One of the most breathtaking spots in Los Cabos is Playa El Chileno.
With its clear waters, gentle waves, and rugged rock formations, it’s no wonder visitors are drawn to explore every corner.
But those rocks? They’re more dangerous than they look—and this week, we got a sobering reminder of just how risky they can be.
Earlier this week, a 68-year-old foreign tourist learned that lesson the hard way.

She took a nasty fall while climbing the rocks at El Chileno, resulting in injuries serious enough to send her to the hospital.
Local beach authorities, including ZOFEMAT Los Cabos (that’s the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone team), quickly responded, giving her first aid before paramedics rushed her to receive further care.
Now, ZOFEMAT is sending out a strong message to everyone enjoying Los Cabos’ stunning beaches: please, stay off the rocks.
Translation: In Playa El Chileno, attention was paid to a 68-year-old foreign person who suffered a fall in the rock area. Lifeguards Luis Fícher and Efraín Molina, from the team of ZOFEMAT Los Cabos, responded immediately, providing first aid and coordinating the transfer with the Cabo San Lucas Fire Department, thus ensuring timely and adequate medical care. ⚠️ We remind the population and visitors to avoid climbing the rocky areas, as they represent a high risk of falls and accidents.
⚠️ Why the Rocks Are More Dangerous Than They Look
If you’ve ever strolled along beaches like El Chileno, Las Viudas, or Santa Maria, you’ve probably seen other travelers climbing up the rocky areas.
It might seem harmless, maybe even part of the adventure. But according to ZOFEMAT, those picturesque rocks can be extremely slippery, unstable, and sharp. Add in the unpredictability of waves, and it’s a recipe for injury.
It’s not just about the risk of falling, either. Even a small slip can result in deep cuts, broken bones, or head trauma. And because these areas are often away from the main beach activity, help might not arrive as quickly as you’d hope.

🌊 Not an Isolated Incident
This isn’t the first time travelers have run into trouble with natural hazards here. Just last week, a teenager had to be rescued at Las Viudas Beach after being swept away by a strong wave.
She was saved thanks to the quick action of a nearby ZOFEMAT worker, but it’s a reminder of how fast things can go south.
We at The Cabo Sun covered that story here and emphasized the importance of checking ocean conditions and not swimming during rough seas.
It’s all part of the same picture: nature is beautiful here in Los Cabos, but it demands respect.

🧳 What This Means for Your Vacation
Here at The Cabo Sun, we’re all about making your trip to Los Cabos unforgettable, for the right reasons.
We want your memories filled with sunset views, tacos, and ocean breezes, not ER visits and bandages.
If you’re heading to any of our local beaches, take a minute to read the safety signage posted at the entrances. Many beaches are monitored by ZOFEMAT, and they provide helpful color-coded safety flags:
- 🟢 Green Flag – Safe conditions for swimming.
- 🟡 Yellow Flag – Moderate risk; exercise caution.
- 🔴 Red Flag – Dangerous conditions; highly recommended to stay out of the water.
- ⚫ Black Flag – Beach closed due to extreme hazards.
- ⚪ White Flag – Dangerous marine life, like jellyfish, has been spotted.
You should also know that not all beaches have lifeguards, and some of the more secluded spots might look Instagram-worthy but come with hidden dangers.
For a complete list of swimmable beaches, check out Visit Los Cabos.

📸 So What Should You Do Instead?
If you’re eager to explore, there are plenty of safe, designated spots where you can soak in the views or take those beachside selfies without risking life and limb. Coastal paths, lookout points, and guided snorkeling tours are all fantastic options.
Want that epic shot? Ask a lifeguard or beach official for suggestions on safe photo ops. Or check in with your hotel concierge—they often know which beaches have the best views with the safest access.
And if you’re ever in doubt, do what the locals do: keep your feet in the sand and your eyes on the ocean.

🆘 Helpful Resources for Travelers
- Emergency Services: Dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance.
- American Consulate: (624) 143-3566
- Canadian Consulate: (624) 142-4333
- Cabo San Lucas Fire Department: (624) 143-3577
- San José del Cabo Fire Department: (624) 142-2466
- Red Cross Cabo San Lucas: 065 or (624) 143-7869
- Tourist Police: (624) 143-3977

🌴 Stay Safe in Paradise!
At the end of the day, we at The Cabo Sun want you to have the best possible time here in paradise.
That means staying informed, staying cautious, and above all, staying safe. ZOFEMAT is doing their part A tourist’s serious fall at Playa El Chileno is a stark reminder of a hidden danger in Los Cabos. Before you climb those picturesque rocks, see the urgent warning now being issued to all visitors.
by maintaining clean beaches, setting up safety signs, and even rescuing folks in danger. Let’s all do ours by respecting their guidance.
So next time you’re tempted to climb those Cabo rocks?
Take a step back, snap the photo from a safe distance, and toast to your vacation with a cold drink instead. You’ll thank us later.
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