Are you planning a trip to Los Cabos, Mexico, or perhaps new in town and looking for unique places to explore? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you through some of the top insider spots to see and experience Los Cabos like a local. From hidden beaches to local restaurants, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s Get Going!
Los Cabos, located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula in Mexico, is a popular vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. While many tourists stick to the main tourist areas, there are plenty of hidden gems that locals know and love. By exploring these insider spots, you’ll get a more authentic taste of the culture and beauty of Los Cabos.
Why Experience Los Cabos like a Local
When you travel like a local, you get to see a different side of the place you’re visiting. You get to immerse yourself in the culture, interact with locals, and discover unique, off-the-beaten-path places that most tourists miss. By experiencing Los Cabos like a local, you’ll get a more authentic and memorable experience that you’ll cherish for years.
The Best Time to Visit Los Cabos
The best time to visit Los Cabos is from December to April when the weather is dry, and temperatures are in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. This period is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May to June or October to November.
Getting Around Los Cabos
Renting a car is the best way to experience Los Cabos like a local. Having a car will allow you to explore different areas at your own pace and discover hidden gems. However, taxis and public buses are also available if you prefer to avoid driving.
Top Insider Spots to See in Los Cabos
El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, sometimes called Land’s End, is a breathtaking rock structure located at the point where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet. You may get up and personal with this famous monument by taking a tour on a boat or using a water taxi.
Chileno Bay
Located in the Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, Chileno Bay is a stunning, quiet beach. The waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling due to their clarity and abundance of marine life.
Todos Santos
About an hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas is the lovely hamlet of Todos Santos. You may escape the madding tourist crowd and immerse yourself in Mexican culture by visiting this charming town, famous for its art galleries, surf locations, and ancient architecture.
Flora Farms
We mentioned this incredible restaurant in our article Dine in Style: Discover the Best Restaurants in Los Cabos. Flora Farms is an organic farm and restaurant located in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. Fresh produce and a farm-to-table dining experience make it a must-visit for foodies and nature lovers.
Playa del Amor
Playa del Amor, known as Lover’s Beach, is a secluded beach near El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. With stunning views and crystal-clear waters, it’s an excellent spot for swimming and relaxing.
San Jose del Cabo Art Walk
Every Thursday night is the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk from November through June. Discover the rich culture of San Jose del Cabo with its museums, galleries, and restaurants serving regional cuisine.
Mercado Municipal
Mercado Municipal, also known as the municipal market, is a bustling market in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Local food, handmade crafts, and souvenirs make it a great place to shop and experience the local culture.
La Lupita Taco and Mezcal
The tacos and mezcal drinks at La Lupita Taco and Mezcal are some of the best in downtown San Jose del Cabo. It’s a terrific spot to sample the local cuisine and party scene, thanks to the bustling environment and helpful personnel.
La Paz Waterfall
About an hour and a half north of Cabo San Lucas, you’ll find the breathtaking La Paz Waterfall. It’s a beautiful spot to get back to nature and disconnect from the stresses of city life, what with all the lush foliage and the nearby waterfall.
Cabo Pulmo National Park
About two hours east of Cabo San Lucas is the protected marine reserve of Cabo Pulmo National Park. It’s a fantastic place to go diving or snorkeling due to the abundance of marine life and the condition of the coral reefs.
Playa Las Viudas
Playa Las Viudas, also known as Widow’s Beach, is a hidden gem near Cabo San Lucas’s tourist town. With rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, it’s an excellent spot for exploring and relaxing.
Balandra Beach
Balandra Beach is a stunning beach about 30 minutes north of La Paz. With shallow waters and stunning rock formations, it’s an excellent spot for swimming and taking Instagram-worthy photos.
Cerritos Beach
Cerritos Beach is a popular surf spot about an hour and a half north of Cabo San Lucas. With consistent waves and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s an excellent spot for surfers and beach lovers.
Hiking Mt. Solmar
Mt. Solmar is a mountain located near El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. With stunning ocean and city views, it’s an excellent spot for hiking and taking in the natural beauty of Los Cabos.
Cactus Sanctuary
Cactus Sanctuary is a botanical garden located near San Jose del Cabo. With over 5,000 different species of cacti, it’s a great place to learn about the local flora and fauna and take in the region’s natural beauty.
El Faro Viejo
Cabo San Lucas is home to an old lighthouse called El Faro Viejo. It opened in 1890 and served the community until 1961. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse affords visitors panoramic vistas of the coastline and surrounding area.
San Jose del Cabo Estuary
The estuary at San Jose del Cabo is protected as a wildlife sanctuary. Herons, egrets, and osprey are just a few birds that make their homes there. The estuary is open for visitors to explore independently or with a guide.
Plaza Amelia Wilkes
Plaza Amelia Wilkes is a charming square located in San Jose del Cabo. It features a fountain, a bandstand, and a sculpture of Amelia Wilkes, the city’s founder. Visitors can enjoy a stroll and admire the colonial architecture of the surrounding buildings.
Are you ready to Experience Los Cabos like a local?
By experiencing Los Cabos like a local, you’ll get a more authentic and memorable experience that will stay with you long after your trip. From hidden beaches to local restaurants and cultural events, Los Cabos has plenty of insider spots waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, add these top insider spots to your itinerary and experience Los Cabos like a true local.
