cabo san lucas excursions carnival

Top 10 Best of Cabo

Take a four-hour tour and enjoy the top ten sites in Los Cabos.

Your first site will be Plaza Amelia Wilkes, a drive through the narrow streets of Cabo San Lucas will bring you to the Town Square, here you will see KM.0 and the old church while learning about the history and the legends of the area.

Then it is a short ride to the glass blowing factory where you will see how artisans create unique glass blown crafts.

Visit Sunset Mona Lisa – a real must see in Cabo. Continuing your tour of the area, get a glimpse of the real Baja as we drive along the touristic corridor with spectacular views of both the desert and the ocean.

Arriving in San Jose del Cabo drive through “El Mirador de Costa Azul” for an incredible view of the “Sea of Cortez” and the shoreline of San Jose. Before arriving to the center of San Jose del Cabo, visit the San Jose Estuary to learn about the flora, fauna, and local tribes. Continuing on, visit the City Center where your guide will provide you with a short, narrated walking tour of Plaza Mijares, the old Mission Style Church and City Hall (Palacio Municipal). You will have approximately 20 minutes of free time so you can explore and shop on your own before your return to the pier.

What to Bring: Sun hat, sunscreen, camera, cash and/or credit card for purchases.

• Login or Register to access your account
• Digital Wallet
• Get Started
• 114 Ports of Call
• 14 Destinations
• 76,834 Shopper Approved
• 16,260 Live Help
• 7,998 Excursion Reviews
• Cabo San Lucas Excursions
• Cruise Excursions Ports
• Free Back to Ship Guarantee & Free Last Minute Cancellations!
• Simply the Best Deal Guarantee, Or we refund 115% of Difference!
• 101,000+ Customer Reviews, 4.8 / 5 Booking Satisfaction Record!
• 24/7 Personal Traveler Assistance, 365 Days & Around the World!

Top 10 Cabo San Lucas Excursions

• World Famous Land's End Sightseeing by Boat ($16.99)
• Upclose Whale-Watching ($69.99)
• Parasailing Adventure ($74.99)
• All-Inclusive Catamaran Party Cruise ($79.99)
• Desert & Beach ATV ($129.99)
• Whale Watching ($74.99)
• 2 Bay Snorkel ($94.99)
• Kayak & Snorkel ($94.99)
• Todos Santos Magic Town by Jeep ($649.99)
• Whale Watching ($384.99)

• No Port No Pay
• No Hidden Fees
• Deposit Payment Only
• Money Back Guarantee
• Back to Ship Guarantee
• Packages and Coupons
• Lowest Price Guarantees
• Free Last Minute Changes
• Small Personalized Groups
• Secure Payment Guarantee
• Extended Customer Service Hours
• Most Flexible Cancellation Policies

• Views of Land's End with Arch, Sea Lion Colony, Lover's Beach, and much more!
• Round-trip boat ride from a meeting point next to your cruise ship tender pier!
• English-speaking, federally certified captain and Land's End shore excursion guide!
• Complimentary cold bottled water!
• Cruise the bay and enjoy the coastline of Cabo San Lucas!
• Life jackets!

• English-speaking, federally certified captain and guide!
• Views of Land's End with Arch, Sea Lion Colony, and Lover's Beach!
• Complimentary bottled water!
• Small groups only, personalized service!
• Wildlife spotting is guaranteed on this Cabo San Lucas Cruise Excursion!

• Convenient meeting location close to your Cabo San Lucas tender terminal!
• Bilingual English/Spanish speaking certified parasailing shore excursion staff!
• Round-trip parasail boat ride!
• Single and tandem parasail rides are available!
• Gentle, dry takeoffs and landings - dips into the water only upon request!
• Complimentary soft drinks and bottled water on board the parasailing excursion boat!
• Parasailing departures are available every hour from 9 AM to 3 PM (6 people max per departure)!

• Round trip boat ride!
• English-speaking certified snorkeling guide and boat crew!
• Snorkel at Chileno Bay on the Sea of Cortez!
• Snorkel set including varied-sized fins, sanitized snorkel, silicone mask, and vest!
• All-inclusive, with a buffet and open bar!
• See Land's End with the Arch, Sea Lion Colony, and Lover's Beach!

• Round-trip transportation from your Cabo San Lucas / Los Cabos cruise tender pier!
• Air-conditioned, fully licensed, and insured transportation!
• English-speaking certified ATV guide!
• Automatic transmission XT Outlander ATV!
• Helmet, goggles, and bandana!
• Instructions and supervision throughout the excursion!
• Lockers and complimentary cold bottled water!
• Souvenir photos and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the end of the excursion!

• English-speaking certified crew and host!
• Breakfast buffet and open bar included!
• See Land's End - Arch, Sea Lion Colony, and Lover's Beach!
• See the migrating whales with an experienced, professional shore excursion staff!
• Book early due to the high demand for whale-watching cruise excursions in Cabo San Lucas!
• This is a seasonal excursion running from December 15th thru April 15 annually!

• Round-trip transportation from right outside the cruise pier!
• English-speaking certified snorkeling guide!
• Guided snorkel!
• The snorkel set includes varied-sized fins, sanitized snorkel, a silicone mask, and a vest!
• Bottled water and granola bar included!
• Snorkel both Chileno and Santa Maria Bay!
• A ride-along option is available!

• Convenient meeting location from your Cabo San Lucas cruise tender pier!
• English-speaking certified guides!
• All necessary kayaking gear is included!
• Complimentary bottled water and snacks!
• Great combo excursion of kayak and snorkel!

• Round-trip transportation from your cruise ship terminal in Cabo San Lucas!
• English-speaking certified shore excursion guide!
• Complimentary cold bottled water and snacks!
• Mexican lunch included!
• All park entrance fees are included!
• Option to have a guide drive the Jeep or do it yourself!
• Great sightseeing route!
• Explore Todos Santos!

• Round-trip on a unique panga boat ride!
• Small groups only, private groups!
• English-speaking shore excursion guides!
• Complimentary bottled water and soft drinks!
• Views of Land's End with the Arch, Sea Lion Colony, Pelican Rock, Divorce Beach, and Lover's Beach!

• Just a few minute's walk from Cabo San Lucas cruise tender pier!
• Private luxury yacht charter for your group!
• English-speaking certified captain and crew!
• Choose what activity you want to do and how many in your party!
• Paddleboarding, snorkeling, whale watching, sunset, and fishing options are available!
• Mexican buffet or Ceviche Bar and National Open domestic bar!
• Top-notch customer service!

• Well-maintained and powerful Yamaha Wave runners!
• English-speaking certified jet ski guides!
• Life jacket included!
• Relax on Medano beach afterward!
• Explore Cabo Bay, no course to follow!

• Round-trip boat ride!
• English-speaking certified host and crew!
• Open bar and dinner buffet included!
• See the famous Land's End and Cabo sunset!
• Cruise the bay and see Medano Beach!

• Private luxury custom boat (2 hull style) charter for your group!
• Sightseeing past Lover's Beach, Divorce Beach, the Arch, Sea Lion colony, and more of Land's End!
• Snorkel gear and SUP boards!
• Sound system and coolers!
• Complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, and ice!
• Bring your own food and drinks or optional lunch and domestic bar!

• Round-trip sailing excursion adventure on a catamaran!
• The meeting point is just steps from your Cabo cruise tender pier!
• English-speaking certified shore excursion host and crew!
• All-inclusive lunch and open bar!
• Snorkeling instruction!
• Great snorkeling at Chileno or Santa Maria Bay in the Sea of Cortez!
• See Land's End, Sea Lion Colony, Lovers Beach, and more!

• Exclusive private fishing charter cruise excursion in Cabo San Lucas!
• Fully equipped fishing boat!
• All fishing gear - rods, reels, and lures!
• The best deep-sea fishing fleet in Cabo!
• Try your luck catching marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and more!

Top 10 Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas Port (on a Cruise)

By: Author Janice and George

Posted on Last updated: November 26, 2023

Categories Activities

Home / Activities

Calling into Cabo San Lucas on a cruise and wondering what to do? You’re in for a treat!

Cabo’s a top destination in Mexico, thanks to its Blue-Flag beaches, diverse outdoor activities and prime location in Baja California Sur. 

You can easily explore the town (just steps from the port), try tasty tacos, pick up cool souvenirs – and, for a truly unique Cabo adventure , you can even go on a camel ride!

We are frequent visitors to Cabo (it’s our second home!) and have been vacationing here for the last 20+ years, ticking off every activity, restaurant and bar as we go. 

We’ve also cruised with big names like Princess, Royal Caribbean and Holland America (along with smaller cruise lines).

We know the ropes when it comes to making the most of your time in port as a cruise passenger – and choosing the right activities that get you back onboard on time!

So, if you’re looking for things to do in Cabo San Lucas port on your Mexican Riviera cruise, we’ve got you covered with the best picks for your day ashore!

Note: All prices are in USD

Cabo San Lucas cruise port: Things to do

About the Cabo cruise port

Where is the cruise terminal located?

Is it safe to book your own shore excursions?

10 Best things to do in Cabo on a cruise

Cabo San Lucas cruise port tips

Last words on what to do in Los Cabos on a cruise

About the Cabo San Lucas cruise port

The first question on your mind is probably: Where do cruise ships dock in Cabo San Lucas?

Well, they don’t.

Cabo San Lucas, sitting at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, is a tender port. 

What does this mean? There’s no actual cruise port in Cabo San Lucas.

When cruising to Cabo San Lucas, ships drop anchor out in the deeper water and tender boats take you to land.

Usually, the tender boat ride takes around 10 to 15 minutes.

But if there are two or three ships visiting Cabo on the same day – and yours is the last to drop anchor in the Cabo San Lucas Bay – your ship could be further out in the deep blue yonder. And it could take up to 20 minutes to reach land.

With wait time for the tender and other possible eventualities, we recommend budgeting 45 minutes for the total tender transfer time.

The good news? Traveling to shore on a smaller boat is like transport and activity combined into one.

As you’re tendering, keep an eye out for Cabo’s famous marine life as you go. (Hey, is that a whale?)

Where is the Cabo San Lucas cruise terminal located?

Once you’ve disembarked your tender, you’ll be right in the heart of the action.

The Cabo San Lucas pier for the tender boats is at the south end of the Cabo San Lucas Marina – a short walk from the town center and in striking distance of the town’s best beaches. 

Is it safe to book your own Cabo San Lucas shore excursions?

Cruise lines always offer cruise-sponsor e d tours to some of the top attractions. For example, Los Cabos shore excursions typically include boat trips to the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas .

Why you might want to book your own excursions

But many cruise line passengers prefer to book their own excursions. We definitely book some of our own tours when we cruise.

They’re less expensive than tours booked through the ship. They’re typically more intimate (smaller groups). And they often include more adventurous activities.

Why you might want to book ship tours

The upside to booking cruise-sponsored excursions is that the tours are guaranteed to return to the ship on time.

If for some reason they’re late, the cruise ship will wait or, as a last resort, they’ll transport you to the ship’s next destination (and look after you in the meantime) at their cost.

For this reason, it’s a good idea to book the cruise ship’s excursions if the tour involves driving a long distance, so you’re assured of not “missing the boat” in case of traffic delays or breakdowns. 

In Cabo San Lucas, we wouldn’t want to rent our own car or book our own tour to Todos Santos (a magical town!) or Cabo Pulmo as a cruise passenger – because of the driving time involved.

Safe Cabo excursions to book independently

In Cabo San Lucas, the tender boats take you right into the marina, which is also where tour boats depart from.

So we’d certainly feel comfortable doing a boat trip or a local tour that’s not a ship excursion.

But we’d schedule it for first thing after arriving, aim to be back an hour or two before we need to be and make sure our guide is aware that we’re on a cruise ship.

This means that some attractions in Cabo San Lucas will, however, have to wait for your next vacation to this Mexican paradise. (And we’re sure that once you’ve spent a day here, you’ll be plotting a return!)

Top 10 things to do in Cabo San Lucas port

On average, cruise ships spend about 5 to 6 hours at the Los Cabos cruise port. But we know some ships only have a short 4-hour stint in town, just an afternoon really, departing by around 4:00 or 5:00 pm. 

Considering this, we’ve cherry-picked activities close to the pier and tours that pack a punch when it comes to exploring the best of Cabo in a short time.

Some give you a couple of hours at the end to fill up on the fresh fish tacos that Baja is famous for! 

1) See the famous Cabo San Lucas Arch

One of Cabo’s favorite boat trip destinations, the rocky Cabo San Lucas arch (also known as El Arco) is a famous landmark that’s very easy to get to from the tender pier. 

From the tender pier, it’s a 10-minute walk along the marina to the area where the water taxis all dock. There, you can hop in a water taxi to Land’s End and see the famous Arch, along with the sea lions that live on the surrounding rocks. 

Expect to pay around $20 to $25 per person for a round-trip water taxi. If it’s very busy with lots of cruise passengers milling about, you might pay a little more. 

Stop at Lover’s Beach

If you wish, the water taxi will drop you off at Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) at Land’s End after your sightseeing boat tour (and pick you back up later at an agreed time).

This beautiful beach on the calm Sea of Cortez side of the Baja California Peninsula can only be reached by boat (or by paddling to it by kayak or SUP board).

Enjoy the sun and go for a swim. Take snorkeling gear with you if you have it, because the underwater marine life is fun to see! 

Also, do walk over to the amusingly named Divorce Beach, which is across the sand from Lover’s Beach. It’s on the Pacific Ocean side of the peninsula. Watch the surf, but do not swim here – it’s not safe.

Water taxi tours

Want a set price?

You can book water taxis in advance, such as this shared water taxi ride that’s less than $20 per person for a round trip. It’s a one-hour tour that leaves right from the marina, so you could embark on it as soon as you arrive! 

Or there’s this glass bottom boat tour , which is 45 minutes long. You can stop at Lover’s Beach too, and the captain will pick you up later.

Or check out this 50-minute tour on a completely clear boat . You can take in not only the craggy rock formations of Land’s End, but the tropical fish in the sea – without even getting your toes wet! 

2) Walk around the Cabo San Lucas Marina

Wondering what to do in Cabo San Lucas port that’s free?

This one’s easy.

Just stroll around the marina, lined with lots of shops, bars and restaurants. Admire the white yachts docked in the harbor and take in the sights, sounds and smells of this popular beach destination. 

Go shopping for souvenirs or sit back with a margarita and watch the world go by. This is what Cabo life’s all about!

You might also want to veer off from the marina into downtown Cabo San Lucas – it’s not far at all.

Best places to shop in Cabo on the marina

Got lots of gifts to buy for people back home? Or do you want to decorate your house with Mexican souvenirs? Check out the following places on the marina:

• Marina Mercado: This is a popular flea market, located just steps from the cruise ship tender pier. Here, you’ll find Mexican arts and crafts, bags, beachwear and the like
• Puerto Paraiso Mall: This is a larger shopping complex, with plenty of stores and a cinema.
• Luxury Avenue: Connected to Puerto Paraiso Mall, this shopping area focuses more on high-end stores and goods.

Pro tip: If you’re booking a boat or on-land tour, we recommend doing that first and leaving strolling around the marina to the last, so you don’t have any stress about getting back to the marina and tender pier.

3) Chill on Medano Beach

Another one of the best free things to do in Cabo, Mexico, on a cruise? Soak up the sun and go for a swim at Medano Beach.

While Los Cabos is known for its golden beaches and bright blue waters, it’s important to know that not all beaches in Cabo are swimmable . This is due to strong currents, high surf and rips. (The Pacific side of Cabo San Lucas is particularly dangerous for swimming.) 

The terrific news is that Medano Beach – one of the best swimmable beaches in Cabo – is very close to the port.

It’s easy to walk there, taking about 30 minutes from the pier. If you don’t want to walk, transportation in Cabo is excellent – traditional taxis, Ubers and even water taxis are available. 

You can spread out your towel for free anywhere on the beach. But for more comfort (an umbrella, chairs, drinks and food), you’ll also find plenty of beach clubs .

Some of our favorite beach clubs on Medano Beach

• Tabasco Beach Bar & Restaurant:  We love this one because it’s much more chilled out than its counterparts. Perfect for a beach day!
• Corazon Beach Club:  One of the swankier beach clubs in the area, Corazon is attached to the high-end resort of the same name. 
• Mango Deck Beach Club:  A popular destination during Spring Break, Mango Deck Beach Club can be hectic, but if it’s partying you’re looking for, this is your place!

Along with its calm waters that just beg you to take a dip, Medano Beach is ideal for water sports – parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding and jet skiing, to name a few.

Pro tip: The further you walk along the beach (away from the marina), the quieter Medano Beach gets. Once you get to Tabasco Beach Bar , you’ve hit the sweet spot for “less busy and safe swimming.” Beyond Tabasco’s, safe swimming gets iffier.

4) Go taco or tequila tasting (or both!)

Tacos and tequila – could there be a better combo? 

Taco tasting

There’s an abundance of tasty taquerias in Cabo , but our favorite for Baja-style shrimp tacos (and mean margaritas!) is probably Tacos Gardenias . It’s cheap – and it’s very good.

We ask for the tacos to be made with flour tortillas (which we prefer), instead of the usual corn tortillas.

Just a couple of blocks behind Medano Beach , not far from the marina, Tacos Gardenias is perfect for cruise ship passengers. We suggest heading here for lunch after chilling on Medano Beach or wandering around the marina.

Want to try a large selection of tacos and learn all about them from a knowledgeable guide?

Check out this three-hour Cabo taco tasting tour . It’s a walking tour, so you can guarantee you’ll be back at the marina on time, and you certainly won’t be returning to the ship hungry! 

Tequila tasting

Fancy tequila tasting instead?

We highly recommend this private tequila-tasting tour .

On this tour, you’ll head over to Tequilera Santos Destilados right in the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas. Then, in their private tasting room, you’ll sample six handmade tequilas and three mezcals.

But you’re not just going to toss each shot down.

They’re all expertly paired with agave heart, dark chocolate and other snacks that bring out the best in each libation. (We dare you to try the fried grasshoppers – they’re actually quite good and taste like popcorn, sort of…)

5) Watch whales

If you’re visiting Cabo in January or any other month in winter (which is when cruise ships visit Cabo), it’s the prime time for whale watching!

These wonderful creatures migrate from the Arctic and Alaska down to the warm waters of Cabo in the winter season, where they mate and give birth.

If you’re really lucky, you might see some adorable baby humpback whales too! ( February and March are the best months.)

This is one of the top Cabo activities in the winter season, and there are plenty of awesome   whale watching tours to choose from. 

Small boat tour

This top-notch 2½-hour small boat tour takes a maximum of 10 people. (You can book it as a private tour for up to 8 people if preferred.)

It’s a small vessel with shade, and a marine biologist will fill you in on all you want to know about whales. If visiting Cabo with kids on your cruise, this tour is a good one for them (assuming they love nature and like boats).

Luxury catamaran cruise

For whale watching on a luxury catamaran , this tour includes margaritas (an open bar) and snacks.

Zodiac tour

Fancy getting right into the action? This thrilling 2½-hour tour by Zodiac zooms over the waves and can get you close to the whales. You can book it as a public or private tour. 

6) Drive an ATV across Migrino Desert

Departing right from the marina, you’ll see a different side of Baja California on this exciting ATV tour . 

You’ll be driven to the Migrino Desert.

There, you’ll strap yourself into an ATV and drive yourself through the cacti, with mesmerizing vistas of the Pacific Ocean as you go. At the end of the tour, there’s even a tequila tasting before you’re driven back to the marina. 

It’s a two-hour tour, leaving you plenty of time to grab lunch when you return. 

7) Party like a rock star

One of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas from a cruise ship if you want to let your hair down is to hit one of Cabo’s iconic party spots.

In fact, nowhere else does a day party quite as well as Cabo.

Fancy drinking shots while hanging upside down beside a giant marlin? You can do that at the Giggling Marlin!

The following ultimate party spots are open from 9:00 am

• El Squid Roe
• Cabo Wabo  
• Giggling Marlin  

8) Snorkel at Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Bay

Snorkeling stands out as one of the best activities in Cabo San Lucas for a splash of adventure.

You can do so with this fun snorkeling trip to Chileno and Santa Maria Bays.

Located along the Tourist Corridor on the Sea of Cortez, a short drive from Cabo San Lucas town, these bays are like an underwater carnival and teem with tropical fish. 

The tour includes snorkeling gear and a wetsuit (the water can be chilly in winter in Cabo once you’ve been in it a while). You’re driven first to one bay, then the other – for snorkeling at both. Afterward, you’re driven back to the marina.

For a snorkeling boat trip instead that leaves from the marina, here’s a highly-rated 3½-hour catamaran cruise on the 48-foot Cabo Blue .

Snorkel at Santa Maria Bay, enjoy drinks from the open bar as you listen to music, hang out on the large nets at the front of the cat – it’s all included. The tour departs at 1:00 pm, so it works if your ship arrives in Cabo before 11:00 am (and it’s in port until late in the afternoon).

There are also some first-class private boat tours in Cabo that can take you to snorkel at Chileno Bay or Santa Maria Bay.

For example, here’s a great 3-hour private boat tour that includes snorkeling, SUP, complimentary drinks and appetizers.

9) Ride a camel on the beach

If you’re someone who craves a unique experience on vacation, how about this one? 

Climb up on a camel and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the beach as you ride along the soft sands at an oceanfront ranch. 

This fun camel safari is run by Cabo Adventures (one of our favorite tour operators in Cabo) and includes a Mexican buffet and tequila tasting.

It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Cabo San Lucas on a cruise and a fun way to see the coastline!

10) Soar on a zipline

Calling all adrenalin junkies! You’re going ziplining!

This popular excursion is another one of the best Cabo San Lucas port activities

Wild Canyon Adventures is probably the best company to go with on a cruise ship visit. Their ziplining tour lasts four hours and they’re used to handling cruise ship guests. (Their pickup is from an OXXO store on the marina, just a 2- to 3-minute walk from the tender pier.)

You’ll soar through a vast canyon on their “Monster Ziplines” which are some of the longest in Cabo! (Note: The $20 per person park fee is extra and not included in the tour price.)

Cabo cruise port tips

When researching all of the things to do in Cabo on a cruise and booking your excursions, keep in mind the following tips to make sure your day goes off without a hitch. 

Book your Cabo San Lucas cruise port excursions early

Cabo San Lucas is a popular cruise port. This means that the best activities get booked up early.

We recommend choosing what you want to do and booking your shore excursions in advance.

To book cruise activities independently (not through the ship), try Viator (a TripAdvisor company) and GetYourGuide . They offer some of the best Cabo San Lucas excursions. We’ve used both and they work equally well.

Set up private tours

Private Cabo shore excursions can help you to maximize your limited time in port and have timing that suit you. (Need to get back a bit early? No problem!).

They can also be booked on Viator and GetYourGuide. Your ship may also offer private ship-sponsored tours.

Remember that you’ll have to take the tender boats from the cruise ship to Cabo’s marina, so only book excursions that depart at least 45 minutes after the ship arrives. 

Likewise, ensure that you’re back at the marina and tender pier in good time.

Don’t aim for the very last tender, just in case something goes wrong. (On cruises, we plan to be back to the port in time to catch the second last tender, at the latest.)

We recommend doing any activities away from the marina first and then using any extra time to explore the town and marina itself. 

Many places in Cabo accept cash only. USD is accepted everywhere, but you’ll often get a better exchange rate if you pay in Mexican pesos.

And while Cabo is very safe , we recommend not having too much cash on you, just in case. 

Prepare for the heat

Even in the winter months, the Cabo sun can be intense! Apply sunscreen, wear a hat and bring a water bottle with you. 

Last words on what to do in Cabo San Lucas on a cruise!

Even if you’re only spending one day in Cabo San Lucas, you’ll get a sense of what it’s all about – lots of adventures, Mexican culture, beautiful beaches and fun! 

Whatever your tastes, you’ll find awesome excursions and activities to suit you and your travel group. And we suspect you’ll already be looking up Cabo vacations for next year on your way back to the ship!

Planning your trip to Cabo?

Here are our favorite travel resources:

• Resorts: Booking.com is great for scoring a “wow” hotel in Cabo – or at least a decent one. (We especially like their flexible cancellation policy!)
• Vacation homes, condos and rentals: We prefer and use Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner).
• Tours: For the best local guided tours in Cabo, see Viator and GetYourGuide .
• Car rental: Renting a car in Los Cabos is one of the best ways to explore. Discover Cars searches car rental companies so you get the best rates.
• Travel insurance: SafetyWing is designed for frequent travelers, long-term adventurers and digital nomads. It covers medical expenses, lost checked luggage, trip interruption and more. We also have and recommend Medjet for global air medical transportation and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip?

• See our Start here page. It lists everything we’ve written on Cabo.
• Also check our Ultimate Cabo travel guide and our article on Planning a trip to Cabo: Essential tips .

Pssst! If you make a booking or purchase through our site, we may earn a small commission (at no cost to you). Thanks!

Photos:  3, 10, 13, 14 © Janice and George Mucalov, Cabo Visitor

About the authors

Award-winning travel writers Janice and George Mucalov are frequent visitors to Los Cabos. Here on Cabo Visitor , they share their essential tips for discovering the best of Cabo!

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Excursions & Tours

Cabo San Lucas City Tour and Glass Bottom Boat

Snorkel at Pelican's Rock

Glass Bottom Boat to Lands End

Camel Quest and More

Cabo Zipline Adventure

Glass Bottom Kayak and Snorkel

Animal Sanctuary Experience

Los Cabos Highlights

Cabo Horseback Adventure

Cabo Golden Coast Cruise and Snorkel

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Art and Craft Beer

Stand Up Paddle and Snorkel

Jeep Adventure to Todos Santos

Surfing Lessons at Cerritos

Surfing Lessons at Costa Azul

Land's End Experience

3 Bay Kayak and Snorkel

Land and Sea Extravaganza

Jeep Adventure and Hiking at Fox Canyon

Canyon Hike to Waterfall

Jeep Adventure to Cabo Pulmo

Whale Watching Cruise

Complete Los Cabos Adventure

Authentic Mexican Cooking Workshop

Fox Canyon Hiking Expedition

Taste of Mexico Market Discovery and Cooking Experience

Cabo san lucas, cabo san lucas excursions & tours.

Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas has become a prominent vacation destination for travelers from all over the globe. With the building of timeshares spurred by the increased popularity of the location, Cabo is a tropical paradise with endless amounts of cruise excursion activities for visitors of any age. There is something for everyone in Cabo.

A Pacific Paradise

Discover Cabo's radiant Pacific Ocean waters with a wide range of water sports, from scuba diving lessons to snorkeling, surfing, paddleboarding, catamaran sailing, sport fishing, and even personal minisub diving excursions. Whether you want to see sea life up close on a snorkel adventure or sailing tour, or if you want the heart-pumping thrill of a jet ski ride, there is always something new to experience.

Cabo offers some of the most spectacular beaches and sightseeing opportunities in all of Mexico. From the pristine beaches of Chileno Bay to Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach) to the stunning rock formation called El Arco (The Arch), you will be mesmerized by their natural wonder.

Baja Desert Adventures

If the beach isn't quite your thing, then land excursions are the way to go. Cabo also has a beautiful collection of forestry and mountainous areas; hike, bike, or venture off-road and discover incredible waterfalls surrounded by picture-perfect scenery.

Cabo San Lucas is a bustling city with much to do and an impressive nightlife. Go on a fun city tour with a small group and shop around the city's Gallery District. And if you love tequila, then a tequila-tasting tour is an absolute must.

No matter where you go, authentic Mexican food and drink await at every corner. There are tons of restaurants that offer authentic Mexican cuisine and delicious margaritas, from tasty fish tacos to more traditional dishes like clam ceviche.

Explore Los Cabos with Shore Excursions

Shore Excursions provides an array of unforgettable Cabo San Lucas experiences for cruise ship goers. Embark on our Whale Watching Cruise excursion, where you can witness humpback whales, whale sharks, and other majestic marine life in their natural habitat. For those seeking an all-inclusive experience, our Land and Sea Extravaganza combo tour combines the best of both worlds, offering a city tour through Cabo San Lucas by air-conditioned van and a snorkel adventure by charter boat. Read our reviews because you just can't go wrong with our excursions and tours. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the region with Shore Excursions and create lasting memories.

• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Tips For Family Trips

Start planning your dream trip today

6 Fun Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas on a Cruise

Cruises , Mexico / January 14, 2020 by Allison / Leave a Comment This article may contain sponsored content or affiliate links.

Planning to visit Cabo San Lucas on a cruise? We visited this popular cruise port on Mexico's Baja Peninsula with our kids (ages 12 and 14). Here are our tips on what to expect, fun things to do, and ways to make the most of your limited time.

This was my first trip to Cabo San Lucas. Honestly, Cabo's party vibe isn't our style and except for Land's End, the landscape was drab. However, I loved snorkeling here and I wouldn't mind coming back for a longer stay now that I've sampled what this resort destination has to offer.

Here's what you need to know to plan a great day from the Cabo San Lucas cruise port.

What to Expect

Cabo San Lucas is a resort city located on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula on Mexico's west coast. The climate is hot and dry. 

Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, which means that you'll need to take a smaller boat from your ship to the cruise port. Three large cruise ships were tendering passengers to shore on the day of our visit, so it was crowded!

I felt safe walking around the Cabo cruise port with my children. We planned our activities in advance, stuck close to the busy tourist zones and did what we could to discourage pickpockets. We had no trouble at all.

It helps if you can speak some Spanish in Cabo San Lucas, but most locals in the tourist zones speak at least some English. Our tour coordinator who met us at the office spoke fluent English. Our boat driver spoke as much English as I speak Spanish (not much), but we communicated well enough. 

The Mexican Peso is the local currency. You may be able to use US Dollars in some places, but you may pay extra for the convenience. I bought pesos from my bank about a week before our trip to cover our tour tips, plus some extra. It's also smart to use a credit card because you'll get the best exchange rate available. Make sure your card doesn't charge a fee for foreign transactions.

Time was our biggest challenge to visiting Cabo San Lucas on a cruise. We only had a few hours to get to know the city, and it wasn't enough. 

Related: Tips for Booking Great Shore Excursions

Top Things to Do

There are a lot of shore excursions within walking distance of the Cabo cruise port. These include tours, shopping, dining, museums, spas, beach, horseback riding, wildlife and more. Here are our favorites.

I wasn't wowed by the scenery at Cabo San Lucas, but Land's End is the exception. There is a natural arch here that is dramatic and beautiful, with sea lions lounging on rocks and beautiful sandy beaches nearby. 

Cruising around El Arco (the arch) was included in our snorkeling tour. We booked our independent tour in advance through cabosanlucastours.net , but it would have been pretty easy to book an excursion from our ship or find a boat tour once we arrived at the marina. We also got a pretty good view of Land's End from our cruise ship. 

Snorkeling and Diving

Snorkeling is one of my favorite water activities. I've tried it in lots of places, and our Cabo San Lucas snorkeling tour was the best so far. The water was clear and the tropical fish were abundant. 

Most of the better snorkeling tours didn't fit our limited schedule. So we booked a shorter, less expensive tour close to the marina. My 12-year-old son struggled to reconcile his snorkel mouthpiece with a bulky orthodontic appliance, and it didn't take long for the rest of us to scratch our snorkeling itch, so a shorter tour worked well for my family. 

We booked our snorkeling tour through Cabo San Lucas Tours at cabosanlucastours.net . They subcontracted through Cabo Eagle Divers at eaglediver.com . Check out both sites to find the snorkeling or diving tour that is best for your family.

Related: Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta on a Cruise

Whale Watching

Cabo San Lucas is a fantastic place to go whale watching in the winter. You may also see dolphins, which is just as fun. The best time to see gray and humpback whales is December-March. Alas, we visited in April, so we did not go whale watching in Cabo San Lucas.

You might see whales outside of peak season – we saw some on this cruise – but I've been on expensive whale watching tours where we saw nothing at all. It's a bummer.

I've also been on tours when we've seen lots of whales and it's amazing. So, book a whale watching tour in season. There are several to choose from in Cabo, including Cabo San Lucas Tours.

Related: Our San Juan Islands Whale Watching Experience

Spotting local wildlife like sea lions, pelicans and crabs won't be the #1 activity for most families, but it was a fun bonus for us. We saw these animals on our snorkeling tour and while walking around at the marina. 

My teen daughter and I had fun browsing the shops at the marina. The cruise ship zone isn't usually where you find the best shopping, so I'm sure that we just scratched the surface of shopping in Cabo San Lucas.

We wanted typical tourist stuff and we found lots of it. I negotiated a price for a colorful ceramic Christmas tree ornament at an open stall in the Mercado Marina. We picked up inexpensive t-shirts and Mexican vanilla at a large souvenir shop. We browsed the nicer Plaza Embarcadero mall just beyond that.

Related: Review of our Chocolate Class in Puerto Vallarta

When we first booked our cruise, we thought that Cabo would be our beach day. Then we researched local beaches and found that most are not safe for swimming, so we used our time for snorkeling and shopping instead.

Medano Beach would have been our top choice. It is 2 km from the marina and frequently recommended as one of the better swimming beaches. It has lots of amenities and activities close by. 

3 Ways to Book Tours

Those guys selling tours at the marina are probably legit… However, I prefer to research my tour options, operators and costs before the trip to make sure I'm getting exactly what I want for a competitive price.

Here are three easy ways to find a good tour for snorkeling, diving, whale watching, horseback riding, zip lines, camel safari, etc in Cabo San Lucas.

• Book a cruise excursion – Let your cruise line do the work for you. This is traditionally the most expensive option, but Carnival is now offering a low price guarantee. The biggest upside is that the ship won't leave without you if your tour gets back late. The biggest downside is that a cruise excursion will probably be crowded.
• Book through a trusted tour outlet – Local businesses sell tours through Viator.com and TripAdvisor.com . You can get ideas, read reviews and book the tour directly through the site.
• Online search – It's easy to search “Cabo San Lucas tours” online and get a list of tour providers and reviews. This option may take more work, but you might pay less and avoid the crowds.

We found Cabo San Lucas Tours through a TripAdvisor review. I read lots of reviews, looked through the company's website, and exchanged a few emails before I booked through their website.

We didn't book a private tour, but my family had the whole boat to ourselves while similar boats nearby were full. I assume that those were the official cruise excursions. 

Related: Tips for Your First Cruise

Cabo San Lucas is a sun-soaked destination with a party vibe. It's an excellent place to enjoy water tours like snorkeling or whale watching. Double check that your tour will include a quick visit to Land's End, and I think that's the best way to spend a few hours in Cabo San Lucas on a cruise.

I hope that our experience will help your family plan a great day in Cabo San Lucas.

Happy travels!

Thanks for Sharing!

Reader Interactions

Have a question or comment add it here. cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Cabo San Lucas
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Carnival cruise - Cabo Adventures

• Mexico    
• Baja California    
• Baja California Sur    
• Los Cabos    
• Cabo San Lucas    
• Cabo San Lucas - Things to Do    
• Cabo Adventures

Carnival cruise

Saul and Ricardo were great! We saw a ton of whales while we were riding camels. Food was excellent.

Hi Z5852MWericag, Thank you for visiting us at Cabo Adventures! We are delighted to read that your Outback & Camel Safari experience was an amazing one; especially that Saul and Ricardo displayed great service and made you feel very comfortable. We look forward to welcoming you back soon. Best regards,

I was upset and frustrated after arriving at the gathering place. You are not allowed to take photos with your own phone. BUT, if you buy and pay in advance for professional photos taking by company photographer, you'll be allowed to use your phone as well. The price for photos -$104 ! If you can't afford to pay $104 for a few photos, you will not have ANY photos! Its REALLY RIP OFF! They do offer you one printed photo for $20, after that ride. But I didn't want just printed photo that you can't share with your family and friends. And what most important - my mood was ruined, THERE WAS NO JOY FROM THIS ACTIVITY. The camel ride itself was short, about 25 minutes.

Thank you for taking the time to write about your experience with us. For safety reasons, the use of cameras, Gopros, or any type of phone is not allowed during the ride, you can use your equipment in the rest of the activities such as the Ecofarm, the desert walk, and the restaurant. We offer an optional photoshoot session with our professional photographers so you can get the best memories with our camel family. Regarding the cost of the pictures, we stand behind our rates, as the staff that captures, processes, and sells them is highly qualified, also the photos and videos are delivered with professional quality. Feel free to contact us with any further questions or concerns at [email protected]

Everything was great! Jacobo was a great tour guide, tierra sagrada Is an awesome place with great views of the pacific and the mountains

Mario was great, the roads are wide and we were going at a cool speed. They combined the best of the desert roads and the splashing oasis. The food was great too!

Hi Fatima Corina B, Thank you for your raving review! We are thrilled to read you enjoyed our Off-road Adventure tour, and that the team service and performance was so fantastic! It would be an absolute pleasure to have you back! Many thanks for your visit and warm regards from the Cabo Adventures team! Sincerely,

Mario and Ariel are amazing guides. Fun time and lots of dirt. Guides are very knowledgable and kind. This is a must do in cabo

Hello janicedusek, Thank you for taking the time to write such a wonderful review about Cabo Adventures. We are delighted to read you enjoyed your adventure and appreciate your comments regarding our service. We look forward to welcoming you back in the near future and creating more unforgettable memories together. Warm regards,

Luis Aleman and Gil were fantastic! We strongly recommend taking the electric bike tour. It was a great time and not difficult. The guys made it a great experience.

Hi Heinz689, Thank you for having taken the time to post your wonderful review of Cabo Adventures and sharing how much you enjoyed our Electric Bike Beach Adventure. We were truly honored to read that everything you experienced was exceptional an we appreciate your detailed feedback. From all the Cabo Adventures team, we certainly look forward to next time. Warm regards,

Carnival Splendor Excursions & Tours

Carnival splendor cruise.

We warmly welcome all Carnival Splendor Cruise Ship Passengers to the Port of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. We hope you enjoy your visit to Los Cabos, Baja Mexico.

Cabo San Lucas Cruise Excursions offers incredible cruise excursions and shore trips on the Mexican Riviera in Los Cabos including seasonal   whale watching ,  Sailing ,  Snorkeling,Watersports  Offroad Adventures  along the beach and through the desert ,  ATV’s ,  scuba diving resort courses , scuba diving,  Resort Day Pass Beach Breaks , 4 x 4 tours, private excursions,  custom site seeing tours , Deep Sea and Sport fishing, water sports and more!

Cabo San Lucas Cruise Excursions offers a variety of options for you to choose from. Our rates are direct rates from the operators which allow you to save money while providing you with a greater selection of shore excursions to choose from.

Cabo San Lucas Cruise Excursions recommends excursions for your visit to Los Cabos based on the arrival times, departure time of your cruise ship as well as the length of your visit out our Island. We also take into account the number of cruise ships arriving on the same day your ship comes to port. We then can provide you with options on how to avoid the busy excursions when this is appropriate. .

Please have a look at our Splendor Carnival Recommended Excursions and Itineraries . If you don’t find what you are looking for, click on Excursions in the top navigational buttons for a full listing of excursions.

Recommended Shore Excursions:

We are diligently working to bring you the best tours available in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California.

We specialize in unique and boutique tours in addition to our “best for less” excursions, offering excellent value for some of the most popular tours. Excursions International Ltd offers tours and excursions for almost every budget and individual need.

Cabo San Cruise Excursions are tour and excursion experts representing the best independent operators in Los Cabos and throughout Mexico.

Recommended Excursions

Private Luxury Yacht Charters – From $1,050us

• Cabo San Lucas Luxury Private Yacht Charters for 2-20 passengers on your choice of Motor yachts
• Private Charters all inclusive with UNLIMITED drinks and Mexican lunch
• Customized Cruises from 3-8 hrs :Coastal Cruise, Lands End, Chileno Bay Snorkeling, Whale Watching and Sunset options

Cabo To Todo Santos & Hotel California – From $330us

• 5 Hour Private Site Seeing Tour from Cabo San Lucas to Todo Santos
• Round trip transport from the port in Luxury SUVs or Vans
• Visit the Legendary Hotel California and Explore this Magical Town

Cabo Off Road All terrain UTV Baja Desert and Beach Tour – From $97.50us

• Off Road All terrain UTV Baja Desert and Beach Tour
• 4 Hour excursion from including transportation from the port
• Automatic 4X4 powerful off-road vehicles for up to 4 passengers

Cabo Horseback Rides – $100us

• Baja Desert, Coastline and Beach Horseback Riding Tour
• Round Trip Transport from the Cruise Ship Port and Resorts in the Cabo San Lucas Area
• Suitable for Beginners to Expert Riders

Cabo Luxury Private Sailing & Snorkeling Charters – From $550us

• Half Day Private Charters for sailing, snorkeling, site seeing and whale watching
• Luxury sailboat for up to 10 passengers
• Includes delicious food, drinks and towels

CABO ATV Off Road Tour – $120us

• ATV Baja Desert, Coastline and Beach Tour
• Automatic 4X4 powerful ATVs for up to 2 passengers (with backrest for passenger)

Cabo UTV & Horseback Ride Combo Tour – From $112.50us

• UTV & Horseback Combo Baja Desert, Coastline and Beach Tour
• Aprox 1 hr Horseback & 1 hr UTV

Cabo Private Whale Watching Sailing Charter – From $550us

• Half Day Private Charters for whale watching & sailing with Optional snorkeling
• Luxury sailboat for up to 8 passengers

Cabo Discover Scuba Diving Resort Course – $99us

• Instruction and Assistance with all aspects of SCUBA gear and safety
• All SCUBA required equipment including wetsuit if required
• 1 tank guided shallow dive

Private Coastal Highlights & San Jose Del Cabo – From $260us

• 4 Hour Private Site Seeing Tour from Cabo San Lucas to San Jose Del Cabo
• Round trip transport from the port in Luxury SUV's or Vans
• Professional, knowledgeable Bilingual Drivers / Guides

Cabo ATV & Horseback Ride Combo Tour – $140us

• ATV & Horseback Combo Baja Desert, Coastline and Beach Tour
• Aprox 1 hr Horseback & 1 hr ATV

Other Destinations

Bahamas Excursions

Barbados Excursions

Belize Excursions

Cabo San Lucas Excursions

Costa Maya Excursions

Cozumel Excursions

Grand Cayman Excusions

Jamaica Excursions

Puerto Rico Excursions

Roatan Excursions

St. Maarten Excursions

St. Thomas Excursions

We guarantee a full refund of your excursion deposit if your ship can not make it into the port of Cabo San Lucas