Darija Stojanovic 
Visiting Los Cabos? Que bien! Mexico’s Baja California peninsula is packed with attractive opportunities for tourists, and I’m here to help you decide where to stay in Los Cabos, the heart and soul of the region!
The best place to stay for first-timers is Medano Beach – it’s one of the few swimmable beaches, it’s centrally located, and it has plenty of shops and restaurants around to keep you amused day and night!
Stay tuned, and in this post you will learn about 6 tourist friendly areas (I sorted them all by interest!) and all the best hotels in them, so you can just book your favorite and go!
I manually compared ALL the lodging options and hand-picked only the top-rated ones, so you know you’re getting the best value for money!
Just make sure you book in advance to secure the best deals!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Check out the best hotels in Los Cabos:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Medano Beach – where to stay in Los Cabos for first-timers
- 2. Cabo San Lucas – where to stay for convenience
- 3. Tourist Corridor – where to stay for secluded luxury
- 4. San José del Cabo – a bohemian place to stay in Los Cabos
- 5. Pedregal (Pacific Side) – where to stay in Los Cabos for seclusion
- 6. Cabo San Lucas Marina – where to stay for water activities
- BONUS: Where to stay in Todos Santos
- FAQs about lodging in Los Cabos
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map of the areas I’ll talk about in this post to help you visualize Los Cabos:
NOTE: Let’s get the confusion about this city’s name clear right away: Cabo refers to Cabo San Lucas (one of the cities in the area), while Los Cabos (plural form of “Cabo,” meaning “capes”), refers to Cabo San Lucas AND San José del Cabo (another city in the area)!
Hopefully now it is less confusing because I surely was a bit lost in the beginning!
1. Medano Beach – where to stay in Los Cabos for first-timers
Medano Beach is the place to be for anyone coming to town for some beach time! Being the only swimmable beach around, Medano is definitely where to stay in Los Cabos for first-timers!
Since Medano is technically part of Downtown Cabo San Lucas, you’ll have plenty of shops, bars, restaurants, and hotels around.
Medano Beach is actually quite long – it stretches for 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Cabo San Lucas harbor to the Villa del Palmar Resort on Cabo San Lucas Bay!
Plenty of water activities like jet skiing or parasailing are available for the brave ones, and the warm and gentle water waves make the beach suitable for all types of swimmers, including beginners.
As far as umbrellas and chairs are concerned, you can use the ones available in bars and restaurants on the beach (you have to order drinks or food first, of course). Most resorts will have private beach areas where you can use the beach equipment for free. You can also bring your own chairs and umbrellas.
Did you know that the Sea of Cortez in Cabo is actually the youngest sea in the world? It was formed (only) 3 million years ago! Just for reference, the Red Sea is some 30 million years old!
Mango Deck (map) is a legendary beach bar with local food, music, and a fabulous location, so make sure you grab breakfast or lunch here while you’re on the beach!
If you’re wondering where to stay in Los Cabos for spring break, know that this area can get quite crowded!
NOTE: Since this may well be your first trip to Mexico, I understand you may be worried about safety. Let me tell you that Los Cabos is a super touristy place, and is therefore super safe! Just refrain from walking in secluded or unlit areas during the night, and you’ll be good to go!
Now let’s see what accommodation I handpicked for you in Medano Beach!
Other accommodation options in Medano Beach
Things to do in Medano Beach
- Chill on the beautiful sandy beach
- Rent and enjoy a jet ski ride around the area
- Go kayaking around The Arch
- Listen to mariachi while eating at Mango Deck
2. Cabo San Lucas – where to stay for convenience
Cabo San Lucas is one of the most popular areas to stay in Los Cabos, and its huge range of Downtown eclectic accommodation options makes it a great choice for tourists in Mexico. It’s super convenient because it’s close to the beach, Marina, and all things touristy!
One of Cancun’s biggest rivals, the capital city of Baja California Sur, is popular for a party and spring break destination. It’s the best place if you’re wondering where to stay in Los Cabos for nightlife!
Downtown Cabo San Lucas is as busy as it can get, but there’s so much more to Cabo San Lucas than just its wild nightlife.
With countless pockets of peace and relaxation, this is also a perfect destination for lounging at the white playa (beach) and going on outdoor adventures.
Cabo San Lucas has the nickname “Earth’s End” because it’s located at the final point of the Baja California Peninsula!
Long walks on the shoreline while watching the golden sunset reflect the sea, boating next to dolphins and whales, dining at a cliff-top restaurant with the best views, and having a much-needed massage in a state-of-the-art spa are just some of the rewarding experiences this paradise has to offer.
And when you get hungry, the iconic Cabo Wabo Cantina awaits with mouthwatering food and cocktails!
Since there are so many options to stay in Cabo San Lucas, and I know that you’re looking for a place to match your ideal vacation, I have broken the accommodation options by interest.
Let’s have an in-depth look at the best all-inclusive hotels, family-friendly hotels, and hotels with the best swimming opportunities.
P.S. We also have an article dedicated to all-inclusive family resorts in Cabo. If this is what you’re looking for, check out our curated choice of the 15 best resorts here.
2.1 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cabo San Lucas
If you’re looking for an ultimate luxury holiday with everything you need at your fingertips, look no further than an all-inclusive resort.
With your room, food, drinks, and sometimes activities included in the price, you will be able to relax in style without worrying about the bill.
Most all-inclusive resorts also feature bars, food options, pools, and other high-class facilities on-site, meaning you don’t even have to go Downtown if you don’t want to!
Here are the best options for all-inclusive resorts in Cabo San Lucas. Please note that even budget all-inclusive options have pretty high pricing.
Other all-inclusive options in Cabo San Lucas
2.2 Family resorts in Cabo San Lucas
Thinking of heading to Mexico with the whole family? Cabo San Lucas is a popular place to stay for a number of different types of visitors, including families!
Here are some of the top family-friendly and safest places to stay in Cabo San Lucas. They feature an abundance of fun attractions and kids’ clubs to keep the children entertained while you relax by the pool!
We also have a separate article on 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cabo for Families, so make sure you check it out for more ideas!
Other accommodation options for Families
2.3. Best hotels for swimming in Cabo San Lucas
Since a lot of downtown Cabo’s beaches aren’t safe for swimming due to the strong currents and large waves of the area, if you’re planning on spending a lot of time in the water during your vacation, make sure to choose the right hotel. Here are some popular hotels which offer some of the best options for swimming in Cabo San Lucas.
NOTE: All the hotels in the Medano Beach area above are suitable for swimmers since Medano is a swimmable beach. In this section, I wanted to include alternative options situated across the area where you can find a few more swimmable beaches.
Other accommodation options for swimming
Things to do in Cabo San Lucas
- Fly above the sea while riding a Flyboard or parsailing
- Visit the legendary Hotel California from the famous Eagle’s song
- Go on a kayaking and snorkeling adventure to El Arco
- Experience cliff diving at the Pelican Rock
- Savor the best of local cuisine
- Get a Wild Canyon Park Pass to have a fun and thrilling day with the family at the Wild Canyon Adventures
- Go tequila tasting with the locals
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3. Tourist Corridor – where to stay for secluded luxury
The Tourist Corridor is the stretch of coastline that bridges Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Many famous people frequent this region, and you’ll find some of the most mega deluxe accommodations in the whole of the Baja California peninsula here.
Resorts and hotels along the Tourist Corridor are generally more spacious, quiet, and private than in the other towns of Los Cabos. If hundreds of hotels and resorts crammed into one Downtown area isn’t your ideal vacation, this region is the perfect alternative where you can still find plenty of luxury seaside and golf resorts.
Popular beaches here include the Chileno Bay Public Beach and Tequila Cove Beach (nice for walks but usually not swimmable).
Since the Tourist Corridor stretches the entire length of the coastline, it is dotted with stunning beaches and secluded coves. Although it is possible to spot celebrities such as the Kardashians here, there are still plenty of options for all different budgets.
Other accommodation in the Tourist Corridor
Things to do in the Tourist Corridor
- Play golf at some of the world’s best golf courses, like Cabo del Sol’s Ocean Course or Cabo Real Golf Club
- Go for a surf at Playa Monumentos or Playa Acapulquito
- Ride a horse along the beach at Cuadra San Francisco
- Go ziplining or bungee jumping at Wild Canyon Adventures
- Visit the Desert Park Natural Reserve
4. San José del Cabo – a bohemian place to stay in Los Cabos
San José del Cabo is the cooler, laid-back sister city of Cabo San Lucas. It is located just a 15-minute drive from the airport and a 30-minute drive away from San Lucas and has a much more relaxed atmosphere.
San José del Cabo is a romantic colonial town that managed to preserve the charms of Old Mexico. It’s striking how the main square Downtown alone will give you plenty of things to see and do that will pull you into the history and culture of San José del Cabo.
You’ll get to enjoy strolling the quaint Downtown area with the aroma of Baja’s street food enticing you to take a bite.
The art district (Distrito del Arte) houses galleries, shops, and boutiques and also hosts a popular Art Walk event featuring craftsmanship from every state of Mexico from November to June every year.
Much like its sister, San José del Cabo is also known for its upscale dining and live Latin music and has no shortage of hotels and beach sports.
Take a look at some luxury hotels in San Jose del Cabo as well as other more budget-friendly options below:
P.S. Viceroy Los Cabos is another excellent 5-star resort in San José del Cabo I must recommend! It has 5 pools, 5 restaurants, the most upscale rooms, and fantastic staff.
Other accommodation options in San José del Cabo
Things to do in San José del Cabo
- Visit art galleries and boutiques at Distrito del Arte, like Ivan Guaderrama Art Gallery
- Swim with the dolphins at Cabo Dolphins
- Go on a Flyboard water tour
- Catch the San José del Cabo Art Walk between November – June
- Go snorkeling at Playa Palmilla
- Try your skill of surfing at Costa Azul Beach
5. Pedregal (Pacific Side) – where to stay in Los Cabos for seclusion
The Pedregal area is located to the west of the Marina and southwest of Downtown, and it’s also known as the Pacific Side since it overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
This area is also known as the Beverly Hills of Cabo, and you have a good chance of spotting celebs if you stay here! Home to high-end resorts and hotels and spectacular views, it’s no wonder why world trendsetters and celebrities choose to stay here.
Although Pedregal is far from where the action is in Los Cabos! There are a few cafés and restaurants here, but the choice isn’t spectacular. Wherever you stay, you’ll be able to sleep at night and not worry about partygoers and late-night music.
If you like to break a sweat on your trip, I highly recommend climbing the Cerro de la Z top! There’s a hiking trail offering spectacular views once you reach the summit.
Other accommodation options in Pedregal
Things to do in Pedregal
- Climb to the Cerro de la Z viewpoint
- Try high-end seafood at El Farallon restaurant
- Book a boat tour in the nearby Marina
- Walk along the South Tip of Baja California
6. Cabo San Lucas Marina – where to stay for water activities
The Marina is located south of Downtown and west of Medano Beach (the best area for first-timers), and it’s within walking distance of both of these areas.
If you’re into water activities, including sunset kayaking tours, cruises, whale watching, or snorkeling, this is where to stay!
You’ll find tons of tour operating services by the marina, so just pick your favorite activity and get going! Cabo Adventures is the most popular tour operator that offers whale watching and sailing tours around the area, so you may want to stop here first.
Apart from water activities, the area is also packed with hiking trails (like the beautiful Mt. Solmar), and it’s also home to the famous El Arco natural rock formation in the shape of an arc (map).
Stroll by the marina for sights of billionaire yachts, grab a local water taxi to Medano Beach or buy Mexican souvenirs in local shops!
Other accommodation options in Cabo San Lucas Marina
Things to do in Cabo San Lucas Marina
- Go on a 2-hour whale-watching boat ride
- Schedule a private yacht cruise (SO exciting!)
- Stroll by the marina during sunset
- Go snorkeling and admire the captivating underwater life
| 👑 Luxury price: | $350 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | $170 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $80 |
| 📍 Best area: | Medano Beach |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hacienda |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Marina Cabo Plaza |
| 👛 Best budget stay: | 2 BR Villa |
BONUS: Where to stay in Todos Santos
I noticed that some articles consider Todos Santos as part of Los Cabos, while others don’t include it at all. Even if it is technically not part of Los Cabos, it is very close and a lot of people choose to stay there. That is why I still want to give you an overview of the best hotels to stay here in case you are also charmed by this beautiful place.
This magical village known for its artisanal shops and bohemian streets is a short ride (55 minutes) from Cabo San Lucas.
You’ll find tons of local restaurants, beautiful hotels, and a large beach (unfortunately not suitable for swimming, but perfect for sunbathing) here. Todos Santos is overall quite a touristy place, so you’ll always find something to do!
I handpicked 3 best accommodations and sorted them by budget so you can easily book your stay:
- Luxury: Paradero Todos Santos – This fabulous 5-star resort awaits with a swimming pool, a spa and wellness center, free parking, and an on-site restaurant. The mostly wooden suites have hammocks and the most modern interior depicting ultimate luxury!
- Mid-range: La Poza – This gorgeous property is surrounded by greenery, has a beautiful aesthetic from the rooms to the outdoors and makes excellent value for money if you’re traveling as a group of 3.
- Budget: Todos Santos Hostel – Quite a unique experience where you get to sleep in canvas tents! Perfect for a summer vacation in nature and for meeting fellow travelers!
FAQs about lodging in Los Cabos
🏝 What is the best area to stay in Los Cabos?
The most popular area to stay in Los Cabos is Medano Beach. This area gives tourists good value for money with its large variety of hotels and resorts, nightlife, entertainment, and watersports.
👄 Where do the Kardashians stay in Cabo?
The Kardashians have been frequently sighted in the Tourist Corridor of Los Cabos. They have been spotted staying at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, and Las Ventanas al Paraiso.
☀️ How many days do you need in Los Cabos?
4-5 days are ideal for exploring Los Cabos. You’ll get to enjoy the beach and do some water-related activities, visit Downtown, and enjoy all the cultural and tourist attractions, too.
🏄🏼♂️ Is Los Cabos safe for tourists?
Los Cabos is safe for tourists. The safety concern that’s most reported by tourists is pickpocketing in Downtown areas. Just like in any other place when traveling, be cautious and watch your belongings.
👪 Which is better for families, San Jose del Cabo vs. Cabo San Lucas?
San Jose del Cabo is often considered a better choice for families due to its quieter atmosphere, family-friendly resorts, and proximity to nature and cultural attractions, while Cabo San Lucas offers a more vibrant nightlife scene.
💲 Which neighborhood should I stay in Cabo on a budget?
For a budget-friendly stay in Cabo, consider the San Jose del Cabo area. The Six Two Four boutique hotel is a great accommodation option!
💑 Which side of Cabo is best for couples?
The quieter and more serene side of Cabo, often favored by couples, is the Pacific Side, with its secluded beaches and stunning sunsets.
🚰 Can you drink the water in Cabo?
No, it’s actually not recommended to drink tap water in Cabo. Stay on the safe side and buy bottled water during your stay!
Conclusion
There you go! I hope that I have helped you find your ideal home away from home in Los Cabos. With so many options when it comes to where to stay in Cabos San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and in between, these are the absolute best hotels that got my heart:
- Hilton Los Cabos – has an open area gym with a view of Sea Cortéz
- Sirena del Mar – a great mid-priced option in a stunning cliff-top location near Cabo San Lucas
If you’re still looking for even more choices in Los Cabos, check out my post for the top 14 Airbnbs in Los Cabos.
Make sure to book your chosen accommodations as soon as possible. Los Cabos is an extremely popular destination therefore, hotels and other accommodations get booked fast! Do yourself a favor and book them now. I’m sure you’ll have an excellent experience!
Feel free to share your experiences and questions about Los Cabos in the comments down below, I’ll be happy to answer them!
Happy travels
Darija
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found out all i needed to know to plan our style of trip tp cabo