For those who visit the Los Cabos area but want to see and experience more of the natural beauty and adventure of Baja California, this fun road trip explores the Cape area of Baja California Sur.
Day 1
Start your trip in Los Cabos in the town of San José del Cabo and check into one of the hotels along the beach or in the historic town center (like the newly reopened Tropicana). Walk around town to take in the plaza, historic district, and art galleries. Bird-watchers will want to check out the nearby Estero San José. For dinner, check out La Revolución by Chef Benito Molina just off of the plaza for a gourmet meal featuring local ingredients.
Day 2
1.5 hours (55 miles) driving
Head over to the East Cape town of Cabo Pulmo where divers and snorkelers will enjoy exploring the coral reef just offshore. Snorkelers can swim out from the beach at Los Arbolitos or Los Frailes, and divers will enjoy taking a boat out to get to remoter spots. Enjoy dinner and drinks at the casual La Palapa restaurant looking out at the water. Stay in one of Cabo Pulmo’s casual eco-lodging accommodations.
Alternate Trip
45 minutes (35 miles) driving
For those not interested in diving or snorkeling, explore more of what the East Cape has to offer with the hot springs of Santa Rita and the Cañon de la Zorra waterfall, both accessed from the town of Santiago. Spend the night in Los Barriles or Buena Vista on the coast.
Day 3
2.5 hours (95 miles) driving
Get an early start driving north on Mexico 1 to La Paz. Spend a few hours in the small old mining town of El Triunfo where you can walk along the mine ruins and grab some food and drinks at El Minero. When you get to La Paz, drive out to the scenic beaches at Playa Balandra or Playa El Tecolote. Enjoy ceviche and beers with your toes in the sand at restaurant-bar Palapa Azul.
Day 4
Take a break from driving today and book a boat excursion out to the La Paz islands, especially Isla Espíritu Santo. Dive with sea lions, swim with whale sharks, or just enjoy the beautiful island and beach views from the boat. When you get back to La Paz, enjoy a stroll along the lively malecón.
Day 5
1 hour (50 miles) driving
Head southwest on Mexico 1 to Mexico 19 for the West Cape and its colonial artist town of Todos Santos. Check into the charming Villa Santa Cruz or La Bohemia Baja Hotel Pequeño. Spend some time walking around the historical center of town to check out the colonial architecture, shops, and restaurants. Enjoy a delightful al fresco dinner at Chef Javier Plascencia’s superb Jazamango restaurant.
Day 6
1 hour (45 miles) driving
Drive south on Mexico 19 to Cabo San Lucas and hop on a water taxi to check out the famous El Arco, the Land’s End arch, and to go to Lover’s Beach. Spend the afternoon here snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. At night, head out to Cabo Wabo Cantina or somewhere else along the strip to take in a bit of Cabo’s legendary nightlife.
Day 7
Spend your last morning enjoying one of Cabo’s indulgent treats—a round of golf, massage at the spa, morning surf, or poolside margarita.