3 Cabo Area Beaches Named Among The Best In Mexico: Have You Ever Visited?

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Every year, millions of traveler reviews are tallied to determine the absolute top destinations on the planet. For 2026, the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” awards have officially been released, and the Baja California peninsula is completely dominating the rankings.

Out of eight million global listings on the platform, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone. For travelers heading to the southern tip of the peninsula, three specific beaches in the greater Los Cabos and La Paz area secured coveted spots in the Top 10 for all of Mexico.

If your standard vacation routine involves staying glued to your resort pool for seven days straight, this list might inspire you to finally rent a car. Whether you are looking to lounge under a shaded palapa or snorkel through vibrant coral reefs, here are the three award-winning beaches you need to add to your Baja itinerary.

1. Balandra Beach (La Paz)

Ranked #4 in Mexico

While technically a day trip north of Cabo San Lucas, Balandra Beach is widely considered a mandatory stop for anyone visiting the southern peninsula. In fact, many locals and frequent visitors argue it is the single most beautiful beach in the entire country.

• The Scenery: The secluded shoreline is framed by dramatic volcanic cliffs and lush mangroves, and it is home to the naturally formed, highly photographed Mushroom Rock (El Hongo). The water here is famously shallow—you can wade out hundreds of yards and the turquoise water will still only reach your knees.
• The Activities: The vibrant, calm blue waters are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. If you prefer to stay out of the deeper water, stick to the shallows for bird-watching and spotting marine life right at your feet. (Just remember to do the “Balandra Shuffle”—sliding your feet through the sand rather than taking heavy steps—to avoid startling any resting stingrays).
• Traveler Tip: Balandra is a highly protected natural area, and the local government takes its preservation seriously. In 2026, access is strictly limited to 450 people per session (an 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM slot, and a 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM slot). You must purchase a digital entry bracelet in advance from the CONANP (national park service) website. There are no food vendors allowed on the sand, so you must pack out everything you bring in.

2. Santa Maria Beach (Cabo San Lucas)

Ranked #7 in Mexico

If you are looking for clear, warm waters perfectly suited for swimming and snorkeling without leaving the immediate Cabo resort bubble, Santa Maria checks every single box. Located right along the Tourist Corridor, this expansive, horseshoe-shaped cove is incredibly popular for its striking natural beauty and excellent infrastructure.

• The Vibe: Spacious, comfortable, and visually stunning. The beach is famously flanked by two large granite rocks that shelter the bay from the pounding Pacific surf, making the water exceptionally calm. As a bonus, the sand here has a unique, coarse texture with a slight pinkish hue that makes it easily brush off your skin.
• The Amenities: Unlike many rugged, off-the-grid Baja beaches, Santa Maria features incredibly convenient parking, clean public restrooms, and foot-wash stations.
• Traveler Tip: Because it is a protected marine sanctuary, the snorkeling here is world-class. However, this also makes it a prime stop for the local catamaran and boat tours that sail out of the Cabo marina. If you want the beach to yourself, arrive by car or taxi around 8:00 AM before the tour boats start dropping anchor mid-morning. You can also easily rent chairs and umbrellas directly on the sand.

3. Playa el Chileno (Cabo San Lucas)

Ranked #8 in Mexico

Coming in right behind Santa Maria is its Tourist Corridor neighbor, Playa el Chileno. When you want a relaxing, thoroughly laid-back beach day with the family, Chileno delivers a flawless, safe, and highly regulated experience.

• The Vibe: Family-friendly, pristine, and accessible. The natural geography of the cove blocks the heavy swells, making it one of the most reliable swimming beaches in the municipality.
• The Activities: It is an absolute underwater playground. Jet skis and motorized watercraft are banned inside the protected marine sanctuary, which keeps the water exceptionally clear—often exceeding 30 feet of visibility. Snorkelers will enjoy spotting colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and tiny crabs navigating the reef systems.
• Traveler Tip: Chileno Bay proudly holds a Blue Flag certification, which is a prestigious international award for strict environmental care and water quality. This means you will find excellent daily lifeguards, wooden walkways for easy access, and public palapas for shade. Just like Santa Maria, be sure to wear a long-sleeve rash guard instead of chemical sunscreens to help protect the fragile reef!

Ready To Explore?

The all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos are fantastic, but the real magic of Baja California Sur is found where the desert meets the sea. If you are heading down this year, pack a snorkel, book a tour or grab a rental car, and go see for yourself why these three coastlines are officially the pride of Mexico.