Quick answer: Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, so your ship anchors in the bay and small boats carry you to the marina. Once ashore, the best things to do are a water taxi or glass bottom boat ride to El Arco, a swim and snorkel at Lover's Beach, a walk to Medano Beach, and lunch around the marina. Plan 30 to 45 minutes for each tender trip on a busy day, and never swim at Divorce Beach.
Cabo is one of the most popular stops on the Mexican Riviera, and one of the most misunderstood by first timers. There is no cruise pier for big ships, so the day starts a little differently from most ports. The scenery at Land's End more than makes up for it, the beach choices are varied, and the marina area is lively without being overwhelming. It is a fun port day if you know the routine before you go.
- Port type: Tender. Ships anchor offshore and small boats run to the marina
- Tender ride: About 5 to 10 minutes once you are on the boat
- Tender wait: Budget 30 to 45 minutes each way on busy days, including the queue
- Typical time in port: 7 to 9 hours
- Currency: Mexican peso, and US dollars are widely accepted in the tourist zone
- El Arco water taxi: Roughly $10 to $15 per person round trip, and prices can change
- Best for: Scenery, beach time, snorkeling and boat tours
The Tender Process: What First Timers Need to Know
At a tender port the ship anchors in the bay instead of docking, and the ship's own lifeboats, called tenders, ferry passengers to shore. If this is new to you, our guide to what a tender port is explains the basics.
In Cabo, the ride itself is short, usually 5 to 10 minutes to the marina. The delay comes from the process around it. After the ship anchors, tender operations begin, passengers collect tickets or wait for their group to be called, and then everyone boards in turn. On a crowded day, the full trip from the ship to the marina can take 30 to 45 minutes each way.
- Excursion priority: Guests on ship tours are usually called first, so they board first. If you have an early tour, book through the ship.
- Go early or go late: Lines are shortest right after tendering opens, and again in the mid afternoon.
- Allow a buffer on the way back: If you book your own tours, be near the marina well before the last tender, at least an hour early is a sensible rule.
- Rough seas can change the plan: Tendering can be delayed or canceled in heavy swell, and it is rare but it happens. Listen for announcements from the ship.
Missing the last tender is a real problem, so read what happens if you miss your cruise ship before you stray far from the marina. If boats make you queasy, our seasickness tips are worth a read before the water taxi ride.
El Arco and the Land's End Water Taxi
The Arch of Cabo San Lucas, known as El Arco, is the defining image of the destination. Rock formations rise from the water at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. You cannot reach it by walking, so the way to see it is by boat.
Water taxis and glass bottom boats leave from the marina regularly. Tours of Land's End commonly last 45 minutes to an hour and pass the arch and nearby sea lion colonies. A shared round trip has been reported at about $10 to $15 per person, up from a few dollars less in earlier years, so confirm the price on the day. Glass bottom boat trips cost a bit more, and they suit anyone who wants a simple scenic ride without getting wet.
Lover's Beach vs. Divorce Beach
These two beaches sit across a narrow strip of sand at Land's End, yet they are completely different when it comes to swimming safety.
| Beach | Faces | Swimming | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lover's Beach | Sea of Cortez | Calmer water, with care | Swimming, snorkeling, photos |
| Divorce Beach | Pacific Ocean | Dangerous, do not swim | Views and photos only |
Lover's Beach faces the Sea of Cortez, and its calmer water suits snorkeling and kayaking. Water taxis can drop you there and pick you up later, so agree on a return time with the boat operator. Divorce Beach faces the open Pacific, with big waves and strong currents, and local authorities and tour operators warn against swimming there, as this local guide to both beaches explains. It looks inviting, but just enjoy the view back toward the arch.
Even on the calmer side, water conditions change and boat traffic is busy, so stay close to shore and keep an eye on the waves. If you want to snorkel, bring your own gear or ask the operator what is available. Organized snorkel trips through the shore excursions page are more structured than going on your own.
The Marina District and Medano Beach
The marina is the commercial heart of Cabo's tourist scene. Restaurants, shops, bars, tour booths, ATMs and currency exchange are all within a short walk of the tender landing. It is touristy, though not unpleasantly so, and an hour or two here with lunch fits well into the day. Cabo Wabo Cantina, co founded by rock singer Sammy Hagar, is a familiar name nearby. Seafood quality varies along the promenade, so check menus and prices before you sit down.
If you want a beach day without a boat ride, Medano Beach is about a 10 to 15 minute walk from the marina. It is the town's main swimming beach, with restaurants and lounge chairs along the sand. Expect vendors to approach you, and agree on prices before you accept any rentals.
Other Excursion Ideas
- ATV and UTV tours: These head into the desert hills above town, with dramatic views over the bay and the Pacific coast. They are usually a half day, which pairs well with an afternoon on the beach.
- Snorkeling tours: Organized trips visit the better reef areas around Land's End with gear included.
- Glass bottom boat tours: A relaxed way to see the arch and the underwater rock formations. It suits families and older travelers.
- Whale watching: In winter, whales migrate through the area, and some sailings offer special tours. Availability depends on the season.
Compare costs and plan your spending with our cruise budget calculator, and see our Cabo San Lucas port page for more details on the port.
Money, Safety and Practical Tips
- Currency: The peso is the official currency, but US dollars are accepted almost everywhere in the tourist zone. You will usually get a worse rate paying in dollars, so withdraw pesos from an ATM near the marina if you want better value. Carry small bills for taxis, tips and snacks.
- Safety: The marina and downtown tourist areas are generally considered safe for cruise passengers. Stay in busy areas, watch your belongings, and use licensed taxis or tour operators.
- Sun and heat: Cabo is hot and dry, so pack sunscreen, a hat and water.
- Phones: Roaming charges can add up fast, so read our cruise WiFi guide before you land.
- Crowds: Cabo has become busier in recent seasons, with two or more ships in port on many days. Expect longer tender lines when several ships arrive together.
Plan the Rest of Your Mexican Riviera Cruise
- What to do in Puerto Vallarta
- What to do in Ensenada
- Puerto Vallarta port page
- Ensenada port page
- Mazatlan
- Solo cruising and single supplements
- What to do in Catalina Island
- San Pedro and Los Angeles cruise port
- Inside cabin vs balcony
- Cruise ship gratuities explained
- Cruise onboard credit explained
- Cruise planning FAQ
Cabo San Lucas FAQs
Why do cruise ships anchor offshore in Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo San Lucas does not have a deep water pier for large cruise ships, so vessels anchor in the bay and passengers ride tenders to the marina.
Can I swim at Lover's Beach?
Lover's Beach faces the Sea of Cortez and generally has calmer water, so it is the better choice for swimming and snorkeling. Stay close to shore and watch conditions. Divorce Beach, on the Pacific side, is not safe for swimming.
How long does the tender process take in Cabo San Lucas?
The ride is about 5 to 10 minutes, but the full process, including tickets, waiting and boarding, can take 30 to 45 minutes each way on a busy day.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe for cruise passengers?
The marina and main tourist areas are generally considered safe. Stay in busy areas, watch your belongings and use licensed taxis or tour operators.
Do I need pesos in Cabo San Lucas?
No, US dollars are accepted almost everywhere in the tourist zone. You usually get a better rate paying in pesos, and ATMs are available near the marina.
