San José del Cabo Travel Guide
San José del Cabo’s authentic Mexican atmosphere is a charming counterpoint to the non-stop action of sister city Cabo San Lucas. Just 20 miles away from Cabo at the other end of the Tourist Corridor, you’ll find a historic town of courtyard restaurants, charming architecture, boutiques, and a beautiful church facing the traditional town square. San José’s pace is slower than that of its bustling sister city—perfect for honeymooners and those seeking a more traditional Mexican getaway. The first community in Los Cabos, San José was once the home to the local Pericú tribe, a stop for Spanish galleons and a hiding spot for pirates.
Accommodations range from graceful private villas overlooking the Sea of Cortez to breathtaking resorts lining the warm beaches. Many resorts are located along the beachfront just south of downtown. Great for relaxing and beachcombing, the beaches in the area are not recommended for swimming. At the end of the Hotel Zone, you’ll find the Estero San José, a beautiful palm-lined estuary rich in native bird life. This verdant natural oasis is a striking contrast to the dramatic desert scenery of Los Cabos.
Downtown, San José has become renowned for its fine dining establishments. Many restaurants are housed in historic buildings with romantic courtyards. Downtown, you can also explore the many delightful boutiques featuring handicrafts, clothing and jewelry. A thriving art district is home to a number of exciting galleries, showcasing the works of Mexican and international artists in a variety of media. On Thursday evenings from November to June, the Art Walk is a great way to experience the many galleries of San José del Cabo, many of which keep their doors open late for this special weekly event that also features specials at many local restaurants.
Just outside of San José del Cabo, Puerto Los Cabos is one of the area’s fastest rising stars. This area is home to chic boutique-style hotels, a few great eateries, luxury villa rentals and a world-class marina. The pace is laid-back and relaxing - perfect for visitors looking for an alternative to the bustle of Cabo San Lucas.
Top Vacation Rentals in San José del Cabo, Mexico
Planning your getaway in San José del Cabo is easy with a variety of stunning beachfront vacation rentals ideal for a family getaway or special celebration in Los Cabos. Vacation rentals offer exceptional comfort, value and privacy.
Resorts in San José del Cabo, Mexico
Breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and warm beaches welcome visitors to San José del Cabo, where a variety of beautiful resorts line the sunny sands. Treat yourself to an exceptional vacation getaway with luxury amenities.
Live Cabo Webcams
Top Activities in Los Cabos
You'll find plenty of exciting activities in San José del Cabo, Mexico. From exploring the art galleries and boutiques of historic downtown San José, to sailing, snorkeling, kayaking fishing and golf, there's fun for every type of visitor in Los Cabos.
CABO SUP is the first stand up paddle board club located in the heart of Medano Beach, Cabo San Lucas. Cabo SUP offers lessons, rentals and guided tours. Stand up paddling is the fastest growing water sport in the world. It is an amazing workout and a fun way to experience being on the water. After a safety lesson and basic instruction on the beach, you will head into the water on a training board and learn basic strokes before heading out to explore.
Located in Cabo San Lucas, the Manta Scuba Diving program provides outstanding services and a close-up view of Cabo's unspoiled underwater beauty. Their highly trained team provides scuba diving certification classes, equipment rentals and a full range of diving tours to the most famous sites in Los Cabos, including Cabo Pulmo, the Gordo Banks, Pelican Rock, Land's End, Santa Maria Bay, Chileno Bay and more.
Experience an incomparable day on the waters of Los Cabos aboard this state-of-the-art 110-foot vessel perfect for a private charter. Enjoy personalized service and stunning views.
Fishing Charters in Los Cabos
The seas of Los Cabos offer truly legendary sport fishing where the waters of the Pacific Ocean meet the vibrant Sea of Cortez. World-famous for marlin fishing, anglers can also catch dorado (mahi-mahi), tuna, roosterfish, wahoo and much more. If you love fishing, don't miss the opportunity to charter a boat with our expert captains and crews for an unforgettable experience.
Our Top Restaurant Picks
San José del Cabo is home to an exciting variety of gourmet restaurants lining the picturesque historic downtown streets with everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare. Nearby, exceptional farm-to-table restaurants are receiving rave reviews for exciting dining on working organic farms.
San José del Cabo on Balandra near Paseo Los Marinos
624-157-0443
This hidden gem is a small family-run restaurant tucked on a local neighborhood street with a romantic courtyard offering a variety of Latin-fusion and international inspired dishes prepared with skill. Enjoy a glass of wine your fresh seafood, salads, filet mignon, and more.
At the Puerto Los Cabos Marina near Hotel El Ganzo
624 164-9025
Located at Puerto Los Cabos, this fantastic spot offers up excellent fish tacos, ceviche and other seafood dishes in a casual setting overlooking the marina. Affordably priced and wonderfully fresh food have made this spot a fast hit with visitors.
On the main highway at the M. Doblado stoplight, next to Baja Natural.
Casual, inexpensive, taco and seafood bar. Very popular with the locals. Great shrimp, machaca, fish & seafood tacos, seafood cocktails, fresh scallops, clams, oysters shrimp and fish. Great condiments. Beer, bottled water, fresh orange juice and sodas available. Open Mon-Sat 8am - 4pm.