San Jose del Cabo is a city in Baja California Sur, in the stunning area of Los Cabos. It is mainly sought after for its stunning beaches, which boast impossibly white sand and blue waters.
However, when it comes to San José del Cabo, things to do include much more than seaside relaxation.
Its picturesque city center has great cultural value, featuring art galleries (and an art district!), colonial buildings, live music, and friendly locals. They will gladly introduce you to the legends and history of the city.
When Los Cabos Tourism invited me to learn more about sustainable tourism in Los Cabos, I had never heard of San Jose del Cabo, where my hotel was located. I had only heard of Cabo San Lucas! But I was so glad I had the chance to stay in San Jose del Cabo instead, as it was so much more my thing.
Adventure activities, whale watching, and impressive natural landmarks are a few of the attractions in town. That’s on top of spectacular cuisine! Check out some of the very best things to do in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico this year.
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AN INTRO TO SAN JOSE DEL CABO
San Jose del Cabo is one of the two cities in Baja California Sur that encompass the resort area known as Los Cabos.
Los Cabos boasts a very impressive landscape, with arid, cacti-scattered desert surrounding the area. Mountain range and extraordinary beaches bordering its coastline complement the the stunning scenery.
Like Cancun, San Jose del Cabo is divided into the Hotel Zone, the coastal area lined with high-end resorts, and its more authentic historic center.
The Mission San Jose del Cabo, founded in 1730, was the southernmost Jesuit mission in the peninsula. While the city is focused on growing and modernizing itself, it remains very well preserved from its colonial times.
This means that it retains its ability to make you feel like stepping back in time, a great contributor to San Jose’s irresistible charm.
Despite its rather small size, though, it’s home to more than 130,000 people. Over the past years, it has become a hotspot for both local holidaymakers and Hollywood celebrities.
George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez are some of the artists known to have spent sunny days relaxing on the beaches of San Jose del Cabo.
You can fly to Los Cabos International Airport, which is only 8 miles from San Jose del Cabo.
Wondering when to visit? The weather is warm and dry in Cabo during the winter months, which is also the perfect time to enjoy whale watching. The shoulder seasons also offer fantastic weather while being slightly cheaper. I wouldn’t recommend visiting in the summertime, though, as days can be very hot and muggy.
SAN JOSE DEL CABO VS CABO SAN LUCAS
San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are not to be confused with Los Cabos or between each other…although it can be tricky with such similar names! Let me give you a short explanation.
San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are two different towns, located about 18 miles from each other. Los Cabos is the name of the county and the wider area that encompasses both towns. That includes the beaches and resorts situated between them, known as the tourist corridor.
Despite being so close, the two towns couldn’t be more different when it comes to their atmosphere and what they have to offer.
Both feature astounding beaches and are picturesque towns. San Jose del Cabo, however, is a more laid-back, tranquil location with a local vibe and cultural emphasis.
Cabo San Lucas, on the other hand, is the place to be for lively nightlife and jam-packed days. It’s home to various nightclubs and offers a great number of beach activities and attractions in town.
14 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAN JOSE DEL CABO
Explore the Art District of San Jose del Cabo
The Art District of San Jose del Cabo is one of the town’s most beautiful attractions. Cobblestone streets and colonial buildings constitute the structure of the district. It comes alive with colorful flags covering its streets and art splashed on every wall.
It’s one of the liveliest areas in town, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and shops. It also features a bustling main square (Plaza Mijares) frequented by street performers, food trucks, and locals looking for a good time. You should be in the mix, too!
The plaza is a great place to visit in the evening, grabbing dinner or a drink in one of the nearby eateries and people-watching. It’s possibly the best thing to do at Plaza Mijares!
The Art District could be considered the cultural heart of the town, and it’s a fantastic place to visit in San Jose del Cabo. Besides its plaza, these are some of the landmarks you can’t miss here:
- The Cabo Mi Amor wall
- The art galleries Corsica and Ivan Guaderrama and Patricia Mendoza gallery
- El Armario, a coffee shop with art exhibits
- Baja Brewery Company to enjoy a pint or a flight of local craft beers
During the months of November through June, every Thursday night the shops stay open late and there’s live music on every corner.
The event is called Art Walk San Jose del Cabo. If you visit any time of year, however, you can still experience the magnificent artsy atmosphere. Downtown San Jose del Cabo is very walkable and it’s also pretty safe, so don’t be afraid to go out at night!
➤ The Art Walk, Bajas Beer Tasting and Chocolate Demonstration in San Jose del Cabo is a half-day experience. You’ll explore the Art Walk district, stopping along the way to sample delicious bites. Savor a gourmet pizza with three types of craft beer, and visit a cacao factory. There you’ll discover the making process of chocolate, and enjoy some tastings! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
But if there’s more. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the region, I highly recommend joining the tour below by Cabo City Tours.
➤ The Historical and Cultural Walking Tour of San Jose del Cabo is a great way of exploring the Art District. You’ll get to learn about San Jose’s legends and history, and discovering hidden gems in town. The profits of this tour go towards a community project, so you get to help out while having fun!
I personally went on this tour and loved learning more about the area! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Enjoy the Blue Flag Beaches of Los Cabos
Los Cabos boasts a great number of beautiful beaches, we covered that already. What we haven’t mentioned yet, though, is that many of them (25+!) have the Blue Flag Certification, which recognizes their sustainability and positive impact.
Below are some of the best beaches in San Jose del Cabo.
▶ Santa Maria is a secluded beach in Santa Maria Bay, featuring glorious blue waters that are ideal for snorkeling. The sand is white and powdery, and the rock formations that surround the bay are a sight to behold! You can almost always rent umbrellas and beach chairs from a local vendor.
▶ Palmilla Beach is one of said beaches. It stretches over 2500 feet, featuring soft sand ideal for walking, and mostly calm waters. There aren’t food or rental facilities unless you’re staying in one of the hotels, but it’s a relatively quiet beach with great snorkeling opportunities.
▶ Chileno Bay Beach is one of the most gorgeous ones. It has a very laid-back vibe and insanely turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in.
We went snorkeling here and there was so much fish! Definitely didn’t expect so much variety! There are toilets and showers which you can use, and a wide stretch of sand for laying down your beach towel or chairs.
▶ Playa Acapulquito is the place to go if you want to surf in San Jose del Cabo. It often hosts surfing competitions, and it also offers surf and paddle board rentals, as well as surfing lessons for beginners.
Besides catching waves, it’s a beautiful beach for going on long walks along the shore or braving a swim in the ocean.
▶ Medano Beach is primarily a swimming beach, safe for children and non-confident swimmers. It’s very popular among families for this reason. It’s the closest beach to Cabo San Lucas, so you’ll find plenty of dining and shopping options nearby.
Farm to Table Dining & Cooking Experiences in San Jose del Cabo
Los Cabos has a strong commitment to sustainability. This particularly shows in the number of farms and restaurants that have adopted the farm-to-table concept.
This means that you’ll be able to indulge in delicious cuisine while knowing that your meal is sustainably produced, and also enjoy a day out learning to prepare traditional dishes.
▶ Flora Farms is one of these places, an organic farm where more than 100 vegetables and herbs are grown and the land is worked by hand. The farm supplies produce to its namesake restaurant on-site, as well as animals that are raised on healthy, hormone-free diets. It offers one of the ultimate farm to table experiences in San Jose del Cabo.
Flora Farms covers 25 acres and features many attractions besides its working land. Visitors can make the best of the Farm Spa, where services and products are nature-based. Go on a tour to identify native plants, or shop for groceries, wine, clothes, and beauty products.
They can also enjoy a delicious meal at Flora’s Field Kitchen or a cocktail at the bar. The restaurant is super popular (one of the most popular places in Los Cabos).
We had dinner here and tried a few dishes and cocktails. Everything tasted so fresh – which makes total sense considering all the ingredients come from the farm! (p.s. Try their lavender martini! So good).
Flora Farms also offers watercolor art classes and cooking workshops. Get ready to prepare authentic Mexican dishes! Seasonal celebrations like Dia de Muertos, movie nights, and music sessions also take place at the farm.
▶ Tamarindos is another fantastic organic farm, merely 15 minutes from San Jose del Cabo, that offers a great day out. They feature a farm-to-table restaurant that serves fresh, organic meals, and also host cooking lessons.
We truly enjoyed our cooking class at Tamarindos. The time flew between a mezcal margarita and having too much fun while cooking – and the final result was delicious!
Tamarindos even has bungalows by the fields that they rent as accommodation, and they organize private events. From small family gatherings or intimate dinners to weddings and business meetings can be arranged.
➤ You can enjoy an Organic Farm to Table cooking class on-site to learn all the secrets behind Mexico’s main dishes. You’ll take part in every step from harvesting the produce to savoring the final result. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Azteca Cactus Taco – Farm to Table Cooking Class in Los Cabos is a great alternative. It takes place in a local farm, where you’ll meet (and feed!) the animals, and harvest an edible cactus, Nopales, for your meal. Then, enjoy a hands-on cooking class preparing salsas, tortillas, and a special nopales dish. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go Whale Watching in San Jose del Cabo
The whale watching season in San Jose del Cabo goes from November to April. During these months, the humpback and gray whales make their way from the Arctic to the warmer waters of Mexico to mate and give birth.
It’s a fantastic time to witness the magnificent creatures up close, and there are quite a few companies in San Jose that offer the experience. As always, please ensure you choose a responsible operator!
On your whale-watching adventure, a biologist or expert guide will explain the whales’ migrating patterns and habits. You’ll also get answers to all your questions!
The chances not only of spotting whales but getting close to them and watching them interact with each other, are very high. Some tours even offer a second experience (on the house) if you don’t see them; that’s how sure they are you will!
It’s one of the most remarkable San Jose del Cabo activities, so I highly recommend it as long as you choose a responsible tour. Unfortunately, we visited Los Cabos at a different time of the year, but I would love to come back one day and see this.
➤ This Whale Watching Group Tour in San Jose del Cabo takes you to meet humpback and grey whales during the season. You’ll be accompanied by an expert guide, getting fascinating insights about these creatures, and the local area. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Private Whale Watching Tour in San Jose del Cabo is customizable to your group’s wishes and interests. You’ll be joined by a knowledgeable guide, and sail in search of the whales for an amazing encounter and fantastic pictures. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Have you purchased travel insurance yet?
You might think you don’t need travel insurance but you never know when you will! I’ve had to use it for bad cases of food poisoning and to check a scary-looking spider bite.
I’ve been a client of SafetyWing since 2019. This travel insurance is affordable and easy to use. Their Essential Plan covers travel and medical emergencies and is a great fit for most travelers.
Adopt and Release Turtles in Los Cabos
Adopting and releasing baby turtles is one of the popular activities in San Jose del Cabo, and also one of the most positive-impactful.
Five different turtle species live in the Sea of Cortez and choose the peninsula’s beaches to lay their eggs. From late July to November, the baby turtles hatch and take their first steps into the ocean, and to their new life.
If you’re visiting San Jose del Cabo during the season, you’ll be able to witness this transcendental moment. Not only that, but you’ll be making a difference in the protection of the species, which is endangered, by adopting and releasing one of the turtles.
We were lucky enough to be able to experience this firsthand with a tour by CalypsoTrip and we loved every moment of it. It was so emotional to see the baby turtles making it safely into the ocean.
➤ The Los Cabos Turtle Release Eco-Experience includes the commentary of an expert guide and hotel pick-up and drop-off. You’ll also go home with a certificate of adoption. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ An alternative is Los Cabos Turtle Release Conservation Program. You’ll be part of a memorable experience as you help release baby turtles back into the ocean, and also have the opportunity of adopting one of them. A marine biologist will introduce you to the species and their endangered state. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Enjoy a Sunset Cruise in San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas
One of the most romantic things to do in San Jose del Cabo is to go on a sunset cruise. But wait, it doesn’t have to be with a romantic partner for it to be enjoyable!
With the stunning turquoise water of the Sea of Cortez, the rock formations that dot it, and the delicious snacks or dinner they offer, a sunset cruise can easily become a highlight of your trip.
Enjoy the amenities, and marvel at the sun setting into the sea while gliding on your vessel. The city will light up for the night, adding to the striking views. And don’t forget the sealife you may encounter along the way!
➤ I joined an incredible dinner cruise and I LOVED the experience! It was probably the highlight of my trip to Los Cabos. The food was great, the boat was so luxurious, and the views… wow
Unfortunately, the tour I went on is not available anymore. The closest alternative I found is this Cabo San Lucas Luxury Sailing Yacht and Dinner with a Chef, which also offers a gourmet dinner on a yacht. You’ll take in the sunset views as you sail on the Sea of Cortez, and relish an antipasto platter with a welcome drink.
Then, sit down for a scrumptious 3-course dinner paired with unlimited cocktails from the open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you’re looking for something different though, check out this Private Sunset Boat Tour in San Jose del Cabo. You’ll set sail in the evening and enjoy the sunset relaxing with a drink or dancing on the deck – the choice is yours, and so is the itinerary! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Eat at the Best Restaurants in San Jose del Cabo
▶ Don Sanchez is a beautiful restaurant that specializes in contemporary Mexican cuisine. Not only is their menu varied and delicious, but they have a strong commitment to sustainability.
All the produce they use comes from local, organic farms, and the seafood is also locally and ethically sourced. The restaurant boasts a magnificent cava with over 200 labels, and also offers traditional Mexican spirits (tequila or mezcal, anyone?).
We loved our dinner at Don Sanchez, and we truly think it’s one of the best restaurants in San Jose del Cabo, if not the very best.
Opening Hours: Daily from 5 PM to 10 PM.
▶ La Casona is one of the fanciest restaurants in Los Cabos. It offers a gourmet menu that features both Mexican and international flavors. Seafood, an extensive list of grilled prime cuts, and vegan/vegetarian dishes are a few of the house specialties.
The dining experience includes al fresco dining, a piano bar, and a large selection of tequila and wine. The produce they use is organic and locally grown in nearby farms.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 AM to 11 AM, and from 6 PM to 10.30 PM.
▶ Talavera is set in a beautiful location by the sea, and features on its menu a delicious array of Mexican and Mediterranean dishes.
Open for breakfast and dinner, it boasts some of the best tacos in San Jose del Cabo, as well as a smoothie bar and a large selection of healthy options to start the day. From french toast and pancakes to tropical fruits, granola, and freshly baked pastries, the options are varied.
They offer a farm-to-fork experience and include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on the menu.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 AM to 11.30 AM. On Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, it also opens from 6.30 PM to 10.30 PM.
▶ Jardin Secreto Restaurant is an elegant establishment that has created a garden of its indoor areas (besides boasting an actual garden for al fresco dining!) Its stunning ambiance is matched by the top-notch cuisine which specializes in Mediterranean and Mexican fusion flavors.
Professional mixologists also master the art of cocktail making! Reservations are required.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 3 PM and from 5 PM to 11 PM.
Go Snorkeling in San Jose del Cabo
You’ve probably figured out already that Los Cabos is a wonderful location for all sorts of watersports, and snorkeling, of course, is one of them.
But the area not only features crystal clear waters and colorful fish. It’s also home to coral reefs and a wide variety of marine animals, like starfish, sea turtles, and rays.
Snorkeling is actually the prime water activity practiced by both locals and tourists in the area, as it’s suitable for people of all ages. It offers a magnificent opportunity to discover the colorful underwater world.
One of the best places to go snorkeling from San Jose del Cabo is Cabo Pulmo, a spectacular marine park home to the only hard coral reef in the area. More about that later!
El Chileno Beach and Santa Maria Beach are the most gorgeous beaches in Los Cabos for snorkeling. You’ll find that Land’s End and Lovers Beach are stunning spots as well!
➤ This Los Cabos Snorkeling Tour to Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Cove takes you to two hotspots. You’ll be able to swim along the reef, possibly spotting rays and turtles besides coloful fish. Snacks and transfers are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Check out this Snorkel Tour to Pelican Rock by Glass-Bottom Boat with Souvenir Photos. You’ll board a glass-bottom boat and sail past the stunning arch in Land’s End toward Pelicano Rock, a fabulous snorkeling location. You’ll then refuel with lunch at the beach. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Check Out The Arch of Cabo San Lucas
The Arch of Cabo San Lucas (known as El Arco in Los Cabos) is a stunning rock formation that has become a landmark in the area.
It’s situated right where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet, an area called Land’s End at the very tip of the peninsula.
Thought to be over 30 million years old, El Arco was formed by erosion, wind, and the sea. The 200-foot granite rock had actually been standing there way before it was covered by water!
In fact, every four years the Sea of Cortez recedes enough that you can actually walk through the arch, and it looks just as it was all those millennia ago.
The rest of the time, though, the sea covers the land and you can snorkel or glide on a boat through it, spotting sea lions, turtles, and countless fish.
➤ The Shared Tour to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas is a 1-hour ride that passes by many landmarks in Land’s End, including The Arch, Pelican’s Rock, and Lover’s Beach. You’ll travel in a glass-bottom boat, and enjoy swimming stops. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ You can otherwise choose the Cabo San Lucas Shopping, Tequila Tasting, and Snorkel Tour. You’ll go snorkeling in The Arch and Pelican’s Rock, visit the best locations for shopping in San Jose del Cabo, and enjoy a tequila tasting. Lunch and an open bar are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
RELATED: Tequila Tasting in Cabo San Lucas (9 Options)
Go Kayaking in Cabo
The hidden coves, tranquil beaches, and staggering natural formations are the perfect setting for a kayaking trip. Paddle on the Sea of Cortez to meet the sea lion colony, glide under the Arch, and take in the beautiful views from the water.
You can also enjoy snorkeling stops at prime locations! Embark on a sunrise or sunset kayaking tour for an unforgettable experience. Or go whenever! You’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time regardless of when you set out.
➤ This Cabo San Lucas Glass Bottom Kayak Tour and Snorkel at Two Bays is a wonderful option. Spend three hours paddling amidst rock formations, and visiting the region’s top snorkeling spots. Snorkel in coral reefs and crystal waters, and benefit from hotel pick-up and drop-off. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Take a Day Trip to Cabo Pulmo
Cabo Pulmo is a National Marine Park located 40 miles north of San Jose del Cabo. The driving distance is slightly longer, but it still makes for a great place to visit when in Los Cabos.
The park is a protected area, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also by the Ramsar Convention. The reasons include its sustainability, and for restoring the sealife population that had been driven away from the reef.
Today, over 800 species live in the national park’s waters and coral reef, including humpback whales, sharks, rays, fish, and sea turtles. You can actually swim and snorkel near the reef, discovering the colorful life under the sea.
Other activities to enjoy at Cabo Pulmo include kayaking, paddle boarding, and hiking – but they’re not limited to that!
I HIGHLY recommend visiting this off-the-beaten-path destination. The landscapes are beautiful and you’ll hardly see other people in some locations. We went snorkeling and encountered two turtles.
➤ This Private Jeep Tour to Cabo Pulmo (the exact one we went on with High Tide Los Cabos!) takes you to the marine park along the scenic coastal road, which can only be ventured on a 4×4 vehicle. You’ll then explore the park and have time to snorkel by the reef and have lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Destress and Meditate at Rukhsana’s Retreat
Mexico is a relatively relaxed, laid-back country, and San Jose del Cabo is one of the best examples of this way of life. That’s why it’s the perfect place for some destressing and reconnection with nature and yourself. And what better way to achieve that than through meditation!
You can enjoy a fabulous wellness experience at Rukshana’s Retreat, whose goal is to rejuvenate you in body, soul, and mind. It’s a family-run center (and also b&b!) that hosts retreats and getaways for one or multiple days.
You’ll get to practice yoga and mantra meditations, relax at the spa or the saltwater pool, hide away in the library or explore its beautiful gardens. It’s a place that encourages you to go inwards and emerge re-energized and much more relaxed, ready to enjoy your holidays to the fullest!
Going on a retreat is one of the most unique things to do in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, and one you’re bound to enjoy.
It’s Adventure Time: Zipline or ATV Tour in Cabo
Mexico is an adventure country, partly thanks to the lush vegetation and natural landscapes that it boasts. Los Cabos is not an exception, and the area proudly offers a great number of thrilling experiences to enjoy. These include the ever-popular ziplining and ATV riding.
There are a few adventure parks and attractions near San Jose del Cabo that offer the activities, promising a day filled with adrenaline. It’s especially one of the best attractions in Los Cabos for families with children or groups of friends looking for fun day trips from the city.
You can brave the bumpy off-road trails on your ATV, driving through sand dunes, desert canyons, and cliffs. Or, choose to zip over the treetops at an impressive speed, enjoying the landscape below you.
➤ This Los Cabos Costa Azul Zipline Eco-Adventure | Tirolesa Los Cabos is the best place to go for ziplining. It features various zipline courses and a thrilling suspension bridge. Hotel transfers are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Beach & Desert UTV Tour in Cabo includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a wonderful couple of hours of ATV driving on off-road trails surrounded by impressive scenery. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
I wrote a full post about the top Cabo ATV tours if you’re looking for more options!
Join a Food Tour (or Go on a DIY Taco Tour!)
Eating your way through town should be mandatory in San Jose del Cabo. And lucky for you, it’s not only possible but incredibly easy to do!
In fact, you can plan your very own Taco Tour, visiting hotspots and traditional taquerias in San Jose del Cabo. Make sure to stuff yourself not only with tacos but other specialties as well! I recommend Taquerias Mexico, which offers a wide selection of fillings and serves delicious Margaritas.
Other restaurants that should make your list include the very authentic Taqueria La Otra – Don Pedrito, Taqueria Rossy, which boasts raving reviews, and Taquerias Guamuchil.
Alternatively, you can join a food tour, allowing a foodie local guide to take you around town. They’ll introduce you to Mexico’s culinary customs, and make sure you visit the most authentic eateries and food stalls.
➤ This San Jose del Cabo Morning Food Tour takes you all around the city. Indulge in tacos, enchiladas, desserts, and tequila shots as your guide tells you all about the local cuisine. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The San Jose del Cabo – Taco Tour Experience (Evening Tour) is the same activity but after dusk. You’ll explore the bustling town as you head into secret local spots, eateries, and shops to sample the local cuisine, drinks included! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Take a Day Trip to Todos Santos
What to do in San Jose del Cabo if you have extra time? Go on a day trip!
Todos Santos is a small town on the west coast of Baja California Sur, almost 60 miles north of Cabo San Lucas. It features gorgeous beaches whose waves attract surfers from all over. Many of them have even made Todos Santos either their home or recurring vacation spot.
The town is a hub for artists and has a great number of beautiful galleries with both local and international art. There are also textile, craft, and souvenir shops.
Todos Santos is the peninsula’s only Pueblo Mágico(Magical Village). This is a term used for Mexican towns officially recognized for their history, traditions, legends, and cultural value.
There are lots of things to do here, but since the town is relatively small, a day trip from San Jose del Cabo should be enough. This beautiful gem on the coast is worth the visit!
➤ This Todos Santos Day Trip from Cabo San Lucas includes pick-up from San Jose and takes you to the town’s charming galleries and shops with a guide. You’ll also indulge in a buffet lunch and visit a local factory. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Explore Espiritu Santo Island for the Day
Espiritu Santo is a paradisiac island in Baja California Sur, located north of La Paz. Remote and unspoiled, it’s one of the most beautiful places to enjoy raw nature and a vast variety of wildlife, plus the stunning beaches Mexico is known for.
The island is also scattered by fabulous rock formations, hiking trails, caves, and stunning snorkeling spots. You can also scuba dive, swim with sea lions, and kayak on crystal-clear waters.
The landscape of the island is truly unique, as it presents the meeting point of the arid desert land with the turquoise waters of the Gulf of California.
Isla Espiritu Santo has been recognized as a National Park and it’s a protected area, so it can only be visited with a registered guide. If you want to make a day trip here, you’ll need to join a tour.
➤ This All Inclusive Catamaran Espiritu Santo Island Tour from Los Cabos is a great option. You’ll spend 9 hours sailing, hiking, and swimming on the island. Relax on the catamaran, and use the paddleboards and snorkel gear provided. Lunch is also included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
SAN JOSE DEL CABO ITINERARY FOR 3 DAYS
Day 1: Start your first day in San Jose del Cabo with a cooking class at Tamarindos. In this organic farm you’ll learn all about the delicious Mexican cuisine (and try your own creations!) You can otherwise go on a zipline/ ATV tour to get your adrenaline pumping.
After lunch, depending on the season, you can take part in a turtle release to witness the baby sea turtles hatch and make their way to the sea. If you’re visiting in the winter, you can join a whale-watching tour to spot the grey and humpback whales in their natural environment.
Have dinner at Flora Farms to finish your day on a high note.
Day 2: Go snorkeling and kayaking in Cabo San Lucas at Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Beach. Alternatively, take a snorkeling tour to El Arco, a stunning natural rock formation in Land’s End.
Finish your day with an evening tour through San Jose del Cabo, where a local guide will tell you all about the town’s history, traditions, and legends. Then, have dinner at Don Sanchez.
Day 3: For your last day, I highly recommend going on a day trip. You can go to Cabo Pulmo, a magnificent national park that’s ideal for snorkeling and diving. Otherwise, you could go to Todos Santos, a Pueblo Magico with lots of charm, great waves for surfing, and an artsy atmosphere.
You could also opt to visit the desert island of Espiritu Santo. Its unspoiled landscape can be enjoyed by hiking its trails or snorkeling in the clear waters. In the evening, take a sunset cruise such as Animalon to marvel at the views from the sea and indulge in a delicious dinner.
HOW TO GET TO SAN JOSE DEL CABO MEXICO
Los Cabos International Airport is the closest airport to San Jose del Cabo, situated about 8 miles north of the city.
To get from the airport to your hotel you have a variety of options:
▶ Private Transfer: This is the most comfortable and hassle-free alternative of all. By pre-booking your transfer you make sure that your driver will be waiting for you when you arrive. They’ll help you with your bags, and drive you directly to your hotel in a comfortable vehicle.
We booked our transfer with TransCabo. This company provided all of our transfers while in San Jose del Cabo and the experience was exceptional. The cars were great and clean, and the drivers were always nice and friendly.
Private transfers can accommodate up to 17 people, and there are accessible vans for wheelchair users.
▶ Shared Shuttle: TransCabo also offers shared transportation. The shared shuttle is a more affordable option to get to your accommodation. You’ll share the ride with 9 other travelers, so transfer time will be longer than with a private vehicle. You’ll still be taken to your hotel’s front door, though, and helped with your luggage.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN JOSE DEL CABO
TOP PICK – Sustainable Luxury: Hotel El Ganzo – This is where I stayed when I visited San Jose del Cabo. It’s an eco-friendly hotel with a super Instagrammable rooftop swimming pool. It features spacious suites overlooking the ocean, and private terraces with jacuzzi baths.
There are several eateries on-site, from a beach club in the hotel’s private beach area to a rooftop bar by the pool, a taco truck, and a restaurant. If you’re feeling lazy, you can order the in-room dining! Spa treatments and activities can be booked at the hotel as well. It’s one of the best boutique hotels in San Jose del Cabo.
LUXURY: Viceroy Los Cabos – This luxurious resort boasts stunning architecture and top-tier amenities. There are six restaurants on-site, a holistic spa, 5 swimming pools, and a fitness center. It’s pet-friendly and has ocean-view rooms.
ALL-INCLUSIVE: Marquis Los Cabos – This is an adults-only, 5-star resort with plenty of luxurious facilities and excellent service. It features a swimming pool, a spa, and on-site bars and restaurants, as well as outdoor lounge areas and a glorious beachfront. It’s one of the best all-inclusive resorts in San Jose del Cabo.
MID-RANGE: SIX TWO FOUR Urban Beach Hotel – The hotel is ideal for families, featuring family rooms and a swimming pool suited for all ages. Rooms are elegantly decorated and include a minibar, a safety deposit box, and tea/coffee-making facilities.
ON A BUDGET: Desert Heart Hostel – This hotel offers both shared dorms and private rooms. Among its facilities are a shared kitchen, garden, and lounge area with board games. They offer evening entertainment, and you can also join some of the activities which include hiking or movie nights.
