This plan balances Cabo San Lucas’s lively waterfront with a quieter day in San José del Cabo and time on the water. Stops are grouped by area to keep transfers manageable; travel times are approximate and can vary with traffic.
Budget
Approximately MXN 7,000–14,000 per person for the listed meals and activities, excluding accommodation, intercity transfers, and tips.
Best time to visit
November to April for drier, comfortable weather; May and June can be quieter and warmer. Check seasonal conditions and local advisories before swimming or booking boat trips.
Cabo San Lucas waterfront
Ease into the trip around the marina, with the Arch, a beachside lunch, and a relaxed evening nearby.
Morning
Stroll the
Start with a walk along the marina and browse the waterfront. This is an easy introduction to town, with shops and boat operators close at hand.
FreeMorning
See El Arco by boat
Take a water taxi or small tour boat from the marina to the Arch and nearby sea lion colony; allow about 5 minutes to reach the departure docks from the marina promenade. Boat trips generally last 45–90 minutes.
About MXN 300–900Afternoon
Relax at Medano Beach
From the marina, it’s about a 10-minute walk or 5-minute taxi ride to this popular swimmable beach. Choose a lounger or simply enjoy the view of Land’s End.
FreeAfternoon
Lunch at
Stay by Medano Beach for seafood and a lively beachfront setting; it’s a short walk from the main beach access.
About MXN 350–700Evening
Dinner at
Head back toward the marina, about a 10-minute taxi ride from Medano Beach, for sunset views, local beer, and casual Mexican dishes.
About MXN 300–650
San José del Cabo’s historic center
Spend the day exploring the art-filled streets and historic heart of San José del Cabo, with meals and galleries all within a compact area.
Morning
Visit Mission San José del Cabo
Begin in the main square with the town’s landmark church and a gentle wander around the plaza.
FreeMorning
Browse the
The galleries are around the corner from the mission, roughly a 2-minute walk away. Many open later in the day, so check individual hours if you’re visiting outside the main season.
FreeAfternoon
Lunch at
Take a taxi about 15–20 minutes from the historic center to this celebrated farm-to-table restaurant in the foothills. Reserve ahead, especially during busy season.
About MXN 500–1,000Afternoon
Explore the farm grounds
Stay on-site after lunch to browse the gardens and farm shop; walking between the restaurant and the grounds takes only a few minutes.
FreeEvening
Dinner in the Art District
Return to the historic center by taxi in about 15–20 minutes and enjoy dinner among the galleries and cobbled lanes.
About MXN 300–650
Cabo San Lucas and the sea
Pair a morning on the water with a relaxed afternoon and a special seafood dinner back near the marina.
Morning
Snorkel at Santa Maria Bay
Take a taxi or tour transfer from central Cabo San Lucas, usually about 20–30 minutes, to this sheltered cove. Bring water and sun protection, and check sea conditions before swimming.
FreeAfternoon
Unwind at Chileno Bay
It’s about a 10-minute drive from Santa Maria Bay to Chileno Bay. Enjoy the beach and clear water; facilities and shade can be limited, so plan accordingly.
FreeEvening
Dinner at
Return to Cabo San Lucas by taxi in roughly 25–35 minutes, then settle in for oceanfront dining at the Waldorf Astoria. Reserve in advance and confirm the current menu and dress expectations.
About MXN 1,500–3,000
Pedregal and Cabo San Lucas
Finish with a scenic coastal walk, an easy lunch near the marina, and a final sunset outing.
Morning
Walk the
Enjoy a gentle waterfront stroll near the marina and take in the views; allow around 10 minutes on foot from the marina area to reach the coastal path.
FreeAfternoon
Lunch at
From the marina, it’s about a 5-minute taxi ride to this longtime Cabo favorite for Baja-style dishes and a shaded garden setting.
About MXN 450–900Afternoon
Browse
Return to the marina in about 5 minutes by taxi or 15 minutes on foot to browse the shops and enjoy a cool indoor break.
FreeEvening
Catch sunset from a sailing cruise
Depart from the marina, a short walk from the mall, for a sunset sail along Land’s End. Book ahead and check whether drinks or snacks are included.
About MXN 1,200–2,500
Good to know
Getting around
Taxis and rideshares are useful between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, but confirm the fare before setting off. The two towns are about 30–40 minutes apart by road, depending on traffic.
Beach safety
Ocean conditions can change quickly. Swim only where conditions are safe, heed beach flags and lifeguards, and avoid entering rough water.
Reservations
Reserve popular restaurants and boat trips ahead, particularly in winter and during holidays. Confirm opening hours and tour departure details directly with the venue.
Costs
Prices are approximate and can change; tips, transport, and some beach rentals are not included unless noted.