Things To Do
in San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo is a charming town located at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. Known for its colonial-style architecture, colorful buildings, and quaint cobblestone streets, it offers a more relaxed and authentic Mexican experience compared to its busier neighbor, Cabo San Lucas. The town is also home to art galleries, boutiques, and delicious local restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.
Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, hiking in the nearby mountains, and various water activities such as snorkeling and fishing.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mission of San José del Cabo, soaking in the historical atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in one of the charming cafes nearby.
Wander through the Art District, exploring galleries featuring local artists. Grab lunch at a local taco stand for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Dinner at a beachfront restaurant offers stunning sunset views. Stroll along the beach and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Head to Playa Palmilla for a refreshing morning swim. Relax on the soft sands with a good book.
Enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront eateries, sampling fresh seafood. Take part in water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
Wrap up the day with a sunset walk along the shore. Dine at a seafood grill as the sun goes down.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning coastal views
- Pleasant climate year-round
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local arts scene
- Proximity to Los Cabos International Airport for easy access
- Plethora of outdoor activities including fishing, golfing, and hiking
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons can be overwhelming
- Cost of living can be relatively high compared to other Mexican cities
- Limited public transportation options
- Potential for hurricanes during the rainy season
- Some areas may lack robust healthcare facilities
Best Activities in San José del Cabo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches of San José del Cabo such as Playa Palmilla, Playa Costa Azul, and Playa Acapulquito for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Discover the diverse marine life and coral reefs by snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez.
Embark on scenic hikes in the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains to enjoy stunning views and explore the region's rich biodiversity.
Take a boat tour to witness the breathtaking spectacle of whales, including humpback and gray whales, during their migration season.
Experience world-class sportfishing in the waters off San José del Cabo, known for abundant marlin, dorado, tuna, and other game fish.
Tours
Uncover the best of San José del Cabo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San José del Cabo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the marina, golf course, and surrounding coastline, perfect for picturesque sunset photography.
Provides panoramic views of San José del Cabo and the Sea of Cortez, making it a popular spot for capturing scenic landscapes.
Known for its beautiful sandy beach and clear waters, ideal for capturing tranquil coastal scenes and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Food in San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Try them at El Gran Pastor or Tacos El Paisa.
Must-Try!
A spicy ceviche made with fresh raw shrimp or fish, marinated in lime juice, green chili, and served with cucumber and red onion. Visit Mariscos El Torito for an authentic Aguachile experience.
Grilled fish, typically snapper or sea bass, marinated in a tangy chili adobo sauce. La Casita and Tamarindos Restaurant are known for their delicious Pescado a la Talla.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San José del Cabo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local flavors. Sample homemade tamales, fresh fruits, and churros. Don't miss the local vendors selling tacos and empanadas.
During the weekly Art Walk, the streets come alive with food stands offering everything from grilled corn (elote) to churros and freshly made churros. It's a perfect opportunity to taste a variety of local street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San José del Cabo, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations or interactions.
When meeting someone in San José del Cabo, a friendly handshake and a genuine smile are considered respectful and customary gestures of greeting and politeness.
It is advisable to familiarize oneself with the local customs and traditions of San José del Cabo, such as showing respect for religious practices and being mindful of cultural sensitivities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San José del Cabo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San José del Cabo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally expected in San José del Cabo, Mexico. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is customary if a service charge is not already included. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also common.
In San José del Cabo, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. Major credit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards for payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San José del Cabo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter is the peak tourist season with mild temperatures and low humidity. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities and water sports.
Spring offers warm temperatures and blooming vegetation. It's a great time for whale watching as the whales migrate past the coast.
Summer brings hot and humid weather, perfect for beachgoers. However, it's also the hurricane season, so visitors should be aware of potential storms.
Fall experiences occasional rain showers and milder temperatures. It's considered the off-peak season, offering quieter beaches and lower hotel rates.
San José del Cabo at Night
Hiking in San José del Cabo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful protected marine park that also offers hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline and marine life.
A mountain range with various hiking trails that lead through diverse ecosystems, offering panoramic views and opportunities to see local wildlife.
A scenic hike that takes you to a waterfall and swimming area, surrounded by lush vegetation and rock formations.
An accessible trail that runs along the coast, providing beautiful ocean views and opportunities to spot bird species.
A popular local hike that rewards hikers with stunning views of San José del Cabo and the surrounding areas from the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San José del Cabo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San José del Cabo by plane.
The main airport serving San José del Cabo, located approximately 7 kilometers northeast of the city.
Located about 150 kilometers north of San José del Cabo, this airport serves the city of La Paz and the surrounding areas.
An airport serving Cabo San Lucas, located approximately 35 kilometers southwest of San José del Cabo.
Located around 200 kilometers to the southeast of San José del Cabo, this airport serves Mazatlán and the Sinaloa region.
Situated approximately 550 kilometers to the northeast, this airport serves the capital of Sonora.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, comprising the majority of the population with a rich cultural heritage.
Primarily consisting of expatriates and retirees from the United States and Canada.
Including groups such as the Cochimi and other local indigenous communities.
A smaller demographic group that includes residents of varying Asian descents.
Includes a mix of various ethnic backgrounds from around the world.
The Soul of San José del Cabo
Discover the essence of San José del Cabo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
San José del Cabo is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent waves, making it a popular destination for surfers of all skill levels.
The area features several world-class golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy the scenic views and challenging play.
Sport fishing is a major attraction in San José del Cabo, with opportunities for both deep-sea and shore fishing in the rich waters of the Sea of Cortez.
With its clear waters and diverse marine life, diving and snorkeling are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore beautiful coral reefs.
Many resorts and clubs offer tennis facilities, making it a popular recreational sport among locals and tourists alike.
The surrounding natural landscapes provide numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the desert and coastal scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San José del Cabo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in San José del Cabo offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with some places specializing in plant-based cuisine. Look for options like grilled cactus (nopal) tacos, vegetable-stuffed tamales, and fresh salads with local ingredients.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes such as ceviche, grilled fish, and tacos made with corn tortillas. Several establishments also provide gluten-free versions of traditional Mexican dishes, ensuring a diverse dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San José del Cabo with these cultural adventures.
