The Top 5 Most Common (and Avoidable) Tourist Scams in Downtown Cabo

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Los Cabos is an overwhelmingly safe and welcoming destination. The vast majority of your interactions with locals will be genuine and warm. But like any world-class tourist spot, a few opportunistic individuals have developed common scams targeting unsuspecting visitors.

Being aware of these tricks isn’t about being paranoid; it’s about being a savvy, prepared traveler. Knowing what to look for allows you to relax and confidently navigate your vacation. Here at The Cabo Sun, we’ve sifted through the reports to bring you an insider’s guide to the top five scams in downtown Cabo and how to effortlessly sidestep them.

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1. The “Free Gift” Street Pitch

This is the most common pitch in Cabo. A friendly person on the street will offer you a “free” gift—often a tequila tasting, but it could be a silver necklace or a tour voucher. It always sounds too good to be true, and it is.

• How It Works: This lure has two potential outcomes. Most often, it’s a hook to get you into a lengthy, high-pressure timeshare presentation. Alternatively, the “tasting” can lead to a back-room shop where they’ll pressure you into buying a beautiful but wildly overpriced bottle of low-quality tequila. Both are designed to separate you from your time and money.
• How to Avoid It: The solution is simple. The moment you hear the word “free” from someone on the street, smile, politely say “No, gracias,” and keep walking. Do not stop to engage.

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2. The Restaurant Bill Scam

You’ve had a fantastic meal, but when the bill arrives, it seems higher than you expected. This can happen in a few ways, often at tourist-heavy restaurants.

• How It Works: The bill might have extra items you didn’t order, an inflated “tourist tax” (the real tax, IVA, is 16% and should be included), or they’ll use a very unfavorable USD to MXN exchange rate if you pay in dollars. A common variation is giving you the wrong change from a large bill.
• How to Avoid It: Always ask for an itemized bill (la cuenta, por favor) and check it carefully. For the best value, pay in pesos whenever possible. If you use a credit card, always ask to be charged in pesos so your bank gives you the best exchange rate.

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3. The Rental Car “Damage” Scam

This scam happens at the end of your trip and can be particularly stressful. It’s most common with less-reputable, off-brand rental agencies.

• How It Works: When you return your car, the agent does a detailed inspection and “discovers” a tiny scratch or dent that was likely already there. They’ll insist you caused it and demand an immediate, often high, payment for the repair.
• How to Avoid It: The solution is undeniable proof. Before you drive off the lot, take a slow, detailed video of the entire car with your phone. Get up close on every panel, the wheels, the windshield, and the interior. This video is your ultimate protection.

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4. The Gas Station Scam

This is a classic sleight-of-hand trick that can happen quickly if you’re not paying attention.

• How It Works: There are two main versions. First, the attendant doesn’t reset the pump to zero from the previous customer, charging you for gas you didn’t receive. Second, you hand them a 500-peso note, and they quickly swap it for a 50-peso note, insisting you gave them the wrong bill.
• How to Avoid It: Get out of your car. Before they begin, confirm the pump reads “0.00.” State the amount you want clearly (Quinientos pesos, por favor). When you pay, hold the bill and say its denomination out loud (Aqui tienes quinientos). Stay present and watch the entire transaction.

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5. The “Spilled Mustard” Distraction Scam

This is a classic pickpocketing technique used in crowded areas worldwide, including downtown Cabo.

• How It Works: Someone “accidentally” spills something on you (mustard, a drink, etc.). They are incredibly apologetic, and an accomplice immediately rushes in to “help” you clean up. In the confusion of dabbing napkins and apologies, one of them lifts your wallet or phone.
• How to Avoid It: If this happens, your immediate reaction should be to create distance. Firmly refuse their help with a “No, no, estoy bien” (“I’m fine”) and move away from them immediately. Then, check that you have your valuables.

Knowing these simple tricks allows you to move through your vacation with confidence, ensuring that your only focus is on the incredible beauty and fun that Los Cabos has to offer.

Safe travels!