Choose from 24 Fun Things to Do in California
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Mission of San Jose del Cabo Church
This iconic Catholic Church located in the heart of Cabo was founded in 1730. Its brilliant white bell towers and striking interior pay homage to the life and death of Jesuit priest, Nicolas Tamaral, who was martyred on the site where this building now stands. The church remains a destination for travelers seeking an escape from the festive city streets and sandy stretches of scenic beach. Those looking for a taste of history can learn about the destruction that took place during a major hurricane in the early 1900s and see what remains or the original walls, mosaics and façade on a tour of the church.
Practical Info
This traditional church is located in the town’s main square. Mass takes place Monday through Friday at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m. (in English), 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Address: Miguel Hidalgo S/N, Centro, San José del Cabo, Mexico
From $ 35
Land's End (Finisterra)
Located at the southern end of Cabo San Lucas, Land’s End (Finisterra) features dramatic rock formations jutting out into the sea, hidden beaches, and a rich variety of sea life. Here you can seek out the remote stretch of sand known as Lover’s Beach, admire sunbathing sea lions, and see the picturesque El Arco, or archway.
The Basics
Most tours of Land’s End leave from Cabo San Lucas and all include a boat cruise, as the area is only reachable from the water. Options range from basic sightseeing excursions in a glass-bottom boat to romantic sunset cruises, and sometimes include tequila tasting and dinner. You can also opt for a swimming and snorkeling tour of nearby Cabo San Lucas Marine Park, or soar above the water on a parasailing excursion. Some full-day tours visit Land’s End along with other Los Cabos attractions, such as glass-blowing shops and boutiques.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Land’s End is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- The water near El Arco is too dangerous for swimming, as the surf can be very rough.
- There are very few vendors or facilities in the area, so pack your lunch and remember to bring essentials such as water and sunscreen.
How to Get There
Land’s End is located at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula (Baja California Sur), roughly two miles (3.2 kilometers) from downtown Cabo San Lucas. You can’t reach Land’s End on foot, so the best way to get there is by guided tour or via water taxi from the downtown marina.
When to Get There
Visit Land’s End at sunset for a romantic atmosphere and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean. You can see Land’s End year-round, although winter (December through April) is the busiest season and the best time for whale watching. Visit in May or June for comfortable springtime weather and fewer crowds.
Highlights of Land’s End
Don’t miss the famous arch El Arco, Pelican Rock, or the area’s resident sea lion colony. Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) and Medano Beach are also must-see attractions. Relatively untouched, the area as a whole offers a quiet escape from downtown.
Address: Sol Mar, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
El Arco
A signature landmark of Los Cabos, El Arco de Cabo San Lucas—known locally as simply “El Arco” or “the Arch”—is a limestone arch carved by time, tide, and wind. The natural attraction runs runs down to the water’s edge at Land’s End, the southern tip of Cabo San Lucas (which itself is at the southern end of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula) and into the Sea of Cortez. From a distance, the rock formation looks like a dragon; up close, the arch frames sky, sea, and sand for prime photos.
The Basics
Because El Arco is a natural formation that’s accessible only by water, the only way to get close to it is by boat. Numerous tours leaving from the Cabo San Lucas marina offer various ways to see the arch. Adventurous travelers can opt for a kayaking and snorkeling tour—or parasail over it! Those looking to relax with friends can sail by it on a catamaran or sailboat, or take an evening cruise that includes dinner and drinks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A combo tour—including a stop at El Arco, a Cabo San Lucas shopping trip, a tequila tasting, and a snorkeling tour—is a great way to sample a variety of what the Cabo San Lucas area has to offer.
- Small groups or families can charter a private boat for a more intimate experience.
- A glass-bottom boat or kayak enables visitors to see the Sea of Cortez marine life in its natural habitat.
- A sunset cruise is a wonderful way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing on land.
How to Get There
El Arco is located at the tip of Land’s End, the spit of land running east of downtown Cabo San Lucas and the marina. It is accessible only by boat, whether on a tour, independently, or via boat taxi.
When to Get There
The tropical climate of Los Cabos makes El Arco delightful to explore year-round, but keep in mind that the area is at its busiest around winter (between November and April) and its rainiest in late summer.
Marine Life Around El Arco
Those interested in marine life will enjoy a scuba or snorkeling tour around El Arco. Glass-bottom kayak tours go past colonies of sea lions and plenty of tropical fish on the way to Pelican Rock and Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor). Larger glass-bottom boat tours explore the history of Los Cabos as passengers enjoy sweeping views of Pelican Rock, El Arco, and Land’s End—where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.
Address: Land's End, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
San Jose del Cabo
The two towns that make up “Los Cabos” are fraternal—not identical—twins. They both have long, sandy beaches with crystalline turquoise waters, and they both offer a luxurious escape on the Baja Peninsula’s tip. Whereas Cabo San Lucas is a wild, however, and teems with non-stop partying, San Jose del Cabo is more than happy to drift at a slower pace. Here, 20 miles east of Cabo San Lucas on the road heading towards Los Barrilles, colonial architecture and lazy afternoons replace the thump of beach clubs.
That said, San Jose del Cabo is anything but lazy; grab a snorkel and head north to Cabo Pulmo to explore Baja’s only coral reef, or wax up your surfboard to race along of the numerous world-class waves. The fishing here in San Jose del Cabo is as legendary as Cabo San Lucas, with the main difference being celebrating the catch in Colonial Plaza Mijares—rather than a crowded, oceanfront bar full of travelers all ready to party. Birdwatchers and hikers can enjoy a stroll through Estero San Jose, where red tailed hawks and white herons inhabit the oceanfront trails. Spend a morning tanning on the sand of Playa Santa Maria, and finish the night by wandering the old town past Iglesia San Jose. The town is a fusion of resort luxury with traditional Mexican charm—and a calming respite from its rowdy neighbor just a few miles down the coast.
Practical Info
San Jose del Cabo is located 15 minutes from the Los Cabos International Airport. Its’ 18 miles east of Cabo San Lucas, and the winter months of December-April are the most popular time to visit.
Address: San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
From $ 35
San Jose Estuary
This stunning sanctuary located between San Jose del Cabo and the Marina is home to hundreds of species of indigenous birds and colorful wildlife. Nature lovers flock to this protected body of fresh water for sunrise kayak journeys and relaxing sunset hikes. It’s popular among birdwatchers, thanks to a peaceful habitat that attracts these wild winged creatures. Travelers say that although damage from the most recent hurricane is still apparent, the San Juan Estuary remains an impressive and worthy destination for visitors looking to escape back into nature and experience the beauty of Mexico. Lucky travelers may spot local fishermen returning with the day’s catch or giant turtles wandering along the shores where strong waves lap the sand.
Practical Info
San Jose Estuary is located east of the Presidente Forum Resort on Paseo San Juan in San Jose del Cabo. It is free to enter and open daily from dawn until dusk.
Address: Blvd. Antonio Mijares, San José del Cabo, Mexico
Hours: Open daily from dawn until dusk
From $ 75
Isla Espiritu Santo
Isla Espiritu Santo, off the coast of La Paz in the Gulf of California, is part of the national marine park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This long narrow island is abundant in wildlife, both above and below the ocean’s surface, and a popular destination for travelers looking to experience some of the best of Mexico’s outdoors.
The Basics
Only reachable by boat, Isla Espiritu Santo features unspoiled beaches and dozens of bays teeming with tropical fish and marine life. It’s most often visited on a day trip from La Paz, and the only way to spend any substantial amount of time here is to camp. Multi-day camping trips allow for the freedom to explore the island’s hiking paths and terrain. One of the highlights of a visit to Isla Espiritu Santo is a chance to snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes.
Most visitors arrive as part of a snorkeling tour from Todos Santos or La Paz that includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Full-day tours from Los Cabos visit Todos Santos, Isla Espiritu Santo, and Balandra Beach. There’s also a popular glamping tour to consider.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Isla Espiritu Santo is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Choose a half-day or full-day snorkeling tour with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the island offers little shade.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Isla Espiritu Santo, located in the Gulf of California off Baja California Sur, is on a boat tour from La Paz. Or, if you’re visiting independently, there are motor boats (pangas) that leave from Tecolote Beach, about 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of La Paz.
When to Get There
Isla Espiritu Santo can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds. During summer, expect daytime highs of 95°F (35°C) with higher-than-average humidity and a chance of wet weather.
Isla Espiritu Santo Wildlife
Isla Espiritu Santo is one of the best places in Mexico to view wildlife. The surrounding waters are teeming with tropical fish, and visitors have a chance of seeing sea turtles, manta rays, sea lions, dolphins, and blue or humpback whales. It’s also a popular bird-watching destination for blue-footed boobies, reddish egrets, great blue herons, and yellow-footed gulls.
Address: Mexico
From $ 1,695
Pelican Rock
Located off the coast of Cabo San Lucas, Pelican Rock features dramatic rock formations and a small, gravelly beach that's often crowded with snorkelers, swimmers, scuba divers, and cliff jumpers. This protected spot at Land’s End is famous for its abundant wildlife, both above and below the ocean’s surface, and popular with Los Cabos snorkeling tours.
The Basics
Pelican Rock is only reachable by boat, and most visitors arrive as part of a guided snorkeling or kayaking tour that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off. Sightseeing cruises typically also visit other must-see Land’s End attractions, such as the Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco), Lover’s Beach, Medano Beach, and the area’s resident sea lion colony.
Glass-bottom boat tours let you view Los Cabos’ colorful sea life without getting wet, and there’s also a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour and a popular Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo sightseeing combo tour to consider.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pelican Rock is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Choose a snorkeling or sightseeing cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.
- Set aside some time to see the other highlights of Land’s End.
How to Get There
Pelican Rock is located off the extreme southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula (Baja California Sur) and only accessible by boat. The easiest way to reach Pelican Rock is on a sightseeing cruise from Cabo San Lucas or via water taxi from the downtown marina.
When to Get There
Los Cabos can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. Rainy season occurs from August to October; during this time, expect higher-than-average humidity and water temperatures upward of 80°F (27°C).
Snorkeling at Pelican Rock
Pelican Rock is the highlight of many Los Cabos snorkeling tours. In addition to colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and maybe sea turtles or rays, snorkelers also have the chance to see frogfish, goatfish, lobsters, nudibranchs, and even some whitetip sharks. Snorkeling tours depart from Cabo San Lucas and often include a water sightseeing tour of Land’s End.
Address: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 15
Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port
Cabo San Lucas finds itself on all cruise lines, making their way along the Mexican Rivera and Sea of Cortez. It has also garnered a reputation for being an American ex-pat party hot spot. This is THE place to do your duty-free shopping and pick up vacation trinkets and souvenirs. Outside of downtown’s party atmosphere, Los Cabos offers tranquil scenery and exotic adventure opportunities.
How to Get to Cabo San Lucas
Downtown Cabo is a pleasant ten-minute beachside walk from the marina. The town itself is very walkable, however taxis are readily available by the terminal. Several international car rental agencies have offices in town, if you feel like getting out and exploring beyond the coast.
One Day in Los Cabos
Los Cabos is known as a great locale to get your water sport on! Try the Sailing and snorkeling cruise through the famous rock formations and see some remote beaches. Or, get up close with the abundant and diverse tropical ocean ecosystem in a Two-tank scuba dive.
Hydrophobes can take in the equally distinctive dry-land scenery from atop a new equine friend on the Horseback Riding Adventure, or tear through the rocky desert terrain on an ATV. At the end of the day, kick back with a daiquiri at the Hard Rock Cafe in true Cabo Wabo style!
Port Information
The official language is Spanish, but owing to the bustling tourism industry and the concentration of American ex-pats in the area, most locals also speak English. US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere, as are credit cards. Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, so allow extra time for getting off and on your ship.
Address: Marina, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 49
Medano Beach (Playa el Medano)
The water may be wild elsewhere, but at Medano Beach - or Playa el Medano - there’s miles of safe, calm swimming and beach fun for all the family.
Los Cabo’s most popular beach is a long, long stretch of beach towels, sun umbrellas, beach volleyball, pleasure boats and beach bars. Resorts and high-rise apartment buildings line the sands, offering beachfront restaurants and bars.
Beach vendors stroll the sands selling everything from sombreros to jewelry, and when the sun goes down the beach turns into Los Cabo’s nightlife hub.
Practical Info
The cape’s downtown beach, Medano Beach runs east from the harbor at Cabo San Lucas, for 2 miles (3 km) to Villa del Palmar.
From the sands, you have a terrific view of Land’s End and El Arco framing the horizon.
Address: Camino Vieja a San José, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Bahia de Cabo San Lucas
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas is the cape’s hub for water sports and beach activities.
Rent jet skis and kayaks at Medano Beach, or hang out at the resorts lining the long stretch of sand overlooking the bay.
Take an underwater snorkel tour of the bay and nearby Sea of Cortez, or go diving off the Chileno reef or Cabo Pulmo Marine Park.
There are charter boats for sports fishing in the world’s marlin capital, or more gentle cruising in a glass-bottom boat on the bay at sunset. For youngsters, what could be better than a cruise aboard a pirate buccaneer’s cruise, me hearties.
Practical Info
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas washes east of the marina and north along Cabo San Lucas’ many swimming beaches.
Address: Lazaro Cardenas, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Palmilla Beach (Playa Palmilla)
For the best paddling and swimming beach north of Medano, head to Los Cabo San José and Playa Palmilla.
Known for its family-friendly, calm swimming waters, Palmilla Beach - or Playa Palmilla - stretches in front of the exclusive One & Only resort.
Thatched huts provide shade, and the long stretch of sand is ideal for strolling and beachcombing. Dive into the water to snorkel offshore, or find a secluded stretch of sand to call your own.
Practical Info
Palmilla Beach is 5 miles (8 km) south of Los Cabo San José, 15 miles (24 km) from Cabo San Lucas along Highway 1.
Address: Highway 1, San José del Cabo 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 85
Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas
Take the Baja trail down to where the land ends, and amid the joining of two seas you’ll find beautiful, luxurious Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas. The first luxury community of Cabo San Lucas and still regarded as one of the city’s best, this little peninsula of rock is home to numerous five-star luxury resorts, restaurants, shops, and a thriving nightlife. Terrific views at every twist and turn of Pedregal’s cobblestone streets make for an attraction in itself, and if you want to walk the life of luxury, take a stroll through Pedregal and see the multi-million dollar homes and the beautiful Pacific beachside. A trip to Pedregal is a step into elite Cabo living, so if you’re ready to lounge like royalty, look no further than this little Cabo peninsula.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 85
Chileno Beach
Protected by the Chileno Bay, the waters at Chileno Beach are calm, warm, and clear, and the reefs just offshore act as a home to an abundance of sea life. The beach, considered one of Los Cabos’ best-kept secrets, mimics the feel of a Caribbean beach. Sun-seekers will enjoy the seclusion and the top-notch snorkeling opportunities.
The Basics
Chileno Beach is a popular destination for those looking to do a bit of underwater exploration or just relax on the sunny shores of a secluded spot. Remember, though, that there are few accommodations to be found here (aside from restrooms), so if you’re planning on making the trek to Chileno Beach on your own, pack food and snorkeling gear. Tours to the area, which include sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking excursions, typically supply the equipment.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike other Los Cabos beaches, Chileno doesn’t have bars and restaurants, so come prepared with snacks and drinks.
- This beach is considered an excellent spot for snorkeling, with plenty of colorful fish.
- Since its waters are calm, the beach is ideal for families with young kids.
How to Get There
Chileno Beach, located just off Los Cabos’ tourist corridor, is accessible by bus from both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo (tell the driver to drop you off at Bahia Chileno). From the bus stop, it’s about a half-mile walk down to the beach. If you decide to rent a car and drive, there’s an ample amount of free parking. Most sailing and snorkeling tours depart from the Cabo San Lucas marina.
When to Get There
There are no set hours of operation at Chileno Beach, but arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. Like most beaches, Chileno is a popular spot for locals on the weekends and is less busy during the week. Also, during whale-watching season, which takes place from December to April, you might be able to hear a humpback whale singing if you listen closely while underwater.
Nearby Santa Maria Cove
Another favorite spot for snorkeling, Santa Maria Beach boasts pristine white sands and similar conditions to Chileno; many tours combine the two locations since they’re just around the bend from each other, and some scuba-diving excursions include dives at both. The areas are home to sea turtles, some species of moray eels, starfish, sea fans, sea urchins, sea horses, and sponges.
Practical Info
Chileno Beach is located just west of the Hotel Cabo San Lucas. Parking is free, but amenities are slim.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 50
Malecón
Running 5 kilometers where the town meets the sea, the Malecón is a main road of La Paz. Lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, it is an energetic center of tourist activity. Its wide, clean boulevard is dotted with small sculptures, benches, and beachgoers, all with views of the sand and palm trees. It is a great place to take a peaceful stroll, though often you’ll be joined by those cycling or jogging the path.
The presence of vendors, musicians, and fisherman make it a lively hotspot to gather and take in the local culture. Often artists have their work on display by the small pier. It’s an especially good spot to grab a seafood lunch made with fresh ingredients from the surrounding waters. The Malecón also comes alive at night, beginning with the sunset that many come to view from the edge of the sand.
Practical Info
La Paz’s Malecón stretches from Playa Coromuel in the north to Marina de la Paz in the south.
Address: Paseo Malecón, Zona Central, La Paz, Mexico
From $ 70
Cabo San Lucas
Love it, hate it, or can’t remember it, there’s no denying that Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas is a town fueled by fun and firewater. From deep-sea fishing to fishbowl sipping, Cabo always delivers on its reputation as the Baja Peninsula’s favorite resort town thanks to its combination of kid-friendly water sports, whale-watching opportunities, world-class beaches, and raging nightlife.
The Basics
The best way to experience Cabo San Lucas is out on the waters that make the town famous. To the west, the Pacific Ocean offers a quiet beach and big waves for surfing (swimming here is not recommended), and to the east, the Sea of Cortez features abundant water sports and the popular Medano and Solmar beaches. Take a speedboat tour, luxury cruise, or kayaking trip to snorkel alongside tropical fish, or go deeper and scuba dive at remote coral reef sites such as Playa Santa Maria and Chileno Bay. Those who’d rather be on the water rather than under it can opt for a fishing charter, sunset cruise, whale-watching trip, or stand-up paddleboard class for good views of top sites such as Lover’s Beach and El Arco, a distinctive arch-shaped rock formation at Land’s End.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabo San Lucas can be crowded with uninhibited nighttime (and daytime) revelers, especially during spring break.
- Cruise ship passengers stopping in Cabo can take shore excursions that operate on a time-sensitive schedule.
- For an essential photo op of the dramatic sea cliffs, stop at Land’s End.
- Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the dolphins and sea lions—and, in December through mid-April, whales—that hang out in Cabo’s waters.
How to Get There
Cabo San Lucas is a 40-minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport. Book a transfer from the airport in advance, or take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car upon arrival.
When to Get There
Winter is the most popular season for visitors, as the summertime heat can be intense. January through March is the best season for whale watching; all other activities are available year-round.
Exploring San Jose del Cabo
The quieter town of San Jose del Cabo, just a 20-minute ride away, makes an ideal day trip for those interested in colonial history or just an escape from the crowds.
Address: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 50
Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach)
Playa del Amor - or Lover's Beach - is a true hidden gem, nestled amongst the craggy rocks of Land’s End.
Reached only by boat, this perfect crescent of sand is surrounded by rocky outcrops, including views of El Arco.
The secluded location is a romantic destination for a day by the sea, the lovely stretch of sand extending across the Land’s End peninsula from the Sea of Cortes to the Pacific Ocean.
The water here is dangerous, so take care if you go for a swim or snorkel, and only enter the water on the Sea of Cortes side of the beach.
Practical Info
Playa del Amor is on Land’s End, washed by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sea of Cortes on the other. The beach can only be reached by cruise or water taxi from Cabo San Lucas.
Address: Sol Mar, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Sand Falls
Cabo San Lucas’ famous landscape is easily recognized by anyone who’s gotten a chance to visit this majestic beachfront. Rugged, windswept arches dot the coastline, but these beautiful testaments to what Mother Nature can do are more than just pretty rocks – they mark the spot for some of the best diving in Cabo. Just look to the arch that stands by the head of the harbor and you’re well on your way to some beautiful underwater exploration. This spot is known as Sand Falls.
Discovered by famed underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau, Sand Falls is one of the beautiful phenomena of nature where forces conspire to make for a remarkable, one-of-a-kind spot. Where the steep rocky shoreline meets the continual runoff of sand, divers at Sand Falls enjoy a peaceful scene of time’s relentless ebb and flow. While literally floating in the warm water, you’ll watch the continual runoff of sand into the deep and bountiful sea.
Close to other dive spots including three different shipwrecks, Sand Falls is oftentimes a jumping off point for more snorkel and dive trips in the Cabo San Lucas Harbor.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 40
Cuadra San Francisco
Tucked away in the sandy scrubland of Baja California you’ll find Los Cabos’ only professional equestrian center, Cuadra San Francisco. A five-star horse ranch and stable yard, this is where visitors the world over come to live out their horse-filled fantasies of exploring the beautiful Baja countryside. This horseback riding ranch is sure to bring out your inner cowboy. Ride over the beach at low tide, or explore the desert sagebrush while learning about Los Cabos’ flora and fauna - all while having a quintessential Cabo moment. Known for their “dancing horses,” if you find time to visit Cuadra San Francisco, you won’t be disappointed - this is Cabo’s preeminent stable ranch.
Practical Info
Cuadra San Francisco is located in the corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo next to the Cabo Real Golf course off of Highway One.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 115
Mision de Nuestra Senora de Pilar
Founded by Father Jaime Bravo in 1723, the mission sits against the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Todos Santos on the Pacific Baja coast. Originally developed as an outpost of a larger mission in nearby La Paz, it became the principle mission of the Jesuits in the area upon its closure. With colorful stained glass surrounding the altar, the interior contains the statue of the Virgin of Pilar that the town celebrates annually with a festival in October. It has become a religious and historic landmark of Todos Santos.
Perched high on the hills above town, a visit to the mission offers views of the ocean and the Valle del Pilar. The structure is surrounded by colorful flowers, clean and simple in its design. The Virgin of Pilar is considered the patron saint of Todos Santos, and the mission remains a symbol at the heart of the area.
Practical Info
The mission can be found opposite the main plaza in Todos Santos. Todos Santos is 50 miles south of La Paz and 45 miles north of Cabo San Lucas.
Address: Plaza de Armas, Todos Santos 23305, Mexico
Hours: Open during daylight hours
From $ 75
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park contains the oldest living reef on North America’s Pacific coast, home to corals, colorful fish, and larger species such as whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this marine park is a rich destination for reef snorkeling and scuba diving.
The Basics
Most tours of the marine park leave from Cabo San Lucas and include snorkeling or scuba diving excursions to the coral reef, allowing you to experience the area’s robust wildlife and varied coral structures. Scuba divings tours are available for beginners without PADI certification, as well as seasoned pros. Some tours also visit above-sea attractions such as Lover’s Beach, the Arch, and a resident sea lion colony.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is an ideal destination for wildlife lovers, families with kids, snorkelers, and scuba divers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard while diving or snorkeling to protect against the sun, jellyfish, and rough coral surfaces.
- Advanced dives require evidence of dive certification.
How to Get There
Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park stretches from Pulmo Point to Los Frailes Cape on the east coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Most tours include round-trip transportation from Cabo San Lucas, about a 2.5-hour drive away. Rental cars are a good option for independent visitors.
When to Get There
Diving and snorkeling conditions are best in October and November, when the Sea of Cortez is at its warmest. During summer (April through July), seas are rougher and temperatures are hot and humid, although you might find fewer crowds. Winter is the best season to see humpback and sperm whales, and fall is the best time for spotting whale sharks.
Biodiversity at Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park
This national park is one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Los Cabos area, with a rich array of marine life and an underwater world of hard coral reefs. A variety of tropical fish species such as pufferfish, yellow snapper, manta rays, and sharks can be found here, plus large marine mammals such as whales and dolphins.
Address: Highway 1, San José del Cabo 23400, Mexico
From $ 110