If underrated destinations are your thing, look no further than Baja California Sur. Nestled at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in northwestern Mexico, this coastal paradise is home to crystal-clear turquoise waters, some of the tastiest tacos you’ll ever eat, and laid-back beaches that feel worlds away from the crowds.
Think of it as Cancun vibes, without the exorbitant price tag. From charming towns and stunning beaches to incredible marine life and unforgettable sunsets, here’s how to spend five days exploring the gems of Baja California Sur (BCS).
We went to Baja California Sur (BCS) in 2023 for 5 days and explored three major cities: San José del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, and La Paz, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking natural beauty.
In this blog post, I’ll share our complete itinerary including, excursions, beach hopping and the local cuisine we tried. We chose San José del Cabo as our base because we wanted peace and quiet, but if party is what you seek, stay in Cabo San Lucas instead. I have created a detailed Los Cabos guide to help you with information on public transportation, safety, and other essential travel tips. You can also check out my Mexico Visa Guide and Los Cabos Food Guide to make your planning easier!
Day 1-3: Explore San Jose Del Cabo
Los Cabos, nestled in the southern tip of BCS, consists of two distinct coastal towns: San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas 🎥. Since San José del Cabo is where we flew in and out from, we majorly explored the beaches and eateries of this charming coastal town. Moreover, unlike it’s neighbor, Cabo San Lucas, this city was more laidback showcasing its colonial architecture and vibrant art scene, which is exactly why we picked this one!
San José del Cabo also has some of the most stunning beaches perfect for surfing, and a thriving culinary scene that includes the region’s famous Baja cuisine. The town’s historic downtown is a delight to explore, with the colorful streets, art galleries, and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re strolling through Plaza Mijares, exploring the serene San José Estuary, or indulging in farm-to-table dining experiences 🎥, San José del Cabo perfectly blends culture, nature, and tranquility.
Moreover, as an avid birder, I was thrilled to spot dozens of bird species right from our hotel balcony. Everywhere we walked, we were greeted by the sights and sounds of local birds such as orioles, thrashers, woodpeckers, verdins, kestrels, pelicans, and even a majestic Great Horned Owl! The area is truly a paradise for bird lovers, offering countless opportunities to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. So, be sure to keep an eye out for local birds and butterflies, you’re in for a treat!
San Jose Del Cabo Downtown
We had a fun time exploring the downtown neighborhood. This was the liveliest spot in all of San José del Cabo, offering a perfect mix of art, history, and delicious food. Our downtown exploration began at Municipal Market Alberto A. Aramburo, a bustling local market featuring everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It was a great spot to experience local life and pick up some authentic souvenirs.
From there, we headed to Plaza Mijares, the heart of downtown, where we found a vibrant market filled with stalls set up by local artists and food vendors. The lively atmosphere, colorful displays, and friendly artisans made it a delightful experience. One of the highlights of our visit was an incredible dance performance by local artists. Their mind-blowing stunts with fire left us in awe and made the evening truly special.
Next, we visited the historic Misión San José del Cabo, a beautiful Spanish colonial church dating back to the 18th century. The mission’s stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance provided a lovely break from the bustling streets.
After exploring the plaza, we wandered into the Gallery District, known for its charming cobblestone streets and an impressive collection of art studios and galleries. We spent hours admiring the incredible works of local and international artists. A standout spot was Interactive Art by Ivan Guaderrama, where we experienced dynamic pieces that responded to touch and sound—truly a unique and engaging experience.
No visit to downtown San José del Cabo is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. We savored delicious tamales from Tamales Doña Nina, tried crispy and flavorful tostadas and tacos from La Gueritas, and satisfied our sweet tooth with gorditas de nata, a delightful Mexican pastry that was light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.
We also visited Baja Brewing Company, a local brewery offering an amazing range of craft beers. The laid-back ambiance and scenic views made it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploration. You can read all about our experience in my Los Cabos Food Guide blog post.
Overall, downtown San José del Cabo offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and gastronomy, making it an unmissable stop.
San Jose Del Cabo Beaches
Playa Palmilla
Playa Palmilla was the first beach we visited in Cabo, and it truly lived up to its reputation as a stunning Blue Flag beach. With its deep blue waters and golden sand, it’s a popular spot for swimmers and sunbathers alike. We, however, were here to relax and take in the gorgeous views. The beach was teeming with wildlife, and we had a great time spotting and identifying various species of crabs and birds along the shore.
Chileno Bay Public Beach
This beach also had a great mix of locals and tourists, making it a lively yet relaxing spot. The surrounding rocky formations added to its natural beauty, providing the perfect backdrop for photos. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler or simply looking to unwind by the shore, Chileno Bay Public Beach is a must-visit destination in Los Cabos.
Playa Hotelera
Conveniently located right across from our hotel, Playa Hotelera stretches along the resort zone, offering a picturesque setting perfect for long evening walks and beachcombing. While the waves here are too strong for swimming, the scenic shoreline and easy access to beachside restaurants make it a favorite among visitors. We also explored Plaza del Pescador, a bustling marketplace just a short walk away, featuring a variety of dining options. We tried Spicy Tuna Sushi Bar, which served delicious sushi and refreshing drinks, and later indulged in some delightful desserts from Gelataria, an ice cream spot with a fantastic selection of flavors.
Playa Del Estero
Nestled near the San José Estuary, this serene beach offers a stunning blend of desert and coastal landscapes, making it a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of Los Cabos. The high crashing waves create a dramatic backdrop, perfect for photography and peaceful contemplation. However, one thing to watch out for—mosquitoes! We found it nearly impossible to stay for long due to the sheer number of them. If you plan to visit the estuary, be sure to carry insect repellent to avoid the discomfort we experienced from nasty mosquito bites.
Day 4: Half-day tour to La Paz
La Paz is the charming capital of Baja California Sur, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters to its historic downtown filled with art galleries and local markets, La Paz is a must-visit when exploring Baja California Sur.
We took a day trip from San José del Cabo and explored all the top spots around the city. It quickly became one of our favorite cities due to its relaxing atmosphere and breathtaking views. Be sure to check out my complete La Paz guide for all the details on top attractions, hidden gems, and local experiences!
Day 5: Day trip to Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas, located at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, is a lively resort city known for its stunning beaches, iconic rock formations, and vibrant nightlife. In this section, I’ll share everything we did during our day trip to Cabo San Lucas. Although we didn’t explore any club, we had a blast relishing delicious street food, playing in the water, and taking a boat tour to the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas. Cabo San Lucas is perfect for beach lovers, foodies, and partygoers alike, offering an exciting mix of natural beauty and entertainment.
Our boat tour to the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas was the highlight of our day trip from San José del Cabo. Departing from Dock D, we cruised along the stunning coastline, taking in the rugged cliffs and vibrant blue waters. Along the way, we passed by some of the most picturesque spots, including Lovers Beach, Pelican Rock, and Divorce Beach. Lovers Beach, in particular, was breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters teeming with fish right at the surface. Although our tour didn’t include a beach drop-off, I’d highly recommend choosing one that does so you can fully enjoy this peaceful paradise.
After the boat ride, we explored the bustling Marina, capturing memorable photos at the #CABO sign and the Fisherman statue. We also wandered through the shops at Plaza Puerto Paraíso and enjoyed a refreshing glass of Agua Fresca from a local vendor.
Our downtown stroll led us through charming alleyways filled with shops and eateries, where we stumbled upon a tamale vendor serving the best tamales we’ve ever had. However, one place we recommend avoiding is Los Tres Gallos—while the ambiance was nice, the food was average and overpriced.
Finally, we made our way to El Medano Beach, where we had an amazing time playing in the warm waters of Cabo Bay. Watching the sunset with The Arch in the backdrop was a breathtaking experience. We wrapped up our day with delicious tacos from Gardenias Shrimp & Fish Tacos, a must-visit spot for taco lovers.
Whether you love clubbing or not, Cabo San Lucas will still keep you entertained with its amazing natural beauty and lively vibe. And if you’re into clubbing and nightlife, this place is your haven! With a plethora of clubs and bars, the city offers an electric atmosphere for those looking to dance the night away.
I hope this article comes in handy as you plan your itinerary to Baja California Sur! You can also check out my other Mexico guides and videos for more travel tips, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and YouTube for even more travel inspiration. Happy travels!
