Location & Transportation
Ships typically anchor offshore near the famous natural arches, and tenders bring passengers on a pleasant 10-minute waterfront walk straight to the heart of Cabo San Lucas. If the sun is shining a bit too fiercely, a taxi is a great alternative. There are also ongoing studies to potentially construct a dedicated cruise ship dock in the future.
Cabo San Lucas is located about 29 miles (48 km) southeast of Los Cabos International Airport, making it easily accessible whether you’re coming by air or sea.
Nearby Lodging
Cabo offers an array of accommodations ranging from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to more budget-friendly options clustered around the vibrant marina and downtown area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing seaside resort or a trendy urban hotel, you’re sure to find a perfect spot to unwind.
Nearest Airport
Los Cabos International Airport is conveniently located about 48 km from Cabo San Lucas. Taxis and shuttle services are available to help you cover the distance quickly.
Sightseeing
Cabo San Lucas is a treasure trove of natural beauty and local charm. Highlights include:
- The iconic El Arco, a stunning natural rock formation at Land’s End where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean.
- The expansive and lively Medano Beach, famous for its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and fun water sports.
- A bustling marina area filled with shops, restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the local spirit.
- A boardwalk offering delightful strolls that reveal local art, street performers, and unique souvenirs.
Tours & Excursions
There’s no shortage of adventures in Cabo San Lucas. Consider these exciting ways to explore the area:
- Hop on a water taxi for a short trip from the marina to Medano Beach or even to the base of El Arco.
- Enjoy a boat tour that combines cruising with snorkeling at one of the many nearby beaches, such as Santa Maria or Chileno Bays.
- Join the popular Pez Gato Whale Watch tour for an up-close look at local marine life.
- Take a glass bottom boat ride to admire the underwater world and spot sea lions near Pelican Rock.
- Experience a memorable sunset cruise, whether you’re in the mood for a lively party atmosphere or a more intimate, romantic setting.
- Families might enjoy a themed pirate cruise that brings local maritime history to life right before your eyes.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
The moment you disembark, you’ll notice a charming flea market on one side of the tender drop-off and a bustling boardwalk on the other. Take a leisurely stroll along the main street—lined with boutiques, local crafts, and souvenir shops—for a fun way to soak up Cabo’s vibrant street life. If you’re in the mood for more, shops near the marina offer everything from unique jewelry to handcrafted artwork.
Dining
Cabo San Lucas is a food lover’s paradise. From casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants in the marina, you can sample a wide range of flavors. Be sure to try the freshest local seafood and sip on a refreshing margarita while enjoying panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. There are plenty of places to dine al fresco, making it easy to enjoy the pleasant coastal weather all day long.
Culture & Local Events
Cabo’s culture and local events capture the laid-back yet energetic spirit of the region. Here are some key points to know:
- While the local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas. It pays to have some small denominations on hand for taxis and incidentals, as some establishments might add a small surcharge for credit card transactions.
- Many shops and restaurants open around 10:00 or 11:00 AM and stay open until 8:00–10:00 PM, with some places starting as early as 8:00 AM in Cabo.
- Tipping isn’t usually mandatory, but leaving around 10% for good service is appreciated.
- For up-to-date information on local festivals, beach parties, live music, and other events, check out the festivals and events website.
Safety & Awareness
While enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas like the marina and boardwalk. Stay mindful of local safety guidelines during water activities and follow any posted advisories to ensure a safe and memorable visit.