Welcome to Cabo San Lucas, where dramatic desert landscapes meet pristine beaches at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula! This tender port destination offers everything from the iconic El Arco rock formation to world-class sport fishing and vibrant beach clubs. As cruise ships anchor in the bay, passengers are ferried to the marina, where downtown, beaches, and shopping are all within walking distance or a short water taxi ride.
Port Overview: Tender Port Paradise
Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, meaning cruise ships anchor in the bay and passengers are transported to shore via tender boats. The tender ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes and drops you at the main marina pier. The marina area is immediately walkable upon arrival, with restaurants, shops, and tour operators all within a few minutes' walk.
Tender Priority: Book ship excursions or arrive early at the tender meeting point for faster disembarkation. The tender process can take 30-60 minutes during peak times.
Getting Around Cabo
Transportation Options
- Water Taxi: $5-15 for Medano Beach or El Arco tours (5-10 min)
- Walking: Free - Marina and downtown within 10-20 minutes
- Taxi: $10-30 to San José del Cabo or remote beaches
- Rental Car: $40-60/day for exploring the corridor
Iconic Cabo Experiences
Must-See Attractions
- El Arco (The Arch): Dramatic rock formation at Land's End ($15-20 water taxi)
- Lover's Beach: Hidden beach accessible only by boat
- Medano Beach: Main swimming beach with beach clubs
- Marina Cabo San Lucas: Luxury yachts and waterfront dining
Popular Shore Excursions
Glass Bottom Boat to El Arco
See underwater marine life and rock formations
45 min - $25-35 per person
Sport Fishing
"Marlin Capital of the World"
Half-day charters from $400-600
ATV Desert & Beach Tour
Adventure through desert trails to Pacific beaches
3 hours - $80-120 per person
Sunset Sailing
Catamaran cruise with open bar
$60-80 per person
Water Adventures
- Snorkeling: Pelican Rock and Santa Maria Bay ($45-65/person)
- Whale Watching: December-April humpback and gray whales ($50-80)
- Tequila Tasting: Learn about premium tequilas ($45-65)
- Zip Line Adventure: Canyon zip lines with ocean views ($90-130)
Beach Life & Water Sports
Best Beaches
- Medano Beach: Safe swimming, beach clubs, water sports
- Chileno Beach: Excellent snorkeling, calmer waters
- Santa Maria Bay: Protected cove for snorkeling
- Lover's Beach: Secluded, boat access only
⚠️ Swimming Safety: Pacific side beaches have dangerous rip currents and are not safe for swimming. Stick to Medano Beach or protected bays on the Sea of Cortez side.
Cabo Cuisine & Dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Fish Tacos: Battered or grilled with cabbage slaw
- Chocolate Clams: Local delicacy grilled with garlic
- Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice
- Margaritas: Cabo's signature cocktail
Recommended Restaurants
- The Office on the Beach: Beachfront dining ($15-30)
- Solomon's Landing: Marina views with seafood ($20-35)
- Cabo Wabo Cantina: Sammy Hagar's bar with live music ($15-25)
- Mi Casa: Authentic Mexican in courtyard ($12-20)
Family-Friendly Activities
Kid-Friendly Beaches
- • Medano Beach: Calm waters, rentals
- • Chileno Beach: Snorkeling paradise
- • Santa Maria: Protected cove
Family Adventures
- • Glass Bottom Boat: Marine viewing
- • Camel Safari: Beach camel rides
- • Dolphin Encounter: Interactive programs
Insider Tips
Currency & Vendors
US dollars widely accepted. Beach vendors persistent but harmless - polite "no gracias" works. Negotiate souvenirs - start at 50% of asking price. Small bills recommended for tips and taxis.
Weather & Best Times
Year-round sunshine with 350+ days of sun. October-May: Perfect weather, whale watching season. June-September: Hot and humid with occasional brief showers. Water temperature: 72-82°F year-round.
Shopping Tips
Puerto Paraiso Mall near marina for duty-free shopping. Local markets for authentic crafts. Tequila and vanilla are good values. Avoid buying prescription medications.
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