San José del Cabo Travel Guide
San José del Cabo’s authentic Mexican atmosphere is a charming counterpoint to the non-stop action of sister city Cabo San Lucas. Just 20 miles away from Cabo at the other end of the Tourist Corridor, you’ll find a historic town of courtyard restaurants, charming architecture, boutiques, and a beautiful church facing the traditional town square. San José’s pace is slower than that of its bustling sister city—perfect for honeymooners and those seeking a more traditional Mexican getaway. The first community in Los Cabos, San José was once the home to the local Pericú tribe, a stop for Spanish galleons and a hiding spot for pirates.
Accommodations range from graceful private villas overlooking the Sea of Cortez to breathtaking resorts lining the warm beaches. Many resorts are located along the beachfront just south of downtown. Great for relaxing and beachcombing, the beaches in the area are not recommended for swimming. At the end of the Hotel Zone, you’ll find the Estero San José, a beautiful palm-lined estuary rich in native bird life. This verdant natural oasis is a striking contrast to the dramatic desert scenery of Los Cabos.
Downtown, San José has become renowned for its fine dining establishments. Many restaurants are housed in historic buildings with romantic courtyards. Downtown, you can also explore the many delightful boutiques featuring handicrafts, clothing and jewelry. A thriving art district is home to a number of exciting galleries, showcasing the works of Mexican and international artists in a variety of media. On Thursday evenings from November to June, the Art Walk is a great way to experience the many galleries of San José del Cabo, many of which keep their doors open late for this special weekly event that also features specials at many local restaurants.
Just outside of San José del Cabo, Puerto Los Cabos is one of the area’s fastest rising stars. This area is home to chic boutique-style hotels, a few great eateries, luxury villa rentals and a world-class marina. The pace is laid-back and relaxing - perfect for visitors looking for an alternative to the bustle of Cabo San Lucas.
Top Vacation Rentals in San José del Cabo, Mexico
Planning your getaway in San José del Cabo is easy with a variety of stunning beachfront vacation rentals ideal for a family getaway or special celebration in Los Cabos. Vacation rentals offer exceptional comfort, value and privacy.
Resorts in San José del Cabo, Mexico
Breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and warm beaches welcome visitors to San José del Cabo, where a variety of beautiful resorts line the sunny sands. Treat yourself to an exceptional vacation getaway with luxury amenities.
Live Cabo Webcams
Top Activities in Los Cabos
You'll find plenty of exciting activities in San José del Cabo, Mexico. From exploring the art galleries and boutiques of historic downtown San José, to sailing, snorkeling, kayaking fishing and golf, there's fun for every type of visitor in Los Cabos.
Cabo Down Under is a high-end surf company that delivers the very best of what Cabo has to offer. They offer surf lessons for total beginners & kids, as well as surf trips for intermediate and advanced surfers. Not into surfing but still want to get a taste of the real Mexico? The beach days are perfect for those wanting to experience the remote beaches of Baja. Kickback with a cold drink, play some corn hole or bocce and swim in the pristine waters just out of San Jose!
Rancho Carisuva offers a range of exciting outdoor tours in the spectacular desert and ocean landscapes of the Pacific coast just outside of Cabo San Lucas. Enjoy ATV tours or horseback riding accompanied by their friendly expert team. Visit the working rancho and learn about this unique ecosystem as you take in magnificent views.
Discover spectacular ocean-side cliffs, lush desert ranges, private untouched beaches and canyon trails on a Pacific Beach Horseback ride. Horseback riding is the perfect way to enjoy the tranquility of the desert while contemplating the magnificent scenery and landscape. You'll be assigned a horse based on your riding skill level and then head out with a guide to witness the magnificent vistas along your ride.
Fishing Charters in Los Cabos
The seas of Los Cabos offer truly legendary sport fishing where the waters of the Pacific Ocean meet the vibrant Sea of Cortez. World-famous for marlin fishing, anglers can also catch dorado (mahi-mahi), tuna, roosterfish, wahoo and much more. If you love fishing, don't miss the opportunity to charter a boat with our expert captains and crews for an unforgettable experience.
Our Top Restaurant Picks
San José del Cabo is home to an exciting variety of gourmet restaurants lining the picturesque historic downtown streets with everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare. Nearby, exceptional farm-to-table restaurants are receiving rave reviews for exciting dining on working organic farms.
San José del Cabo on Balandra near Paseo Los Marinos
624-157-0443
This hidden gem is a small family-run restaurant tucked on a local neighborhood street with a romantic courtyard offering a variety of Latin-fusion and international inspired dishes prepared with skill. Enjoy a glass of wine your fresh seafood, salads, filet mignon, and more.
Plaza Caracol, next to Las Mananitas condos, San Jose del Cabo
624-155-5874 Monday- Saturday-Lunch 11:30am -5pm Dinner 5pm-9pm SUNDAYS CLOSED
The freshest organic local produce and ingredients take center stage at this lovely restaurant with an inviting courtyard. Reasonably priced entrees include salads, pastas and wonderful seafood. Popular with locals and visitors "in the know," this gem gets pretty busy but is definitely worth the visit.
Blvd. Mijares 27 San José del Cabo
624 142 2444
Don Sanchez is a contemporary Mexican restaurant in Los Cabos focusing on regionally sourced ingredients and organic produce paired with a fine wine selection, as well as all the amazing agave spirits like mezcal, tequila and sotol. The restaurant has been awarded three years in a row as one of the 100 Imperdibles de México - featuring the most recommended experiences in the Mexican Republic.
Don Sanchez sits atop of the culinary tourism restaurant standard in Los Cabos featuring impeccable service and exquisite cuisine created by Chef Edgar Román. What’s more, a remodel has preserved one of the most historic buildings of San José del Cabo and, in turn, created a unique dining environment combining modern luxury with old world Mexican heritage.
Join us in our cava for an exclusive wine pairing or even guided by our chef and sommelier, or at our tequila & mezcal tasting bar. The recently remodeled terrace is a perfect combination of fine dining elegance and Mexican warmth offering space for guests, groups, as well as the perfect intimate setting for couples, friends and families.
Featuring a modern design, and lush gardens, the courtyard is a perfect location for enjoying the ultimate Mexican fine-dining experience. Don Sanchez restaurant in downtown San Jose del Cabo is part of the well-appointed Grupo Edith's in Cabo - the iconic restaurateur group behind Edith´s, Tres Sirenas, The Office and la Pintada in Cabo San Lucas.