Los Cabos is home to some of Mexico’s most amazing all-inclusive resorts with ocean views to spare, which is why many visitors are surprised that most of these beachfront resorts are not actually suitable for swimming. You can blame its gorgeous location on the tip of the Baja California peninsula, AKA where the Sea of Cortez meets the mighty Pacific Ocean, causing serious waves, powerful currents and red-flag conditions along many of its beaches.
Of course, there are exceptions! If soaking up the salt and sun is a vacay must, check out these five swimmable beaches in Los Cabos.
1. Medano Beach
Number one on the list is always going to be Medano Beach. It’s located right smack dab in the middle of Cabo San Lucas with amazing views of Los Cabos’ famous arch and nearby access to all the famous restaurants and bars¬–the Office and Mango Deck to name a few.
Its waves are gentle and great for wading with a cold cerveza in hand, and its shores are lined with local vendors and watersports. It’s definitely touristy, but if you stay at a nearby resort like Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa, you can enjoy private lounge chairs, cabanas and beach staff!
2. Chileno Beach
For something with a little MORE of a local feel, check out Chileno Beach. This chill bay is located along the hotel corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, near Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa.
It’s still got some amenities like palapas, restrooms, a lifeguard and a nearby restaurant, but it’s not nearly as built out as its southern downtown neighbor. It’s great for a day of laidback swimming or snorkeling. Just don’t forget a snorkel and some sunblock!
3. Santa Maria Beach
Arguably the best snorkeling spot in the area is at Santa Maria Beach. It’s a protected marine sanctuary situated in a secluded spot along the hotel corridor. There are tons of thriving coral reefs in the area, which is why many snorkeling excursions anchor their boats here (our favorites are with Amstar DMC). You may even see the occasional spout or breach during the winter whale-watching season!
So while the waters might be crowded with snorkelers, the beach itself should be relatively calm. It’s a great spot to relax as you won’t find many (if any) vendors roaming the sand. If you’re looking to stay nearby, check out Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos.
4. Palmilla Beach
This one’s for our San Jose del Cabo True Beach Lovers! About four miles from San Jose’s cobblestone streets is Palmilla Beach. It’s home to stunning turquoise waters, white sand and gorgeous rocks you have to see to believe. You might even see a celebrity or two along the way–this beach is on the way to the ultra-luxurious One&Only Palmilla.
There’s a lifeguard on duty overlooking the areas dedicated to swimming, as well as kayaks and paddleboards for rent if you’re looking for MORE activity. Our favorite thing to do is lounge under a palapa and work on our tan, but whatever floats your boat!
5. Lover’s Beach
Last but not least, we have Lover’s Beach. The name says it all! It’s hard not to fall in love with this sandy stretch of heaven sandwiched between the captivating rocks of Land End. Its calm waters and soft shores are a true love story. You can cut through the rocks and walk over to Divorce Beach, too. Just don’t go for a swim… those waters will show you the true definition of rocky.
Note that Lover’s Beach is only accessible by boat, and its swimming conditions do vary by day. However, on most days, you can take a water taxi from Medano Beach and swim amongst Los Cabos’ most famous landmark. It’s hard to beat!
Now that you know the ropes, dive into these Los Cabos all-inclusive vacation packages for MORE savings.
