There are two main towns when flying in to Cabo; Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Beautiful Hotels, villas, and golf courses line the coastline between the two cities. They are a short drive apart from each other and there are taxis and Ubers available to help you navigate between them both.
Cabo San Lucas is an amazing desert-esque beach town at the Southern tip of Baja California. This destination is a great location for the West Coasters as it is a short flight down the coast to year round warmth and relaxation. This town has whatever you are looking for, whether it is relaxation, adventure, or partying.
Places to See
You can't go to Cabo without seeing the iconic peninsula landmark, “El Arco”. The rock formations jut out along the coastline to be seen for miles. You can't walk or swim to this famous point but you can take a quick water taxi to get there. The downtown marina is located next to the main shopping area where you can find many of these water taxis and boats for hire. Really up your game by taking a sunset sail on a catamaran.
As you take the short ride you will notice hundreds of fish just beneath the surface. Many of the water taxis have glass floors for you to enjoy even more of the sea life. There are two beaches next to the Arches, Lovers Beach and Divorce Beach. You will quickly see how they get their names. Lovers Beach is in the calmer Gulf waters and Divorce beach is on the Pacific Ocean. Disclaimer, many of the beaches on the Pacific Ocean side are very dangerous for swimming as there is a very strong undertow due to the ocean shelf drop-off in addition to the large amount of rock formations. Many resorts won't actually allow you to swim in the ocean so be sure to check before you book!
The Marina and Downtown Cabo is a great place to get away from the resort. With large cruise ships arriving this area can be VERY touristy. There is a big shopping mall as well as tons of bars and restaurants here.
There is a swimmable beach, Medano Beach, where you can relax or rent jet skis and paddle boards.
If you are looking to escape the crowds, I would suggest staying away and just relax poolside at one of the many resorts that line the coastline.
[See my recommended Hotel List Below]
Things to Do
Whales!
Cabo is known for that year round warm weather so it is the perfect getaway for the Winter months. An added Winter season perk is the welcoming of all the whales and marine life that Migrate South. During this peak mating season you may be lucky enough to see some breaching whales just a few hundred feet from your beach resort.
To see more whales up close, be sure to book a boat excursion. If you want to get closest and see the most, look for a smaller and quicker speed boat vs the boats.
Another great adventure is to go to La Paz (2 hour drive north) where you can even see and swim with the rare and harmless Whale Sharks that mate here every winter.
Outdoor Adventures
Check out Cabo Adventures for other activities like snorkeling, ATVs, zip lining, etc if you are seeking more thrill and excitement.
Golf
There are so many golf courses so be sure to book a Tee Time.
Medano Beach
Take a trip to Medano Beach and visit the landmark Mango Deck restaraunt for your classic college spring break spot. The ambiance & food make for a good time.
If you are looking for something less rowdy, be sure to check out The Office restaurant next door. Be sure to book reservations here ahead of time!
You can rent water taxis here or at the main marina walking distance from the beach.
You can also find all kind of water sports and activities here for rent or hire.
Places to Stay
Here are a few of my favoritre resorts in Cabo:
The Cape, A Thompson Hotel
Pueblo Bonito, Pacifica (Adults Only) - All Inclusive Option
Pueblo Bonito, Sunset Beach (Family friendly) - All Inclusive Option
Hacienda Encantada - All Inclusive Option
Another great alternative to a resort is to book a beautiful villa. If you are traveling with a large group consider renting a multiple bedroom villa with a pool.
Best Places to Eat / Drink
The Office ($$) - hands down my favorite restaurant in Cabo
Manta($$$) @ The Cape Hotel is a more expensive dining location but the resort, views, and experience makes it worth every penny.
The Rooftop @ The Cape Hotel - this is a great place for drinks at sunset. Live music and an awesome ambiance make this a must do.
Book an All Inclusive Resort and don't worry about making any reservations!