Why You Should Visit San Jose Del Cabo According To A Local 

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Last Updated 8 months ago

One of the great things about Los Cabos is that when you visit, you’re essentially getting two completely different vacation destinations in one.   

Cabo San Lucas, more known for its party atmosphere, beach clubs, and water activities, is what most people think of when Los Cabos comes up in conversation.   

San Jose del Cabo is quieter, more traditional, and more authentically Mexican, and kind of a best-kept secret.   

Even though not quite as popular as Cabo San Lucas, let’s look at why you should visit San Jose del Cabo, but don’t just take our word for it, because we’ll tell you why you should visit according to a local.   

History 

If you really want to get a feel for the town and its people, the first thing you’ll want to explore is San Jose del Cabo’s history.   

Founded officially in 1730 as the Mission of San Jose del Cabo, the town has a long and storied past.   

Multiple cultures, pirates, silver mining, and many other contributions to San Jose del Cabo’s historical past can be explored in various locations throughout the town, including the well-preserved original Mission de San Jose del Cabo, built in 1730.   

@graceg_adventures #sanjosedelcabo #mexico #travel #bajaca #vacation #visiting #trip #tourists #churches #history #glassblowing #travel #fun ♬ La Llorona – Angela Aguilar

Art 

San Jose del Cabo is a thriving artist community where artists from all over the world display their art in shops along the main street of the Gallery District.   

There are more than 10 galleries in the town, including the gallery of well-known contemporary artist Frank Arnold and the popular Ivan Guaderrama Art Gallery.   

For a more festive art perusing experience, there is also an Art Walk held every Thursday evening from November through June, which puts both art and some of the area’s best restaurants on display.   

@dipyourtoesin If you’re visiting Cabo, and looking for something to do off your resort, head 30min Northeast to San José Del Cabo for a weekly Art Walk [save + share for later] A few notable stops… 📍Plaza Amelia Wilkes: this is where most local artists display their work on Thursdays. The Plaza also hosts food stalls, and a large stage for performers. 📍Jardin Secreto: we stopped at this urban garden restaurant for dinner. It’s a large venue; great for group dining. We loved their creative menu, with a unique Baja-Mediterranean feel. Reportedly, a number of galleries also offer complementary wine and nibbles, however, we didn’t stop into any that did. *The Art Walk is only held during high season, every Thursday, 5-9pm, November-June.* Anyone else putting San José del Cabo on their wishlist? #sanjosedelcabo #bajacaliforniasur #visitmexico🇲🇽 #cabomiamor ♬ original sound – Eulanda & Omo

Culture 

Out of the two Los Cabos destinations, San Jose del Cabo is the one to visit for a more cultural experience.   

You’ll find a lot more locals living, working, and selling their handmade wares here, as well as more authentic Mexican restaurants.   

While there still is a nightlife scene, it consists more of smaller cantinas visited by tourists and locals alike.   

The town square, Plaza Mijares, is the location of different cultural events held throughout the year.   

@todd502 One night in San Jose del Cabo old town. #humanity #history ♬ Golden Hour: Piano Version – Andy Morris

Restaurants 

Cabo San Lucas has no shortage of fantastic restaurants around the marina area and is even located in some of the luxury all-inclusive resorts.   

In fact, the culinary scene in Los Cabos has recently gained the attention of the prestigious Michelin Guide and will be featured in the 2024 edition.   

San Jose del Cabo, though, is where you’ll find the bulk of the authentic restaurants and some great fresh Baja seafood.   

@judy.the.foody guess the restaurant🧐🪻💃🏻 #ArtWalk #SanJoseDelCabo #cabo #restaurant #foodtok #carneasada #vacation #dancer #mexico ♬ Rapp Snitch Knishes (Live Instrumental) – OMA

Things To Do In San Jose Del Cabo 

In addition to history, art, and culture, San Jose del Cabo is also the perfect destination for exploring nature.   

There are beautiful beaches in San Jose del Cabo, including one located close to town, Playa Hotelera, which is not suitable for swimming but is a beautiful beach for lounging and walks.   

The nearby San Jose Estuary is a great place to get to know the region’s wildlife.   

Additionally, there are several food and tequila tasting tours available, too, so you’ll never get bored in San Jose del Cabo.   

@.maddieetaylor San Jose Del Cabo Art District 🫶🏼 . . . . . . . . #travel #baja #mexico #vanlife #art #artwalk #granolagirl #explore #cabo ♬ cloud diving – demon gummies

Where San Jose Del Cabo Is Located 

San Jose del Cabo is on the southeastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula.   

It’s situated on the Sea of Cortez.   

San Jose del Cabo is about 20 miles from Cabo San Lucas.   

@tavomeraz911 Algo de San José del Cabo, Baja Sur #loscabos #sanjosedelcabo #mardecortes #pacifico #dji #djimexico #tiktoktravels #mexicomagico #2023travel ♬ Por Mi México – Lefty Sm & Santa Fe Klan

Where To Stay When Visiting San Jose Del Cabo  

In San Jose del Cabo, there’s a mix of smaller hotels, hostels, boutique hotels, and luxury all-inclusive.   

Nightly rates range from as little as around $100 a night to more than $1500.   

With the many different options and the huge range in prices, there is something for everyone in San Jose del Cabo.