The coastline of Los Cabos offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The blue gem tones of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortes are contrasted by the stark desert backdrop, creating an oasis-like perfect scenery that can tempt just about anyone into the water for a refreshing swim. However, not all beaches in Los Cabos are swimmable.
It is common for people to generally characterize the Pacific Ocean as “unsuitable for swimming” and the Sea of Cortes as “safe for swimming” however both waters can come with risks of strong waves and powerful undercurrents.
Here is a list of beaches in Los Cabos that are designated for swimming.
Cerritos (outside Todos Santos)
Cerritos Beach is a popular surf spot on the Pacific Coast and swimming here is relatively safe. You can rent a surfboard or boogie board at the northern end of the beach and even take surf lessons from the pros and vendors out front. While suitable for swimming, the ocean currents can be strong and the waves are powerful, so enter with caution.
Lover’s Beach, Playa del Amor (Cabo San Lucas)
Getting to Lover’s Beach is an adventure in itself as it is only accessible by boat or kayak. There are water taxis that leave the marina and will drop you right at Lover’s Beach, but be prepared to get wet as you must jump down from the boat into the water. The size of the beach changes considerably throughout the year due to seasonal tides, but it is generally always swimmable. Walking straight up and through the beach to the other side will land you on the Pacific Ocean at Divorce Beach which has very dangerous waters to enter, so swim only on the Lover’s side.
Medano (Cabo San Lucas)
Medano Beach is the star of Cabo San Lucas. Adjacent to the marina, it is a two mile stretch of hotels, restaurants, and bars right on the sand. The water here is protected from danger and there are numerous water activities available. Many spots within Medano are Blue Flag Certified, so not only are the beaches recognized for their pristineness, but several also have lifeguards on duty.
Santa Maria Bay (The Corridor)
The beach at Santa Maria Bay is a stunning horseshoe cove with an abundance of coral reefs that make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is accessible by public land access off the highway, but many boat excursions and private charters often anchor here as well off-shore. Santa Maria is a Blue Flag certified beach and there are facilities that include restrooms, showers, and a beach clean up crew. Be sure to bring your own snacks as there are no vendors.
Chileno Bay (The Corridor)
Chileno Beach is a popular location for swimming due to its calm waters. Similar to Santa Maria, it also offers great snorkeling opportunities and is a frequent stop on boat tour trips. While there is a lot of new construction surrounding the beach, it remains public and is a favorite among locals. A Blue Flag certified beach there is lifeguard on duty and restroom facilities.
Palmilla Beach (The Corridor)
One of Los Cabos’ most cherished beaches, this crescent shaped shore is a favorite for families due to its tranquil waters. While it is located within the development of Palmilla, the beach itself is completely open to the public and also Blue Flag certified. It is a quiet spot with a few shaded palapas, but does not have any facilities or services so you should come fully prepared for a day at the beach with umbrellas, chairs, drinks and snacks.
La Playita at Puerto Los Cabos (San Jose del Cabo)
One of very few swimmable beaches in San Jose del Cabo is La Playita in Puerto Los Cabos, commonly referred to as El Ganzo Beach. It is a small cove adjacent to the no-wake zone of the Puerto Los Cabos marina. As a man-made inlet, it offers tranquil waters with little waves ideal for swimming and wading. While there is a private beach club that offers drinks and food to one side of area, the beach in general is indeed open to the public.
While the above are the most popular swimmable beaches in Los Cabos, there are still others to discover. When visiting any beach just remember it is important to always read any signage, rules or warnings, pay attention to the marked flags, and watch the tide, using your best judgement before entering the water.
For more information, visit www.visitloscabos.travel.
Photos provided by Los Cabos Tourism Board. See disclaimer here.
