Travel Planning
Know Before You Go: The Los Cabos Essentials
The little things that make a Los Cabos trip effortless — weather, money, water, tipping, and getting around.
Los Cabos is one of the easiest luxury destinations to love — desert on one side, two seas on the other, and sunshine almost every day of the year. A few practical things, though, make the difference between a good trip and an effortless one. Here is the honest primer we give our own guests before they land.
Weather, and when to come
Los Cabos is warm and arid year-round, so pack light — but plan for the season.
- Winter (December–March) is the sweet spot: mild, dry days around 68–77°F (20–25°C) and cooler evenings. Bring a light layer for dinner by the water.
- Summer (June–October) is hot and humid, often above 100°F (38°C). Mornings and evenings are lovely; midday is for shade and a pool.
- Pacific hurricane season runs 15 May – 30 November, and September is historically the most active month. Most trips in that window are completely fine — but a flexible fare and travel insurance are worth more then than in February. (The full seasonal picture is in the travel guide.)
The strongest reason to plan ahead: the sun here is intense. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water are non-negotiable, even in winter.
Money
The official currency is the Mexican peso. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but you’ll usually get better value paying in pesos. Cards work at most established restaurants and shops — still, carry some cash for small purchases, markets, and tips.
Water
Simple rule: drink bottled or purified water, not the tap. Good villas and hotels stock it; when we arrange a stay or a private chef, purified water is part of the setup.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken across Los Cabos — in hotels, restaurants, and with drivers and guides. A few warm words of Spanish are always appreciated, never required.
Tipping
Tipping is customary. 15–20% is right for good service in restaurants, and it’s kind to tip drivers, guides, and household staff who look after you. Cash is easiest.
Getting around
There is very little public transportation for visitors, and the airport (SJD) sits about 30–45 minutes from the main hotel corridor. The relaxed way to move is a private transfer or car — no haggling, no waiting in the heat. We’re happy to arrange your private transportation, airport pickup included.
Food, drink, and late dinners
The food is a highlight — traditional Mexican, excellent international kitchens, and some of the best seafood you’ll eat anywhere. One cultural note: dinner is late. Locals often sit down after 8pm, and some kitchens quiet down in the afternoon, so plan accordingly (or let a private chef cook to your clock).
Safety
Los Cabos is generally a safe, welcoming tourist destination. Use the same common sense you would anywhere — mind your belongings, and stick to trusted transportation and guides.
Things to do
There is no shortage: sport fishing, diving and snorkeling, golf, water sports, boat trips out to the Arch at Land’s End, and — in winter — whale watching. The one tip that matters: plan the highlights in advance, then leave room to do nothing at all.
That’s the short version of everything we’d tell a friend before their first trip. When you’re ready to make it easy, Cabo Travel Boutique arranges the chef, the transfers, the tastings and the plans — so all you have to do is show up.
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