13 Best Beaches in Cabo San Lucas (2023)

Looking for the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas? In this post, I will cover all the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas and the corridor to San Jose del Cabo.

And yes, not all the beaches in Cabo are swimmable, but I will also include those, AND if you are looking for a specific hotel with a swimmable beach in Cabo, I have got you covered as well! 🙂

With its breathtaking coastline and crystal-clear waters, this Mexican paradise is home to some of the world’s best beaches.

Whether you want to party, romance, or explore, there is a beach for every mood and occasion.

In this article, I’ll introduce you to the 13 best beaches in Los Cabos, so you can plan your dream vacation with ease. 

From the iconic Lover’s Beach to the tranquil Santa Maria Beach, and the lively Medano Beach, I’ll cover them all, one by one.

So, pack your sunscreen and get ready for some fun in the sun!

Best Beaches in Cabo by Activity

👉🏻 Relaxation: Las Palmillas

👉🏻 Partying: Medano Beach

👉🏻 Snorkeling: Chileno Beach

👉🏻 Families with kids: Palmilla Beach

👉🏻 Surfing: Cerritos Beach

👉🏻 Scenery: Playa del Amor and “Playa divorcio”

The Best Swimmable Beaches in Cabo San Lucas

1. Medano Beach

Medano Beach is not only one of the most popular and swimmable beaches in Los Cabos but also a hotspot for partying and fun.

Whether you want to relax on the soft white sand, enjoy the turquoise waters, or join the lively crowd at the beachfront bars and restaurants, Medano Beach has you covered.

One of the best things about the beach is its convenient location.

Medano Beach is located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, close to the marina and downtown. 

It offers stunning views of the famous Land’s End rock formations, including El Arco.

Being so conveniently located, it’s very easy to access the beach by foot, taxi, or water taxi from the marina.

Another reason why Medano Beach is so popular is its vibrant nightlife and dining scene.

You can find some of the best restaurants and bars in Cabo on this very beach, serving delicious Mexican and international cuisine, refreshing drinks, and live music.

Some of the most famous spots include The Office, Mango Deck, Billygan’s Island, and Baja Cantina.

You can also enjoy happy hour specials, beach parties, contests, and fireworks throughout the year.

2. Santa Maria Beach

If, instead of partying, you’re in search of a quieter, more secluded beach experience in Cabo San Lucas, Santa Maria Beach is the perfect spot.

This beautiful, crescent-shaped beach is tucked away in a cove, offering a more intimate and peaceful setting for sunbathing and swimming.

Unlike the bustling Medano Beach, Santa Maria Beach is a more laid-back spot where you can simply relax and soak up the sun. 

The white sand and turquoise water contrast with the desert landscape and the rocky cliffs.

You can watch the boats and kayaks pass by, or join them for a fun adventure.

You can also hike along the trails behind the beach or explore the rocks at each end of the cove.

Santa Maria is also perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for underwater exploration.

Perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for underwater exploration.

3. Palmilla Beach

Palmilla Beach is one of the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas for families with kids.

Located on the Sea of Cortez, this beautiful beach offers a calm and safe swimming area that is perfect for all ages.

The beach is known for its soft, white sand and warm, shallow waters, making it a great spot for little ones to play and splash around.

The gentle waves make it easy for kids to swim and explore the water, while parents can relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

For families looking for a little more adventure, this is also a great spot for water sports.

You can rent kayaks, and paddleboards, and even go on a snorkeling tour to explore the nearby coral reefs and marine life.

Alternatively, you can sit back and relax while your little ones play, and watch local fishermen launch their boats and buy fresh fish from them.

4. Chileno Beach

If you are looking for a great spot for snorkeling, you should definitely check out Chileno Beach.

This beach is one of the most popular and beautiful in the area, with clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.

But what makes it even more special is the amazing underwater scenery that awaits you just offshore.

Chileno Beach has a rocky reef that extends from the south of the beach to the north, creating a variety of habitats for marine life.

You can explore sand gullies, vertical rock walls, large boulders, overhangs, and coral outcrops, all teeming with colorful fish and other creatures.

The water is calm and clear, with great visibility. The depth can go up to 6 meters (20 feet), depending on how far you swim from the shore.

Snorkeling here is suitable for all levels, as long as you are comfortable in the water and respect the marine environment.

5. Playa del Amor

With a name like Playa del Amor (translation: “Lovers’ Beach”), you already know this is a great beach for romance and relaxation.

With its crystal clear waters, soft sands, and stunning rock formations, it’s the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway or anyone seeking a peaceful escape.

The beach’s secluded location is one of the biggest reasons why it’s famous as a spot for romance and relaxation.

It can only be reached by boat or kayak, making the experience more exclusive and intimate. 

This also means that the beach is usually less crowded than other popular beaches in the area, giving visitors a sense of peace and privacy.

The stunning scenery at Playa del Amor is also a major draw for people.

Situated near the famous Arch of Cabo, the beach is surrounded by towering rock formations, making for a picturesque backdrop for a romantic picnic or a stroll.

6. Playa Coral Negro

Playa Coral Negro is one of the Cannery Beaches in Cabo, which is known for its peaceful and secluded atmosphere.

It is one of the least used beaches in the area, except for local families who enjoy swimming and fishing there, so you’re almost guaranteed a peaceful time whenever you visit.

That’s one of the best things about Playa Coral Negro, unlike some of the other beaches on this list this beach will usually not be crowded.

This makes it a perfect spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families looking for a quiet day at the beach. 

It also has historical significance, Playa Coral Negro used to flank a pier belonging to the largest tuna cannery in Latin America.

Before tourism took Cabo by storm, it was one of the biggest sources of employment in the area.

7. Playa Bledito

Also known as Tequila Cove, this beach is located along the Tourist Corridor, just west of Playa Cabo Real.

If you are looking for a specific hotel with a swimmable beach in Cabo, both Hilton, and ME Cabo hotels are situated on this beach, and they offer day passes for visitors who want to use their pools and facilities.

It is a safe swimming beach thanks to the man-made breakwater that protects it from the strong waves and currents of the Sea of Cortez.

You can also enjoy water sports like jet skiing and wave running, using equipment that’s available for rent on the beach. 

If you want more solitude, you can walk southwest toward Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, a luxury resort with stunning views of the ocean.

There you can admire the contrast between the rugged coastline and the elegant architecture.

But make sure to stay behind the protected waters behind the breakwater here; going beyond can be quite risky. 

8. Playa Costa Azul

If you are looking for a beach that offers great waves, stunning views, and a laid-back vibe, then Playa Costa Azul is the place for you.

Playa Costa Azul happens to be one of the most popular surfing spots in Los Cabos, offering very reliable surfing conditions, especially in summer.

There are three main surf breaks here: Zippers, The Rock, and Old Man’s (also called Acapulquito).

Old Man’s is the most beginner friendly, so if you’ve never surfed before, you’ll want to start here.

The Rock is for intermediate surfers. And if you’re an experienced surfer looking for a challenge, you’ll want to try Zippers with its fast and powerful reef break.

Besides surfing, Playa Costa Azul also offers other activities such as swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and horse riding, or you can enjoy a delicious meal at Zippers Restaurant, which overlooks the beach and the surfers.

Wonderful beaches in Cabo that are not suitable for swimming

9. Divorce Beach

Divorce Beach is situated on the Pacific side of Land’s End.

It is connected by a narrow strip of sand to its more popular counterpart, Lovers’ Beach (#5 on this list), which faces the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez.

Divorce Beach got its name from the contrast between the two beaches.

While Lovers Beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing with your partner, Divorce Beach is too dangerous to enter the water due to the strong waves and rip currents. 

The beach is also exposed to the wind and sun, making it less comfortable than Lovers Beach. However, it has its own charm and beauty.

It offers beautiful views of the ocean and the dramatic rock formations that surround it.

You can also enjoy the peace and quiet of this beach, as it is less crowded than Lovers Beach.

10. Playa Solmar

Playa Solmar is a beautiful white sand beach that faces the Pacific Ocean and stretches from the iconic Land’s End rocks to the base of Pedregal, a luxury residential area. 

Playa Solmar is ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenery, but I would strongly recommend against swimming here.

There are strong currents and waves in the water here.

However, you can still have fun on the water by taking a boat tour, snorkeling, fishing, or whale watching.

Playa Solmar is also conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from the lively Cabo San Lucas marina, where you can find shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

If you are looking for a secluded and romantic beach getaway with easy access to the best of Cabo San Lucas, Playa Solmar is the perfect choice for you.

11. Playa Hotelera

Playa Hotelera is also known as Hotel Beach, because it is lined with many upscale resorts that offer stunning views of the turquoise sea.

Some hotels also allow non-guests to use their facilities with a day pass.

If you prefer to explore the beach on foot, you can walk along the shore and admire the waves crashing on the sand.

The beach is also not recommended for swimming due to strong undertows, but you can join a fishing tour and try your luck at catching marlin, tuna, or dorado.

Another attraction near Playa Hotelera is the San Jose’s Estuary and Bird Sanctuary, which is a protected reserve that hosts hundreds of species of wildlife.

You can observe hawks, herons, turtles, and more in their natural habitat. The estuary also has a bike path that leads to the historic downtown of San José del Cabo.

12. Monuments Beach

Monuments Beach is a small but scenic beach located on the eastern end of Cabo San Lucas Bay, just a few miles from the downtown area.

While the beach isn’t suitable for swimming, it is a great place to enjoy the views of the ocean and the iconic rock formations that give the beach its name.

The natural monuments at this beach rise from the water like ancient sculptures, creating a striking contrast with the blue sky and the green hills. 

If you are looking for a relaxing and romantic experience, you can also visit the Sunset Da Mona Lisa Restaurant, which overlooks Monuments Beach from a cliff.

This restaurant offers fine Italian cuisine and stunning terraced pools that blend with the natural landscape. 

You can watch the sun dip below the horizon and paint the sky with fiery colors while enjoying the beauty of Cabo San Lucas from this unique location.

Best Beaches near Cabo San Lucas

13. Cerritos Beach

Cerritos Beach, also known as Santa Lucia de Los Cerritos, is a popular surf spot located on the Pacific Coast of the Baja California peninsula in Cabo.

It’s a stunning beach with a laid-back vibe, making it a great destination for surfers, families, and couples alike.

The beach is famous for its consistent surf, making it a perfect spot for both beginners and advanced surfers.

The waves are generally small, but they can pick up during the winter months, providing a more challenging experience for experienced surfers. 

If you have no idea how to surf or don’t have equipment, don’t worry.

There are several surf schools and rental shops here, making it easy for visitors to learn how to surf or rent equipment.

In addition to surfing, there are many other activities that visitors can enjoy, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and even horseback riding.

There are also several restaurants and bars nearby, providing a great opportunity for visitors to relax and enjoy a cold drink or a delicious meal while taking in the beautiful views of the ocean.

Resorts with Swimmable Beaches in Cabo

✔️ Breathless Cabo San Lucas

Breathless is a chic, adults-only all-inclusive resort in Cabo that’s located on Medano Beach (#1 on this list).

The resort’s location lets it offer stunning views of the marina and the Sea of Cortez from every suite.

One of the best features of this resort is its Unlimited-Luxury concept, which means you can have it all without any limits or reservations.

Even for a luxurious, all-inclusive resort, Breathless takes luxury to the next level.

You can indulge in unlimited access to top-shelf spirits at chic bars and lounges, enjoy gourmet dining at 7 restaurants, take advantage of the 24-hour room service, pool and beach wait for service, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and much more.

You can also socialize with other guests at DJ pool parties, attend performances by different artists, and enjoy rooftop soirees at sunset.

The service that the staff provide is exceptional. Anahi was always trying to do the utmost to provide us with whatever we need and so was everyone else.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Yiddy, february 2021

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

✔️ Montage Los Cabos

Montage Los Cabos is a luxury resort that offers its guests a stunning location on the shores of Santa Maria Beach (#2 on this list).

It’s an ideal resort if you want to enjoy the natural beauty and authentic culture of Baja California, as well as the finest swimming, diving and snorkeling in the region.

At Montage Los Cabos, you can experience a variety of amenities and services that cater to your every need and desire.

You can relax by the pool or the private beach, indulge in a pampering treatment at the spa, savor gourmet cuisine at the various on-site restaurants and bars, or join in the fun activities and events that the resort organizes. 

You can also explore the nearby attractions of Cabo San Lucas, such as the marina, the golf courses, the shops and the nightlife.

‘Montage Los Cabos is a sanctuary where you can create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Montage Los Cabos is a sanctuary where you can create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Our hosts, Moises and Mylena were incredible! They were extremely friendly, quick to respond, and helped us with everything we needed! They are 10/10!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Yudkowsky, nov 2022

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

✔️ Hilton Los Cabos

Hilton offers visitors of Cabo a tropical paradise. The resort offers stunning views of the Sea of Cortez and access to world-class golf courses.

This resort has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.

You’ll stay in one of the spacious rooms or suites with spectacular views and a private balcony, dine at award-winning restaurants and bars with delicious cuisine, pamper yourself at the spa with rejuvenating treatments, and much more. 

On top of all that, you’ll get to enjoy one of the best swimmable beaches in the area, where you can have fun with water sports, fishing, or sunbathing.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, feeling the warm breeze on your skin, and gazing at the turquoise water of the Sea of Cortez.

That’s Hilton Los Cabos.

Location is amazing, nice restaurants and facilities

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ksenia, june 2021

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

Things to Do at Cabo’s Beaches

📌 Water sports and activities

Cabo’s beaches have pretty much every watersport and activity that you can imagine available.

Whether you want to explore the underwater world, soar above the waves, or speed across the ocean, you can do that and more.

I’ll cover some of the top water activities in Cabo below.

🌊 Sailing: Sailing is one of the more laidback Los Cabos water activities, but many captains will allow you to stop and enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking at different spots.

One of the most popular Cabo sailing ocean adventures is whale watching.

From December to April, you can witness these majestic creatures as they migrate through the waters of Cabo.

🌊 Parasailing: If you want to experience a bird’s eye view of Cabo, parasailing is the perfect activity for you.

You can fly up to 600 feet above the water, feeling the breeze and admiring the scenery.

You can choose to fly solo or with a partner, and even dip your feet in the water for a refreshing splash.

🌊 Jet Skiing: You can rent a jet ski and zoom around the Sea of Cortez, enjoying the views of the famous Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Pelican Rock.

There are many options for jet skiing in Cabo, from guided tours to rentals.

You can choose from single or double jet skis, and enjoy a safety chase boat and radio communication with experienced instructors.

🌊 Snorkeling: The Sea of Cortez, on which Cabo is located, is one of the most biodiverse seas on the planet.

Jacques Cousteau, the French oceanographer, called the Sea of Cortez “The World’s Aquarium”.

Snorkeling is a great way to explore the biodiversity of the waters around Cabo.

You can snorkel from the shore or join a boat tour that will take you to some of the best snorkeling sites, such as Santa Maria Bay, Chileno Bay, the Land’s End, and more.

🌊 Scuba Diving: If you want to go deeper into the underwater world, scuba diving is the way to go.

Cabo has some of the most amazing diving sites in Mexico (for the reasons I’ve mentioned above), where you can see whales, sharks, rays, turtles, and more.

You can choose from different levels of difficulty, from beginner to advanced, and even get certified by a professional instructor.

🌊 Fishing: Cabo is known as the marlin capital of the world, but that’s not the only fish you can catch here.

You can also reel in tuna, dorado, wahoo, snapper, and more.

You can join a fishing charter that will provide you with all the equipment and guidance you need, or rent your own boat and try your luck on your own.

The activities I’ve covered above are just some of the most popular in Cabo. Rest assured that you’ll have a grand time at Cabo’s beaches.

📌 Nearby attractions and day trips

The magic of Cabo doesn’t end at the city limits.

There are countless day trips and nearby attractions to explore, allowing you to discover the diverse beauty and culture of the region.

I’ll cover some of these day trips below.

👉🏽 Todos Santos

About an hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas lies the charming town of Todos Santos.

Known for its rich history, art galleries, and laid-back atmosphere, Todos Santos offers a delightful change of pace from the bustle of Cabo. 

Wander the cobblestone streets, shop for local handicrafts, and savor traditional Mexican cuisine in this quaint Pueblo Mágico.

👉🏽 La Paz

The capital city of Baja California Sur, La Paz, is just a two-hour drive from Cabo. It’s an excellent destination for those seeking a more authentic and relaxed Mexican experience. 

Stroll along the Malecón, a picturesque boardwalk lined with art sculptures and vibrant murals, or explore the area’s pristine beaches like Playa Balandra and Tecolote. 

La Paz is also a prime location for water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming with whale sharks (in season).

👉🏽 Cabo Pulmo National Park

For nature enthusiasts and underwater explorers, Cabo Pulmo National Park is a must-visit.

Located about a two-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to one of the oldest and most successful marine reserves in the world.

Its thriving coral reef system hosts a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and over 200 species of fish.

Snorkeling and scuba diving here are truly unforgettable experiences.

👉🏽 Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve

Adventure seekers will relish the opportunity to explore the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, a mountainous oasis located about 65 miles north of Cabo San Lucas. 

This protected area offers a unique mix of desert, mountain, and subtropical ecosystems, providing ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.

Don’t miss the chance to cool off in the crystal-clear pools and waterfalls hidden within the reserve.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cabo

Wrapping up: Best beaches in Cabo

I hope you enjoyed this list of the best beaches in Cabo. In this post, I made sure to cover a variety of beaches for beach lovers of all kinds.

Whether you’re looking for a lively party scene, a romantic getaway, a family-friendly spot, or a secluded paradise, there’s a recommendation for you above.

So now that you know the best beaches in Cabo, book your tickets, pack your sunscreen and swimsuit, and get ready to have the time of your life!