San Jose del Cabo: Your Guide to the Best Things to Do
San Jose del Cabo, often playing second fiddle to its flashier sibling, Cabo San Lucas, possesses a charm all its own. That is to say, if you are seeking something a bit more authentic and laid-back, this end of the Baja California Peninsula might be just the ticket. It’s almost like the artistic soul to Cabo’s party heart. But the question often pops up: what exactly should you do there? Don’t worry. We are walking you through five cool activities so that you get a memorable visit.
1. Explore the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk
Every Thursday evening from November to June, the historic heart of San Jose del Cabo bursts into a celebration of art. Picture yourself ambling down streets closed off to traffic, the air filled maybe with the soft strumming of guitars, with gallery doors swung wide to show the creations within. So, that’s the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk. This event isn’t only for the serious art collector. No, it’s really an experience, offering a chance to meet the artists themselves, sip a little wine, and soak in the creative atmosphere. It tends to be like a town fair, but with significantly more paintings and sculptures on show.
The art itself is super diverse. You might see vibrant paintings reflecting the colors of Mexico, elaborate sculptures crafted from metal or stone, and seriously cool photography capturing the unique spirit of the Baja. A lot of the galleries, as a matter of fact, represent local and national talent, therefore giving you a genuine feel for the artistic soul of the region. Getting lost among the art is fun, and so is people-watching. And that you are supporting local artists makes it all the better. Maybe that sounds like your thing?
2. Relax on Playa Palmilla
If kicking back on a gorgeous beach sounds amazing, then Playa Palmilla is calling your name. A far cry from the crashing waves found on other Cabo beaches, Playa Palmilla boasts seriously calm and swimmable waters, and that makes it totally awesome for families or anybody looking for a chill dip in the ocean. The sand here is really soft, perfect if you want to sprawl out with a book, get some sunshine, and listen to the waves gently lap on the shore. So, pure bliss! And, you, like your peace, and quiet? This beach doesn’t usually get as crowded as some of the others in the area, and that means a more relaxing time on the sand.
There are, of course, a couple of restaurants nearby if you fancy something to eat or a refreshing drink, plus you often find vendors renting out paddleboards or kayaks in case you’re feeling a bit more active. In some respects, it strikes that just right balance between natural beauty and convenience, and that, too, helps to create a superb beach experience.
3. Visit the San Jose Estuary
Right where the desert meets the sea lies a surprisingly green area: the San Jose Estuary. What makes it very cool is that it’s a protected wildlife sanctuary. Consequently, that makes it an incredible place if you want to experience the natural beauty of the region, away from the tourist throngs. Birdwatchers especially love this place. That’s because you might get to glimpse herons, frigates, egrets, and a bunch of migratory birds, depending on the season. So, bring your binoculars! But even if you are not an avid birder, there is, for instance, something profoundly serene about walking the trails and soaking in the peaceful scenery that surround you.
The estuary, as a matter of fact, has trails which are very easy to follow, winding through lush vegetation and past quiet pools of water. It tends to be very flat, therefore suitable for most fitness levels. You are able to, so too, learn about the local flora and fauna from information panels dotted along the route. Anyway, it’s really a tranquil escape, offering a different perspective on Los Cabos that extends past the beaches and nightlife.
4. Take a Day Trip to Flora Farms
Want something a bit different? Seriously consider a trip to Flora Farms, and that tends to be a 25-acre organic farm nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. Is that cool, or what? Very cool! But what exactly makes it awesome? It’s, for instance, a gorgeous place where you can experience a true farm-to-table meal in a beautiful setting. Maybe, while you are here, roam through the fields and gardens where the ingredients for your lunch or dinner actually originate. That in itself is just cool, as you know where food comes from.
You can, after that, reserve a spot at Flora Farms’ restaurant, which, as a matter of fact, is known for its creative dishes using the freshest seasonal produce. And, the ambiance? That tends to be rustic chic. Often there’s live music. Sometimes there are cooking classes or other events on offer, so, you, like your cooking, might enjoy taking that. Make a reservation well ahead, as Flora Farms has, for instance, grown super popular, with a great number of people loving the idea of good food, in cool place, doing something awesome. It’s very easy to see the draw.
5. Go Snorkeling or Diving at Cabo Pulmo National Park
A bit further afield – about a two-hour drive from San Jose del Cabo – lies a marine wonderland which is Cabo Pulmo National Park. That makes it so super cool and different. Often described as one of the oldest coral reefs in North America, this park is teeming with marine life, that’s, for example, a really big draw for snorkelers and divers alike. But is it worth the drive? Very worth it. Basically, when you slip beneath the surface, there, really, is a chance to be greeted by schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and, sometimes, even sharks. Snorkeling would be just a taste; diving gives a full course, and I would imagine is a totally fantastic experience.
Because it is a protected area, there, clearly, are rules to follow to conserve the ecosystem, so use reputable tour operators, that, in general, will prioritize sustainable practices. Remember to bring a towel and sun protection, too, because this will typically be a full day excursion. By the way, because Cabo Pulmo is just slightly farther out of the way, this area can, for instance, offer a great respite away from the often crowded tourist locations.
