The Real Cost of an All-Inclusive in Los Cabos: A Secret Price Guide

We at The Cabo Sun know the lure of “all-inclusive” packages: one flat fee, total relaxation from the moment you land. You picture yourself drifting between the infinity pool and the beach, all meals and drinks taken care of—you couldn’t worry less about your wallet.

But the truth is, that advertised rate often hides extras that can quietly pad your final bill. From specialty-restaurant cover charges to unspoken resort fees, here’s the real breakdown of what you’ll pay when you book that dreamy Cabo getaway—no myths or made-up “insider hacks,” just the facts you need to budget like a pro.

What “All-Inclusive” Covers (And What It Really Doesn’t)

On the surface, “all-inclusive” means:

• Three daily meals (usually buffet-style) plus snacks
• Basic soft drinks, house-brand beers and spirits
• Standard resort amenities (pool, gym, beach chairs)

But in some properties, it doesn’t cover:

• Specialty restaurants: A la carte sushi bars, upscale steak nights or chef’s tasting menus sometimes carry a cover fee. For example, Marquis Los Cabos includes all their restaurants in the all-incusive plan except for Canto del Mar, its French Restaurant. Reservations are also required 24 hours in advance and costs $100+ per guest.
• Premium beverages: House-brand pours are included, but any top-shelf tequilas, craft cocktails or imported wines will often be extra.
• Spa and wellness: Access to the gym and steam room is usually free, but massages, facials and specialty treatments can run up your ‘extras’ bill fast!
• Off-resort activities: ATV tours, whale-watching, snorkeling charters and tee times on championship courses all add separate charges. (If you want to save though, check out these courses for tee times after 3 pm.)

Premium Drinks: What You’re Really Sipping

Your poolside margarita machine churns out the house blend at no extra cost—but upgrade to that Patrón-infused Cadillac style, and you could be looking at roughly $12–15 per drink.

Wine lovers, take note: “included” bottles usually max out around $25 retail value; anything pricier is a la carte.

If you’re planning to toast each evening with a cocktail or glass of vino, factor an extra $30–50 per day into your bar budget.

Specialty Restaurants & Cover Charges

Most Cabo resorts feature at least one “free” specialty spot—maybe a beachfront taco stand or casual pizza kitchen—but premium venues can come at a price.

Cover charges for these dinner experiences vary wildly, and while they often include a cocktail pairing, any extras (dessert flights, bottle service) can further increase your check.

To balance your budget, plan on enjoying one or two specialty dinners per week and spend other nights at the included buffet or casual venues. OR be sure to choose a resort that has no limits whatsoever! To find your perfect match, use our resort finder.

Spa Treatments & Wellness Add-Ons

Stress relief isn’t on the house, unless you stay at a resort that includes spa treatments like these.

A 50-minute Swedish massage can cost $300+, while energy healing or couples’ rituals can climb past $400.

Also remember to budget for the customary 15–20% tip on spa services, too—your therapist relies on that.

Off-Resort Adventures: Tours & Excursions

Cabo’s playground extends far beyond the pool deck. Typical rates include:

• ATV or dune buggies: $100–200 per person
• Whale-watching (in season): $60–120 per person
• Snorkel or kayak tours: $50–150 per person
• Golf tee times: $150–400 per round, depending on course and season

Booking through your resort adds a convenience markup—usually 10–20%. If you’re keen to save, compare direct-operator prices online before you arrive.

Hidden Fees & Fine Print

Even “zero worries” packages can slip in small extras:

• Resort or service fees: $25–40 per night, often auto-added at checkout.
• Early check-in/late check-out: Expect $25–50 each if you need extra time in your room.

Always scroll through your booking confirmation line by line—those small fees add real dollars.

Tips to Keep Your Cabo Budget on Track

• Review inclusions in advance: Call your resort to confirm what’s covered—and what costs extra—before you pack your bags.
• Balance specialty with buffet: Mix in the free dining options to offset one or two premium nights.
• Mind the bar menu: Stick with house pours during happy hour, and save the “treat-yourself” cocktails for special evenings.
• Shop local for tours: Compare prices between resort desks and independent operators for the best deal.
• Watch the fine print: Identify any nightly resort fees, parking charges or check-in surcharges ahead of time.

With this clear, no-fluff price guide, you’ll know exactly what to expect from your Cabo all-inclusive vacation—so you can focus on turquoise beaches, epic sunsets and that first sip of margarita, rather than tallying unexpected charges.