The Directory

Your guide to Los Cabos’ best activities
By Beto Haro

Things heat up in Los Cabos just as the temperatures start to cool. Fall is the perfect time of year to visit the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula and explore all the region has to offer, from cinematic landscapes to vibrant sea life and the world’s largest fish, a gentle giant that resides off the coast of La Paz. In Los Cabos Magazine’s signature activities guide, we highlight some of the most exciting ways to spend a day in our slice of paradise.

Go Wild

The fall season breathes new life into the always-vibrant Los Cabos region. Fishing tournaments abound, and so do exciting ways to explore Baja’s wild side: Swim with whale sharks, play with dolphins, snorkel with sea lions, or get face time with the colorful fishes that populate the Sea of Cortés.

Cabo Expeditions: Swim with whale sharks. Explore the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Espíritu Santo (an archipelago off of La Paz). Go underwater in a bright-yellow submarine to see brightly colored fish swim by. These are just some of the activities you can experience with Cabo Expeditions, a leader in socially conscious tourism. Among the other activities: parasailing over Médano Beach, kayaking off Land’s End, and scuba diving off Cabo Pulmo. Whale season starts soon, too, and you can’t miss Cabo Expeditions’ one-of-a-kind whale concert tour. Cabo San Lucas Marina, (624) 143-2700, www .caboexpeditions.com.mx. MasterCard and Visa accepted. V $–$$$

Camel Quest: No, you’re not in Africa. But Los Cabos’ desert-like landscapes make a great roaming ground for camels at Camel Quest, part of Wild Canyon’s celebrated adventure park. The park has eight camels, including four that were trained especially for children to ride. The entire family will love Camel Quest’s action-packed outback ride atop a camel through the El Tule oasis with local guides. Expect fun games, surprises, and even a tasting of exotic beverages. El Tule Bridge, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4433, www.wild canyon.com.mx. All major credits cards accepted. V $–$$

Dolphin Discovery: Here’s an experience you’ll never forget! Swim and play with dolphins in a 75,347-square-foot ocean cove, a state-of-the-art facility in San José del Cabo. With the socially conscious Dolphin Discovery, you can rest assured you’re swimming with dolphins that have received nothing but the best treatment. It’s one of only four dolphinariums where all of the dolphins have been born under human care and trained with only positive-reinforcement training. Marina San José del Cabo, San José del Cabo, (866) 393-5158, www.dolphindiscovery.com /los-cabos-san-lucas. Major credit cards accepted. V $$$–$$$$

 

Get That Adrenaline Going 

Los Cabos is a great place to come for some R&R, but it’s also the very best spot to visit if you’re looking for a little action. Zip over a canyon, fly above the Cabo San Lucas Bay, and charge your way across the Baja outback…all in a weekend.

Cabo Flyboard: Fly like a superhero over the Cabo San Lucas Bay with professional Flyboard, Hoverboard, and Jetpack lessons. If you are looking for a cool and unique experience, then you have to try this. Cabo Flyboard pioneered hydro flight in Los Cabos, and it offers lessons for children 8 and up. Behind Casa Dorada Hotel and Mango Deck at Médano Beach, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1430146, www.cabofly board.com. MasterCard, Visa, AmEx, PayPal accepted. $$$–$$$$

Cabo Sky Tours: Veteran pilot Ernesto Magaña has been flying the Cabo San Lucas skies for three decades in his powered hang glider. You can opt for a smooth flight that gives you incredible aerial views of Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and the tourist corridor. Or, if you want to get your blood flowing, ask Magaña to pepper things up…then hold on! Camino Viejo a San José, El Medano Ejidal, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-1294, www.skytourscabo.com. Cash only. $$–$$$S

Off-Road Runners: You’ve suffered rush hour traffic long enough. Now’s the time to hit the pedal to the metal and master the Baja outback atop one of Off-Road Runner’s quad-runners. Zoom across Wild Canyon’s 100-acre biosphere and let out all your pent-up road rage. The three-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, professional guides, and fast-paced excitement. El Tule Bridge, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4433, www.wildcanyon.com.mx. All major credits cards accepted. V $$–$$$$

Wild Canyon: The Baja Peninsula’s premier adventure park is home to the most exciting activities you can imagine. In addition to Camel Quest and Off-Road Runners, Wild Canyon offers thrill seekers high-flying zip lining, chances to bungee jump from a crazy-high glass-bottom gondola, and the opportunity to swing some 300 feet above the ground! There’s also an animal sanctuary, longest-in-the-world wooden pedestrian and ATV bridge, and in-the-dark zip lining. The newest addition to the lineup is a fiery dinner show celebrating the Huichol people. The Wirikuta show features dancing, acrobatics, and more. El Tule Bridge, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4433, www.wildcanyon.com.mx. All major credits cards accepted. V $–$$$

 

Shop Till You Drop  

There are plenty of souvenir stores and high-end shopping opportunities in Los Cabos, but here we highlight four ways you can treat yourself to pieces you’ll not only treasure but show off.

Cobalto: Looking for a unique memento of your time in Los Cabos? Cobalto, which was previously known as Mexican Pottery, has an enormous selection of pottery, as well as handbags and tiles. Why not upgrade your kitchenware or dishware? The artistic collections here are all microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe and lead free. México’s iconic talavera style of pottery originates in the state of Puebla, and it would make a lovely addition to your home decor. Plaza Alamar, Madero Street, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 105-0046, www.mexican pottery-art.com. Major credit cards and PayPal accepted. $$–$$$$

Indira Gems: México, from its earliest days, has been known for silver and other shiny adornments. The tradition of expert jewelry making is carried on by master jeweler Isidro Sánchez Icaza and his wife, Indira López, at Indira Gems. The pieces are at once stunning, surreal, and magical. Hidalgo No. 1, San José del Cabo, (624) 146-9228, www.jewelrydesignerscabo.com. Major credit cards accepted. $$$$

MacStore: Yes, there’s probably a MacStore where you live back home. But this new addition to the Puerto Paraíso shopping center in downtown Cabo San Lucas brings with it a support center that is absolutely genius. Whatever tech troubles you’re having while on vacation can now be resolved quickly—with a name you know and trust. Puerto Paraíso, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-7517, www.macstoreonline.com.mx. Major credit cards accepted. $–$$$$

Vinoteca: One of México’s leaders in wine and spirits, Vinoteca has everything you need during your Los Cabos vacation—and for tasty mementos to take home. Km 6 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 131-3139, www.vinoteca.com. Major credit cards accepted. $–$$$

 

Cruise Control

The Baja Peninsula is nearly entirely surrounded by water, and that means plenty of options for water tours: Think sunset cruises, snorkeling adventures, and floating floor shows.

Buccaneer Queen: Long before A-listers like George Clooney or Jennifer Aniston started venturing to Los Cabos, this was a favorite destination for pirates. That’s a history that is celebrated on the 96-foot-long pirate-themed black galleon Buccaneer Queen, which impresses with its grand size and authentic pirate look. Join the Buccaneer Queen’s gregarious crew for snorkeling and sunset tours. Check its website for seasonal offerings, like whale watching. Dock 1, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4217, www.bucca neerloscabos.com. MasterCard and Visa accepted. V $–$$

Cabo Escape: The super popular double-decker catamaran perfected the floating nightclub concept, but that’s not all it does. The fun crew stays busy throughout the day with snorkel adventures and, in the winter, whale watching tours. Weekend nights, it’s time for the signature Sundown Party floating nightclub, complete with an emcee, dance music, and an all-you-can-drink bar. Dance the night away with a backdrop of Cabo’s famous sunset and landmarks like the arch at Land’s End and Neptune’s Finger. Cabo San Lucas Marina, (624) 105-0177, www.wildcabotours.com. Major credit cards accepted. V $$–$$$

Cabo Legend: With so much pirate history in Los Cabos, it’s clear that one pirate ship is simply not enough. That’s why Wild Cabo Tours offers not only Buccaneer Queen but also the 100-foot-long twin-masted Cabo Legend. And it’s an extra special treat when the two ships unite for an epic show. If you have ever wondered what pirates get up to after dark, you can find out during the wild Los Cabos Pirate Night Party. Cabo San Lucas Marina, (624) 105-0177, www .wildcabotours.com. Major credit cards accepted. V $$–$$$

Cabo Mar: You’ve been looking for a fiesta, and that’s just what you’ll get on this nightly Cabo Mar cruise. The crew is friendly, fun, and responsible, and they’ll make sure you have a blast as you enjoy ocean views, a delicious dinner, and great tunes. Camino del Cerro 215, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3797, www.cabo-mar.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $–$$

Cabo Rey: The triple-deck Cabo Rey catamaran has been sailing Mexico’s waters for years. The 144-front catamaran offers snorkeling and whale watching, but the main attraction is its elegant dinner cruise with a fiery Argentine and Mexican floor show. Enjoy views of the picturesque Cabo San Lucas Bay as you quaff cocktails and listen to music. Then it’s time to head downstairs for a multicourse dinner (entrée options include grilled lobster in a white wine cream sauce, chateaubriand, or seabass) and immersive show with mariachi music, folkloric dancing Argentine tango, and fire (no spoilers). Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-8260, www .caborey.com. $$–$$$

Cabo Sailing: Come sail away with Cabo Sailing, which offers not only the expected, must-have Los Cabos charter options (snorkeling, sunset tours, etc.) but also unique, luxurious adventures like a private overnight charter. If you’ve dreamed of captaining your own ship, you can even get private sailing lessons. Dock H, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-8485, www.cabosailing.com. AmEx, MasterCard, Visa, and PayPal accepted. V $$$$

Cabo Sails: This Cabo San Lucas-based company has been offering public and private charter options for more than 15 years. Boats range from 28 feet to 44 feet, and there’s even more diversity in the tour options: There’s snorkeling, whale watching, and sunset cruises. And you can also design your own experience for special occasions with groups that range from two to 20. Bonus: Children 12 and younger sail free. Cabo San Lucas Marina, 624-355-6386, www.cabosails.com. Major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$$

Eco Cat: Los Cabos legend “Captain Bob” knew he wanted to do something special when he set out to travel the world to find Eco Cat, one of the world’s largest sailing catamarans. Not only did he find the perfect boat, but he also found a partner—wife Marcela—and brought both back to Los Cabos. The two operate the charter company and the Eco Bar restaurant. Eco Bar, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 157-4685, www.caboecotours.com. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$$-$$$$

Pez Gato: Excellent customer service is a hallmark of Pez Gato, and it’s something you’ll surely enjoy as you swim in Los Cabos’ warm, tropical waters and enjoy some of the best snorkeling in the area. Looking for a little more laid-back adventure: The endless drinks and delicious eats that come with Pez Gato’s sunset tour may be just the ticket. Dock 4, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3797, www.pezgato.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $–$$$$

SunRider Tours: One of the most popular fall activities in Southern Baja is swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. SunRider, which has offices in Cabo San Lucas and La Paz, is one of the very best options for whale shark expeditions. It also has an excellent fleet of eco-friendly entertainment boats for snorkeling, sunset cruises, and private charters to celebrate birthdays, weddings, and other special events. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-2252, www.sunridertours.com. MasterCard and Visa accepted. V $–$$$$

Tropicat: The third member of the well-known fleet that also includes Cabo Mar and Pez Gato offers wine, jazz, and delicious appetizers on its celebrated wine and jazz sunset cruise. It’s a sophisticated affair that will entertain and charm the whole family. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3797, www.tropicatcabo.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $–$$

 

Reel Good Fun

The fishing season heats up in the fall.

Bisbee’s: Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin Tournament is the most popular fishing competition in the state, and it’s just one of the offerings from Bisbee’s. More than a hundred teams participate each year, with a base entry fee of $5,000 U.S. This is an event that historically paid out more million-dollar winners than any other. For more information about the Black and Blue Tournament or the others, visit www.bisbees.com.

Blue Sky Cabo: The Blue Sky Cabo fleet ranges from a 31-foot Intrepid Express to a regal 125-foot Westport yacht, and its offerings include just as much variety. Not only can you book private fishing charters or tours, but Blue Sky Cabo also offers several customizable extras like a bachelorette party float, sunset cruises, and even condo rentals. Every outing is a winner; just check out the reviews on TripAdvisor. Slip F12 Lote A-18 de la Darsena BCS, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 177-7754, www .blueskycabo.com. Major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$$

Silverados Sportfishing: Ready to hit the water? You’ll want expert guidance if you’re to get as good a catch as you want, and that’s just what you’ll find with the award-winning crew at Silverados Sportfishing. They’ve helped many new and experienced anglers bag impressive catches. Look to them for fantastic prices, and an exceptionally good time every time. Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4903, www.silveradosportfishing .com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $$$$   Y