The beach town on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula is an extremely popular spring break destination for its beautiful beaches, water activities and vibrant nightlife. However, many visitors do not realize that although the beaches are picturesque, many of the beaches in Los Cabos are not suitable for swimming.
Due to the Sea of Cortez’s strong waves and a powerful undertow, many of Cabo’s beaches are off-limits to swimmers. But if you’re looking for a quiet beach with water mild enough for swimmers, here are some of the best swimmable beaches in Los Cabos.
Medano beach
Considered the most important tourist swimming beach in the area the beach is full of restaurants, vendors, beach lounge rentals and most importantly calm water for swimming. There are many beach clubs in the area where water sports equipment can also be rented.
Chileno Beach
Located in the Hotel Zone, this beach is a favorite among locals because it is a more peaceful place. The quiet bay is good for snorkeling and swimming and offers amenities such as palapas, portable toilets and a nearby restaurant. Easily accessible by bus or taxi, snorkelers can spot lobsters, sea urchins and even stingrays in the water.
Palmilla Beach
This quieter place is a bit difficult to reach, but the crescent-shaped coast is definitely worth it. With plenty of snorkeling and swimming opportunities, the beach offers a few palapas for shade, umbrellas and a few vendors. But due to its remote location, make sure you bring a picnic or a meal as there are no restaurants nearby.
Santa Maria Beach
Probably the most famous snorkeling spot in Los Cabos, the waters below are full of coral reefs to explore. The calm waters are also good for swimmers, but this beach gets busy due to its popularity and the fact that tour companies dock there for snorkeling excursions.
Cannery Beaches
Coral Negro and Balconcito consists of Coral Negro and Balconcito and is perhaps the best in Los Cabos. Located just outside the marina before you reach Land’s End, this beach has huge boulders and calm water. Some visitors use it as a place to snorkel, but it is not the best spot as this beach is great for a day of relaxing and taking a dip in the water.
3 important safety warnings because the water can be dangerous
- Take warning flags seriously, do not enter the water if you see a black or red flag
- It is best not to go into the water in stormy weather
- When waves break on the beach, a dangerous undertow is created
