18 Things You Absolutely Should Not Do in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas has a lot to offer its visitors from beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants, and a wide variety of water activities to nightlife that will keep you out until early morning hours. However, there are some specific things you should not do while in Cabo San Lucas.
Don't Swim on the Pacific Side of Cabo San Lucas
Depending on where you are in Cabo, swimming in the ocean can be downright treacherous. Although there are several areas in Cabo San Lucas where swimming is allowed, absolutely do not swim on the Pacific side of Cabo due to its harsh waves and strong undercurrent. Instead, head to Medano, Santa Maria or Chileno Beach.
Don’t Purchase Pharmaceuticals Without a Prescription
There are several pharmaceutical (Farmacia) shops in Cabo offering name brand medications such as Valium, Viagra, etc. You should know that bringing home prescription drugs without a prescription from a doctor is illegal and if caught at the airport you could be arrested. Do you really want to spend time in a Mexico jail? Friends, the answer should be NO!
Just Say No to Party Favors
Speaking of drugs. If you are offered “party favors” while walking on the streets or along the beach while in Cabo, seriously just say no! The legal system in Mexico is not what you are used to so don’t risk it.
Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks While in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo is a safe vacation destination if you travel smart. Be aware of your surroundings, in the evenings stay on the well-lit and populated streets. Don’t be flashy with your money or expensive jewelry and don’t take unneeded risks.
Don’t Fall for What Seems Like the Deal of a Lifetime!
If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. Walk away friends, just walk away!
Don't Forget Sun Protection
The sun can be intense in Cabo, so whether walking around town or laying at the pool make sure you have sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses with you.
Check out 10 Must-Have Travel Products You’ll Wish You’d Found Sooner for more ideas on what to bring on your trip to Cabo.
Don’t Get Help from the Guys Inside the Airport
There is an area before exiting the Los Cabos Airport that has been referred to as “the gauntlet.” After leaving Customs and Immigration you will exit through automatic doors into another room where you will find a swarm of individuals offering to help you.
These individuals will be very helpful and offer to help you find a taxi, shuttle, resorts, tours, carry your luggage, etc. Just smile and keep walking because their goal is to convince you to attend a timeshare presentation. They are a convincing bunch with resort or shuttle names on their shirts, but again, smile and walk, walk, walk until you get outside. The people outside are the legitimate shuttle or hotel representatives.
Don’t Take a Taxi from the Airport
The price of a taxi ride from the Los Cabos Airport to Cabo San Lucas is around $80 USD/1,487 pesos. You can get a much better deal with a shuttle. It is optimal to pre-book a shuttle through your hotel, resort or an independent company like Super Shuttle although you can also make arrangements at the airport.
Don’t Waste Your Money Renting a Car
For the most part, if you are staying in Cabo San Lucas, you won’t need a car. The exception would be if you have plans to travel to areas such as Todos Santos or La Paz. If this is the case, only rent a car for the actual days you need it or just kick back and relax and let a tour company drive you.
Drawbacks to Renting a Car
Cars and rental insurance in Mexico can be expensive. We have also found that signals and stop signs are more of a suggestion than a rule, so be alert. It is also difficult to find street parking in Cabo. So, I recommend saving your money and taking a cab or the bus.
Avoid Shopping When the Cruise Ships Are in Port
Merchandise prices in the souvenir shops are often higher when the cruise ships are in port. They are in Cabo San Lucas three days a week, so shop for your souvenirs on other days. Hotel or resort staff can tell you the days cruise ships are in port.
Don’t Wait to Get a Picture of the Bay
If you are hoping to get the perfect picture of the bay and the iconic Land’s End rocks, snap that picture when you can. Once the cruise ships are in port, that is all you are going to see. Sometimes three ships will be in port at one time and will block your view.
Don’t Text and Walk While in Cabo San Lucas
Pay attention to where you are walking. The sidewalks in Cabo San Lucas are uneven, plus sidewalk height can vary drastically from building to building. At times you will find up to a 12-inch difference from one section of the sidewalk to the next. Streets can also be uneven or made of cobblestones so watch your step to avoid twisted ankles or worse.
Don’t Limit Yourself to Only Eating at the Marina
There are many great restaurants just a short walk from the Marina with much better food and better prices. Get out and see what Cabo has to offer.
If you want more on the great restaurants, see Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – Everything You Need to Know.
Be Careful Drinking Water in Town
Most of the water and ice in hotels, resorts, and tourist restaurants are safe. Many offer purified bottled water and many of the resorts have desalination plants that purify the water on site. Be wary of water and ice when eating at restaurants off the beaten path and stick to bottled water and drinks without ice just to be safe. No one wants stomach issues when traveling.
Don’t Exchange Money Before Arriving in Mexico
More times than not, you will get a better exchange rate in Mexico. Money can be exchanged through ATMs, at the cash exchange booth at the airport, local banks, or at many of the larger resorts. Also, if using your credit card and you don’t have a foreign exchange rate fee, then pay in pesos when possible. Again, this usually results in the best exchange rate.
Don’t Put Your “I Love Cabo” T-Shirt in the Dryer
You know that amazing shirt you bought on the beach for $5? It’s best not to put it in the dryer. Hanging your new shirt to dry will prevent shrinkage and your dog from getting a new shirt from Cabo.
Don’t Ask the Roaming Musicians to Serenade You
Friends, remember nothing is free in Mexico. The friendly musicians who approach you in the restaurants do expect a tip after their beautiful table-side serenade.
Don’t Just Lay Your Favorite Bottle of Tequila in Your Luggage
I’m speaking from experience on this one. If you plan to bring back a bottle of your favorite tequila, pack it with caution. Wrapping a bottle in clothes or bubble wrap is your best bet. Just laying the bottle amidst all of your clothes is not enough to prevent it from breaking.
I hope you enjoy your visit to Cabo.
Let me know in the comment section below if you have other Cabo San Lucas Tips.
Check out our Cabo San Lucas Guide for more tips and the 20 Absolutely Amazing Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas.
If you haven’t decided on where to go in Mexico, check out Cabo or Cancun – Which Fun-Filled Destination is Right for You?
Don’t forget to follow Trudy Traveler on PINTEREST and you can save the pin for later!
68 thoughts on “18 Things You Absolutely Should Not Do in Cabo San Lucas”
Los Cabo Golf Resort is a scam with Express Travel Solutions. They say a lot of promises that are not as it seems. When they finally give the access to they system after several months it is not any way close to what you are told. Allyou get when you try to get information is a run aroud or they hang up on you.
My husband & I are going for the first time, in November, for my 60th. I am torn on what to do as far as renting a car. One post will tell me to do it, another will tell me not to. My in-laws were just there (they have a timeshare), they don’t rent but I believe they’re closer to downtown/marina. Just reading about all of the transportation fees, I’m thinking a $250 car for the week doesn’t sound bad! Our place doesn’t have a place to swim (besides the pools), so we are definitely want to go to the beach a couple of times. And I just found out our bars/restaurants are only open until 10 pm, so we are going to want some nightlife, as well. Now I’m wondering, maybe I should find out more about the transportation offered from our resort. I am very torn on what to do.
Hello! I think finding out what transportation options are available from your resort is a good idea. Depending on where you are staying you should be able to take a taxi or the bus to most places. You can easily access Medano beach by taxi if you are staying in Cabo. I know that the buses also stop at some of the beaches a little further out. We have been numerous times and despite our first trip have never rented car. Happy Travels!
First, let me say all great advice, but not swimming in the ocean is only the first problem. There is no beach to walk on. A few years back a hurricane cut the beach and it is almost impossible to even get down to the surf. There is lots of beautiful white sand, but high above the waterline. No nice wet sand to build sandcastles on or for kids to get their feet wet in the surf. To get to the beaches mentioned in the article will be $. This is not uncommon for a lot of the pacific coast in Mexico. If you have kids, or like a beach for a morning walk find an area with a bay.
The best thing I can say about Cabo is to go somewhere else. Like Costa Rica or VI…
Thank you.
Thanks so much! How does one know when cruise ships will be in town? Or is COVID still keeping them away? We will be in Cabo Dec 6-11. Thanks again!
Your hotel or resort will be able to tell you. If you are staying on Medano Beach you will be able to see them. Happy Travels!
Such great tips and information… thank you! Planning a trip the end of December 2021 with my husband, two adult daughters, early 20’s and teenage son. Looking for a very nice, very clean resort. Recommendations and/or suggestions? Also, thoughts on all inclusive? We want to be able to be on the beach and swim in the ocean. I know several properties have no beach access or swimming because of the strong under currents. Need to book very soon. Was looking at the Pueblo Bonito Rose but some pictures and review are scaring me. Thank you so very much.
We have stayed at the Villa del Palmar and Pueblo Bonito Rose. You can’t go wrong on Medano Beach, but I would personally choose the Palmar over the Rose.
Hi! Planing to travel in March. Any thing to worry about for a woman traveling alone?
I would recommend considering the suggestions here and other general safety precautions when traveling abroad. Happy Travels!
All great tips! Due to cost, family of 5 looking at great rates in January. Will it be warm enough to enjoy beach and ocean water? Thx, DMo
Cabo usually has temperatures in the high 70s to mid-80s in January so it sounds like it should be a great time to visit!
I have been to Cabo about 3 times and plan to go again in the spring. The tips are spot on. I don’t have any experience with the fishing, but have talked to groups at restaurants that were having their own caught fish cooked for them and said they had a great day of fishing. I didn’t think to ask about the boat arrangements. We usually stay at a resort that is all inclusive so spend a lot of days there, and yes the rental car sits there too, but we go there for the golfing and it is nice to have the car for loading all our clubs, there are usually 4 of us. If we didn’t need it for that I would say don’t rent till you need as well. We absolutely love Cabo and even though my husband was nervous about the safety of the place the first time he got over it pretty quickly. As long as you follow the tips about awareness and not going out alone at night or in unpopulated areas you will be fine. As far as Montezuma’s revenge none of us has ever experienced it, again use your judgment on what you eat and drink and where it is coming from. Enjoy.
My 2 grown daughters and I have booked an Airbnb in La Paz a block from the Malecon. I’m worried about safety. Anyone booked La Paz and not stayed at a resort?
We traveled to Cabo a month ago on 06/21/2021 and we didn’t see anything to worry about and also shuttle driver told us it was safe a this time. No violence.
I am going at the end of the month and wondering if I should take more pesos than usd?
When we go to Cabo we take USD and then exchange some for pesos when we get there. USD and credit cards are accepted in most shops, stores, and restaurants. It is good to have some pesos on hand for taxis, buses and smaller, local establishments. USD can be exchanged at ATMs, currency exchange booths at the airport, local banks, or at many larger resorts. In general, you will usually receive a better exchange rate if you wait to exchange money in Cabo instead of before your trip. Happy Travels!
Rent when needed only is a great tip and reminder. We have rented in the past and had the rental sit in the parking lot for several of the days of our stay. In Los Barilles, is necessary to have some means of conveyance almost everyday….a side by side or a car as things are a bit spread out and there’s not much in the way of public transportation.
Thank you
Can someone update us on the “real” cost of renting an economy car at the CSL Airport…weekly as we are planning on 10 days to 2 weeks. We last visited Los Barilles and in 2019 and it was pretty expensive, somewhere between 700 and 800 USD for 10 days for a rather “tired”, manual transmission VW.
Hello, I don’t have an update on “real” cost but have heard it is better to only rent a car on the days you actually need it versus the span of time you’ll be there. Resorts can usually help arrange for a car when you need one. Happy Travels!
Rent when needed only is a great tip and reminder. We have rented in the past and had the rental sit in the parking lot for several of the days of our stay. In Los Barilles, is necessary to have some means of conveyance almost everyday….a side by side or a car as things are a bit spread out and there’s not much in the way of public transportation.
Thank you
I’ve been to Cabo many times since I first drove there in 1986 but every year for a week the past 6 yrs and only use Cactus Car Rental. Go to their site ahead of time and set it up. Last year I got a Jetta for a little over $200 for 7 days that’s with insurance. They’ll be at the airport to shuttle you to their office just outside and are super nice 🤙🏼 Don’t tell anybody I told you lol
Thanks for sharing your experience. I believe I tried to use Cactus when there in 2019, but they had nothing available for the time period we needed the car. I’ll be sure to set up car rental earlier next time.
I payed $70 for five days, midsize
I’ve rented twice through the Mexican company, Cactus. Both times I got great pricing much lower than American companies. If you plan to take a timeshare tour, you can schedule it with Cactus. My rental car bill was $300 (before the timeshare discount). For taking the timeshare tour, I received $150 off my rental car plus a round of golf at Quivira, a very exclusive golf course at Pueblo Bonito.
We’re here now Spot on! Especially the vultures at the airport! Walk fast, don’t make eye contact!! Ruthless! I had not heard about the pharmaceuticals (not that I need anything). Great tips.
I’ve been to Cabo the last 2 years in a row and this post couldn’t be more spot on!
The “Gauntlet” as it is called is no joke. Those folks are like vultures and if you give them any eye contact, or slow down, they’ll be all over you!
Also, we made the mistake of the renting a car the first year we went and through the website, they made it seem cheap and the only way to go, but the reality was that we only paid a fraction at that point. INSURANCE was the financial kicker for them! We ended up paying several hundred more dollars at the rental place and then we didn’t use our car for 7 days while at the resort! Pre-book a shuttle through one of the many reputable companies outside the airport doors!
Thank you for the advice. Be well
I am going for my first time ever in June. I speak no spanish at all will this make this trip difficult?
Hello, that should not be an issue. You will be able to speak English to the staff at hotels, resorts, restaurants, etc. Happy Travels!
I have retired and plan on moving to the La Paz, Cabo San Lucas area any suggestions for a single male 64 in great health? I am also a musician and would like to continue to perform at the resort areas.
I don’t have any knowledge about living in the area, but there are a lot of resorts and bars that have live entertainment.
I’m going to Cabo with a friend in April. I’m excited to go and appreciate all the tips! Thank you
When deep sea fishing go for the 8 hours. I found that the half day trips does not give them enough time to get to the fishing grounds plus they’re looking at their watch then head in to pick up the other half day group. When you decide on a boat ask them if this boat I’m looking at will be the boat we are going out in. I fell for the trick they show you a photo of this aircraft carrier with 8 fighting chairs but when you get to the marina this rattle trap of a boat shows up and they say “the boat you saw in the photo is in the chop (shop) do not fall for this one. If the tout a lunch of fruit and chicken don’t fall for it but bring your own lunch and bottled water. They use water to wash off fruit and then you get sick. TAKE YOUR OWN LUNCH. Nothing like going out the first day then spend 3 days in the room sick close to the toilet. Good fishing.
When in Cabo don’t book a fishing boat at the hotel this will cost a lot more then going to the dock early in the morning. There are always boat captains ready to make a deal. So you can pay for as many hours as you want. But you will have to tip. Usual 20 to 30%.
Also a lot of the hotels will keep your fish in a freezer until you are ready to go home, some will cook as much of your fish as you want for the family dinner. Most will charge a fee that includes salad bar and sides. Then take your cooler and some duct tape to the airport after they check to see it’s just fish and they will, when they are done rap it in duct tape and send it home for the big BBQ. And good luck fishing.
Great comments. I have been to Cabo many times and other parts of Mexico. I love the people and the fun they have to offer. I think the comments were common sense for travelers.
For you fisherman who go on deep sea fishing. This happened to me. My girlfriend at the time were getting sun on the beach when this man ask if anyone wants to go fishing. He shows a unfolding photo of a Fishing boat with fighting chairs the whole nine yards. I was told to wait at a certain spot when I sea this junk of a boat sounding likes it’s it going to fall apart. The guy say the other boat I showed you is in the “CHOP” shop. Always…always take your own lunch. I fell for the fruit and chicken. I opened the bag after we were underway to a dried orange and a dead sparrow. I was pissed at myself for falling for this. I made the most of it but you don’t!!!
Fishing ??? La Ventana ask for /Yo-Yo? /Guadalupe You won’t be disappointed with the price, the service, or the catch. Just ask around town Yo Yo will find you. And no I am not kidding.
Great tips.., for the most part you will feel safer in Cabo then you do in your nearest big city at home as long as you respect the culture and show your appreciation for the very kind help and service with plenty of gratuities. All are working for tips and will gladly accept them. Most that you encounter need them to make ends meet. EVERYONE that you accept service from. Maids, waiters, greet staff, bag carriers, both those who unload your bags and those who carry to your room , as well as your taxi or shuttle driver. Anything is appreciated.
I went to Cabos in March 2020 and I did rent a car for $100 for 5 days, thanks to a guy from the airport and get 3 free nights in Hotel Cabo Villas, plus very good discounts in tours. Im going back this year again in March and the same guy from the airport is helping me to get good deals…
Hi! Nice tips. I’m thinking of going and traveling by myself. Is it safe for a woman traveling alone? Thanks!
Hi Sara I’m Orlando I’m also going by myself in Feb 2022 how did it workout for you? Was it a good time ?…
Im going by myself in March.
Been to Cabo many times by myself. Never an issue. Even drinking alone was not a problem. Unless you’re going to get hammered, then yeah not good.
Thank you very much.
My son 52 me 76 will be there 4/1 for 7 days fishing and being together. He lives in Boise and I live in northern California and looking forward to the visit.
It’s taught to us when young to be polite, friendly, respectful so when these folks want to help you keep waking don’t stop. They want to be your tour guide which seems nice on the outside but they will lure you to their friends shops to buy things. We made the mistake and stopped on the street gave the guy $40 to leave us alone. Do not get to adventurist but stay with the tourist and no long walks at night..
All good suggestions..I have been to Mexico at least 20 times..some things are the same in all places of Mexico.. Couple things not mentioned A. Never go out by ones self if drinking is your priority, Mexico jails are not like American jails, they never want to keep you there but happy to part you from a great deal of money to watch you leave. Do not buy drugs in Mexico, jail may be the least of your problems after you have connected with these people. If your a visitor and not a local then respect their laws, their customs and by all means do not act like they owe you something. Acting entitled is a bad habit and ugly behavior for others to watch. Smile and be happy!
Great tips! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much, this information was very helpful.
Absolutely never exchange money at the airport! They charge 20%, $20 to change $100! You can pay for things in small American bills all over Cabo, or exchange American dollars for pesos at the banks. Do not ever use an ATM machine on the street or your credit card will most likely be scams and every penny will be withdrawn from your account the next day! Only use ATMs inside at Banks and cover your card at all times. Likewise if you need to take money out of your American account, use MoneyGram. They only charged $8 to withdraw up to $850 and you’re withdrawing it in pesos at the daily exchange rate. You can fill out the information at moneygram.com, then take the reference number they give you to Walmart and pick up your money at the MoneyGram office there. Otherwise you are going to pay tremendous fees and percentages both from your bank back home and the Mexican bank here.
How is the best way to travel from la paz to cabo?
Hello, the best options are bus or renting a car. It is about a 2 1/2 hour bus ride or a 2-hour drive by car. Bus is the cheapest option but renting a car gives you more freedom to stop along the way and explore. Happy Travels!
I love going to Cabo we always rent a car not straight from the airport we go to our destination first on a shuttle as you ssid ans we stay away from those time share people and after we arrive we call the car rentsl and they bring us a car we use it for 2 weeks and we drop it off at the airport went we depart from Cabo meanwhile we go to Todo Santos and All over and site see we akso like there Cosco and Wallmart. And dinner at the Mona Lisa and the Cape. Fun times.
The tips are really helpful, thanks
Hi. I have been to Cabo san Lucas many times. Your tips were great.
Very grest tips. SZ
Good tips, especially what to be aware of at the airport- ” No Gracias” X 100! I’ve found the people warm and friendly, I always attempt to speak Spanish, ( I am TERRIBLE!) but they love it when I at least try! I’ve always felt safe in Cabo and out of nine visits I’ve been twice by myself (female) but I am smart about where to go, not go and when. I’ve gotten to know people (locals of course) in my favorite restaurants and I NEVER go drinking by myself. Common sense with a bit of extra caution. I love Cabo and have never had a bad experience there!!
LOVE CABOI THANKS FOR THE GREAT TIPS!!
I’ve traveled alot & know most of the do’s & don’t do but this was very helpful…You are spot on when talking about the Airport & Solicitation tactics. Annoying to say the least. Me & My Wife will b in Cabo for the 1st time Nov.30th for our 50th Bdays. Can’t wait. Tha k you.
Have you had any concerns about COVID in Cabo. Are people being careful, are restaurants open?
When we were in Cabo in October, businesses were taking additional precautions to prevent the spread of COVID. However, not all visitors followed social distancing practices or were diligent about wearing masks in common areas. Many restaurants were open, although we did see some bars and restaurants that were closed.
I’m here now for the first time and this is spot on!!!
Thanks for the confirmation. We are visiting for the first time at the end of August. 2021. Any other tips would be appreciated.
I’m glad these tips were helpful. If you haven’t done so already check out my post on things to do in Cabo https://trudytraveler.com/20-amazing-things-to-do-in-cabo-san-lucas-mexico/ and Everything you need to know about Cabo https://trudytraveler.com/cabo-san-lucas/. Have a great trip!
Thanks for the tips. I am currently in Cabo and the tips have been quite useful. Cabo is a beautiful place. Thoroughly enjoying myself.
Interesting and informative. Thank you. Who knew about shopping when the cruise ships were in Port? Thanks again.
Great info, very impressive
Hope you enjoyed! How was your trip? I am thinking of going in March 2022
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