First Impression: A beautiful, relaxing respite with brilliant scenic views, as well as non-stop fiestas, beaches for every interest, big-game fishing, championship golf, on- and off-water adventures, majestic natural rock formations to explore, choral reefs, sleepy cantinas, charming marketplaces and culture that appeals to all types of visitors. Accolades for this Mexican paradise are nothing new. With incomparable scenic views, an exhilarating array of activities and adventures, plus that exotic far, far away appeal, your getaway will be an unforgettable, extraordinary experience!
Weather: Average year-round temperature is 78 degrees F (Fahrenheit), though it can get much hotter in summer months. Typically sunny, warm, low humidity with 10-inch average rainfall, and storm season July-October. December-January are the cooler and busier months. Also note, the Pacific side of Los Cabos runs up to 10 degrees cooler year-round. Cabo’s particularly busy during the winter high season November-February. October is the busiest fishing tournament month, including the Puerto Los Cabos World Cup. All major airlines fly to the regional airport, Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), located just outside San Jose del Cabo and running 30-45 minutes to Cabo.
Currency: The peso is the national currency, although U.S. dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted in most businesses throughout Los Cabos. Before you leave, be sure to ask your bank about Euro conversions and exchanges. It’s better to have U.S dollars than Euros, if not Mexican currency. In Cabo, banks offer currency exchange and universal ATM’s are available for cash withdrawals at the current exchange rate. Be sure to have cash-carrying pesos on hand for any necessities upon arrival.
Getting Around: Just shy of south California, the Baja Peninsula is divided into two states, Baja Sur and Baja Norte, and divided by Highway 1, which winds 1,000 miles to Tijuana. Taxis are readily available, with negotiable rates. One of the best, most cost-effective ways to see and travel Cabo is to get a rental, whether a private transportation group, a motorcycle, scooter, car or jeep. Familiar car-rental companies are located at the airport. Be sure to schedule a car well in advance to ensure the type you need and a car, in general, is available and waiting for you. Make sure your agency tracks your flight in case of any delays and does not give your car away.
Local Flavor: A wide variety of dining options include casual cantinas and beachside cafes to international fair like Nick-San, a Mexican-Japanese fusion cuisine joint where Christina Aguilera and Nicole Richie were spotted. Also recommended are Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, Agua, Manuel’s Creative Cuisine and Cabo Surf Hotel.
Beach Tips: Cabo has several beaches, all for different interests and activities; check the guides! Many don’t have venders, restaurants or restroom facilities, so to be safe, bring water, food, sunblock, chairs and, yes, toilet tissue. Be sure to obey signs: Strong undertows, dangerous breakers, rip tides and deep drop-offs can be dangerous.
Nightlife: One of the hottest party towns in North America, Cabo has everything from spring-break type bars and clubs to sophisticated lounges and alternative nightclubs, most located downtown on or a stone’s throw from the main drag. Hotspots include Squid Roe, Happy Endings Cantina, Pink Kitty, Mandala, Cabo Blue, Elbow Room, and Sammy Hagar’s famous Cabo Wabo club.
Retail Therapy: Find everything from beach baubles to authenticate Mexican merchandise and luxury, one-of-a-kind items. Along with charming boutiques and plazas, there’s Luxury Avenue, and Puerto Paraiso Mall, Cabo’s main shopping complex where George Clooney was spotted shopping. Check area guides for retailers, and stroll through town and enjoy the window shopping and the views!