Cabo Beach Top 10 List: What You Need to Know

Cabo San Lucas is pretty famous for its amazing coastline, and there are tons of beaches to pick from, no matter what you're looking for. Whether you're just planning a quick trip or thinking about getting a vacation home, knowing the best beaches in Cabo is super important for a great time. From quiet little coves where you can just chill out to busy spots near fancy resorts, there's a beach for everyone. This cabo beach top 10 list will help you figure out the perfect place for your next adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Cabo has a beach for every vibe, from lively party spots to quiet, secluded coves.
• Always check the water conditions; not all Cabo beaches are safe for swimming due to strong currents.
• Many beaches offer water sports and activities, so you'll never be bored.
• Some beaches are easily accessible, while others might need a car or a bit of a trek.
• Don't forget your sunscreen and camera – the views are incredible!

1. Medano Beach

Medano Beach is the place to be in Cabo if you're looking for action. It's the main beach, right in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, and it's known for being lively and swimmable. You can easily spend a whole day here, soaking up the sun and enjoying the views of Land's End. It's super accessible, and you'll find plenty of parking nearby, though it can get pretty crowded, especially during peak season. But honestly, the energy is infectious if you're into that kind of vibe. Plus, it's a prime spot for people-watching!

There's a ton to do on Medano Beach, whether you're into water sports or just chilling on the sand. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis – you name it. And if you're not a water person, no worries! There are tons of restaurants and shops right on the beach. Vendors walk around selling everything from clothes to trinkets, so you can even do some shopping while you sip on a margarita. Just be prepared to haggle a bit!

Speaking of food, Medano Beach has some great restaurants. You can find everything from fresh seafood to traditional Mexican food to good old burgers and fries. Adults-only escape at SUR Beach Club is a popular choice, with great food and cocktails, plus access to beach chairs, towels, and showers. Other good options include The Office, 7 Tribes, Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, and Cascadas. Most places take credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some pesos on hand, especially for parking.

If you're looking for a party, Medano Beach is the place to be. Mango Deck is probably the most famous spot, known for its Spring Break parties and wet t-shirt contests. It's definitely a wild scene! For something a bit more low-key, check out the ME Melia Hotel and Pool Party, which offers bottle service and DJs.

If you want a quieter experience, head towards the southern end of Medano Beach. The crowds tend to thin out a bit down there, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery without all the hustle and bustle.

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

• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing), shopping
• Food & Drink: Wide variety of restaurants and bars serving everything from seafood to burgers to cocktails
• Atmosphere: Lively, energetic, and often crowded, especially during peak season

2. Lovers Beach

Okay, so Lovers Beach is a must-see. It's not your typical beach, that's for sure. Getting there is half the fun because you need a boat or kayak. Water taxis are easy to find, usually around $10 per person, and they give you a little tour around Land's End before dropping you off. It's a touristy thing, but honestly, it's worth it. You can catch one at the marina or right on the sand near Mango Deck.

The beach itself is nestled between some pretty cool rock formations right at the tip of Land's End. It's on the Sea of Cortez side, which means the water is usually calm enough for swimming and snorkeling.

If you want a chill experience, get there early. It gets busier as the day goes on with more boat tours showing up. There aren't any facilities right on the beach, but the boat tours often have drinks and sometimes snorkeling gear.

Lovers Beach is great for a romantic picnic or just chilling without a bunch of vendors bugging you. Plus, it's only a short walk through a rock crevasse to Divorce Beach on the Pacific side, if you're feeling adventurous (but be careful swimming there!).

Here's a few things to keep in mind:

• Take a water taxi to get there.
• Bring your own snacks and drinks.
• Consider a glass-bottom boat tour for cool views of the marine life.

3. Divorce Beach

Divorce Beach is a trip, I'm telling you. It's right next to Lover's Beach, but the vibe is totally different. You can only get there by boat, which already makes it feel like a bit of an adventure. The name isn't just for show; the currents are super strong, and swimming is a big no-no. Seriously, don't even think about it.

It's located on the Pacific side, so the waves are intense. I mean, really intense. It's more of a place to sit and watch the ocean do its thing. The scenery is amazing, though. Huge rocks, crashing waves... it's pretty dramatic. Definitely a good spot for photos, if you're into that kind of thing. Just be careful and don't get too close to the water. You don't want to end up as a cautionary tale.

• Not safe for swimming. Seriously. Don't do it.
• Great for taking pictures, especially at sunset.
• Only accessible by boat, so plan accordingly.

I remember this one time, this guy tried to go for a swim. The waves just picked him up and tossed him around like a rag doll. He was fine, eventually, but it was scary to watch. The lifeguards were yelling, and everyone was pointing. It was a whole scene. So yeah, stick to the sand.

If you're looking for a beach to chill and swim, this isn't it. But if you want to see some crazy ocean action and get some cool photos, Divorce Beach is worth the trip. Just respect the water, and you'll be good. Consider booking a whale shark snorkeling tour that includes a stop here for the best experience.

4. Diamante Beach

Okay, so Diamante Beach is a bit different. It's about a 20-minute drive northwest of downtown Cabo San Lucas, towards Todos Santos. You'll find it in the Diamante Cabo San Lucas golf and resort community. Now, this isn't your typical swimming beach. The waves are known to be pretty big and crash hard against the shore.

It's more of a scenic spot than a swimming destination.

Think of it as a place to chill, listen to the ocean, and soak in the natural beauty of Los Cabos. Plus, it's usually not crowded with vendors, which is a nice bonus for some peace and quiet.

From November to March, Diamante Beach becomes a prime location for whale watching. You can sit and watch whales as they migrate south, along with other marine life. The sunsets here are also amazing, with unobstructed views of the Pacific. Just be prepared for wind; it can get pretty breezy. If you've got dogs, it's a great place to let them run, just remember to bring a leash and bags.

Diamante Beach is a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Cabo. It's not the best for swimming, but the views, whale watching (in season), and sunsets make it worth a visit. Just remember to bring a windbreaker!

5. Chileno Beach

Chileno Beach is a great spot if you want a mix of chilling out and doing something fun. It's known as one of the best beaches around Cabo for swimming, thanks to its calm and clear water – perfect for snorkeling! If you're looking for Cabo adventures, the underwater life here is pretty amazing, full of colorful fish and other sea creatures. It's easy to get to by car, and there's plenty of parking. It can get a bit crowded later in the day, so getting there early is a good idea if you want a quieter experience.

Chileno Beach is well-kept, and there are lifeguards around to keep everyone safe. It's also recognized as a Blue Flag beach, which means it meets high standards for cleanliness, safety, and environmental care. They ask that you don't bring BBQs or cooking stuff to help keep the beach clean and maintain its Blue Flag status.

One thing I really like about Chileno is that it's a safe place for families. The water is calm, and there are good facilities like restrooms and even wheelchair access. Plus, it's free from vendors and loud music, which can be a nice change from some of the other beaches.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Swimming: Excellent, calm waters.
• Snorkeling: Lots of marine life to see.
• Accessibility: Easy to reach with plenty of parking.

6. Santa Maria Beach

Okay, so Santa Maria Beach is next on the list, and it's a good one. I think it's a great spot if you're looking for a chill beach day. It's located along the Tourist Corridor, and it's known for its calm waters. The water is usually super clear, which makes it perfect for snorkeling.

It's easy to get to by car, and there's plenty of parking. Just keep an eye out for the "Playa Publica" sign when you're exiting the highway; that'll lead you right to the parking area. It's at KM 12 on the Los Cabos Highway. You can bring your own snorkeling gear, or you can rent some there. Underwater visibility is best in the morning before the ocean starts to stir sediment from the bottom of the cove. Playa Santa Maria is recognized for its rich and diverse gathering of wildlife, both marine and terrestrial. This is the destination of several guided snorkeling and scuba trips in Cabo San Lucas because of its wide variety of animal wildlife and easy visibility.

Here's a few things to keep in mind:

• Bring your own snacks and drinks. There aren't a ton of vendors right on the beach, and the restaurants can be a bit pricey.
• Get there early. It can get crowded, especially in the middle of the day when the tour boats show up.
• No dogs are allowed, so leave your furry friends at home.

I really like Santa Maria Beach because it's a nice place to just relax. I usually bring a book, a cooler, and just hang out for the day. It's definitely one of my favorite beaches in the Los Cabos area. If you're looking for luxury villas to stay at, this area is a great choice.

Here's a quick rundown:

Feature	Rating
Size	Medium
Crowd	Medium
Snorkeling	Great
Fishing	Poor

7. El Tule Beach

Okay, so El Tule Beach is a bit of a mixed bag, but that's what makes it interesting, right? It's located at KM 16.2 on the Los Cabos Highway, so keep an eye out for the Puente Los Tules. You'll probably see a bunch of cars parked near the bridge – that's your cue. There's usually construction going on, so the route might change, but don't worry, there are often traffic guards to point you in the right direction.

El Tule is known for surfing and sunbathing. It's not usually super crowded, which is a plus if you're looking to chill. The waves can be pretty strong, making it a decent spot for surfing, especially for beginners. You might even see some surfing classes happening. You can drive pretty close to the water, but honestly, I wouldn't recommend it. It's not great for the environment, and there's always a risk of getting stuck. Plus, who wants to deal with that hassle?

It's a long beach, perfect for a run. Just a heads up, though: the sand has small rocks, pebbles, and twigs, so you might want to bring running shoes. Trust me, your feet will thank you. Early mornings are the best time to visit. You'll catch a great sunrise and avoid most of the traffic. El Tule eventually turns into Playa El Bledito, where you'll find a bunch of resorts.

I went to El Tule last month, and it was pretty cool. The waves were decent, and there weren't too many people around. I tried fishing off the rocks, but didn't catch anything. Still, it was a nice way to spend the afternoon. Just remember to bring water and snacks, because there aren't many places to buy stuff nearby.

While the water is usually calm enough to swim, El Tule isn't really known for snorkeling. There are a lot of rocks on the ocean floor, which makes it not so great for casual swimming either. But if you're into fishing, this could be your spot. You can cast lures from the rocks on the left side of the beach. Just watch out for the occasional spray!

8. Playa El Bledito

Playa El Bledito is one of those beaches that's great for a run. It stretches along the water's edge for what feels like miles. The sand has small pebbles, so running shoes are a good idea. You'll find it at KM 16.2 on the Los Cabos Highway; just turn at Puente Los Tules. You'll know you're in the right spot when you see everyone parked under the bridge.

As you walk, you'll pass a bunch of resorts with different things to offer at Solaz. If you want to grab a bite or a drink at one of the all-inclusive resorts, just know they might charge a day rate, which could make that margarita lunch surprisingly expensive. It's a long beach, so it doesn't usually get too crowded.

This beach is known for its beautiful sunrises, so getting there early is a good idea. It's also home to some pretty big resorts, like Solaz and Grand Velas. For a really luxurious experience, check out Villa Serena, which is right on the beach. Some people have even seen sea turtles laying eggs from the villa's pool!

9. Palmilla Beach

Palmilla Beach is where it's at if you're hunting for a bit of luxury. Nestled in a fancy resort area, this beach has soft, white sand and a super chill vibe. The water's calm, making it perfect for swimming and just soaking up the sun. Plus, the resorts around here? They've got all the upscale stuff you could want, like world-class golf courses, fancy restaurants, and spa days. What's not to love?

Palmilla Beach is usually less packed than some of the other beaches around Cabo, so you get a more exclusive, peaceful experience. Parking can be a little tricky since you mostly get to the beach through the resorts. But hey, many resorts let their guests and the public access the beach, so it usually works out.

If you're planning on snagging a palapa for some shade, especially on the weekend, get there early! They fill up fast, but they're perfect for a family of four. And during whale season? This spot is awesome for watching whales breach. Seriously, it's a sight to see.

Here's a few things you can do at Palmilla Beach:

• Swimming in the clear, calm waters.
• Snorkeling to see some cool fish.
• Sunbathing on the soft sand.
• Relaxing under a palapa with a good book.

Palmilla Beach is known as one of the best swimming beaches in the area. It even hosts the swimming part of Ironman Los Cabos most years. The beach is swimmable year-round, but it's always a good idea to be careful. You can also rent snorkeling gear and check out the underwater world, which is full of colorful fish and maybe even some sea turtles. Just remember to bring your own snacks and drinks, because there aren't any food vendors right on the beach.

10. Costa Azul Beach

Costa Azul Beach is a cool spot near San Jose del Cabo. It's known for being a great place to surf and just hang out. The beach has soft sand and clear water, which makes it popular with both surfers and people who just want to chill.

If you're into surfing, this is the place to be. Costa Azul is home to the annual Los Cabos Open Surf, which is part of the World Surf League. What's awesome is that the beach has different areas for all skill levels, from beginners to pros. The competition is a blast, with surfers from all over, live music, and food trucks. You can find hotels in Cabo near the beach.

Even if you're not a surfer, Costa Azul is still a great place to spend the day. You can relax on the sand, soak up the sun, and enjoy the vibe. Swimming can be a bit tricky because of the waves, so just be aware of that. There's also a cool bar and grill right on the beach called 7Seas, where you can grab some food and drinks while watching a game on TV.

Costa Azul is a good mix of action and relaxation. Whether you want to catch some waves or just kick back with a cold drink, this beach has something for everyone. It's a must-visit if you're in the area.

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

• Great surfing conditions for all levels
• A lively beach scene with music and food
• A relaxing place to soak up the sun

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Cabo has a bunch of great beaches, and each one is a little different. Whether you want to party, chill out, or try some water stuff, there's a spot for you. Just remember to check the rules and be careful with the waves. Have fun out there!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which beach is best for a lively time and water sports?

Medano Beach is known for its lively atmosphere and lots of activities like jet skiing. It's also considered very safe for swimming because lifeguards are always on duty.

What's the best beach for snorkeling and seeing the Arch?

Lovers Beach is a great spot for snorkeling and seeing the famous Arch. You can only get there by boat, making it a special adventure.

Why isn't Divorce Beach good for swimming?

Divorce Beach is right next to Lovers Beach. It's beautiful but has strong currents, so swimming there isn't safe.

Can anyone visit Diamante Beach?

Diamante Beach is part of a private resort and is known for its quiet, fancy vibe. It's not usually open to the public.

Which beach is good for families and has calm waters?

Chileno Beach is a calm, clean beach that's perfect for families. It has clear waters and is great for swimming and snorkeling.

Where can I go for great snorkeling in a protected area?

Santa Maria Beach is a protected area, making it a fantastic place to snorkel and see lots of marine life. It's a bit quieter than some other beaches.