Free Things to Do in Los Cabos
The Los Cabos region conjures up images of wild, wind-swept beaches and craggy cliffs dotted with mountainside mansions and decadent luxury hotels. While it’s primarily regarded as a five-star destination – and for good reason – this stretch of Baja coast isn’t out of the question on a shoe-string budget.
There are plenty of activities here that don’t require a wallet. Here’s our list of the best free things to do in Los Cabos.
Hit the Beach
One of the best things about Mexico is that all the beaches – every single one of them – are free. While many of the beaches in Los Cabos are considered too rough for swimming, there are a handful that are absolutely perfect for paddling around.
- Playa Chileno: A Blue Flag beach known for its calm waters, golden sand, and excellent snorkeling conditions.
- Palmilla Beach: Adored for its powder-soft sand and Caribbean-style waters.
- Medano Beach: Often considered the main beach in Cabo San Lucas, great for swimming, although expect to find crowds.
Stroll San José del Cabo’s Artsy Streets
The weekly Art Walk in San José del Cabo is one of the most beloved traditions in the region, allowing visitors to soak up the flourishing art scene without spending a dime. Held every Thursday between 5pm and 9pm from November to June, the free walking tour is a unique way to experience local art.
Guides meet at the Main Square in San José del Cabo and take art lovers on a leisurely stroll through the colorful Gallery District. Popping in and out of art galleries, chatting with curators, and meeting artists and other art lovers is an enjoyable way to spend a warm evening.
Scan for Whales
High season in Los Cabos is about more than perfect weather and festive events – January to March is also prime time for whale watching. Each year from December to April, pods of whales migrate down from the cold north to breed in the warmer waters around Los Cabos, both in the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez.
While boat tours are available, there’s a substantial chance you’ll spot whales from the shore. Humpbacks are the largest population of whales in the area, although gray whales may also be visible, particularly around Magdalena Bay.
Take a Garden Walk at Flora Farms
San José del Cabo is championing a farm-to-table culinary scene, with restaurants sourcing their menus locally. Flora Farms, a gorgeous 25-acre working organic farm, is at the forefront of this movement.
The farm offers free walking tours that help visitors gain a deeper understanding of how the land is utilized to benefit the local economy.
Hike Cerro de la Z
Los Cabos is blessed with stunning beaches and the rocky mountains of the Sierra de la Laguna range. The Cerro de la Z trail offers sweeping ocean views and is less than a mile and a half out-and-back, perfect for both sunrise and sunset hikes.
Visit the Marina
The marina at Cabo San Lucas is a lively hub where much of the action occurs. Stroll around to admire the mega yachts and soak up the vibrant atmosphere filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. Enjoy people-watching and the local fishing boats that enhance the lively scene.
Bike the Botanical Cactus Gardens
The Wirikuta Botanical Garden is one of the most mesmerizing outdoor spaces in Los Cabos. This 12-acre park is packed with thousands of cacti and succulents. Renting a bicycle can enhance your experience and help you see more of this unique garden.
Surf at Playa Los Cerritos
Known as one of the top surf capitals, the Baja peninsula offers stunning waves year-round. Playa Los Cerritos is a small surf beach ideal for beginners eager to learn the ropes.
Enjoy Viva La Plaza
Cabo San Lucas features the Viva La Plaza, a weekly cultural celebration held in and around Plaza Amelia Wilkes. This street festival showcases the city’s cultural side, featuring local artists, artisans, and folkloric performers.
See the Parroquias
In San José del Cabo’s historic downtown, the Parroquia de San José del Cabo is one of the region’s most historic churches. Originally founded as a mission, it remains an important icon. Don’t miss exploring Cabo San Lucas’ Parroquia San Lucas Evangelista, a historic building close to the town square.
