Cabo San Lucas is a mecca for beach lovers who flock to this Pacific Coast paradise from all over the world. Cresting the edge of the Baja Peninsula, white sand beaches line the shoreline, nestled between towering cliffs and water so clear, calm, and blue it’s impossible to resist.
Top Beaches in Cabo San Lucas
Whether you just like to relax on the sand, party like a rockstar, explore the rich undersea world by snorkeling or scuba diving, wakeboard, or surf a point break, Cabo beaches have it all.
We have our favorite beaches, as do the locals—and of course, it’s hard to drill down on which Cabo beach can be awarded the top spot because it depends on what floats your boat. Challenging as it was, we managed to curate a list that has a little something for everyone.
Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor)
Playa del Amor at Land’s End is famous for sunbathers, families, and swimmers. The waters are calm and shallow, and the scenery is breathtaking, the beach nestled between rocky formations. However, it’s usually quite crowded because it’s one of the most popular spots for tour groups. If you’re looking for more elbow room, stroll through the rocks to Divorce Beach, just a few steps away on the Pacific side.
Best for: social beach days, sightseeing, swimming.
The Arch
Located at the southernmost tip of Land’s End, El Arco (The Arch) is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Baja. The Arch separates the Sea of Cortez from the Pacific Ocean, and it’s nothing short of a snorkeler’s dream. If you visit The Arch, be sure you snorkel on both sides as the fish, water, and wave patterns are so unique; it’s like diving into two different seas—which you are, actually. The only way to access the Arch is by sea, so booking a charter is recommended.
Best for: snorkeling, sightseeing, scuba diving.
Chileno Beach
Most locals call Chileno Beach their top pick for snorkeling and swimming. From incredible coral reefs, sea fans, and fascinating rock formations to the diverse and abundant marine life, you don’t have to dive deep or go too far or dive too deep to experience all of it. Swimming is excellent at Chileno, too; the waters are clear and warm, and the tides are calm enough for swimmers of all ages, sizes, and skill levels. There are freshwater showers to rinse off and cute little tide pools around the bases of the surrounding cliffs, so there is lots to explore!
Best for: swimming, snorkeling, families, relaxing.
Santa Maria Beach
Santa Maria Beach is a protected marine sanctuary and a popular spot for snorkelers and sunbathers. It’s secluded, and the water is calm and warm, making it a prime destination for charter tours and dive excursions. Despite its beauty and provenance, few services are available on-site, so it’s advisable to bring snacks, water, and whatever you might need to make your beach day one to remember. If you’re into snorkeling, we suggest visiting in the morning when the beach is quietest, and the water is calm. If you’re lucky, you might even see some whales!
Best for: snorkeling, swimming, relaxing.
Los Cerritos Beach
Surf’s always up at Los Cerritos Beach—and luckily, you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy it! The vibe is relaxed, inclusive, and vibrant, and there are plenty of board rental tents to outfit you with everything you need to catch a wave. Lessons are available for all ages, but experienced surfers can paddle out to the point break for a more challenging ride. Not into surfing but love the surf culture? Cerritos will make you feel right at home with its incredible beach scene, replete with bars, restaurants, and live music to get your groove on.
Best for: Surfing, partying, nightlife, surf culture, bohemian vibe.
Palmilla Beach
Surrounded by luxury homes and resorts, Palmilla Beach is popular with families with children who love dipping into the shallow waters and tide pools. Palmilla Beach is easily accessible by road, and the water is the perfect level of calm for paddle boarders, swimmers, and snorkelers. Palmilla is a Blue Flag Beach, declared by the Foundation for Environmental Education in Denmark, as it complies with stringent criteria for safety, accessibility, and environmental conservation standards. Because it is so popular with families, there are plenty of amenities for visitors, including public showers, washrooms, and a large parking lot. Plus, there’s always a lifeguard on duty, so you can relax and enjoy your day at the beach.
Best for: family beach days and paddle boarders.
Medano Beach (Playa el Médano)
For those who love the party life, Medano Beach is a must-go. It’s the closest beach to Cabo and is understandably popular with tourists. It’s also known as a safe swimming beach, its white powdery sand stretching for miles along Cabo San Lucas Bay and ending in Villa del Palmar. There are tons of bars and restaurants to visit, and you’ll be able to find just about every kind of Mexican delight, be it food or beverage. One caveat, however—and this may or may not matter to you—it’s quite touristy and crowded on any given day. The demographic is young and hip, and it’s super lively around sunset. If you want to try parasailing, rent jet skis, go waterskiing, or banana boating, Medano is where to do it. If you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the sand, you can join in a beach volleyball game, play frisbee, or make a few new friends as you soak up all that delicious Mexican sunshine.
Best for: party vibe, rentals, beach games, swimming, vendors, touristy stuff.
What’s Your Beach Jam?
These may be our top beaches, but we invite you to explore and choose your favorite. We’re always interested in talking beach, so we’re all ears if you have any discoveries to share!
Experience Cabo beaches your way: Book a Pelican Cabo boat charter today!
