Things to Do in Los Cabos | Activities Guide 2026

Los Cabos offers diverse activities combining adventure, relaxation, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. The destination’s unique geography—where the desert meets the sea at the confluence of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez—creates opportunities for water sports, wildlife encounters, desert exploration, and world-class golf.

This guide covers essential Los Cabos activities and experiences, organized by interest and activity type.

Sportfishing

Los Cabos claims the title “Marlin Capital of the World” with exceptional sportfishing opportunities year-round.

Target Species:

Marlin:

• Blue marlin (year-round, peak May-November)

• Black marlin (October-June)

• Striped marlin (November-March, most abundant)

Other Game Fish:

• Dorado/Mahi-Mahi (May-December)

• Yellowfin tuna (year-round)

• Bluefin tuna (winter months)

• Wahoo (summer-fall)

• Sailfish (year-round)

• Roosterfish (shore fishing)

Charter Options:

Full-Day Charters (8 hours):

• Cost: $1,200-$3,000+ depending on boat size

• Best for: Offshore fishing, multiple species

• Typical departure: 6-7 AM

Half-Day Charters (4-5 hours):

• Cost: $700-$1,800

• Best for: Inshore fishing, budget-conscious

• Morning or afternoon options

Luxury Sportfishing:

• Premium boats with high-end amenities

• Experienced crews and top equipment

• Cost: $3,000-$8,000+/day

Marina Locations:

• Cabo San Lucas Marina (largest fleet)

• Puerto Los Cabos Marina (San José)

• Various beach launches

What’s Included:

• Fishing licenses

• Tackle and bait

• Ice and beverages (often)

• Crew gratuity NOT included (15-20% customary)

Catch & Release:
Most charters practice catch-and-release for billfish. Edible catches (dorado, tuna) can be kept, with crew cleaning fish. Many restaurants will cook your catch.

Tournaments:
Los Cabos hosts numerous fishing tournaments October-November, including prestigious events attracting international competitors.

Golf

Los Cabos features some of Mexico’s finest golf courses designed by legendary architects.

Championship Courses:

Quivira Golf Club:

• Designer: Jack Nicklaus

• Holes: 18

• Signature: Dramatic clifftop holes overlooking Pacific

• Notable: Three oceanfront holes

• Green fees: $400-500+

• Best for: Bucket-list golf, stunning views

Cabo Del Sol (Ocean Course):

• Designer: Jack Nicklaus

• Holes: 18

• Signature: Final three holes along ocean

• Green fees: $300-400+

• Best for: Championship golf, ocean views

Palmilla Golf Club:

• Designers: Jack Nicklaus (Mountain/Ocean), Greg Norman (Arroyo)

• Holes: 27 (two 18-hole courses)

• Setting: Mountain, ocean, and desert terrain

• Green fees: $250-350+

• Best for: Varied terrain, multiple rounds

Cabo Real Golf Club:

• Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jr.

• Holes: 18

• Features: Desert and ocean combination

• Green fees: $200-300+

• Best for: Value championship golf

Puerto Los Cabos:

• Designers: Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman

• Holes: 27

• Setting: Marina and mountain views

• Green fees: $200-300+

• Best for: Newer courses, San José location

Querencia:

• Designer: Tom Fazio

• Holes: 18

• Type: Private club with limited outside play

• Features: Desert course with ocean views

• Green fees: Limited availability, typically $400+

Golf Packages:
Many luxury villas include golf access or discounted rates. Villa concierges arrange tee times, transportation, and equipment.

Best Times:

• October-May: Optimal weather

• Summer: Hot but less crowded, lower rates

• Tee times: Early morning recommended (cooler temperatures)

Water Activities

Whale Watching (December-March):

Los Cabos serves as a winter breeding ground for Pacific humpback whales.

What to Expect:

• Peak season: January-March

• Tour duration: 2-3 hours

• Common sightings: Humpback whales, sometimes gray whales

• Behaviors observed: Breaching, tail slapping, spy-hopping

• Cost: $80-150 per person

Tour Types:

• Large boats (30+ passengers, budget option)

• Small boats (10-15 passengers, better viewing)

• Private charters (premium experience)

• Zodiac tours (closest encounters)

Snorkeling & Diving:

Popular Sites:

• Cabo Pulmo: UNESCO World Heritage marine park (90 minutes north)

• Chileno Beach: Corridor location, calm bay with tropical fish

• Santa Maria Beach: Protected cove, excellent for beginners

• Pelican Rock: Near Land’s End, sea lions and tropical fish

• Gordo Banks: Advanced dive site, hammerhead sharks (seasonal)

Equipment:

• Beach rental shops at major beaches

• Tour operators provide equipment

• PADI courses available

Scuba Diving:

• Two-tank dives: $120-180

• PADI certification courses available

• Nitrox and technical diving options

Swimming with Whale Sharks (October-March):
Day trips to La Paz (2 hours north) offer encounters with gentle whale sharks.

• Cost: $150-250 per person

• Full-day excursion

• Snorkeling equipment provided

Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding:

• Available at many beaches

• Guided tours to arch and sea lion colonies

• Rental rates: $20-40/hour

• Calm morning waters ideal

Sunset Cruises:

• Catamaran cruises along coast

• Open bar and snacks included

• Duration: 2-3 hours

• Cost: $60-100 per person

• Romantic option: Private charters available

Parasailing:
Available at Medano Beach and Corridor locations.

• Cost: $80-120 per person

• Tandem options available

• 10-15 minutes airborne

Land Adventures

ATV & UTV Tours:

Explore Baja’s desert landscape and beaches via all-terrain vehicles.

Tour Options:

• Desert tours: Arroyos, canyons, desert terrain (2-4 hours)

• Beach runs: Pacific coastline exploration

• Combo tours: Desert and beach combination

• Sunset tours: Evening rides with sunset viewing

What’s Included:

• ATV or UTV rental

• Safety equipment (helmets, goggles)

• Guide and instruction

• Transportation from hotels often included

Cost: $100-200 per person (driver), passengers often discounted

Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license

• Age minimums (typically 16+ to drive)

• Passengers allowed (age varies by operator)

Camel Safari:

Unique desert experience riding camels through Baja landscape.

• Duration: 1-2 hours

• Cost: $80-120 per person

• Family-friendly

• Photo opportunities

Horseback Riding:

Beach and desert trails available through various operators.

• Beach sunset rides popular

• Desert and mountain trails

• Skill levels: Beginner to advanced

• Cost: $70-150 per person

• Duration: 1-3 hours

Zip-Lining:

Canyon and desert zip-line courses near Los Cabos.

Wild Canyon Adventures:

• Multiple zip-line circuits

• Suspension bridges

• Optional additions: Camel rides, animal sanctuary

• Cost: $90-150 per person

Boca de Sierra:

• 8-10 zip-lines through canyon

• Cliff rappelling option

• Cost: $100-180

Hiking:

Mount Solmar Trail:

• Challenging hike with Cabo San Lucas views

• 2-3 hours round trip

• Best early morning (heat avoidance)

• Free activity

Desert Trails:
Various desert hiking options through arroyos and canyons. Guided tours available through adventure operators.

The Arch (El Arco) & Land’s End

Los Cabos’ most iconic landmark where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.

Access Options:

Water Taxi:

• Departures from Medano Beach marina

• Cost: $15-20 per person round trip

• 10-minute ride each way

• Stop at Lover’s Beach (weather permitting)

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours:

• Longer tours with marine life viewing

• Arch and sea lion colony visits

• Cost: $20-35 per person

• 45-60 minutes

Kayak Tours:

• Paddle to the arch

• 2-3 hour tours

• More adventurous option

• Cost: $60-80 per person

Private Boat Charters:

• Include arch viewing in custom itineraries

• Snorkeling, fishing, or sunset combinations

What to See:

• The iconic arch rock formation

• Sea lion colony (Pelican Rock)

• Lover’s Beach (Pacific side)

• Divorce Beach (Sea of Cortez side)

• Neptune’s Finger rock formation

Swimming Warning:
Pacific side (Divorce Beach) has dangerous currents and undertows. Swimming NOT recommended. Sea of Cortez side (Lover’s Beach) sometimes swimmable depending on conditions—check with boat operators.

Cultural & Town Experiences

San José del Cabo Art Walk (Thursday Evenings, November-June):

Weekly gallery walk through historic art district.

• Time: 5-9 PM

• Free admission to galleries

• Artists present

• Live music and street performers

• Restaurants offer special menus

Historic Downtown San José:
Colonial-era town square with:

• Mission church (1730s)

• Tree-lined plaza

• Local restaurants and cafés

• Authentic Mexican atmosphere

• Artisan shops

Cabo San Lucas Marina:
Active waterfront area featuring:

• Luxury yachts

• Sportfishing fleet

• Restaurants and bars

• Shopping

• Street vendors

• Nightlife venues

Todos Santos (1-hour drive north):
Historic “Pueblo Mágico” offering:

• Art galleries

• Boutique shops

• Hotel California (inspiration for Eagles song—disputed)

• Organic farms

• Surf beaches

• Day trip destination

Beach Activities & Beach Clubs

Swimmable Beaches:

Medano Beach (Cabo San Lucas):

• Main swimming beach

• Water sports rentals

• Beach clubs and restaurants

• Jet skis, parasailing

• Safest swimming in Cabo San Lucas

Palmilla Beach (San José):

• Calm protected bay

• Family-friendly

• Resort area

• Snorkeling opportunities

Chileno Beach (Corridor):

• Beautiful protected cove

• Excellent snorkeling

• Facilities and palapa shade

• Popular but not overcrowded

Santa Maria Beach (Corridor):

• Snorkeling focus

• Protected cove

• Limited facilities

• Accessible via dirt road

Beach Clubs:

Many Corridor resorts and beach clubs offer day passes:

• ME Cabo (Nikki Beach)

• Cabo Surf Hotel

• Various resort options

• Includes: Pool access, lounge chairs, food/beverage service

• Cost: $50-150+ per person (often credited to consumption)

Nightlife & Entertainment

Cabo San Lucas:

Los Cabos’ nightlife centers in Cabo San Lucas with active marina and downtown scenes.

Popular Venues:

Cabo Wabo Cantina:

• Founded by Sammy Hagar (Van Halen)

• Live rock music

• Tequila bar

• Tourist institution

El Squid Roe:

• Party atmosphere

• Dancing on tables encouraged

• Spring break favorite

• Late-night energy

Mandala:

• Upscale nightclub

• DJ performances

• Bottle service available

• Dress code enforced

The Giggling Marlin:

• Casual bar and grill

• “Fish photo” tradition (hanging upside down)

• Live music

• Tourist-friendly

Pink Kitty (Nightclub):

• Late-night dancing

• Electronic and Top 40 music

• Young crowd

Sunset Mona Lisa:

• Upscale lounge atmosphere

• Craft cocktails

• Cliffside setting

• More sophisticated than downtown bars

Marina Bars:
Multiple bars line the marina offering:

• Sports viewing

• Casual drinks

• People watching

• Less intense than downtown clubs

San José del Cabo:

Quieter nightlife focused on:

• Wine bars in art district

• Hotel lounges

• Low-key restaurants with live music

• More sophisticated, less party-focused

Spa & Wellness

Resort Spas:

Major resorts offer world-class spa facilities:

• One&Only Palmilla Spa

• Waldorf Astoria Spa

• Las Ventanas Spa

• ME Cabo Spa

Treatments:

• Traditional massages

• Temazcal ceremonies (Mayan sweat lodge)

• Couples treatments

• Ocean-view treatment rooms

• Hydrotherapy circuits

Cost: $150-400+ for treatments

In-Villa Spa Services:
Most luxury villas arrange:

• Mobile massage therapists

• Yoga instructors

• Beauty services

• Wellness practitioners

Yoga & Fitness:

• Beach yoga classes

• Resort fitness facilities

• Stand-up paddleboard yoga

• Wellness retreats

Day Trips from Los Cabos

La Paz (2-2.5 hours north):
Baja California Sur’s capital city offering:

• Whale shark swimming (October-March)

• Sea lion snorkeling at Los Islotes

• Malecon waterfront

• More authentic Mexican city experience

• Balandra Beach (stunning protected beach)

Todos Santos (1 hour north on Pacific side):

• Artist community and galleries

• Organic farms

• Surf beaches

• Historic architecture

• Hotel California

• Farm-to-table dining

East Cape:

• Pristine beaches

• Sportfishing villages

• Less developed Baja

• Desert scenery

• Authentic experience

Santiago:

• Mountain oasis town

• Hot springs

• Zoo and botanical garden

• Traditional Mexican village

Family-Friendly Activities

Cabo Dolphins:
Dolphin encounter programs (note: ethical concerns exist, research before booking)

• Swimming with dolphins

• Educational programs

• Various interaction levels

Wild Canyon Animal Sanctuary:

• Rescued animals

• Educational experience

• Combined with zip-lining

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours:
Kid-friendly way to see marine life and the Arch without snorkeling.

Camel Rides:
Unique experience children enjoy.

Beach Time:
Medano Beach offers safe swimming, sandcastle building, and water sports suitable for families.

Aquarium:
Small aquarium in Cabo San Lucas marina area featuring local marine species. Educational for children.

Pirate Ship Tours:
Themed boat tours appealing to kids with entertainment and snorkeling.

Shopping

Cabo San Lucas:

Luxury Avenue (Puerto Paraiso Mall):

• High-end brands (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Cartier)

• Air-conditioned shopping

• Restaurants and cinema

• Waterfront location

Marina Boardwalk:

• Souvenir shops

• Jewelry stores

• Art galleries

• Beachwear and resort clothing

Downtown Streets:

• Mexican handicrafts

• Silver jewelry

• Leather goods

• Tequila shops

• Negotiable pricing (bargaining expected)

San José del Cabo:

Art District:

• Fine art galleries

• Sculpture and paintings

• Artisan crafts

• Higher-quality than tourist shops

Organic Market (Saturdays):

• Local produce

• Artisan foods

• Crafts

• Community atmosphere

Shopping Tips:

• Bargaining acceptable at street vendors and markets

• Fixed prices at malls and established shops

• Quality varies significantly—inspect carefully

• Authentic vs. mass-produced distinction important

Food & Culinary Experiences

Cooking Classes:

Learn traditional Mexican and Baja cuisine:

• Market tours with chef instruction

• Hands-on preparation

• Tequila pairing education

• Cost: $100-200 per person

Flora Farms Culinary Tours:
Farm tours combined with cooking instruction and dining.

Taco Tours:
Guided walking tours sampling authentic street tacos and local eateries.

• Duration: 2-3 hours

• Cost: $60-90 per person

• Multiple taco stand stops

Tequila & Mezcal Tastings:

• Restaurant-based educational tastings

• Distillery day trips (requires driving inland)

• Pairing dinners at upscale venues

Farmers Markets:

• Saturday organic market (San José)

• Local produce and artisan foods

• Fresh ingredients for villa cooking

Extreme & Adventure Sports

Surfing:

Beginner Spots:

• Acapulquito (Old Man’s): San José area, gentle longboard waves

• Cerritos Beach: 45 minutes north, surf school hub

Advanced Breaks:

• Monuments: Pacific side, experienced surfers

• Zippers: Fast right-hand break

• Various reef and point breaks

Surf Schools:

• Group lessons: $60-80

• Private instruction: $100-150

• Multi-day packages available

• Board rentals: $20-30/day

Kitesurfing:
Strong winter winds (November-April) create ideal conditions.

• Lessons available

• Equipment rentals

• Advanced sport, instruction essential

Skydiving:
Tandem skydiving available through operators:

• Jumps from 10,000+ feet

• Pacific and Sea of Cortez views

• Cost: $250-350 per person

Bungee Jumping:
Wild Canyon offers bungee jumping combined with other adventure activities.

Photography Spots

Most Iconic Locations:

• The Arch at sunset (golden hour)

• Divorce Beach waves (Pacific power)

• Medano Beach with arch backdrop

• Cabo San Lucas marina (luxury yachts)

• Todos Santos Hotel California

• Desert landscapes (cacti and rock formations)

• Cabo Pulmo underwater (marine life)

Best Times:

• Sunrise: 6:30-7:30 AM (fewer tourists, soft light)

• Sunset: 5:30-6:30 PM (dramatic colors)

• Golden hour: Hour before sunset (warm tones)

Photo Tours:
Professional photographers offer:

• Location guidance

• Family/couple sessions

• Proposal photography

• Vacation documentation

• Cost: $200-500+ per session

Seasonal Activities & Events

Winter (December-March):

• Whale watching (peak activity)

• Sportfishing (marlin, tuna)

• Golf (optimal weather)

• Spring break events (March)

Spring (April-May):

• Fishing tournaments begin

• Excellent weather

• Fewer crowds than winter

• Good rates before summer

Summer (June-August):

• Dorado fishing (peak)

• Very hot temperatures

• Lower rates

• Fewer tourists

• Occasional tropical storms

Fall (September-November):

• Hurricane season tail end

• Fishing tournaments (Bisbee’s)

• Whale shark season begins

• Weather transitions

Annual Events:

• Los Cabos International Film Festival (November)

• Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament (October, world’s richest)

• Sabor a Cabo (culinary festival, November/December)

• Art Walk season (November-June, Thursdays)

• Carnaval (February, pre-Lent celebration)

Budget Activities (Free or Low-Cost)

Free:

• Beach time at public beaches

• Hiking Mount Solmar trail

• San José Art Walk (Thursday evenings)

• Marina walking and people-watching

• Sunset viewing from beaches

• Town square exploration (San José)

Under $50:

• Water taxi to the Arch ($15-20)

• Snorkeling equipment rental ($15-25)

• Local taco stands ($5-10 for meal)

• Bus to Todos Santos ($5 each way)

• Beach club day at Medano (if just buying food/drinks)

• Municipal market shopping

Practical Activity Tips

Booking:

• High-season activities require advance reservations

• Villa concierges handle arrangements

• Online booking often offers discounts

• Tour operators pick up from hotels/villas

What to Bring:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (required at many locations)

• Water shoes (rocky beaches)

• Hat and sunglasses

• Light layers (air conditioning, evening breeze)

• Waterproof phone case

• Cash for tips and small vendors

Tipping Guidelines:

• Fishing crews: 15-20% of charter cost

• Tour guides: $10-20 per person

• Drivers: $5-10

• Activity staff: $5-10 depending on service

Weather Considerations:

• Summer heat (95°F+): Morning activities preferred

• Wind: Afternoons often windier (good for sailing, challenging for small boats)

• Rain: Summer storms typically brief afternoon showers

• Sun intensity: High year-round, sunscreen essential

Safety:

• Swim only at designated safe beaches

• Follow guide instructions on tours

• Stay hydrated (dehydration risk high)

• Respect marine life (don’t touch)

• Use reputable operators with insurance

Transportation to Activities

Options:

• Villa driver: Included with many luxury rentals

• Taxi: Negotiate rate before departure

• Uber: Available in Los Cabos

• Rental car: Flexibility for multiple activities

• Tour transportation: Most tours include pickup

Distances:

• Cabo to San José: 20-30 minutes

• Corridor activities: 10-25 minutes from either town

• Todos Santos: 60 minutes from Cabo

• La Paz: 2-2.5 hours

• East Cape: 60-90 minutes from San José

Activity Packages & Multi-Day Passes

Adventure Parks:
Wild Canyon and similar operators offer combo packages including multiple activities at discounted rates.

Golf Packages:
Multiple-round packages across different courses often available through villa concierges or golf operators.

Fishing Tournaments:
Multi-day tournament packages for serious anglers.

Wellness Retreats:
Some properties offer multi-day yoga, meditation, and wellness programs.

Best Activities by Travel Style

Adventure Seekers:

• ATV desert tours

• Zip-lining

• Sportfishing

• Surfing

• Diving at Cabo Pulmo

Luxury Travelers:

• Championship golf

• Private yacht charters

• Spa treatments

• Fine dining experiences

• Helicopter tours

Families:

• Medano Beach

• Glass-bottom boat tours

• Camel safari

• Snorkeling at protected beaches

• Pirate ship tours

Couples:

• Sunset cruises

• Spa couples treatments

• Arch tours at sunset

• Fine dining

• Whale watching

Budget-Conscious:

• Public beach access

• Hiking

• Art Walk

• Local taco stands

• Water taxi to Arch

Culture Enthusiasts:

• San José Art Walk

• Todos Santos day trip

• Cooking classes

• Historic missions

• Local markets

Final Thoughts

Los Cabos provides diverse activities accommodating every interest and energy level. The destination’s unique position where desert meets sea creates opportunities unavailable in typical beach destinations—from world-record sportfishing and challenging desert golf to swimming with whale sharks and exploring colonial art towns.

Whether prioritizing adventure sports, cultural immersion, family activities, or pure relaxation, Los Cabos offers experiences that extend far beyond beach lounging. Careful activity selection based on season, interests, and group composition ensures a well-rounded Los Cabos vacation combining the region’s natural wonders with its developed tourism infrastructure.

Discover Los Cabos’ incredible range of activities and create your perfect Baja California Sur itinerary from the comfort of your luxury villa.