Are you planning a Mexico trip this winter? Look no further than Los Cabos – where the desert meets the sea. There is a little something for everyone here with picturesque beaches, luxury spas and amazing natural wildlife. You are sure to fall in love with this happy and fun city. Los Cabos is a destination everyone should visit at least once!
Ready to plan your trip? Here are 10 things to know before visiting Los Cabos:
1. Water Bottles Are Your New Best Friend
It is widely known to be cautious of drinking the tap water in Cabo. Be sure to stock up on some fresh water at stores and your resort to avoid getting an upset stomach. Also be aware that water is not free at Mexican restaurants for this exact reason. While it is still inexpensive compared to the United States, it’s still something to take note of.
2. American Cash is Widely Accepted
Luckily, most places take American cash (and is in fact encouraged). This saves the hassle of exchanging dollars to pesos at currency exchanges. Be sure to always tip your servers, bellhops, drivers, & maid staff!
3. Shop Around for the best price on souvenirs
When you are shopping for your souvenirs from street vendors, never pay the initial price. There is always room to negotiate the price and do not be afraid to walk away if you feel like you are being scammed on a cheap item. It is likely you will find the item a few stores down and can get a better price. That being said – it’s also okay to be generous! For the people who sell the knick knacks full time, one good sale from a tourist can go a long way.
4. Most Beaches are not swimmable
We were bummed when we found out that the beach infront of our resort was not safe for swimming. One of the only swimmable beaches in the Cabo area is near the marina, where the swells are broken up by the shore. Remember, the ocean can be unpredictable, and the tide can change quickly – swim at your own risk even in the marina.
SEE ALSO: WHAT TO DO IN CABO SAN LUCAS
5. Tourist Card/Declaration Form
Before landing you will have to complete the tourist card and customs declaration form. The form will be reviewed briefly by a customs agent and returned to you. You must always keep this with you while in Mexico. In the event, you are stopped by the police and do not have the form you can be fined. You will also need it to leave the country.
6. Use Taxis from the resorts
If you are staying at one of the larger resorts, your best mode of transportation is taxi. Luckily most resorts will have taxi drivers on call at the front desk and even shuttles that can take you into town for free! Unfortunately, Ubers are not allowed in most of the resorts, so plan accordingly. If you plan on truly exploring Baja California Mexico, you will need a rental car.
7. General Safety
Contrary to popular belief, Los Cabos is quite safe for travelers. Recently Mexico has increased the federal police presence in tourist areas. We often hear about violence in Mexico, but it is rarely against tourists. The usual crimes are theft or vehicle burglary. You should take the usual precautions.
- Do not carry a large amount of cash.
- Do not walk alone late at night
- If you are out at night stay in well-lit areas
- Always have a portable charger
- Do not leave valuables in the rental car
8. Ask for top shelf at all inclusive resorts
If you plan on staying at an all inclusive resort, make sure to always specify the type/brand of liquor you want in your drink. Normally, resorts will give you the cheapest, watered down liquor they have in order to maximize profits. To avoid getting sick from cheap liquor, always clarify exactly the brand you want. Remember, 100% agave tequila is your friend.
9. Say no to timeshares.
Head down, sunglasses on. Whatever you do, do not get scammed into buying a timeshare. They will try to rope you in with free massages, free excursions, free golf course admission and dinners. Don’t be fooled! These guys make it VERY hard for you to say no. If you truly want to purchase one, by all means. But don’t let the whole speal take away from your limited vacation time here in Los Cabos.
10. COVID-19 Protocols
Los Cabos does not require travelers to have proof of a negative COVID-19 test in order to enter. However, they require you to fill out a health questionaire form before visiting. You will need a negative covid test to get back into the United States, so be sure to schedule your covid test on the last 2 days of your trip! Most major resorts will have on-site testing centers for guest. Los Cabos is also still heavy on mask protocols, so make sure to carry one on you just in case. Stay safe!
