Top 10 Must-See Sights in Los Cabos (and How to Reach Them)

Los Cabos packs dramatic landscapes into a small area: granite cliffs, two seas, desert and colonial towns. Here are the ten sights every first-time visitor should see — and a note on the best way to reach each one.

1. El Arco (The Arch)

The natural rock arch at Land’s End marks the point where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez. It is the most photographed place in Los Cabos and can only be seen up close by boat. Our private yacht charters include it on every route.

2. Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor)

A strip of sand between the rocks next to El Arco, with the calm Sea of Cortez on one side and the open Pacific on the other. It is reached by boat. Swim only on the Sea of Cortez side.

3. Divorce Beach (Playa del Divorcio)

The Pacific side of the same beach. The view is spectacular, but the currents and waves are dangerous — this is a beach to admire, not to swim.

4. The sea lion colony and Pelican Rock

Sea lions lounge on the rocks near El Arco all year. Pelican Rock nearby is a classic spot for snorkelers.

Local tip: Plan your Arch visit in the late afternoon. The light is warmer, the water calmer, and you can stay for sunset.

5. Médano Beach

Cabo San Lucas’ main swimmable beach, with calm water, restaurants and water sports, and a direct view of the Arch.

6. Santa María and Chileno bays

Two protected bays along the Tourist Corridor with clear water and reefs — the best snorkeling close to town. Arriving by boat lets you skip the parking lots and crowds. See our snorkeling tours.

7. Marina Cabo San Lucas

The heart of town, lined with yachts, restaurants and shops. Your charter departs from here, and the evening boardwalk is a pleasant walk after dinner.

8. San José del Cabo’s historic center

Twenty-five minutes from Cabo San Lucas, San José has a quieter plaza, a mission church and galleries. On Thursday evenings during the season, the art district hosts its popular Art Walk.

9. Todos Santos

A Pueblo Mágico on the Pacific coast, about an hour north, known for its art scene, colonial architecture and surf beaches. A great day trip.

10. Humpback whales (winter)

From roughly mid-December to mid-April, humpback whales gather off Los Cabos. Seeing one breach from the deck of a boat is a memory you will not forget.

The best way to see Los Cabos: from the water

Half of this list — El Arco, Lover’s Beach, the sea lions, Pelican Rock and the snorkeling bays — is best or only reachable by boat. A 4-hour private charter covers all of them with time to swim, and a sunset cruise adds the best light of the day. Compare options in our yacht charter price guide.