The Cabo Mistake: A First-Timer’s Guide to Swimmable (and Unswimmable) Beaches

You’ve seen the pictures. The epic stone Arch, the dramatic golden sands, and that gorgeous, turquoise water. You’re already picturing yourself running straight from your hotel room and diving into the ocean.

Hold that thought.

Here at The Cabo Sun, we need to let you in on the biggest secret in Los Cabos, the one thing that separates rookie tourists from savvy travelers. For your safety and sanity, let’s get this one thing straight: most of the beaches in Cabo are not safe for swimming.

It’s the most common mistake first-timers make. But don’t worry, after reading this, you’ll be a Cabo insider.

So, What’s the Deal with the Water?

Why does this slice of paradise have such a “look but don’t touch” policy with its water? It’s pretty simple, really.

Cabo is where two massive bodies of water—the wild Pacific Ocean and the calmer Sea of Cortez—have a fiery meeting. This creates:

• Powerful Undertows: Sneaky currents that can pull even strong swimmers out to sea.
• Shore-Breaking Waves: Waves that crash with incredible force right at the shoreline.
• Steep Drop-offs: The ocean floor can disappear from under your feet just a few steps in.

This trio makes for a dangerous cocktail. But the good news? There are absolutely glorious, safe, and swimmable spots if you know where to look.

The “Look, But Don’t Touch” List: Unswimmable Beaches

These beaches are stunning for photos, romantic walks, and watching the sunset. Just promise us you’ll stay out of the water.

• Divorce Beach & Solmar Beach: Think of these as the entire Pacific-facing side of Land’s End. They are beautiful, wild, and a total no-go for swimming. Many resorts are on Solmar Beach, and guests are strongly warned to stay on the sand.
• Pedregal Beach: This is another stretch on the Pacific side below the exclusive Pedregal neighborhood. It’s private and gorgeous, but the waves here are powerful and swimming is forbidden.
• Beaches along the Tourist Corridor: This is the highway connecting Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. While some coves are swimmable (we’ll get to those!), the long, open stretches of beach fronting many major resorts are exposed to the open ocean and are not safe. Always check for warning flags!

Your Go-To Guide: The Swimmable Beach All-Stars

Okay, now for the fun part! These beaches will be your new best friends. They are protected, calm, and perfect for a dip.

• Medano Beach (Playa El Médano): This is the main event, the heart and soul of Cabo’s beach scene. It’s a long, bustling 2-mile stretch of sand in a protected bay.
  • Vibe: Lively and action-packed. It’s lined with restaurants, famous bars (like The Office on the Beach), and vendors. This is where you go to see and be seen.
  • Best For: People-watching, renting jet skis, grabbing a bite, and safe, calm swimming.

• Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor): The calmer, kinder neighbor to Divorce Beach. It’s tucked on the Sea of Cortez side of the Arch.
  • Vibe: A beautiful escape. You have to take a water taxi to get here, which makes it feel like a special excursion.
  • Best For: Snapping that iconic photo with the Arch and enjoying a relaxing swim in a sheltered spot.

• Chileno Bay & Santa Maria Bay: These two gems are located along the Tourist Corridor. Both are protected, U-shaped coves that feel a world away from the Cabo hustle.
  • Vibe: Family-friendly and snorkel-focused. These are Blue Flag certified beaches, meaning they are clean and safe.
  • Best For: Unbelievable snorkeling right from the shore and calm, clear waters perfect for kids.

The Golden Rule Before You Book

So here is the single most important tip from all of us at The Cabo Sun: If swimming in the ocean right outside your hotel is important to you, you must check if your resort is located on a swimmable beach.

For Action in the Heart of Cabo: A Medano Beach Hotel

If you want a fantastic swimmable beach but also love the idea of being able to walk to the action, look at a resort like Villa La Estancia. It’s located on the calmer, more upscale end of Medano Beach, giving you the best of both worlds. You can relax on a tranquil stretch of sand, then take a 10-minute walk down the beach to the lively restaurant and bar scene near the marina. This choice is perfect for the traveler who wants a high-end home base but still craves easy access to the energy, nightlife, and people-watching that makes downtown Cabo famous.

For Secluded Luxury on a Private-Feeling Cove

If your idea of paradise is hearing nothing but the gentle lapping of waves, Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos is your answer. Located in a tranquil cove along the Tourist Corridor, its beach is protected by a natural rock reef, creating exceptionally calm water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This is a true luxury escape. You are not in the heart of the party scene; you are in a self-contained world of serenity. This choice is for the traveler who wants to completely decompress, values privacy, and considers the resort itself to be the main destination.

Don’t just look at the pictures. Read the reviews. Check the map. A hotel on Medano Beach will offer a totally different experience than one on the Pacific side. Knowing this before you book will fundamentally change your vacation for the better.

Now you’re in on the secret. Go enjoy the stunning views from all of Cabo’s beaches, but swim only at the safe ones!