The arch point (El Arco) at Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock

The 12 best things to do in Cabo San Lucas

The best things to do in Cabo San Lucas include hiking, snorkeling, and dancing until the sun comes up (and then some)

Contributor: Kelly Lewis
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A gorgeous resort city on the southern tip of Mexico, Cabo San Lucas is every bit the beautiful playground you expect such a place to be. Sun is king here, although partying is eyeing the throne with intent. The southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula has a reputation for going hard once the sun drops below the horizon, so don’t be shocked to see that the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas often involve a drink. Or three. Or more. 

That isn’t to say this place is one dimensional, far from it, and visitors to Cabo San Lucas will find plenty to enjoy. The fish tacos are legendary, and the adventures on land are as thrilling as those found at sea, with hikes and snorkeling aplenty. 

Best things to do in Cabo San Lucas

1. El Arco

This natural archway has become a picture-perfect symbol of Cabo San Lucas, and you absolutely must take a boat tour to see it from the water. The rock formation is beautiful, and you can usually spot sea lions at the base of it. The beaches nearby are called Lovers’ Beach and Divorce Beach: funny names, but the surrounding waters make for great snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours.

It isn't every day you get a chance to meet the biggest fish in the world up close, and this is one of the only places where a sighting is nearly 100 percent guaranteed. From September to May, Dive Cabo offers whale shark swimming experiences that are out of this world. After two to three hours in the ocean, swimmers get a meal of fish tacos. Call to book your snorkel tour for the most up-to-date schedule and pricing. 

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For hand-embroidered crafts, Mexican art, and beautiful ceramics, a visit to La Coyota is the perfect stop. The multi-room shop sprawls throughout a converted hacienda that once belonged to Edith Jiménez, otherwise known as The Office on The Beach's founder. The quality and diversity of items are much better than what is found near the beach, and the staff takes a no-pressure approach.

Head out with Cactus ATV (all-terrain vehicle) Tours to see a different side of the Los Cabos region as you navigate its desert, mountains, and sand dunes. If you’re searching for adventure, these tours will get you into some stunning natural scenery. Tours are roughly two-and-a-half hours and include all equipment. There are also horseback options and camel-riding beach tours.

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Consider yourself a fishing aficionado (a-fish-ionado?)? Hop on a boat and try catching a marlin or mahi-mahi. Cabo San Lucas is the place to be for deep-sea fishing. Head down to the marina and negotiate your charter for the day, or hire one through Lands End Charters.

This restaurant has been serving delicious Mexican staples since the 1970s before tourism started booming in Los Cabos. Visit the restaurant on Medano Beach for Baja-style shrimp, burritos, Mexican steaks, and gorgeous views, complete with live entertainment in the evenings.

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7. Snorkel & Boat Tour of Everything Cabo

You can’t come to Cabo San Lucas without getting in the water—the marine life and coastal landscapes are too stunning to miss. This all-encompassing Cabo excursion will lead you on a snorkeling tour around must-see aquatic landmarks and will even supply an open bar and picnic-style lunch onboard.

8. The Sand Bar

Escape the crazy spa prices found at most resorts and head to The Sand Bar for a relaxing massage, delicious food, and refreshing drinks overlooking the ocean. Listen to the waves crashing below while you relax, then go downstairs and grab a cocktail before hitting the beach. Sounds perfect, right?

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10. Mount Solmar

This is the life. The walk to Mount Solmar is a gorgeous hike and sunset spot overlooking Los Cabos that takes about 30 minutes to ascend and offers priceless views and photos of the Los Cabos area that’ll make your IG followers jealous. The hike is relatively easy but wear covered shoes, as it’s rocky in several parts.

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11. Cabo Zipline and Rappelling

Soar above cliffs and canyons on a series of scenic zip lines, then balance your way across a suspension bridge as you take in gorgeous flora and fauna. Rappelling options include descending a cliffside while instructors guide you along the way.

Opened in 1990 by Sammy Hagar of Van Halen, Cabo Wabo is a Cabo San Lucas staple with live music almost every night. Hosting musicians from around the world, it's one of the largest places for nightlife in town and, if nothing else, you should go for the people-watching (it's not unusual to spot someone dancing on a table). They also have a full menu and lots of tequila. Make of that, what you will. 

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