Things to Do in Los Cabos

Los Cabos sits at the confluence of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez — two bodies of water with completely different character. This meeting shapes most of the best activities in the area.

El Arco and Land’s End

The granite rock arch at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula — where Pacific meets Sea of Cortez — is the defining image of Los Cabos. Water taxis from the marina reach the beach at Playa del Amor directly below the arch; the water at the arch itself has too strong a current for swimming. Glass-bottom boat tours run from the marina and show the underwater rock formations and sea life below the arch. Sea lion colonies live on the rocks at Land’s End and are visible from the water.

Whale watching and marine wildlife

The Sea of Cortez — Cousteau’s “aquarium of the world” — has exceptional marine life diversity.

Whale sharks (October–February): Swims with whale sharks occur primarily around La Paz (3 hours north) but operators in Los Cabos run tours to the same area. Strict guidelines apply: no touching, minimum distance.

Humpback whales (December–March): both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo offer half-day whale watching tours. The density of humpbacks in Banderas Bay to the north is higher but Los Cabos sees good sightings.

Snorkelling: The calmer Sea of Cortez side (east coast, Corridor north beaches — Santa María, Chileno) has the best snorkelling near the town. Cleaner water and fish populations.

Sport fishing

Los Cabos is one of the world’s most famous sport fishing destinations — particularly for marlin, dorado (mahi-mahi), tuna, and sailfish. The offshore waters have the highest concentrations of trophy fish on the Pacific coast of the Americas. Charter boats range from budget to luxury; half-day and full-day trips available from the marina. Season: year-round, peak April–November for marlin.

San José del Cabo art walk

The Thursday evening art walk (5–9 pm, November–June season) opens around 15 galleries in the historic district simultaneously. The cobblestone streets around the mission church and the art district are at their liveliest. Free and self-guided.

Water sports

Surfing: the Pacific side of the Corridor has reliable breaks — Costa Azul (near San José) is the most consistent. Glass-bottom kayaking at El Arco gives a non-snorkel view of the rock ecosystem. Parasailing from Playa El Médano.

Desert and inland

The surrounding landscape is Sonoran Desert — Cactus Farm tours near San José introduce the range of cactus species. ATV tours run into the desert behind the resort strip. Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo (80 km north on the Sea of Cortez) is one of the most pristine coral reefs in the world — a full day trip but one of the best dives/snorkel experiences on the entire peninsula.