Stay Wild Travels contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links then we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Ads and affiliate links are how we keep this content free. A huge thanks if you use these as it helps us a lot! See our Full Policy for more information.
With so many incredible things to see and do, deciding what to include on your Cabo San Lucas itinerary can be a tough choice.
With sun-kissed sand that meets azure blue waters, this Mexican gem is the perfect spot for sunseekers, adventure enthusiasts, gourmet explorers, or someone simply yearning for a tranquil escape.
In this guide, we’ll start with some basic need-to-know information like where Cabo is and the best time to visit.
We’ll then jump straight into the itinerary which covers 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 days’ worth of activities, plus a few added extras at the end, just in case something isn’t quite right for you or you think you could stretch to spending a few days here.
At the end of the guide, you’ll find some recommended places to stay, an FAQ and some details on the best way to get to Cabo San Lucas.
If you’re tight on time, then here’s something you need to know:
🚗 Getting around: you can take local transport, taxis or to make things super easy then I’d recommend that you rent a car
🏠 Best place to stay: for a slice of luxury, choose Pueblo Bonito Pacifica
🎟️ Must-do sell-out tours include:
🐋Humpback Whale Watching
🍹 Tequila Tasting Tour
🛶 Glass Bottom Kayak
🌊 Double Jet Ski and Boat Ride
📱Data: install an eSim from Airalo rather than buying a local sim – it’s much less hassle! Get $3 off with code ‘AMELIA2423’
🩺 Best travel medical insurance: at 80% cheaper with just as much coverage than what I was previously paying, I’ll never stop sharing how great SafetyWing is as a full-time traveller!
Where is Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico and is part of the state of Baja California Sur.
It’s about five hours on a plane away from the other popular coastal destinations of slightly more budget-friendly Tulum and Cancun.
You may also like: The Ultimate Guide To Cenote Diving in Tulum, Mexico
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Cabo San Lucas is during the fall, winter, and early spring months when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are relatively manageable.
Plus, if you want to see the whales, then you’ll need to head to Cabo during the winter months, from December to March, as this is when they migrate to the area.
If you’re looking for water sports like surfing and snorkelling, the water is warmer during the summer months.
To help you decide the best time to head to Cabo, here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
High Season (November to April):
- This is the most popular time to visit Cabo San Lucas due to its pleasant weather.
- Temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30°C), making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
- It’s also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher hotel rates.
Shoulder Seasons (May and October):
- May and October can offer a nice balance between decent weather and fewer crowds.
- Temperatures are still warm, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (24-35°C), but it’s transitioning between seasons, so you might experience occasional rain showers.
Low Season (June to September):
- This period coincides with the hotter and more humid summer months.
- Temperatures can soar into the high 90s and even reach over 100°F (37-40°C).
- This is also the rainy season, so you can expect occasional heavy downpours and thunderstorms.
- Despite the heat and rain, this can be a good time for budget travellers, as hotel rates are generally lower during this period.
Cabo San Lucas itinerary 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 days
Day 1: Beaches, downtown and sunset cruising
Arrival and relaxation at the beach
Once you’ve stepped off the plane and arrived at your hotel, it’s time to check out your surroundings.
And what better way to do it than to explore one of the many incredible beaches on offer?
Below are some of the most popular beaches in the area:
- Medano Beach: This is one of the most popular and vibrant beaches in Cabo. Its golden sands stretch along the bay and offer a lively atmosphere with beach bars, restaurants, and water sports rentals. Medano Beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and even parasailing, as well as being a fantastic place to enjoy the lively energy of Cabo.
- Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor): Accessible only by water, Lover’s Beach is a picturesque cove located near the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. On the opposite side of the cove is Divorce Beach, known for its rougher waves. You can take water taxis or boat tours to reach Lover’s Beach and enjoy its stunning beauty.
- Chileno Beach: This beach is known for its excellent snorkelling and is part of a protected marine sanctuary. The calm waters are home to a variety of marine life and colourful coral reefs. It’s a great spot for families and those looking to explore the underwater world. There are facilities like bathrooms and shaded areas, making it comfortable for a day of relaxation.
- Santa Maria Beach: Like Chileno Beach, Santa Maria Beach is a prime snorkelling destination with clear waters and vibrant marine life. It’s another marine protected area and offers excellent opportunities to see fish, rays, and even sea turtles. The beach itself is a crescent of golden sand, making it a scenic spot for both swimming and snorkelling.
If you’re looking for some less crowded spots, then the below beaches are worth checking out:
- Solmar Beach: This beach is located near the Land’s End area and offers stunning views of the Arch and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a quieter beach compared to Medano, and it’s a great place for a peaceful walk, relaxation, and taking in the natural beauty of the coastline.
- Cannery Beach (Playa Empacadora): A bit more off the beaten path, Cannery Beach is a hidden gem known for its tranquillity and calm waters. It’s a peaceful spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a more relaxed beach experience away from the crowds.
- Palmilla Beach: Situated near San Jose del Cabo, Palmilla Beach is known for its luxurious surroundings and calm waters. The beach is flanked by upscale resorts and offers a great spot for swimming and lounging. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals seeking a serene coastal escape.
Check out downtown and grab some lunch
After you’ve spent some time enjoying one or more of the beaches here, you’ll no doubt be ready to see a bit of what’s on offer in downtown and find a bite to eat.
There are plenty of restaurants on offer here, however below are some of the very best:
- The Office on the Beach: This beachfront restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and beach parties. The menu features Mexican and American dishes.
- Hacienda Cocina y Cantina: Located at the Hacienda Beach Club & Residences, this restaurant offers oceanfront dining and a menu that combines traditional Mexican flavours with a modern twist. The views and ambience are exceptional.
- Maria Corona: Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, Maria Corona offers a variety of traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients. The restaurant has a charming courtyard setting and often features live music.
Set sail on a sunset cruise across the Pacific
A sunset cruise in Cabo San Lucas is a truly magical experience that combines the beauty of the sea with breathtaking sunset views – it’s the perfect memorable way to finish the first day of your Cabo itinerary.
There are a variety of tour operators that all offer something a little different.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious sailing experience with unlimited drinks from the bar and tasty appetizers, or something more upbeat with live music and delicious Mexican cuisine, you’ll be sure to find it in Cabo.
Check prices:
- Sunset Cruise with Open bar and Snacks
- Los Cabos Luxury Sunset Sail
- Sunset Mexican Dinner Cruise Fajitas dinner & live music
Day 2: Catamaran, snorkelling, camel rides and off-road adventures
Hop on board a boat to discover the underwater world
To begin the day, you’ll hop on board an impressive catamaran and set off on an aquatic adventure to some of the most iconic spots on the coast of Cabo San Lucas: The Arch and Pelican Rock.
These famous rock formations are not only impressive to look at, but also a hot spot for sea lions who gather here to bask in the glorious Mexican sunshine.
Once everyone on board has captured enough pictures of these Instagram-worthy landmarks and undeniably cute marine life, you’ll continue the journey to one of the best spots for snorkelling.
You’ll be suited and booted with your snorkels and masks, before plunging into the sea to see what tropical marine life is living among the coral reefs.
The exact itinerary of the experience varies depending on which tour you choose, however, you’ll usually be given around 40 minutes underwater before being offered some drinks and snacks whilst sailing back to land.
Check prices:
- Private Catamaran La Tortuga Snorkeling
- Snorkeling Catamaran Tour at Santa Maria Bay
- Snorkeling tour in Cabo San Lucas
Join a mission aboard a gentle giant
Climbing on board a camel and plodding along the sandy terrains in the Baja California Peninsula is an unforgettable experience thats not to be missed.
These gentle giants will carry you to some of the region’s most striking landscapes and allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature whilst you soak up some of the most tranquil surroundings.
Although the journey along the beach is the highlight of the tour, your guide will also provide you with plenty of facts and about the life of a camel and the history of the area.
Depending on the tour you select, you’ll also be invited to make a campfire with your newfound friends, share stories and sip on tequila.
Tip: If you can, you’ll want to select a tour which means you’ll be doing this activity during sunset, as this really makes the experience feel special.
Alternatively, camel tours are often combined with additional experiences such as ATV tours, which usually provide great value for money and of course, heaps of fun!
Check prices:
Day 3: Whales, jet skis and tequila tasting
Option 1: Spot some of the worlds most magnificent creatures with whale watching
If you happen to be heading to Cabo between December and March then you’ll be in luck, as this is migration season for whales in the area.
In fact, if you can travel here during these months, I’d definitely recommend doing so.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and surprisingly, tours are not crazy expensive.
There are two main types of whales that you’ll likely see – the humpback whale and the grey whale.
I say likely, as of course, you cannot predict the wonders of nature, but you usually have a pretty good shot.
Occasionally, if you’re super lucky, then you may even see blue whales too.
Humpback whales are the ones you’ll want to see though.
These are the dramatic ones that love to show off their acrobatic displays, often leaping out of the water in an impressive behaviour called breaching.
They also communicate using melodious songs that can be heard underwater which is pretty damn cool.
Grey whales, on the other hand, undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal, travelling thousands of miles from their Arctic feeding grounds to the warm waters off the Baja California Peninsula to give birth and mate.
This migration brings them super close to the shores of Cabo and means that you may be able to observe mothers and their calves.
Blue whales, if you are lucky enough to see them, are the largest animals on Earth.
Their sheer size and striking appearance make encountering them a truly extraordinary experience, but these are a rare sight here.
Check prices:
Option 2: discover the coastline on a jet ski
If you’re not able to visit in time for the whales, then jet skiing is a great alternative.
Sure – it’s not quite on the same level as a once-in-a-lifetime whale-watching experience – but it is always super fun and it’s a great way to see the beautiful views of this Mexican paradise.
Whether you want to simply rent a jet ski and explore solo or take a guided tour of the coastline, you’ll have the flexibility to choose what suits you best.
Check prices:
Get tipsy with tequila-tasting
In the afternoon, it’s time to try out one of the things that Mexico is most famous for – tequila.
Well, actually it’s famous for Mezcal, but tequila is a type of Mezcal.
It’s a super fun way to spend the afternoon doing something slightly less intense, and it’s also inexpensive, which is even better.
With this very best Tequila Tasting Tour, you’ll learn all about the rich and diverse world of Mexico’s traditional alcoholic elixirs through personalised and private workshops and sample not 1, but 6, variations of tequila and 3 distinct types of Mezcal.
I feel drunk at the thought.
To take the heat off the alcohol, you’ll be given some authentic snacks that include agave hearts, decadent dark chocolate, and, for the adventurous palates, an opportunity to savour grasshoppers as well.
Day 4: Horse riding and beach clubs
Canter through Cabo on a horse
Horse riding is a timeless activity that always provides a great sense of adventure whilst being relatively relaxing.
And, riding here in Cabo certainly provides diversity.
You’ll trot along the stunning white sands on the beach, gallop beside 20-foot tall cacti and be in awe of the dramatic landscapes and impressive flora and fauna that you’re graced with.
If you’re lucky, you’ll also be able to spot some seals, turtles and even dolphins from the shores.
It’s not necessary to have any horse riding experience, since they are well-trained.
With a few basic instructions from the guide on how to communicate with the horse using the reigns, you’ll be ready to head off on your adventure.
Check prices:
- Horseback Riding Tour
- Cabo White Sand Horseback Adventure
- Cabo Desert ATV & Beach Horseback Combo
- Private horseback ride on the beach and sunset dinner
Check out the beach clubs
This afternoon it’s time to test out some of the beach clubs on offer.
Whether you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious place to kick back with a few drinks whilst listening to some chilled live music or a vibrant party atmosphere with poolside games and a DJ, you won’t be short of options.
In fact, we wrote a complete guide to visiting the beach clubs in Cabo.
Some of the best spots include:
- SUR Beach House: Located on Medano Beach, SUR Beach House combines a stylish beach club vibe with a focus on Mexican cuisine. With comfortable seating, beachfront views, and a diverse menu, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the beach scene.
- Hacienda Beach Club & Residences: Set on Medano Beach, Hacienda offers upscale relaxation with ocean views, an infinity pool, and gourmet dining. Conveniently located near the marina and downtown.
- Corazón de Alcachofa Beach Club: Corazón combines art and relaxation, boasting local sculptures, sandy shores, and a unique menu featuring artichoke-based dishes and seafood. A hidden artistic gem on the Cabo coastline.
- Blue Marlin Ibiza Los Cabos: Bringing the famed Ibiza beach club experience to Cabo, Blue Marlin offers a stylish and energetic ambience. You can enjoy the pool, loungers, and beachfront views while relishing a mix of music, dining, and entertainment.
Day 5: Day trip to Fox Canyon
Discover the waterfalls and hiking trails at Fox Canyon
Next up on this 7 day Cabo San Lucas itinerary is a hike to Fox Canyon.
This adventure takes you through the scenic landscapes of Baja California Sur, allowing you to discover the natural beauty, unique rock formations, and refreshing water features of the region.
If you’ve hired a car in Cabo, then it’s a 1 hour and 30 minutes drive away.
It’s fairly straightforward to reach and the hiking trails are well signposted and are considered relatively easy.
The area is absolutely stunning, with the highlights being the freshwater lagoon thats perfect for swimming in and the impressive 40-foot waterfall that tumbles over the rocks.
There’s also a tonne of wildlife and plenty of unique plants in this area if thats the kind of thing you’re into.
If you don’t have a car, then a tour is your best option.
Check prices:
Day 6: Day trip to San Jose del Cabo
Wander the artistic streets of San Jose del Cabo
If you’re looking to escape the beaches and water sports for a more historical and cultural day, then heading to San Jose del Cabo is the perfect thing to do.
It’s just 35 minute drive from Cabo San Lucas and is home to a historic centre with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a charming central plaza.
Strolling through its quaint streets offers a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage, but you’l also find many art galleries that represent that here.
In between the cute coffee shops and boutique clothes stores, you’ll find the Gallery District of San Jose del Cabo with dozens of awesome galleries, with strings of multicoloured flags stretching across the streets and plenty of people that create an excellent atmosphere.
In fact, depending on the time of year, San Jose del Cabo hosts a weekly Art Walk on Thursdays where local galleries and shops stay open late, showcasing a diverse range of artworks including paintings, sculptures, crafts, and more!
If you don’t have a car, then to get from Cabo San Lucas to San Jose del Cabo, you have a few options:
- Taxi/Uber: since the journey is only 35 minutes, if you’re travelling in a group this works out relatively cheap
- Local bus: travelling using the local buses is usually the cheapest option. You’ll need to hop on the Ruta del Desierto bus
- Tour: there are a few sightseeing/city tours that also include a visit San Joe del Cabo
Check tour prices:
- Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo Sightseeing Tour
- Half-Day City Tour Discover San Jose and San Lucas
Day 7: Kayaking to Playa del Amor and Los Cabos Arch and leaving Cabo
Kayak to the hidden beach of Playa del Amor and Los Cabos Arch
On the final day of your 7 day Cabo San Lucas itinerary, you’ve hopefully got just enough time to squeeze in one more activity.
And if you do, then kayaking to Playa del Amor and Los Cabos Arch is a great option.
Not only will you get some excessive in before most likely sitting on a plane for a while, but you’ll get to paddle by the excellent marine life that hopefully includes colonies of sea lions and plenty of tropical fish.
I’d highly recommend opting for companies that used glass bottom kayaks, as you’ll get to see way more this way – particularly if you don’t want to snorkel in the sea before getting on a flight!
Check prices:
Get ready to leave Cabo
And thats a wrap on your itinerary for Cabo San Lucas!
All thats left to do is head to the airport and hopefully, you’ll be back to this lovely part of the world soon.
Where to stay during your 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 days in Cabo San Lucas
Best hotels
Budget: Sofia Hostel Cabo
Strategically positioned at the heart of Cabo San Lucas, the Sofia Hostel Cabo offers a haven of air-conditioned rooms, adorned with comfort.
You’ll find a lovely garden, seamless connectivity of free Wi-Fi, shared lounge and kitchen area.
They also offer airport transfers, ensuring your journey begins and ends with ease.
Check prices: Booking.com
Mid-range: Medano Hotel and Spa
Situated right in the centre of vibrant Cabo San Lucas, embraced by the enchanting Baja California Sur Region, and just a breezy 700 meters from the mesmerizing Marina Cabo San Lucas, the Medano Hotel and Spa beckons you with an irresistible allure.
Its charm lies in the promise of not just an inviting outdoor pool but also a cutting-edge fitness centre that’s at your disposal.
For those who seek an extra layer of indulgence, certain rooms offer an additional seating area, where tranquillity finds its sanctuary and you’re invited to unwind in style.
Check prices: Booking.com
Luxury: Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf and Spa Resort
Nestled on its own private beach, the adults-only all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Pacífica Resort & Spa offers stunning Pacific Ocean views, an award-winning spa, and an avant-garde design.
With five restaurants, including a Mediterranean and Japanese option, along with beachside Balinese beds and whale-watching trips from December to March, the resort provides a luxurious experience.
The air-conditioned rooms feature free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a kitchenette, and a private terrace.
Just a short drive from Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, the resort offers both tranquillity and accessibility.
Check prices: Booking.com
FAQ
How many days are enough for Cabo San Lucas?
The perfect number of days in Cabo really depends on how much you like to relax versus how much you like to be active.
There are so many activities to get stuck into, but also heaps of beaches to relax on, so the more days that you can spend here the better.
Most people tend to spend a minimum of 4 days in Cabo, but at least 7 days is preferable.
Is it better to go to Cancun or Cabo San Lucas?
Whilst Cancun and Cabo San Lucas share some similarities like incredible white sand beaches, they are quite different.
Cancun offers excellent beaches lined with many all-inclusive resorts, booming nightlife and entertainment and plenty of archaeological sites like Chichen Itza – one of the 7 wonders of the world.
On the other hand, Cabo San Lucas is more upscale with a lot of natural beauty points, water activities and most importantly, a great opportunity to see whales migrating.
Is Cabo an expensive trip?
There’s no denying it – Cabo can be an expensive trip.
But, it all depends on what you want to do whilst you’re there and whether you travel luxuriously or on a budget.
You’ll find incredible high-end hotels and restaurants here that will no doubt provide a memorable experience, but it comes at a high price.
But equally, there are more budget-friendly places to stay and visit, and many of the activities on this list are in line with prices you’d see in any other popular holiday destination.
How to get to Cabo San Lucas
By Plane
Reaching Cabo San Lucas by plane is the most convenient and popular approach to accessing the city.
The primary air hub serving the region is Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), strategically situated about 30 minutes away from the heart of Cabo San Lucas.
Upon your arrival at the airport, you’ll be presented with various transportation choices for making your way to downtown Cabo San Lucas:
- Taxi: Taxis are conveniently stationed outside the airport terminal. Typically accommodating up to 4 passengers, the fare for a taxi journey to downtown Cabo San Lucas is approximately $80, effectively averaging out to $20 per individual. This commute usually takes around 30 minutes.
- Shuttle: Shared shuttle vans are accessible to transport you from the airport to downtown Cabo San Lucas. While shuttles often cost less than taxis, they tend to involve a longer travel time due to multiple stops at various hotels and resorts. It’s recommended to book a shuttle service beforehand.
Check prices: shuttle - Car Rental: Numerous car rental agencies maintain offices within Los Cabos International Airport, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the area at your leisure. However, this convenience does come at a higher expense. The journey from the airport to downtown Cabo San Lucas spans around 30 minutes. Pre-booking your rental car is advised to avoid steep on-the-spot charges.
Check prices: Rentalcars.com - Private Transfer for Larger Groups: For those seeking a more lavish and personalized transport option, private transfer services catering to groups of up to 8 individuals are on offer. These services feature comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, with a designated driver meeting you at the airport and chauffeuring you directly to your downtown Cabo San Lucas hotel or destination. Advance reservation of this private transfer service is encouraged.
Check prices: private transfer - Bus: An extremely economical alternative involves taking the Ruta del Desierto bus from terminal 1 at the airport to reach downtown Cabo San Lucas. With buses operational from 4:30 am until 11 pm at intervals of 8-10 minutes, this option offers a budget-friendly travel experience. However, it’s important to note that this service doesn’t provide hotel drop-offs, necessitating a short walk, often just across the road, to reach your intended location.
Explore Mexico further
If you loved this Cabo San Lucas itinerary of 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 days and you’re looking to discover more of Mexico, then a great place to start – and possibly compare – is with this Cancun itinerary, Tulum itinerary or Playa del Carmen itinerary.
Or, if you’re sold on Cabo, then perhaps you want to check out some of the best beach clubs here.
Either way, we hope you enjoy Mexico!
Stay Wild Travels.
