Cabo San Lucas, Mexico: Activities and Food Guide

The resort city of Cabo San Lucas is a tourist destination ideal for adventure seekers, beach bums, and party animals. You are bound to have a great visit with ice-cold margaritas, fresh ceviche, and ocean views.

Located at the end of the Baja California Peninsula, the desert landscape and rocky cliffs are juxtaposed with the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. A sight to behold!

Brad and I spent a week exploring, sunbathing, and eating our way through Cabo San Lucas. Take a look at my review of The Bungalows Hotel if you need a place to stay. Below I've put together a list of our favorite things to do and places to eat to help plan your trip.

The Marina

I highly recommend going on a boat ride unless you get seasick. The Marina is full of water taxis, fishing boats, and yachts. Walk around to see pelicans, sea lions, and fish. Grab a cocktail, people watch, find a souvenir, or bargain for a whale watching tour.

El Arco

The Arch, or Land's End, is an iconic rock formation on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. For 500 Pesos ($25 USD), Brad and I booked a 45 minute boat ride around the point. After the tour and pictures, we negotiated a drop off and pick up at Lover's Beach.

Playa del Amor and Playa del Divorcio

Pack plenty of food and drinks before you grab a water taxi to Lover's Beach and Divorce Beach. We spent about three hours here, but could've spent a whole day with the stunning views and golden sand. The grand rocks, powerful waves, and snorkeling make these side-by-side beaches irresistible.

Ceviche

Undoubtedly the best meals I had in Cabo San Lucas involved ceviche (fresh raw seafood marinated in citrus juices) served with tortilla chips. Wake up your tastebuds with the El Faro (tuna with onion) and Perrona (spicy shrimp, crab, and octopus with chili and avocado) at Mariscos Paseo del Centenario.

Hiking

Looking for a way to burn off a few margaritas or tacos? Take a hike up to the summit of Cerro de la Z for amazing 360° views of Cabo San Lucas. Another popular hike is up to Solmar Mountain, but it requires a local guide to allow access to the private trail on his schedule.

Todos Santos

If you have extra time, spend an afternoon in the magical town of Todos Santos which is only 1.5 hours away from Cabo San Lucas. The quiet cobblestone streets are filled with shops, street art, and restaurants. Grab an ice cream cone at Baja Tasty and take a picture in front of the Hotel California. Although often associated with the Eagles, this hotel did not inspire the catchy tune.

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

From October to April in La Paz, whale sharks come to feed on plankton blooms in the Sea of Cortez. As long as the wind isn't too strong, permits are allowed for boats to enter the protected area. Snorkeling with whale sharks was a majestic bucket list experience and our tour company, Cabo Adventures, was fantastic!

Tacos and Burritos

Ready to spice things up? Head on over to La Taquiza for a mouthwatering array of tacos and salsas. Our favorites were the al pastor, marlin, and cheesy shrimp tacos. Another recommendation is Las Mariscadas for the shrimp burrito stuffed with cheese, beans, and poblano peppers. YUM!

Playa el Medano

Medano Beach has everything you could ever need for a day in the sun with its swimmable shore, rock cliff views, and lively bars. We spent most of the day at The Sand Bar chilling in beach chairs with tasty cocktails and ceviche. Vendors walk up and down the beach selling goods and snacks. Check out Mango Deck for a party atmosphere.

Coffee and Tea

Need a pick me up? Terrace Coffee is a beautiful rooftop café with string lights, lush plants, and friendly service. Brad and I enjoyed the herbal teas and chai lattes while playing a game of rummy. It's a great place to read a book, surf the web, or relax.

The touristy vibe and high prices of Cabo San Lucas almost deterred us from visiting. I highly recommend wandering the side streets to discover some of the less commercial and more affordable restaurants. Looking back, it was a worthwhile way to start our backpacking trek across Mexico!