Cabo has never been high on my list. In fact, I visited Mexico 10 times and 7 other cities before I visited Cabo. I typically avoid destinations built around luxury resorts and spring-break energy, so it took me a while to get there. Ironically, my first visit was during spring break — and I really enjoyed it.
What Cabo Is Really Like
Cabo is one of Mexico’s most beautiful destinations — where desert meets ocean, and the food scene impresses. It’s polished, comfortable, and unapologetically high-end.
This easy, indulgent vacation spot caters to travelers seeking convenience, luxury, and ocean views. Prices reflect its status as one of Mexico’s priciest destinations.
Ideal for couples, group getaways, spring breakers, and luxury-leaning digital nomads, you’ll also see families with young kids, grown children, and plenty of instagram baddies.
If you’re after deep culture or budget travel, Cabo might not be for you—though with some effort, you can definitely find affordable food and lodging options.
It’s a no-go if you’re looking for deep culture or budget travel – although you CAN definitely eat and stay inward, and make this an inexpensive trip if you were oh-so determined.
Where to Stay: Airbnb vs Resorts
I stayed in an Airbnb a block from the beach and paid far less than beachfront resort prices. Resorts in Cabo can easily run $400+ per night, while we paid closer to $50 per person per night by sharing an Airbnb with a group.
Resort-Hopping
My travel hack:
Sleep at the Airbnb. Eat and explore at the resorts. Even if you don’t stay at a luxury property, it’s worth visiting one. I explored several resorts for their restaurants, and the Four Seasons was my favorite.
I spent a full day at the Four Seasons, visiting multiple restaurants and bars without staying on property. Cabo resorts are set up to welcome outside guests — it helps to make a reservation through OpenTable or Resy websites.
Best Restaurants & Food in Cabo
Cabo has an excellent dining scene. I like to structure nights out by trying multiple places within the same area, which lets me experience different atmospheres and menus.
Some of my favorite restaurants are in San José del Cabo, in the art district about a 30-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas. It’s worth going for dinner there if you’re up for a short trip out of town.
- Trueno Coffee – hip coffee shop, good for a daytime stop
- Rubia’s Bakery & Bistro – well known for brunch and baked goods
- Sage – Mediterranean flavors, stylish setting, good for drinks and starters
- Lumbre – meat-focused, dark and moody, known for its bone marrow butter
Nido – A nest-shaped restaurant located inside of Viceroy resort with upscale Japanese menu.
Flora Farms – Farm-to-table restaurant on a working farm with gardens, shops, and lake views (in San José del Cabo / outskirts).
Acre – Resort restaurant inside Acre resort – there’s rose gardens, petting zoos, and shops to tour while you wait for your table. Very close to Flora Farms.
Metate – Great option for groups with reasonable prices and solid traditional cuisine (central Cabo).
Sushito – Casual and delicious sushi fusion spot (Cabo San Lucas).
Mariscos Las Tres Islas – Fresh seafood restaurant (in Cabo San Lucas).
Mariscos El Paceñito – Local seafood favorite in Tezal (just outside central Cabo).
Arbol – Resort restaurant inside of Las Ventanas – there’s a huge tree in the middle of the space — very Instagrammable and attracts the sorts.
Comal – Located inside Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, this Michelin‑recommended fine‑dining restaurant specializes in elevated Latin American and Baja cuisine with ocean views.
CarbónCabrón – Michelin‑recommended modern Mexican and grilled‑meats restaurant in San José del Cabo with a vibrant setting and excellent service. La Nao – Located inside the SUNSET Beach Resort, has a great breakfast buffet. El Farallón – Located inside the Waldorf Astoria, right on the water. Go for sunset. Reservation required.
Things to Do in Cabo
The activities are pretty straight-forward. Explore the resort/restaurant scene, or do something outside.
The Arch of Cabo San Lucas
This iconic natural rock formation, also known as “El Arco,” is a must-see. You can take a boat tour to get up close or just admire it from the shore. Sunset tours are especially popular for stunning photo ops.
Whale Watching
Whale watching season runs from December to April, when gray and humpback whales migrate through the area. Tours usually cost around $90 per person. Friends on my trip had the chance to see a mother and baby whale — a truly unforgettable experience if you’ve never been on one.
Beaches, Hiking & Nature
Many beaches are only accessible through the resort, but theres also lots of public beaches.
Cabo’s Best Beaches
While many beaches in Cabo are private or linked to resorts, there are several public beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling:
- Lovers Beach (Playa del Amor): Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem offers stunning views of The Arch and a peaceful escape.
- Medano Beach: Cabo’s main public beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and water sports. It’s quiet in the morning and lively in the afternoon.
- Playa Santa Maria: A quieter, scenic cove great for snorkeling and avoiding the spring break crowds.
- Chileno Bay Public Beach: Known for crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling conditions.
- Pedregal: Visit the most southern point in Baja California Sur, featuring stunning desert landscapes and ocean views. This is right below Sunset Beach Cabo Resort – where the La Nao restaurant is.
Best Hiking Trails in Cabo San Lucas
- Cerro de la Z Trail: A moderate desert hike with panoramic ocean views, perfect for a morning adventure.
- Cerro De Las Chivas: Near the Sage restaurant, this trail offers beautiful vistas and a chance to explore Baja’s natural landscape.
Is Cabo Worth It?
Absolutely, if you got money to spend. Cabo is polished and built for leisure, it delivers exactly what it promises. If you’re seeking culture, history, and budget travel, other Mexican cities may suit you better. If you want sun, scenery, great food, and easy luxury, Cabo is absolutely worth a visit.
Would I stay for a month? No
Would I return? Maybe, if my friends really wanted to, and the friend group was really lit.