Your guide to Cabo’s Blue Flag-certified beaches.
From soaking up the Baja rays to surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, strolling and more, there’s a sun-drenched beach for it. Navigating the many options can be confusing though, with some spots great for taking a dip and others completely un-swimmable. Know before you go by checking out the region’s top beaches, each boasting a Blue Flag certification. The special designation is earned by meeting environmental, educational, safety-related and access-related criteria.
Palmilla Beach
The calm waters and mile-long stretch of swimmable beach here make it perfect for families. It’s also surrounded by luxury homes, the One&Only Palmilla resort and a Jack Nicklaus Golf Course.
Chileno Beach
This ultra-clean beach is a favorite of locals and is conveniently located off the Tourist Corridor.
Santa Maria Bay
A horseshoe-shaped beach near Chileno, Santa Maria Bay is ideal for snorkeling as it’s home to a protected marine sanctuary abundant with colorful sea life and tropical fish.
Old Man’s Beach
Also known as Acapulquito Beach, this is one of the best spots for surfers of all skill levels. Here you’ll find the Cabo Surf Hotel and your pick of nearby surf shops. The beach hosts many surfing competitions as well as surf lessons for those looking to master the sport.
Playa Hacienda
Surrounded by hotels, bars and restaurants, Playa Hacienda is part of Medano Beach, the most popular beach area in Los Cabos due to its several miles of safe swimming and central location. You’ll find everything here including a lively vibe and tons of water sports.
Cannery Beach
Bordering the entrance to the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cannery Beach is located in the heart of town and is made up of Playa Coral Negra and Playa Balconcito.
Widows Beach
Formerly known as Twin Dolphin Beach, this is a great place for exploring the shoreline and its tide pools. While not recommended for swimming, its secluded area makes it perfect for a romantic night of stargazing.
In addition to the above, the following Los Cabos beaches gained their Blue Flag standing July 2018: La Ribera, Médano Villa La Estancia, Médano Villa El Arco, Médano Villa del Palmar, Médano Riu Palace Los Cabos, Médano Riu Santa Fe, Médano Club Cascadas de Baja, Médano Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos, Médano Pueblo Bonito Rose, Médano Casa Dorada, Médano Breathless, Médano ME Cabo.
This article originally appeared in the 2019 Spring/Summer season issue of InMexico Magazine.