Cabo San Lucas sits at the tip of Baja California Sur, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This unique location means the two coasts have very different conditions. The west side (Pacific Ocean) often has big waves, strong currents, and rip tides. Most beaches here, like Divorce Beach or Costa Azu,l are best left to experienced surfers, not swimmers. In contrast, the east side (Sea of Cortez or Gulf of California) has protected bays with gentler waves. Those beaches are generally safe for swimming, snorkeling, and families with kids. Always check local warnings and swim near a lifeguard whenever possible.
Best Beaches for Swimming in Cabo San Lucas
On the calm, east-facing side of Cabo San Lucas, you’ll find several top spots for a swim and some fun in the sand. These beaches have milder surf and usually have lifeguards or tour operators close by.
Playa El Médano (Medano Beach)
Medano Beach is the main public beach in Cabo San Lucas. It has soft sand and a large swimming area that’s roped off from boats. The water here is usually calm, especially near shore, making it great for swimmers of all levels. You’ll see vacationers wading in waist-high water or floating on noodles. The beach is lined with restaurants and beach clubs where you can rent chairs and umbrellas. In the morning it’s very peaceful, though it can get busy by afternoon with tourists and jet skis. Lifeguards often patrol Medano Beach, so you’ll have an extra layer of safety. Overall, Medano is often listed as the safest swim beach in Cabo San Lucas. It’s also home to fun activities like banana boat rides and paddleboarding. A simple walk on the sand will quickly show why Medano is a favorite spot for swimming and fun. You can also reach Medano Beach easily through many Los Cabos boat rentals, which often stop for swimming or paddleboarding right in the roped-off area.
Playa Santa María (Santa María Bay)
Santa María Bay is a protected cove just east of Cabo San Lucas. The bay has a nearly perfect horseshoe shape, which shields the water from strong ocean waves. This creates calm, clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The sand here is soft, and the entry into the water is gentle, so even kids can enjoy it. The bay is also part of a natural marine reserve, so you’ll often see small schools of colorful fish, making for great underwater views. Santa María usually has a lifeguard station, and beach gear rentals are available on site. To reach the bay, drive or take a shuttle east along the highway for a few miles and park at the designated lot. The beach has restrooms and a small snack bar, so it’s comfortable to spend the day. Many visitors say Santa María is perfect for an easy swim and underwater spotting. Many visitors arrive here via Los Cabos private rentals, enjoying a calm cruise before jumping in for a swim or snorkel session.
Playa Chileno (Chileno Bay)
Just a bit east of Santa María lies Chileno Bay. This beach sits in a protected bay, too, with reef formations out at sea that act as natural breakwaters. The water at Chileno is typically calm and shallow for quite a distance from shore. It’s common to see families wading out or snorkeling above the shallow reefs. Fish, rays, and even the occasional sea turtle are spotted here thanks to the reef habitat. Chileno Bay has fine white sand and is one of the widest swimming areas in Cabo. You can rent snorkel gear and kayaks at the beach club, or simply float on your back and enjoy the view. Lifeguards are often on duty because the Bay is popular. Chileno’s calm waters make it a standout for those who want both swimming and a bit of snorkeling.
Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach)
Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) is famous for its scenic arch near Lands End. It has a small sandy area on the Sea of Cortez side that is usually calm and perfect for a swim. This beach is only accessible by boat or by swimming across a short rock channel. Keep in mind that the Pacific side (known as Divorce Beach) has very powerful waves and is dangerous for swimming. On the Lover’s Beach side, however, the waves are gentle, and the water is deep enough to swim comfortably. Because boats frequently drop people off here, you should never swim away from the bay toward the open ocean or the Pacific side. If you plan to visit Lover’s Beach, it’s smart to take a boat tour (which local “panga” boats offer) rather than trying to swim there on your own. The reward is swimming in the shadow of dramatic rock formations with a view of the famous arch. Always stick close to shore and be mindful of boats coming in. Booking a ride with one of the many Los Cabos yacht rentals is a great way to enjoy Lover’s Beach without the hassle of navigating rougher spots on your own.
Playa Hotel Zone (San José del Cabo)
There is a stretch of public beach along the hotel zone and marina area of San José del Cabo. Parts of this beach have mild waves, especially near the hotels. It’s not as sheltered as Palmilla, but many people do swim here during calm afternoons. If you stay at a beachfront hotel in San José, check if they have a walled-off swim area or a sheltered cove. These sections can be good for a quick dip. Otherwise, stick close to the shore where the waves aren’t too high. Keep an eye on the flags – green means it’s okay to swim, yellow means caution, red means avoid the water.
Beaches to Avoid for Swimming
Not all Cabo beaches are safe for casual swimmers. The Pacific side of both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo can have very rough surf. For example:
- Divorce Beach (Playa del Divorcio) – Right next to Lover’s Beach on the Pacific side, this beach has strong waves and a steep drop-off. It’s beautiful to see, but swimming is not recommended. Many signs warn visitors not to enter the water here due to deadly undercurrents.
- Costa Azul and Playa Acapulquito – Located east of Cabo San Lucas, these are popular surf spots (Costa Azul is famous for the “Zippers” surf break). The waves here are high, so only experienced surfers or bodyboarders go in. Swimmers should stay out of the water.
- Los Cerritos – This is north of San José del Cabo and is popular with surfers. It can be good fun to watch, but the currents can suddenly become dangerous. Only strong swimmers should attempt these waters.
In general, any beach without signage, lifeguards, or other swimmers is suspect. If you see big waves or feel a strong current while standing in the shallows, don’t go in. Always swim with a buddy and near other people.
Tips for a Safe Beach Day
- Check flags and lifeguards: Many popular beaches display colored flags. Green means “okay to swim,” yellow means “be careful,” and red usually means “no swimming.” Lifeguards or local authorities put these up based on current conditions. Always heed their advice.
- Swim near shore: Even in calm bays, don’t swim too far out. Stay within an arm’s length of the roped-off swim zones or in designated areas.
- Sun safety: Cabo is sunny year-round. Wear water-safe sunscreen and reapply often, especially after swimming. Use a hat and sunglasses on land.
- Hydrate: Bring water with you and drink frequently. The heat can sneak up on you when you’re splashing around.
- Snorkel smart: If you rent snorkel gear, never go alone and don’t venture past the bay opening. There is a lot of marine life to see near rocks and reefs, but also currents.
- Boat safety: If you take a boat out, wear life jackets as required. Do not try to swim back to shore from far out.
Following these guidelines will help you have a worry-free time in the water.
Conclusion
Yes, you can swim in Cabo—but you should pick the right beach. The key is to stick to the east-facing shores where the water is calm. Town beaches like El Médano and Palmilla are easy and safe for families. Bays like Santa María and Chileno offer clear water and friendly waves for snorkelers. Avoid the open ocean beaches (Pacific side) unless you’re surfing or very strong in the water. With good judgment and attention to local advice, swimming in Cabo can be a highlight of your trip.
Ready to hit the water? A great way to explore these swimming spots is by boat. Boat Rentals Los Cabos offers charters and tours that can take you right to the best beaches. Bring your swimsuit and snorkel gear, and let them guide you to safe, beautiful places to swim. Enjoy the waves (the gentle ones) and have fun on your next Cabo beach adventure!