Cruise Port Cabo San Lucas: Guide To Your One Day in Cabo
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Cabo San Lucas cruise port guide for tender logistics, easy transport, safety tips, top sights, shore excursion ideas, maps, and where to eat near the marina.
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How To Get To The City Center From The Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Port
From the cruise port Cabo San Lucas tender pier, you’re ready to explore the marina and downtown area on foot. A quick cab or 20–25 minute walk will get you to Medano Beach.
Cabo San Lucas is a tender port; ships anchor in the bay, and passengers arrive by tender at the marina pier right in town. From the tender dock, downtown blocks begin almost immediately, and Medano Beach is a short taxi or 20–25 minute walk around the marina. Licensed skippers at the pier sell quick glass-bottom and water-taxi rides to El Arco, Lover’s Beach, and Medano; confirm the total price and return pickup before boarding.
If you want a structured plan, follow the marina path to Puerto Paraíso Mall for ATMs, shade, and easy landmarks. Keep small bills for water taxis and marina purchases; card acceptance can be spotty at small kiosks. Expect minor lines for return tenders near day’s end.
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Is Cabo San Lucas Safe?
The short answer for visitors is to stick to the marina, Medano Beach, and main streets, use licensed boats, and agree on taxi fares up front. Keep valuables close, use ATMs at the malls, and plan buffer time for the return tender.
Baja California Sur, home to Los Cabos, sits at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution per the U.S. State Department; tourist zones in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo remain the main visitor areas. Common-sense rules apply: use licensed boats and established tour desks at the marina, watch valuables in crowds, and arrange rides from known stands or apps.
Mexico’s national emergency number is 911; operators can dispatch police, fire, or medical services. Before sailing, review the Mexico advisory page and any recent local alerts to stay current.
About Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Part of Los Cabos in Baja California Sur, Cabo San Lucas centers on its busy marina, Land’s End, and Cabo San Lucas beach clubs along Medano Beach. First-timers come for the arch of Cabo San Lucas views, easy water tours, and a compact downtown you can cover in a few hours.
Cabo San Lucas sits at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, one half of the Los Cabos area with sister city, San José del Cabo up the coast. The marina is the arrival point for cruise tenders and a hub for boat tours, food, and shopping.
Medano Beach runs east from the marina with swimmable sections and water-taxi access. Land’s End and El Arco frame the bay and are the postcard backdrop for most short boat trips. Tourist maps from the official board and local guides help you plan a tight loop around marina landmarks and beaches.
How To Get Around Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Walking covers the marina and Medano Beach, otherwise use water taxis, official cab stands, or rideshare for longer hops. If you’re stretching farther, the Corridor buses run between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, but for a one-day call, simple cab rides are faster.
For a port day focused on the marina, downtown, and Medano Beach, walking covers most needs with frequent shade stops in malls and arcades. Taxis cluster at the marina gates; agree on the fare before boarding. Water taxis are efficient for reaching El Arco viewing points and Lover’s Beach when open, and many operators offer round-trip prices with a timed pickup.
The Ruta del Desierto bus connects Cabo and San José with frequent runs; it’s useful if you’re adding the Art Walk in San José on an overnight pre/post stay. Plan buffers for returning tenders near all-aboard.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Cabo or Mexico!
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What To See In Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Prioritize the arch of Cabo San Lucas by boat, then mix Pelican Rock snorkeling, Lover’s Beach, and Medano Beach time for a tight loop of hits. With extra time, add Chileno Bay or Santa María Beach for calmer swimming, or the Mt. Solmar viewpoint if access is open.
El Arco (Land’s End) by Boat
Map: Google Maps
Tickets: Viator/GetYourGuide
Every first-timer should see the Arch from the water; boats circle Pelican Rock and Land’s End for close views and sea lion sightings. Departures are constant from the marina, and operators range from clear-bottom pangas to small yachts; confirm inclusions and total time. Midday glare is strong, so sunglasses help with photos. Swells can rise quickly; if you get motion sick, pick a larger, more stable boat and sit aft. Your skipper will identify rock features and point out wildlife on the out-and-back route. When seas build or flags go red or black, landings are suspended and tours become look-only. Book through reputable desks at the pier or major operators.
Medano Beach
Map: Google Maps
This is the main in-town beach for swimming and water sports, with restaurants and rentals stretching along the sand. It’s reachable on foot or via a quick taxi from the marina, and water taxis can drop off at certain spots depending on the surf. Expect vendors; a polite “no gracias” works if you’re not shopping. Chair and umbrella rentals are common; settle the price up front. Afternoon surf can be choppy on windy days, so keep bags well above the splash line. Shade is limited—pack a hat or a compact sun shelter if you plan to linger.
Marina Cabo San Lucas Promenade
Map: Google Maps
The marina’s loop is an easy orientation walk lined with restaurants, tour kiosks, and a few shaded galleries. ATMs and restrooms cluster around Puerto Paraíso and Luxury Avenue, helpful for mid-day breaks. Photo ops include fishing fleet statues, anchored yachts, and the harbor mouth with a look toward Land’s End. It’s also your meeting point for nearly all water tours. Keep your tender return time in mind; the walk from Puerto Paraíso back to the pier is short but can feel longer in the afternoon heat. Use the official marina map to pick gates and reference points.
Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach
Map: Google Maps, Google Maps
Lover’s Beach sits on the Sea of Cortez side and Divorce Beach faces the Pacific; both are boat-access only, and conditions dictate if landings are allowed. When open, agree on a pickup time with the same skipper and bring water, sunscreen, and footwear for hot sand and rocks. There are no facilities; pack out all trash. The Pacific side has strong, hazardous currents—no swimming there. If flags go black, landings close; enjoy the views by boat and pivot to Blue Flag beaches like Chileno or Santa María for swimming.
Pelican Rock
Map: Google Maps
Just off the marina mouth, Pelican Rock is a popular snorkel and dive site that pairs easily with Arch tours. Water clarity varies with wind and tide; mornings are usually calmer. Boat operators provide masks and vests on snorkel runs—confirm gear and time in water. It’s close enough to combine with a quick Medano lunch. Watch boat traffic at the edge of the snorkel area and follow the guide’s instructions.
Mt. Solmar Viewpoint
Map: Google Maps
The short, steep hike to Mt. Solmar delivers bay-wide views, but access crosses private property and has varied in recent years. If it’s open during your call, start early with firm shoes and a water bottle; it’s exposed and hot after 10 a.m. Trails are rocky and direct, so this is best for sure-footed hikers with time to spare. If the gate is closed, pick the marina lighthouse lookouts or a boat-based viewpoint instead. Always respect closures and posted signs.
Chileno Bay
Map: Google Maps
Further up the Corridor, Chileno Bay is a consistently rated Blue Flag beach with calmer entries and marked swim zones. Facilities and parking make it efficient, and it’s a standard stop on snorkel tours. DIY visits require a taxi or tour; there’s no marina water taxi to the Corridor beaches. Snorkel along rocky edges for fish and occasional rays. Lifeguard flags dictate daily swim safety; obey them.
Santa María Beach
Map: Google Maps
Santa María is another Corridor favorite with clear water and protected cove conditions; it’s great on calmer mornings. Bring your own shade and water; amenities are more limited than resort beaches. Many catamaran tours anchor here for snorkeling before sailing past El Arco. If you’re deciding between the two, Chileno often has easier entries, while Santa María can feel more secluded on weekdays. Both require a road transfer from the marina.
San José del Cabo Art Walk (seasonal)
Map: Google Maps
On Thursday evenings from November to June, the Gallery District in San José del Cabo opens late with street closures and gallery events. It’s a fun add-on if you’re staying pre- or post-cruise or have a very late all-aboard with an afternoon transfer time. Expect live music, tastings, and rotating exhibits; check the current season’s dates before you commit. The district is compact, and signage points to participating galleries. Allow transit time back down the Corridor to Cabo San Lucas if your ship is same-night.
Cabo San Lucas Downtown and Puerto Paraíso
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
The twin malls and surrounding streets give you quick access to shade, food courts, and pharmacies when the sun spikes. It’s not the most “local” slice of Baja, but for cruise timing, it’s practical and central. You’ll find ATMs, quick-serve taco shops, and convenience stores for sunscreen or hats. Mall corridors are a good reset between the marina and Medano Beach segments. Use the downtown map to plan door-to-door moves.
Museo de Historia Natural de Cabo San Lucas
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A compact museum near the marina covering regional geology, marine life, and local history. It’s an efficient 30–45 minute stop with air-conditioning, useful around midday. Displays are mostly Spanish with some English; exhibits rotate. Combine with a quick taco stop before or after. It won’t replace a full natural history museum day, but it fits a hot afternoon gap well.
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Best Cruise Ship Shore Excursions At The Port Of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Top picks include Cabo San Lucas whale watching (Dec–Apr), some of the best snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas at Chileno or Santa María, and a sail around Land’s End. If you want something different, look at ATV in Cabo San Lucas, a camel safari, or a half-day sportfishing charter from the marina.
Arch and Land’s End Boat Tour
The classic 45–60 minute loop covers the Arch, Sea Lion Colony, Pelican Rock, and both beaches with narration. It’s ideal if you want marquee views without committing a half-day. Small boats get closest, but catamarans ride more comfortably when the bay is choppy. Book at the marina or via a major operator for a simple rendezvous.
Clear-Bottom Boat Ride
See reef fish under your feet while circling Land’s End, with an option to hop off at Lover’s Beach when landings are allowed. It’s kid-friendly and efficient for photo ops. Confirm pickup times and return location before stepping off. Choose calm-sea windows for the best clarity.
Chileno and Santa María Snorkel Cruise
Half-day catamarans sail to Corridor coves with calmer snorkel entries, gear, and snacks. These runs are reliable alternatives when surf closes beach landings near the Arch. Expect 2–3 total hours with time in water plus sailing. Bring a towel and reef-safe sunscreen.
Pelican Rock Snorkel
Short boats reach Pelican Rock fast, maximizing time in the bay without the longer Corridor ride. Visibility varies; ask the crew for the down-current side. The site works well in the morning, leaving room for a marina lunch after. Combine with a quick Medano stop.
Whale Watching (Dec–Apr)
From mid-December through April, humpbacks migrate through the bay and outer waters. Boats watch for breaches and tail slaps with naturalist commentary. Early departures often bring calmer seas. If seas kick up, switch to a larger catamaran for comfort.
Sunset Sailing with Open Bar
A crowd-pleaser that pairs golden light with easy sightseeing around Land’s End. Crews pour drinks and cue music; photographers work both sides of the boat as the coastline rotates. Dress for wind and watch footing with cups on deck. Back at the marina, you’re steps from your tender.
ATV Desert and Beach Ride
Operators trailer you to desert arroyos and Pacific-side dunes for guided rides with helmets and bandannas. Surfaces are dusty; eye protection helps. These trips eat time with transfers and gear briefings, so confirm total door-to-door duration before booking.
Camel Safari Experience
Short runs pair desert scenery with a beach segment and a taco or tequila tasting at the base. It’s a novelty option close to town with fixed-time departures. Check weight and age minimums. Transfers count toward the clock; build in a cushion.
Sportfishing Charter
Cabo is a major sportfishing base with half-day and full-day trips for dorado, tuna, marlin, and more. Licenses, bait, and crew tips add to the base fare—budget accordingly. Dock checks are simple; boats stage near the marina gates. Early starts are common.
Todos Santos Day Trip
If you’re overnighting, the Pueblo Mágico of Todos Santos sits up the Pacific side and pairs art galleries with a historic center. Day trips run several hours round-trip, so this is not a typical cruise-day add unless your call is unusually long. Roads are straightforward highways with scenic desert and ocean views. Coffee and bakery stops are easy to fold into the route. Save it for pre/post stays if your ship schedule is tight.
Must Try Local Cuisine And Restaurants In Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Near the pier, hit Marina taquerías for the best tacos in Cabo San Lucas and quick mariscos before your tender. The best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas cluster around the marina and mall entrances. On Medano Beach, Cabo San Lucas beach clubs serve seafood plates and the best fish tacos in Cabo San Lucas with toes-in-the-sand views.
El Coral Restaurante
Map: Google Maps
Old-school Cabo with mesquite on the grill. Since 1975, this landmark has turned out classic Mexican plates and fresh seafood steps from the marina. Portions are generous, the vibe is easygoing, and the pricing sits in the mid-range. If you want a sit-down meal close to the tender pier without a long wait, this is a reliable pick.
Cabo Cantina Sports Bar Restaurant
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
If you need TVs, cold beer, and a broad menu near Marina Boulevard, this is the spot. Breakfast runs heavy or light, then the all-day lineup covers fajitas, tacos, burgers, seafood, and ribeye, plus Baja Brewing on tap. Service is fast, portions are large, and they’re open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, which helps on short port calls. There’s a sportsbook upstairs during major events; reserve for big games. Good choice for groups who want simple seating and predictable timing.
Romeo & Julieta
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
One of Cabo’s long-running Italian rooms, known for tableside Caesar, wood-fired pizzas, and house-made pasta. The setting works for date night or a quieter meal after an afternoon at Medano or the marina. Gluten-free pasta is available, and service leans polished without dragging the pace. Book ahead for prime hours; this spot is popular with repeat visitors. If you want a non-seafood option in a city of fish menus, this is an easy recommendation.
El Squid Roe
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Yes, it’s a nightlife heavyweight, but the kitchen runs 10:00 am to 10:00 pm with a surprisingly deep menu. Think macho nachos, fajitas, shrimp thermidor, ribs, burgers, and tacos, plus salads if you need a reset. They’ve moved fish dishes to traceable, farm-raised totoaba from the Sea of Cortez. Come by day for faster service and fewer distractions; save the late-night scene for after you’re done eating. If seas are rough and tenders run late, confirm kitchen hours before you commit.
Mi Casa
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
A Cabo classic serving regional Mexican plates—mole poblano, cochinita pibil, ceviches, and tortillas made in-house. The dining rooms are decorated with folk art and often host live music, which makes it feel festive without being chaotic. Margaritas get strong reviews, but opinions on service can vary by night.. Hours are dinner-only, roughly 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, so time it for embarkation eve or a late call. If you’re choosing one “traditional” dinner near Centro, this belongs on the short list.
Captain Tony's
Map: Google Maps
Website: Link
Right on the marina, this is a fisherman’s hangout from 5:30 am to 10:00 pm with a menu that covers the whole day. Grab chilaquiles at breakfast, sashimi and tuna tostadas as starters, or the taco trio with their guacamole and salsa for lunch. They’re known for wood-fired pizzas if you want something shareable, and “You Hook It, We Cook It” turns your catch into a full meal. Service is friendly, turnaround is quick, and it’s an easy meet-up spot before or after a boat tour. If you’re booking sportfishing with Pisces, this is home turf for post-charter eats.
Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port Maps
Download a Cabo San Lucas cruise port map to see tender gates, marina loops, and the shortest path to Puerto Paraíso and Medano Beach. Save a downtown map offline so you can navigate ATMs, taxi ranks, and tour kiosks without burning data.
Start with the Los Cabos Tourism Board maps and guides hub for Cabo San Lucas, beaches, and the Corridor. For an in-town view, use the Cabo San Lucas downtown map with street names, malls, and marina edges to plan a loop. If you want an overview of slips and gates, the IGY Marina map shows the layout and contact info. Self-guided walking tour apps also offer Cabo routes with GPS navigation if you want a structured path.
Best Things To Do in Cabo San Lucas:
El Arco (Land’s End) by boat
Medano Beach
Marina Cabo San Lucas promenade
Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach (access varies)
Pelican Rock snorkel
Mt. Solmar viewpoint (if open)
Chileno Bay (Blue Flag)
Santa María Beach (Blue Flag)
San José del Cabo Art Walk (seasonal)
Cabo San Lucas downtown and Puerto Paraíso
Museo de Historia Natural de Cabo San Lucas
Sunset sail around the Arch
Arch and Land’s End boat tour (short loop)
Clear-bottom boat ride
Chileno and Santa María snorkel cruise
Pelican Rock snorkel trip
Whale watching (Dec–Apr)
Sunset sailing with open bar
ATV desert and beach ride
Camel safari experience
Sportfishing charter
