Float Away In Cabo’s Swimmable Beaches.
Cabo is known for its stunning beaches, but not all of them are ideal for swimming due to strong currents and rough waves.
Fortunately, there are several spots in Cabo where you can safely swim, snorkel, and enjoy calm waters. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, here’s your guide to the best swimmable beaches in Cabo, along with a hack to enjoy luxury beach clubs without the price tag!
Medano Beach (Playa El Médano)
Location: Cabo San Lucas
Why We Love It: Medano Beach is Cabo’s most popular swimmable beach (and it’s pet friendly!). Its calm waters make it perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and beach lounging. It is great for families, offering plenty of activities for all ages. Just make sure you skip the crowds, it can become very touristy and loud by the hotels’ side.
Tip: Get there early to snag a good spot since it can get crowded, especially during peak season.
Chileno Bay
Location: Along the Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo
Why We Love It: Chileno Bay offers crystal-clear waters and is a favorite spot for both snorkeling and swimming. Protected by a reef, the calm waters make it ideal for spotting tropical fish. There are palapas available for shade, and the beach is known for being well-maintained and peaceful compared to the busier beaches in Cabo. Sadly, no dogs allowed.
Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the underwater beauty. Early mornings are the best time to visit before it gets busy with snorkel tours.
Palmilla Beach
Location: San José del Cabo
Why We Love It: Palmilla Beach is one of the few swimmable beaches on the San José del Cabo side. Known for its gentle waves and scenic views, it’s a local favorite for both swimmers and sunbathers. With soft sand and fewer crowds, this beach is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. Sadly, no dogs allowed.
Tip: The beach is family-friendly with calmer waters, making it a great spot for kids.
Santa Maria Bay
Location: The Tourist Corridor
Why We Love It: Santa Maria Bay is a protected marine sanctuary, offering some of the best snorkeling in Cabo. Its horseshoe-shaped cove is perfect for swimming, and the beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs, providing a secluded feel. The calm, turquoise waters and abundant marine life make it ideal for a peaceful beach day.
Tip: Bring your own snacks and water, as there are no restaurants directly on the beach.
Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor)
Location: Cabo San Lucas, near the Arch
Why We Love It: Located near the famous El Arco (The Arch), Lover’s Beach is a beautiful spot where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean. The waters on the Sea of Cortez side are calm and perfect for swimming, while the Pacific side (Divorce Beach) has dangerous currents, so be cautious. It’s accessible only by water taxi, which adds an element of adventure to your beach day.
Tip: Pack a lunch and plenty of water since there are no vendors on the beach.
Beach Club Hack: La Playita Bay
Here’s a clever way to enjoy some of Cabo’s most exclusive beach spots without spending a dime. If you head to El Ganzo Hotel and Velero’s Beach Club Bay in San José del Cabo, but on the other side (right by the first entrance in La Playita, after the Sailor holding the Fish statue) you’ll find a beautiful, calm beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenery.
The Hack: Instead of paying for beach club access, you can walk to the public side of the bay! It’s the same beach with the same tranquil waters, and you can bring your own drinks, snacks, and beach gear. This way, you get the same relaxing, luxury beach vibe without having to splurge on food and beverages at the beach clubs.
Cabo’s swimmable beaches are some of the best in Mexico, offering a range of experiences from snorkeling in marine sanctuaries to sunbathing on tranquil sands.
And with the added secret hack, you can enjoy luxury surroundings without breaking the bank. Whether you’re snorkeling at Chileno Bay, exploring Lover’s Beach, or relaxing at Palmilla, there’s a perfect beach for every type of traveler. What’s your favorite one? Let me know!
