Things To Do
in San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo is a historic town at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Baja California Sur, Mexico. It blends a preserved colonial core with a growing arts scene, a calm marina, and easy access to pristine beaches. Often considered the more relaxed counterpart to Cabo San Lucas, it offers charming plazas, cobblestone streets, and inviting local culture.
Year-round sunshine and a laid-back vibe make it a great base for exploring Los Cabos.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes in the historic center, where you can savor fresh fruit and traditional Mexican dishes. Afterward, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets to admire the beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant local art. Don’t miss the iconic San José del Cabo Church, a perfect spot for some photos and a bit of history.
In the afternoon, enjoy lunch at a local taqueria, sampling delicious street tacos filled with fresh seafood. Afterward, visit the art district, where you can explore numerous galleries showcasing the works of local artists and craftsmen, immersing yourself in the culture. As the sun begins to set, take a moment to relax in the Plaza Mijares, where you can enjoy live music and local entertainment.
For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at a fine dining restaurant that features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. After a delectable meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, where you can appreciate the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stop by a bar for a refreshing margarita. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local artisan market, browsing for unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby beachfront café, soaking in the ocean views. Afterward, head to Playa Palmilla, known for its calm waters and stunning scenery, where you can lounge on the sand or take a swim. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life just offshore.
After a morning of relaxation, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local restaurants offering fresh ceviche and seafood tacos. In the afternoon, participate in exciting water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking, allowing you to connect with the beautiful coastline in a unique way. For a more laid-back option, take a beach walk and enjoy the scenic views of the nearby cliffs and ocean.
As the sun sets, indulge in dinner at a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. After your meal, consider taking a sunset cruise, which offers a breathtaking view of the coastline and the opportunity to spot dolphins. Cap off the night with a stroll on the beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and the gentle ocean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $100-250 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $4-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pristine beaches with a relaxed vibe
- Excellent seafood and Baja cuisine
- Art-friendly town with a walkable center and welcoming atmosphere
- Nightlife is more low-key than Cabo San Lucas
- Summer heat can be intense; plan outdoor activities accordingly
- Some attractions require travel to nearby areas
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in San José del Cabo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic church facade framed by the town’s colonial architecture and palm-lined streets.
Colorful storefronts, lively markets, and picturesque corners ideal for street photography.
A modern marina with boats, upscale hotels, and a scenic promenade for waterfront shots.
A tranquil wetland area perfect for wildlife photography and quiet nature scenes.
Food in San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy or grilled fish in warm tortillas with cabbage slaw and a tangy sauce; common at casual beachfront taquerias.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish cured in lime with onions, cilantro, and chilies; widely available at seaside restaurants.
Rich crab cake often served with a light aioli; a local favorite at seafood spots along the marina.
Lobster brushed with garlic-lime butter and simply grilled; best enjoyed at coastal restaurants near the water.
Spicy lime-cured shrimp or fish with chilies and herbs; a zesty option found at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market with fresh produce, seafood, and regional snacks—great for sampling local items and picking up small gifts.
Casual spots offering fish tacos, burritos, sopes, and aguas frescas in a no-frills setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a handshake or light kiss on the cheek are common; say 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' when entering shops or restaurants.
Dress modestly in churches; beachwear is for the beach, not town centers; tipping is customary and appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in San José del Cabo
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants commonly expect 10-15% tip; for bar staff and taxi drivers, 5-10% or a small per-service amount is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and hotels; carrying cash is helpful for markets and small vendors; some places may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; peak whale-watching period (December–February) and lower humidity.
Warm days with blooming desert flora; ideal for outdoor activities and patios.
Hot and humid; frequent brief tropical downpours are possible; June–October is the rainy season with occasional storms and humidity.
Warm days and cooler nights; shoulder season with fewer crowds and comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration.
San José del Cabo at Night
Hiking in San José del Cabo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert-to-mountain hikes with panoramic views, cooler elevations, and canyon trails.
Desert and coastal trails nearby with scenic vistas over the Sea of Cortés.
Airports
How to reach San José del Cabo by plane.
Main gateway for the region; typically a 20–30 minute drive to San José del Cabo depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Mexican families and workers in tourism; a mix of traditional and modern influences.
Primarily visitors from North America and other regions seeking a relaxed Baja experience.
A growing community of retirees and long-term residents attracted by climate and lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class courses with desert scenery and ocean views.
The Sea of Cortés is famous for marlin and tuna; plentiful charters operate year-round.
Costa Azul and nearby beaches offer varied waves for all levels; surf schools available.
Reefs around Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay host diverse marine life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San José del Cabo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian mains or simple vegetable-forward dishes; ask for bean-based bowls, roasted vegetables, and cheese-based plates, and expect some flexibility from kitchens.