Cabo Tour Top 10 List: What You Need to Know

Planning a trip to Cabo can be a blast, but there's more to it than just picking a resort. This cabo tour top 10 list will help you get ready. From figuring out which part of Cabo is right for you to understanding the local ins and outs, I've got some tips that might just save you some trouble. Let's make sure your first time in Cabo is a smooth one.

Key Takeaways

• Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are different; pick the one that fits your trip style.
• Many beaches in Cabo aren't safe for swimming due to strong waves.
• Tipping your tour guides is a good idea.
• Sunscreen is expensive in Cabo, so bring your own.
• Keep your Mexico entry form safe, as losing it can lead to a fine.

1. Cabo San Lucas

Okay, let's dive into Cabo San Lucas. When people say "Cabo," this is usually what they're picturing. It's the more bustling, tourist-centric of the two Cabos (the other being San Jose del Cabo). Cabo San Lucas is where a lot of the action happens.

Think of it as the place to be if you want easy access to iconic spots, beaches where you can actually swim, and, of course, the nightlife. I mean, who goes to Cabo without hitting the bars at least once?

If you're a first-timer, staying in Cabo San Lucas makes a lot of sense. It's super convenient for getting to tours and activities. Plus, there are tons of restaurants to choose from. Staying near Medano Beach is a good idea because you can walk to a lot of places.

Here's a few things you can do in Cabo San Lucas:

• Hit up Medano Beach for some sun and swimming.
• Take a boat tour to see El Arco up close.
• Explore the marina and maybe even book a fishing trip.

2. San Jose del Cabo

Okay, so San Jose del Cabo is the other half of the "two Cabos" equation. It's about a 30-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas, and honestly, it's got a totally different vibe. If Cabo San Lucas is the wild child, San Jose del Cabo is the chill, artsy sibling.

San Jose del Cabo is known for its relaxed atmosphere and historic charm. It's definitely a place to go if you're looking to escape the party scene and soak up some culture. Think art galleries, quiet beaches, and a more laid-back pace of life. The airport is actually located in San Jose del Cabo, so that's something to keep in mind when you're planning your trip.

Here's a few things to consider:

• Art Walk: Every Thursday evening (during high season), the downtown area transforms into a huge art walk. Galleries stay open late, and there's live music and street performers. It's a great way to experience the local art scene.
• Beaches: While the beaches in San Jose del Cabo aren't always swimmable (check conditions!), they're beautiful for walking and relaxing. Playa Palmilla Playa Palmilla is a popular choice.
• Estuary: The San Jose Estuary is a protected wildlife area, perfect for birdwatching and nature walks. It's a nice contrast to the more developed areas of Los Cabos.

If you're looking for a quieter, more authentic Mexican experience, San Jose del Cabo is definitely worth a visit. It's a great place to unwind, explore local art, and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life. It's easy to spend a day or two just wandering around, soaking up the atmosphere.

3. El Arco

Okay, so El Arco – or "The Arch" – is basically the postcard image of Cabo. You can't miss it. It's this super cool rock formation at the very tip of the Baja California Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. I remember the first time I saw it, I was like, "Wow, that's way bigger than I thought!" It's a total tourist spot, but honestly, it's worth seeing at least once.

The Arch is a natural wonder that has been carved out by the ocean over thousands of years. It's home to sea lions, tons of fish, and if you're lucky, you might even spot whales during migration season.

There are a few ways to get there. You can take a water taxi from the marina, which is probably the easiest option. Or, you can hop on a glass-bottom boat tour, which is pretty fun because you get to see the fishies on the way. Some people even kayak over, but that seems like a lot of work to me, especially if it's choppy. I'd rather relax and let someone else do the driving, personally. A private tour is also a great option for a more personalized experience.

I'd recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the midday sun. Trust me, you don't want to be stuck out there when it's scorching hot. Also, bring your camera! You're gonna want to take a ton of pictures.

Here's a quick rundown of what you might see:

• Sea lions chilling on the rocks
• Pelicans doing their thing
• Lots of colorful fish swimming around
• Maybe even a whale or two (if it's the right time of year)

4. Medano Beach

Okay, so Medano Beach. It's the spot if you want to actually swim in Cabo San Lucas. A lot of the other beaches have crazy waves and undertow, making them unsafe, but Medano is generally calm. I mean, you still need to be careful, but it's way better.

One thing to keep in mind is that Medano is popular, which means it can get crowded. And with crowds come vendors. Lots and lots of vendors. They're selling everything – dresses, jewelry, art, you name it. They will approach you constantly. It can be a little annoying, but honestly, it's part of the experience. If you want to avoid them a bit, try hanging out at one of the beach clubs. They offer a little more buffer, but even then, they'll still try to get your attention.

If you're looking for a quieter experience, maybe consider staying near Land's End. Some resorts there have access to more secluded beaches, but those are often not swimmable. So, it's a trade-off.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Lots of people
• Vendors galore
• Swimmable waters (relatively speaking)
• Plenty of restaurants and bars nearby

Honestly, I spent a whole day just chilling at a beach club on Medano Beach. I had some amazing breakfast quesadillas at Cachet Beach Club and just relaxed. It was one of my favorite days of the trip. Just get there early to snag a good spot!

So, yeah, Medano Beach. It's a must-visit if you're in Cabo and want to take a dip in the ocean. Just be prepared for the crowds and the vendors!

5. Lover's Beach

Lover's Beach, or Playa del Amor, is a must-see when you're in Cabo. It's located right by El Arco, at Land's End. What makes it special is its unique location: one side faces the Sea of Cortez, known for its calm waters, while the other faces the Pacific Ocean, which is usually a bit rougher. This means you can literally be on two different beaches at once, experiencing two very different ocean vibes.

To get there, you'll usually need to take a water taxi from the marina. The ride itself is pretty cool, offering great views of the coastline and El Arco. Once you arrive, you can spend your time swimming (on the Sea of Cortez side, of course!), sunbathing, or just exploring the rock formations. Just be aware that the Pacific side isn't safe for swimming due to strong currents.

It's worth noting that Lover's Beach can get pretty crowded, especially during peak season. So, if you're looking for a more secluded experience, try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Also, bring your own snacks and drinks, as there aren't any vendors directly on the beach.

Here's a few things to keep in mind:

• Bring sunscreen – the sun is intense!
• Wear water shoes – the sand can get hot, and there are some rocks.
• Be mindful of the tides – they can change quickly.

And if you're feeling adventurous, consider a snorkeling tour around Land's End. The marine life is incredible!

6. Cachet Beach Club

Okay, so Cachet Beach Club. I went there on a whim, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I made during my Cabo trip. It's located right on Medano Beach, which is already a plus because that's where all the action is. But Cachet? It's like a little oasis of chill amidst the craziness.

The vibe is super relaxed, but still upscale enough that you feel like you're treating yourself.

One thing to keep in mind is that Medano Beach can get a little intense with vendors. They're constantly walking around trying to sell you stuff – dresses, jewelry, you name it. It can be a bit much, especially if you're just trying to relax. Cachet Beach Club offers a bit of a buffer from that, though they can still approach your chairs. If you want total peace and quiet, maybe consider a resort further away, but you'd be missing out on the Medano Beach experience.

Here's a quick rundown of what makes Cachet awesome:

• Comfy lounge chairs and umbrellas
• Fantastic food and drinks (seriously, the breakfast quesadilla was amazing)
• Great service – the staff is super attentive

Honestly, I could have spent all day there. Just chilling, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the atmosphere. If you're looking for a beach club experience in Cabo, Cachet is definitely worth checking out. Just get there early to snag a good spot!

I'd recommend checking out the Los Cabos Tourism Board for more information on the area.

7. La Princesa Catamaran

Okay, so picture this: you're in Cabo, the sun's blazing, and you're thinking, "How can I make this day even better?" Well, let me tell you about the La Princesa Catamaran. I'm not usually one for boat tours, but this one? It was actually pretty awesome.

The La Princesa Catamaran is a great way to see El Arco and Land's End while enjoying drinks and snacks.

I mean, who doesn't love cruising around on a boat with a drink in hand? Plus, the views are incredible. You get to see El Arco from the water, which is a whole different perspective than from the beach. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some sea life. We saw a couple of dolphins playing in the waves, which was a total highlight.

Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Scenic views of El Arco and Land's End
• Open bar (yes, you read that right)
• Snacks (chips, salsa, guac – the essentials)
• Music (usually a mix of pop and Latin tunes)
• Opportunity to book online for tours

Honestly, it's a pretty chill way to spend an afternoon. Just sit back, relax, and let the crew take care of everything. The staff is super friendly, and they make sure everyone's having a good time. Plus, the drinks keep flowing, which is always a bonus.

I'd say it's worth checking out if you're looking for a fun and easy way to see some of Cabo's most famous landmarks. Just don't forget your sunscreen!

8. Snorkeling Tour

Okay, so you're in Cabo, and you're thinking about getting in the water. Smart move! A snorkeling tour is a fantastic way to see some of the underwater life that Cabo has to offer. I mean, who doesn't want to see colorful fish and maybe even a sea turtle or two?

The Sea of Cortez is teeming with marine life, making it a prime spot for snorkeling.

When booking, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Location Matters: Some tours will take you to specific spots known for their clear water and abundant fish, like Chileno Bay or Santa Maria Beach. Do a little research to see which location appeals most to you.
• What's Included: Make sure you know what's included in the price. Does it cover the gear? Food and drinks? Transportation to and from your hotel? These things can add up, so it's good to be aware upfront.
• Read Reviews: Check out what other people have said about the tour company. Were they happy with the experience? Did they feel safe and well-taken care of? Reviews can be super helpful in making your decision.

I went on a snorkeling tour last year, and it was seriously one of the highlights of my trip. The water was so clear, and I saw so many cool fish. The crew was awesome, too – they were really knowledgeable and made sure everyone felt comfortable in the water. Just remember your sunscreen!

And speaking of sunscreen, don't forget to pack some! The sun in Cabo is intense, and you'll be spending a lot of time in the water, so you'll want to protect your skin. Also, bring a towel and maybe a waterproof camera if you want to capture some of the amazing things you'll see underwater. Have fun!

9. Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Okay, so a glass bottom boat tour might sound super touristy, and honestly, it kind of is. But hear me out! It's still a fun way to see some of the underwater action without getting wet, especially if you're traveling with little kids or someone who isn't super comfortable snorkeling.

The main draw is the chance to see marine life and the famous El Arco without having to jump in the water.

I've done a couple of these tours, and they can be a bit hit or miss, depending on the clarity of the water that day. Sometimes it's crystal clear, and you can see tons of fish. Other times, it's a little murky, and you don't see as much. But even on a less-than-perfect day, it's still a relaxing way to cruise around the bay and take in the sights. Plus, most tours will take you past El Arco and give you some great photo opportunities.

Here's what you can generally expect:

• A short boat ride from the marina.
• Views of the sea life through the glass bottom (obviously!).
• A chance to see El Arco and Lover's Beach from the water.
• Maybe even a glimpse of some sea lions!

One thing to keep in mind is that the "glass bottom" part is usually just a small section in the middle of the boat. So, you might have to jostle for position to get a good view. Also, some tours make you wear life jackets the whole time, which isn't the most stylish look, but hey, safety first! If you want to book tours, I had a good experience booking through Cabo San Lucas Tours.

Overall, a glass bottom boat tour is a decent option if you're looking for a low-key way to experience the underwater world of Cabo. Just don't expect it to be the most mind-blowing experience of your life. For a better experience, consider the La Princesa Catamaran and Snorkeling tour.

10. Mexico Entry Form

Okay, so you're almost there, ready to hit the beaches and soak up the sun. But hold on a sec! There's one last thing you absolutely need to know about: the Mexico entry form. It's not exactly the most thrilling part of your trip, but trust me, it's super important.

Basically, when you arrive in Mexico, you'll be given a form to fill out. It's officially called the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), but most people just call it a tourist card. This little piece of paper is your official permission to be in Mexico as a tourist. Don't underestimate it!

Here's the deal:

• You'll get this form either on the plane before you land or when you arrive at the airport in Mexico. Keep an eye out for it.
• Fill it out completely and honestly. They'll ask for basic info like your name, passport number, and the purpose of your visit.
• After you go through immigration, they'll stamp the form and give you back a portion of it. This is the part you absolutely, positively CANNOT lose.
• Keep it safe with your passport. Seriously, treat it like it's made of gold.
• When you leave Mexico, you'll need to hand this form back in. If you lose it, you'll have to pay a fine and possibly deal with some delays. Nobody wants that!

Losing your FMM can be a real headache. You'll have to go through extra steps at the airport, pay a fee, and it can definitely put a damper on your departure. So, stash it somewhere safe and make sure you know where it is at all times.

For non-Mexican visitors, a valid passport is also required. So, double-check that your passport is up-to-date before you even book your flight. You don't want to get turned away at the border because your passport is expired!

Think of the FMM as your temporary Mexican ID. Keep it safe, and you'll be golden. Now go enjoy those tacos!

Wrapping Things Up in Cabo

So, there you have it. Cabo is a pretty cool place, but knowing a few things beforehand can really make your trip better. From picking the right "Cabo" for you to figuring out the best tours and what to pack, a little bit of planning goes a long way. Don't forget to tip your guides, and maybe bring extra sunscreen. Have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which part of Cabo should I stay in?

Cabo San Lucas is usually the more lively choice, great for nightlife and famous spots like El Arco. San Jose del Cabo is calmer and has more history. Think about what kind of trip you want!

Can you swim at all the beaches in Cabo?

Yes, many beaches in Cabo have strong waves and currents, making them unsafe for swimming. Medano Beach is one of the main spots where you can safely swim.

What should I bring to Cabo?

Sunscreen is pretty expensive in Cabo, so it's a good idea to bring your own. Also, make sure to bring some cash, though US dollars are widely accepted.

Do I need a special form to enter Mexico?

You'll get a special form when you arrive in Mexico. It's super important to keep this form safe until you leave, because there's a big fine if you lose it.

Is Wi-Fi easy to find in Cabo?

Our hotel's Wi-Fi was only good in the lobby. If you need reliable internet, check with your hotel before you book to make sure they have strong Wi-Fi where you need it.

When is the best time to visit Cabo?

Cabo San Lucas gets really busy during spring break. If you're not into big crowds and party scenes, it's best to avoid visiting during that time of year.