific Ocean to the west, and Sea of Cortez (or Gulf of California) to the east, it comprises the two resort towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, separated by the 32 km “Corridor” of resorts and posh condos.
Cabo San Lucas lies about 160 km south of La Paz, and 1625 km south of Tijuana and the US border. Non-stop flights to Los Cabos International Airport take just over 3 hours from San Francisco, 2 hours 35 minutes from Houston, 2 hours 15 minutes from Los Angeles, just over 2 hours from Mexico City and Tijuana, and 1.5 hours from Guadalajara.
How big is Los Cabos?
The population of Los Cabos has grown significantly and is now estimated at over 350,000 for the entire municipality. Cabo San Lucas has a population of around 106,000, while San José del Cabo has around 105,000 inhabitants.
What is the history of Los Cabos?
Originally the home of the indigenous Pericú people, the first official Spanish attempt to colonize Los Cabos began in 1730. In that year San José del Cabo was founded as a Catholic mission by Jesuits, on the site of a Pericú village – it was destroyed in the Pericú Revolt four years later, and over the next hundred years, the location of the mission and settlement was re-located several times. Meantime, diseases virtually wiped out the Pericú.
In the 19th century, San José developed into a small port and agricultural center, while Cabo San Lucas remained a tiny village frequented by pirates and smugglers. In the 1940s writer John Steinbeck sailed along the Baja coast, recording his journey in The Log from the Sea of Cortez – he called Cabo San Lucas a “sad little town”. There was a tuna cannery here and little else, and the road connecting the two settlements wasn’t finished until 1970. In the 1980s everything changed when the Mexican government began developing the region as a major international resort and cruise destination – today millions of North Americans vacation here annually.
How do I get to Los Cabos?
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is connected to the US and Canada by numerous non-stop flights; flights take anywhere from 2 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the destination. Most domestic flights link Cabo with Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Tijuana.
Because of its relatively remote location, getting here overland can be very time-consuming. First-class long-distance buses run down the Baja peninsula from Tijuana (at least 28 hours to Cabo San Lucas) via La Paz (2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours).
Beautiful Santa Maria Beach is a sheltered beach with calm swimming and snorkeling areas.
What are the options for Cabo airport transportation?
Los Cabos International Airport lies 11km north of downtown San José del Cabo and about 45km from Cabo San Lucas. All the major car rental companies have desks here; otherwise, reserve a taxi or shared minibus in advance with Transportistas Josefinos, Cabo Transfers, or Los Cabos Airport Shuttle. Shared shuttles cost roughly $15 to $40 per person, while private SUVs to Cabo San Lucas are usually around $100. Airport taxis are available on arrival but are much more expensive than pre-booked options.
Can I use Uber in Los Cabos?
Uber is widely used and legal in Los Cabos for getting around town or going to the airport, but pickups at the airport (SJD) remain restricted. While you can easily take an Uber from your hotel to the airport, the National Guard often prevents Uber drivers from picking up arriving passengers at the terminal because it is a federal zone. If you want to use Uber from the airport, you typically have to walk a considerable distance off airport property to meet the driver. For arrivals, I highly recommend pre-booking a private shuttle instead to avoid the hassle.
Can I drive to Los Cabos?
It’s possible to drive to Los Cabos. Driving down from the US border is relatively straightforward, and plenty of Americans and Canadians take their own vehicles – the main highway (Hwy 1) is generally in good condition and fairly safe, though driving at night should be strictly avoided due to wandering livestock and narrow shoulders. There are several Mexican army checkpoints along the way, but tourists are usually waved through quickly.
It’s important to fill up whenever you see a gas station (especially in the central desert) and plan accordingly. The drive is over 1,625 km (1,010 miles) and takes around 24 hours of actual driving time – most people break the journey into three or four days. Foreign vehicles do not need a Mexican “Temporary Importation of Vehicle Permit” as long as they stay within the Baja peninsula.
If renting a vehicle, it’s much easier to do this in Mexico, as taking US rental vehicles across the border is difficult and requires very specific insurance.
Do I need to rent a car in Los Cabos?
It is not necessary to rent a car in Los Cabos if you plan on staying mostly at your resort or in the main towns. However, if you want to explore the “East Cape,” visit remote surf breaks, or take a day trip to Todos Santos on your own schedule, a car is very helpful. Car rental is straightforward at the airport, and the highway between the two towns is easy to navigate, though traffic in Cabo San Lucas can be heavy.
The gorgeous “Land’s End” Beach at the southern tip of Baja is a favorite spot for visitors.
How do I get around Los Cabos without a vehicle?
Taxis, Uber, or local buses are the easiest ways to get around. The “Ruta del Desierto” (purple and yellow buses) runs along the Corridor between Cabo and San José every 10 to 15 minutes for a few dollars. Taxis are always available but are quite expensive; a trip between the two towns can cost $60 or more. Uber is a much cheaper alternative for trips between towns or within the marina area, though they may not be allowed to enter some resort gates for pickups.
When is the best time to go to Los Cabos?
The best weather is from November through May. Whale-watching season typically peaks in January and February. July through September can be extremely hot and humid, and this is also the primary hurricane season. Skip Christmas, Easter (Semana Santa), and the peak of Spring Break (March) to avoid the largest crowds and highest prices.
Where should I stay in Los Cabos?
The coast of Los Cabos is divided into three main sections:
Cabo San Lucas is the heart of the action. It is home to the main marina, luxury malls, and the famous nightlife. This is where you stay if you want to be within walking distance of bars and the swimmable Medano Beach.
San José del Cabo is the more traditional, colonial-style town. It is known for its Art District, historic church, and a more sophisticated dining scene. The “Zona Hotelera” here has many large beachfront resorts, though the ocean is often too rough for swimming.
The Corridor is the 32km stretch of highway connecting the two. This is where you find the most exclusive luxury resorts, like Las Ventanas al Paraíso and One&Only Palmilla. It’s quiet and secluded, but you’ll need transportation to get to either town for dining or shopping.
Lover’s Beach at Land’s End.
What are the best beaches in Los Cabos?
Many beaches in Cabo are not safe for swimming due to strong undertows and steep drop-offs, especially on the Pacific side. My favorites for swimming and snorkeling include:
Playa el Chileno: 15km from Cabo San Lucas, very clean with great facilities and calm water.
Bahía Santa María: A beautiful protected cove perfect for snorkeling with tropical fish.
Playa El Médano: The main swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas, lined with beach clubs and very lively.
Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach): Located at Land’s End near the famous Arch, accessible only by water taxi.
Playa Acapulquito: A great spot for beginner surfers near San José del Cabo.
Where to change money in Los Cabos?
The Mexican peso is the official currency, and I recommend using it for the best value. While US dollars are widely accepted, the exchange rate offered by shops and taxis is usually poor. Use bank ATMs (Santander, Banorte, BBVA) to withdraw pesos for the best rate. Credit cards are accepted at almost all hotels and major restaurants, but you will need cash for the bus, small taco stands, and tips.
See humpback whales and other amazing marine mammals up close on a whale watching tour.
What are the best things to do in Los Cabos?
The ocean is the main attraction. Taking a boat trip to “El Arco” (The Arch) is a must-do. From December to April, whale watching tours are spectacular. For adventure, Cabo Adventures offers zip-lining and camel rides, while Cabo Sky Tours provides incredible aerial views via ultralight.
In San José del Cabo, the Art Walk takes place every Thursday evening from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM between November and June. It’s a great time to explore the galleries and enjoy the town’s atmosphere. For a day trip, the “Pueblo Mágico” of Todos Santos is about an hour away and offers a cool, artsy vibe and great surfing.
What are the restaurants like in Los Cabos?
The dining scene is world-class, ranging from humble taco stands to high-end farm-to-table spots.
In Cabo San Lucas, we love Bar Esquina for its great vibe and fusion menu, and Taquería El Paisa for authentic, cheap tacos. For a splurge, El Farallon at the Waldorf Astoria offers cliffside dining that is hard to beat.
In San José del Cabo, Mi Cocina in the Casa Natalia hotel is excellent. For a unique experience, head just outside town to “Flora Farms” or “Acre” for farm-to-table dining in a lush garden setting.
Is Los Cabos expensive?
Yes, it is one of the most expensive destinations in Mexico. However, you can save money by using Uber or the local bus instead of taxis, eating at local taquerías away from the marina, and booking accommodation in downtown San José or Cabo San Lucas rather than the luxury beachfront resorts in the Corridor.
Is Los Cabos safe?
Yes, Los Cabos remains one of the safer tourist regions in Mexico. The U.S. Department of State typically classifies Baja California Sur as Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution), which is the same rating given to many European countries. Most crime is non-violent and related to petty theft. Use common sense: don’t leave bags unattended on the beach, stick to well-lit areas at night, and use the hotel safe for your passport and extra cash.
