Los Cabos still stuns: El Arco, humpback season and Cabo Pulmo—“the world’s aquarium”—keep Baja California high on travelers’ lists.
Set between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, Baja California’s southern tip delivers a rare contrast: near-rainless desert landscapes that suddenly give way to bright beaches and blue-green water. That mix of calm, adventure and wellness is exactly why Los Cabos remains one of Mexico’s most alluring destinations for international visitors.
The long peninsula—nearly 1,000 kilometers separating two bodies of water—feels cinematic. Arid stretches blend into seemingly endless coastlines. Rain is scarce, showing up for roughly ten days a year, which only sharpens the region’s sunlit, dramatic character.
Two towns, two moods in Los Cabos
Los Cabos is often experienced as two distinct worlds. San José del Cabo leans into a more traditional, authentic rhythm. Cabo San Lucas, in contrast, is the tourism hub, known for high-energy marinas and some of the region’s most sought-after resorts—including major all-inclusive properties.
El Arco: the meeting point of two seas
In Cabo San Lucas, the headline sight is El Arco, the rock formation marking where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. The coastline creates a striking duality—calmer water on one side and heavier surf on the other—giving rise to two symbolic beaches: Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach.
A boat trip to El Arco is a must, especially during humpback whale season, which runs from December through April. Many tours also mention sightings of dolphins and orcas, plus time in the warmer Sea of Cortez for snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.
Cabo Pulmo: “the world’s aquarium”
About a two-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas, Cabo Pulmo National Park is legendary among ocean lovers. Explorer Jacques Cousteau dubbed it “the world’s aquarium,” a reputation tied to the Sea of Cortez and its marine wealth—described locally as home to around 30% of the planet’s marine species.
With turquoise water, comfortable temperatures and a coral reef estimated at over 20,000 years old, Cabo Pulmo is a dream for snorkeling and scuba diving. To protect the ecosystem, visitors are required to use biodegradable sunscreen and respect established time limits in sensitive areas.
Todos Santos: art, road trips and bohemian charm
Heading north in the opposite direction from Cabo Pulmo, Todos Santos offers a different Baja California Sur vibe. The pueblo mágico is known for its artsy atmosphere and striking scenery. The drive from Los Cabos takes just over an hour.
Baja California Sur has three pueblos mágicos: Loreto, Todos Santos and Santa Rosalía. Across Mexico, there are 177 pueblos mágicos—towns recognized by the Mexican government for historical, cultural and natural value.
Farm-to-table flavor and eco awareness
Los Cabos also reflects a growing commitment to environmental awareness. Eco-minded tourism and the “farm-to-table” approach show up in local dining, with many kitchens highlighting ingredients they grow themselves—down to edible flowers and strawberries cultivated in the desert.
Hospitality is another part of the draw. The warm, upbeat energy is often cited as essential to the experience, especially at upscale properties like Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, praised for strong amenities and attentive staff.
For travelers who want everything included, Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, set on the far southern end of the peninsula, blends entertainment with downtime—and delivers wide-open ocean views.
Foto: Divulgação
