Los Cabos is a paradise for beach lovers, but not all its beaches are safe for swimming due to strong currents and waves. If you’re looking for the perfect spot to take a dip, this guide will introduce you to the top 5 swimmable beaches in Los Cabos. 

Whether you’re seeking a bustling beach with plenty of activities or a tranquil cove for snorkeling, you’ll find the ideal spot to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Baja California. Explore and discover where you can safely swim and make the most of your beach vacation in Los Cabos.

1. Medano Beach

Medano Beach is the main swimming beach in Cabo San Lucas and is perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Location: Downtown Cabo San Lucas

Highlights:

• Gentle waves and warm waters. Medano Beach is renowned for its gentle waves and warm waters, making it ideal for swimming. The beach’s calm conditions are perfect for families with children and those looking to enjoy a relaxing swim.
• Vibrant atmosphere. The beach is set in one of Cabo San Lucas’ liveliest areas, with numerous beachside restaurants, bars, and vendors. This creates a bustling, energetic environment where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities both in and out of the water.
• Water sports. Medano Beach offers a wide range of water sports, including kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. These activities are easily accessible, and equipment rentals are available right on the beach.
• Beach activities. Onshore, visitors can play beach volleyball, have beach parties, or charter a parasailing trip for a bird’ s-eye view of the stunning coastline. The beach is also a popular spot for sunbathing and people-watching.
• Scenic views. The beach provides sweeping views of the rock formations of Land’s End, including the iconic El Arco. This picturesque setting makes it a favorite spot for photography and sightseeing.

2. Chileno Beach

Chileno Beach is a favorite among locals and offers a more laid-back experience compared to the bustling Medano Beach.

Location: Along the Tourist Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo

Highlights:

• Calm bay waters. Chileno Beach is renowned for its calm bay waters, making it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. The gentle waves and clear visibility of the water contribute to its reputation as one of the finest locations for these activities in the region.
• Blue flag certification. The beach boasts a prestigious Blue Flag certification, awarded for meeting stringent criteria for water quality, environmental management, and safety. This international eco-label ensures that visitors can enjoy the waters with confidence, knowing they are in a clean and secure environment.
• Rich marine life. The beach is home to vibrant marine life, including lobsters, stingrays, tropical fish, sea turtles, and more. The rocky reefs parallel to the shore are perfect for snorkeling, offering a chance to see a variety of underwater species up close.
• Amenities. Chileno Beach is well-equipped with amenities to enhance visitors’ experiences. These include palapas for shade, portable restrooms, trash disposal stations, and a lifeguard stand. Additionally, there are shower systems to rinse off the saltwater and clean up after a day of beach activities.
• Scenic beauty. The beach’s pristine surroundings and azure blue waters create a tranquil sanctuary, inviting visitors to unwind and connect with the natural beauty that surrounds them.

3. Palmilla Beach

Palmilla Beach offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking a tranquil beach experience in Los Cabos.

Location: San Jose del Cabo, specifically in the upscale community of Palmilla

Highlights:

• Protected cove. Palmilla Beach is bolstered by protected cove shelters, creating a safe and calm environment for swimming. The beach’s sheltered nature makes it ideal for families with children or those who prefer gentler waters.
• Blue flag certification. The beach proudly holds a Blue Flag certification, which ensures high standards of water quality, environmental management, safety, and services. This prestigious eco-label provides visitors with the assurance of clean and safe waters for swimming.
• White sand beach. Palmilla boasts a beautiful white sand shoreline, perfect for sunbathing, strolling, or building sandcastles. The crescent-shaped shore adds to the beach’s picturesque appeal.
• Swimming and snorkeling. The calm, clear waters make Palmilla Beach excellent for swimming. Additionally, a wide expanse of marine life exists just below the water’s surface, offering great opportunities for snorkeling enthusiasts.
• Fishing culture. Visitors can often observe local fishermen launching their boats for the daily catch of snapper and grouper. In some cases, you may even have the opportunity to purchase fresh fish directly from the fishermen.
• Event venue. Palmilla Beach hosts various events throughout the year, most notably serving as both the start and finish points for the swim portion of the annual Ironman Triathlon.

4. Cannery Beaches

The Cannery Beaches, comprising Playa Coral Negro and Playa Balconcito (also known as Playa El Balcón), offer a serene swimming experience away from the bustling crowds of more popular Los Cabos beaches.

Location: Just outside the marina entrance in Cabo San Lucas, before reaching Land’s End

Highlights:

• Historical significance. These beaches are named after the old cannery nearby, once the most productive in Latin America. The abandoned cannery building adds a unique historical backdrop to the beach experience.
• Tranquil atmosphere. The Cannery Beaches are significantly less crowded compared to other popular beaches in Los Cabos. This makes them ideal for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed beach day.
• Natural beauty. Massive boulders along the shoreline provide natural shade and seating, creating picturesque spots for relaxation and photography.
• Calm waters. The beaches offer relatively calm waters suitable for swimming, especially compared to some of the more exposed beaches in the area.
• Local favorite. Often referred to as “The Locals Beach,” Playa Coral Negro is a popular spot among residents, offering an authentic Cabo San Lucas experience.
• Marina views. The beaches provide excellent vantage points for watching boats enter and exit the Cabo San Lucas Marina, adding an element of interest to your beach visit.

5. Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria Beach is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities and pristine natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Los Cabos.

Location: Along the Tourist Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo

Highlights:

• Sheltered cove. Santa Maria Beach is nestled in a protected, horseshoe-shaped cove flanked by large granite rocks. This natural formation shields the beach from strong waves and winds, creating ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
• Crystal-clear waters. The beach is famous for its turquoise, crystal-clear waters, offering excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
• Rich marine life. As a protected marine sanctuary, Santa Maria Beach boasts an abundance of coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkelers can expect to encounter hundreds of species of tropical fish, making it a prime spot for underwater enthusiasts.
• Onsite amenities. The beach is equipped with essential facilities, including restrooms, showers, and a parking lot, enhancing visitor comfort.
• Accessibility. Santa Maria Beach can be reached by car via the Tourist Corridor or visited on boat tours departing from Cabo San Lucas Marina.
• Best snorkeling spot. The far-right side of the beach near the rocks is considered the best area for snorkeling, offering the most diverse array of marine life.

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Los Cabos offers a diverse array of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From the lively atmosphere of Medano Beach to the tranquil waters of Palmilla Beach, there’s a perfect spot for every type of beachgoer. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure through water sports and snorkeling or simply looking to relax on pristine sands, these top 5 swimmable beaches provide safe and enjoyable experiences for all.

Ready to experience the magic of Los Cabos’ beaches for yourself? Start planning your dream vacation today with Holibay and save up to 80% on hotel deals! 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore these stunning beaches while enjoying significant savings on your accommodation. Book now and get ready for an unforgettable beach getaway in Los Cabos.