Planning a 7 day Cabo San Lucas itinerary and wondering how to fill an entire week without spending every day at the resort?
After spending a week in Cabo San Lucas with my family, I learned that seven days gives you plenty of time to do a little bit of everything—without rushing from one activity to the next.
We spent our week in Cabo fishing for marlin, whale watching, snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach, relaxing on the beach, exploring downtown Cabo San Lucas, taking a glass-bottom boat tour, and enjoying plenty of time at our resort.
And yes, we had some completely lazy pool days, too.
This is our actual 7 day Cabo San Lucas itinerary, including what we did each day, where we stayed, what I’d do again, and a few things I’d change.
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Our 7 Day Cabo San Lucas Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | What We Did |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival, resort, Medano Beach & sunset dinner |
| Day 2 | Downtown Cabo, marina & glass-bottom boat |
| Day 3 | Deep-sea fishing & whale watching |
| Day 4 | Whale watching & Medano Beach |
| Day 5 | Fishing, beach & spa day |
| Day 6 | Santa Maria Beach & snorkeling |
| Day 7 | Resort, beach, entertainment & departur |
Day 1 in Cabo: Arrival, Medano Beach & Sunset Dinner
After landing at Los Cabos International Airport, you’ll want to secure reliable Cabo airport transportation to get to your resort or vacation rental comfortably.
Cabo Airport Transportation: What You Need to Know
Pre-booking a private transfer or shuttle service will ensure a hassle-free start to your week. We booked in advance with a concierge from our resort, Villa Del Palmar, Cabo Seasons. Our airport transportation was $220 round trip from the airport to our Cabo resort for a family of 4. I highly recommend this route, especially if you’re new to Cabo. With our confirmation email, it was VERY clear on how to get out of the airport and where to find our ride. It was about a 45 minute ride to Villa Del Palmar from the airport.
💡Helpful Hint: When you are heading out of the airport you could get bombarded by people trying to sell you timeshares. Just continue going to avoid this. We walked right passed them, made a purpose of not looking interested, and we didn’t get bothered at all.
Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas (Perfect for a 7 Day Cabo Itinerary): Villa Del Palmar
We purchased our flight and resort as a bundle off Expedia. This was an all inclusive restaurant, in which I highly recommend. We had a fantastic stay with great food, great service, and great atmosphere.
Once you’ve checked in and freshened up, take it slow. Spend your first afternoon settling in and getting to know the area. Head to Medano Beach, one of the most popular swimmable beaches in Cabo, for a relaxing stroll. The warm sand, calm waves, and lively beachfront restaurants make it the perfect introduction to Cabo life. We got there early enough to relax by the pool for a bit before getting ready to indulge in supper.
Being at an all-inclusive resort in Cabo San Lucas, most of our meals were eaten there, as they were included. We chose Bella for our first meal, a lovely italian-style restaurant, where we got to see amazing views of the sun setting over El Arco.
If you’re staying somewhere else, another dinner option could be a sunset dinner at a cliffside restaurant like Sunset Monalisa. Watching the sun dip behind the iconic El Arco rock formation is a memory you’ll carry with you long after you leave.
Day 2 in Cabo: Downtown, the Marina & a Glass-Bottom Boat
Now that you’re rested, spend some time exploring the cultural side of Cabo. Downtown Cabo San Lucas offers a mix of local art galleries, souvenir markets, tequila tastings, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Stop by Amelia Wilkes Square and the Iglesia de San Lucas for a glimpse of the town’s heritage.
Take a break at a local café or juice bar before heading to the marina. You’ll often find glass bottom boat Cabo tour guides offering impromptu short rides here as well if you plan to catch one. While dining by the marina, you might also catch a glimpse of the cute sea lions swimming around, looking for fishermen to feed them.
After we returned from town, we relaxed poolside. This was a daily thing! Villa Del Palmar does an excellent job with entertainment. They put on a nightly dinner show with (AMAZING) buffet. On our 2nd night, the buffet was international cuisine and the show was “Pop Stars”. We had so much fin watching impersonations of Brittany Spears, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Elvis, and even Tina Turner.
Other options for those staying elsewhere, enjoy a taco crawl through town or book a reservation at a trendy restaurant like Flora’s Field Kitchen or Edith’s. Nightlife lovers can hit popular bars like Mandala or El Squid Roe to dance the night away.
Day 3 in Cabo: Deep-Sea Fishing & Whale Watching
One excursion we had planned in Cabo San Lucas, on our 7 day itinerary, was deep sea fishing. Our goal was to catch marlin. Striped marlin are mostly what you will find in March, when we went. We knew they were present, but harder to find this time of year. For the best billfish fishing, come between August and October. Nonetheless, we had a great time! We mainly caught grouper and red snapper, but my favorite part was the whale watching! Blue whales and humpback whales are active during the winter months. We saw well over 20 throughout our day on the water. We even had some breach closer to our boat. It was an amazing experience.
Our fishing excursion on day 3 was through Pisces Sportfishing. This charter was more expensive than the one we used on day 5, but it was a bigger and nicer boat. I would highly recommend this company if you’re looking to get out on the water and fish. They were organized and the communication was good when we had questions in advance. A very reputable company.
Can you keep the fish you catch in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico?
You can decide what to do with your catch of the day. We donated most of our fish, but kept one big grouper for our meal. The mackerel that we caught on day 5, we gave half to our captains and kept the rest. After it was frozen, we packaged it and it came home with us in our checked luggage.
We took the grouper to Fisherman’s Landing, which is in the marina. They prepared it for us. I have to say, this was probably our BEST meal of the trip.
Items we had along for our fishing charter in Cabo:
When we set out for a day of fishing in Cabo San Lucas, I made sure to pack a few essentials that made all the difference out on the water.
How do you avoid seasickness while on a fishing charter in Cabo San Lucas?
First, I wore my EmeTerm Fashion Nausea Relief Wristband, which was a total game-changer for preventing motion sickness—no drowsy side effects, just smooth sailing.
What is some ways to protect yourself from the sun on a fishing charter in Cabo San Lucas?
I also lathered up with reef-safe sunscreen to protect both my skin and the beautiful marine ecosystem. A pair of polarized sunglasses helped cut the glare off the ocean, making it easier to spot fish, and my UV-protective shirt kept me cool while shielding me from the strong Baja sun. With these key items, I could focus on the fun and the fish, not the discomfort.
Day 4 in Cabo: Whale Watching & a Beach Day
If you’re visiting Cabo during whale season, whale watching is an absolute must! During our 7-day itinerary in Cabo San Lucas in March with family, we chose to do one dedicated whale watching tour—but since we ended up out on the water a few other times, it felt like we had three amazing whale encounters. We booked with Cabo Escape, and their morning tour with breakfast and mimosas was the perfect way to start the day. While we were whale watching in Cabo, we even saw a glass bottom boat tour whale watching. This would be a fun way to get a chance at seeing a whale under the water (if you’re lucky).
Enjoying the Beach
After our adventure at sea, we settled into a slower pace, devoting the rest of the day to relaxing and soaking up the beauty of Cabo. We strolled along Medano Beach, one of the most popular swimmable beaches in Cabo, and took some time to swim and float in the calm waters. Packing a small inflatable or floatie is a great idea—it’s lightweight, fun, and makes beach time even more enjoyable. You can also easily find beach gear in local shops if you prefer to travel light.
While lounging on the sand, we supported local vendors by buying fresh fruit and sunglasses—both of which were a perfect beach-day treat. There’s something truly special about enjoying juicy mango under the warm Baja sun.
Later, we returned to Medano Beach for a full afternoon of sunshine and water fun. Swimmable beaches in Cabo aren’t just for lounging—Medano is also perfect for paddleboarding, jet skiing, or hopping on a kayak. With rental stands conveniently located along the shore, it’s easy to try something new.
If you’re seeking a more peaceful vibe, head over to Palmilla Beach, another favorite among the swimmable beaches in Cabo. It’s calm, family-friendly, and ideal if you’re hoping to unwind without the hustle and bustle of the more touristy spots.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a place to relax with your toes in the sand, the swimmable beaches in Cabo offer something for everyone. Just don’t forget your beach blanket, plenty of water, and your sense of adventure—you’ll want to stay all day.
Day 5 in Cabo: Fishing, Spa Day & Relaxing at the Resort
Day five of our adventure-packed 7 day Cabo itinerary was all about balance—reeling in big catches for the guys and total relaxation for the girls. The boys headed out early for their second fishing excursion, this time with Land’s End Charters. They came back with an impressive haul of mackerel, which we had frozen and shipped home for later.
Meanwhile, the ladies kicked off the day with a peaceful walk along Medano Beach, one of the most iconic swimmable beaches in Cabo. The sunrise was absolutely breathtaking, painting the sky in pastel hues. After indulging in the resort’s delicious breakfast buffet, we lounged by the pool with good books and tropical drinks in hand.
Spa Day
Later, we slipped into full vacation mode with a luxurious spa experience at Villa Del Arco, a sister resort. Manicures and pedicures were the perfect treat before regrouping with the guys for one of our favorite dinners of the trip—Carbon’s, conveniently located right at our resort.
Looking to shake things up? If fishing or spa days aren’t your thing, consider a day trip to San José del Cabo. Just a short 30-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas, this charming colonial town offers art galleries, boutique shopping, and a more tranquil, cultural experience. Be sure to visit on a Thursday to catch the vibrant Art Walk—when the streets turn into a festive open-air gallery.
And for adventure lovers, don’t miss a chance to try snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas. From San José, you can easily access the stunning reefs near Costa Azul Beach. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal spot for beginner and experienced snorkelers alike—and the photos you’ll get? Absolutely worth it.
End your day back in Cabo with a breezy dinner on the beach as you reflect on another incredible day in paradise. Whether you’re after adventure or tranquility, swimmable beaches in Cabo and the vibrant coastal lifestyle make every moment unforgettable.
Day 6 in Cabo: Snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach
Our sixth day in Cabo San Lucas was all about slowing down and soaking in the beauty of the ocean—both above and below the surface. With sunshine beaming and our beach essentials packed, we caught a taxi from Playa Del Palmar to the stunning Santa Maria Beach, one of the most scenic snorkeling spots in Cabo San Lucas.
This calm, horseshoe-shaped bay is ideal for spotting marine life. If you’re headed here to snorkel, be sure to make your way to the west side of the beach, where rocky areas offer the best chance to see colorful tropical fish up close. The water is crystal clear, and the underwater world is alive with vibrant movement—it’s a snorkeler’s dream.
Snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas: Best Spots + Tips
Snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas is a great way to see the colorful marine life beneath the surface. Santa Maria Beach was one of our favorite spots, with clear water and rocky areas where we spotted plenty of fish. If you’re planning to snorkel, bring water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and your own gear if you have it. Not a swimmer? A glass-bottom boat tour is another fun way to see Cabo’s underwater world without getting in the water.
Some Beach Essentials
A quick heads up: Santa Maria is a pebble beach, so you’ll want to pack water shoes to protect your feet. We were glad we brought ours, along with microfiber towels (easy to pack and quick-drying), reef-safe sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and of course, our snorkeling gear. Everything fit easily into our beach bag, making for a smooth and stress-free beach day. Here is a complete packing guide to Cabo San Lucas that will further direct you on what to pack.
If snorkeling isn’t your style, but you still want to admire Cabo’s underwater beauty, glass bottom boat tours are a great option. They’re easy to book around town and offer an exciting way to see the marine life without ever getting wet—perfect for families or those who prefer to stay dry. Here are some glass bottom boat tour in Cabo or book one direct at the marina.
After a full day of snorkeling, sun, and sea, we made our way back to our resort and got ready for dinner. We dined at Tomatillos at Villa Del Palmar, and it was easily one of our favorite meals of the trip. The setting was serene, with twinkling lights strung between trees and a fresh farm-to-table menu that blew us away. From grilled vegetables to flavorful seafood and the most refreshing hibiscus agua fresca, everything tasted fresh and full of flavor. It was the perfect way to unwind and refuel after a day in the sun.
Day 7 in Cabo: Beach, Shopping & Departure
Relaxing, eating and The Greatest Showman with American BBQ
On your final day, sleep in and enjoy a slow morning. If your flight allows, return to your favorite beach—perhaps one of the swimmable beaches in Cabo you’ve come to love—or visit a local spa for a massage before you leave.
Grab last-minute souvenirs downtown or at Puerto Paraiso Mall. Don’t forget to double-check your Cabo airport transportation and confirm your pickup time.
We ended our night with The Greatest Showman, entertainment the resort put on. We had so much fun watching this and enjoying the American BBQ buffet.
Say your goodbyes to the sun, sea, and sand, but know this: Cabo has a way of calling travelers back again and again.
What to Know Before Your 7 Day Cabo Itinerary (Travel Tips + Planning Guide)
Before you jump into your 7 day Cabo itinerary, here are a few things I wish I’d known before our first trip — and a few things we learned the second time around. Cabo is an easy, breezy destination once you’re there, but a little prep goes a long way.
Best Time to Visit
Cabo is sunny almost year-round, but the best time to visit is October–May, when the weather is warm but not unbearable.
Cabo Airport + Transportation
You’ll fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). It’s about 30–45 minutes to Cabo San Lucas depending on traffic.
We used private transportation (Cabo Seasons) — and while a car makes day trips easier, you can totally do this itinerary without renting one if you stay near the marina or downtown.
Staying Safe
Cabo feels very safe in the tourist areas. Stick to registered taxis or Uber, drink bottled water, and keep an eye on your belongings at beaches and busy bars. Nothing dramatic — just typical travel smarts.
Money + Tipping
Most places accept credit cards, but having some pesos (or even USD) on hand is helpful for taxis, beach vendors, and small restaurants. Tipping is common, and usually 10–20% depending on service. ATMs at banks (not standalone ones) tend to have better exchange rates.
Weather + What to Pack
Cabo is warm, but don’t underestimate the sun and wind. Pack:
- breathable clothing
- a light sweater for evenings
- reef-safe sunscreen (you’ll need it!)
- water shoes if you plan to explore rougher beaches (Like when you’re snorkeling at Playa Santa Maria from Cabo San Lucas)
- a small dry bag for boat days
I always throw in an extra swimsuit or two because everything dries slowly in the humidity. Check out my comprehensive packing list with pdf download here.
Do You Need a Car?
If you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas and mainly doing boat tours, relaxing on the beach, and exploring the marina, you can get by with taxis and Uber. But if you want to explore beaches like Playa Santa Maria, or take your own day trips to Todos Santos or San José del Cabo, a rental car does make things easier.
Make Reservations Early
The popular restaurants — especially spots like El Farallón or Edith’s — book out fast. If there’s a bucket-list meal you have to do, book it before you arrive. Same with boat tours and sunset cruises, especially during high season.
Health & Sun Tips
The Cabo sun hits different — trust me. Drink more water than you think you need, reapply sunscreen, and pack SPF lip balm. Also, the ocean currents can be strong, so always pay attention to beach flags.
Tips for the Best 7 Day Cabo Itinerary (What to Book + What to Know)
- Book tours early: Especially for popular activities like snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas or glass bottom boat Cabo rides.
- Bring the right currency: While many places accept USD, you’ll get better deals with local currency (Pesos). We also used credit cards.
- Stay hydrated: The sun is strong, and beach days can sneak up on you. Bring a refillable water bottle and don’t use tap water.
- Choose a central stay: Resorts close to swimmable beaches in Cabo offer convenience and flexibility.
- Plan Cabo airport transportation ahead: It saves time and reduces stress upon arrival.
- Best Swimmable Beaches in Cabo San Lucas: Medano Beach and Palmilla Beach
Frequently Asked Questions About a 7 Day Cabo San Lucas Itinerary
Is 7 days enough in Cabo San Lucas?
Yes! Seven days in Cabo San Lucas gives you enough time to enjoy the beaches, take a few excursions, explore downtown, and still have plenty of downtime. We spent a full week in Cabo with our family and loved having the flexibility to mix busy activity days with slower days at the resort and beach.
What should I do in Cabo San Lucas for 7 days?
A 7 day Cabo San Lucas itinerary can include a mix of beaches, boat tours, snorkeling, fishing, whale watching, shopping, and relaxing at your resort. During our week, we went deep-sea fishing, watched whales, explored downtown Cabo, took a glass-bottom boat tour, snorkeled at Santa Maria Beach, enjoyed spa time, and spent plenty of time by the pool and beach.
Is Cabo San Lucas good for families?
Yes, Cabo San Lucas can be an excellent family vacation destination. Families can enjoy swimmable beaches in Cabo, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, whale watching, fishing, resort pools, and family-friendly entertainment. We traveled to Cabo as a family and found that having a mix of activities and relaxing days worked especially well.
What are the best beaches to visit in Cabo San Lucas?
Medano Beach is one of the most popular swimmable beaches in Cabo San Lucas and is a convenient choice if you’re staying near downtown or the marina. Santa Maria Beach is another great option, especially for snorkeling. Palmilla Beach is also popular with families looking for a calmer beach experience.
Do you need a rental car in Cabo San Lucas?
Not necessarily. If you stay near the marina or downtown Cabo San Lucas, you can get around using taxis, rideshare services, and organized tours. We didn’t need a rental car for our trip because many of our activities included transportation or were easy to reach by taxi.
A rental car can be helpful if you plan to explore farther beyond Cabo San Lucas, such as San José del Cabo, Todos Santos, or other beaches.
What is the best month to visit Cabo San Lucas?
The best time to visit Cabo depends on what you want to do. March was a great time for our trip, especially because we were able to see so many whales while out on the water. If whale watching is a priority, visiting during whale season can be especially memorable. For fishing, different seasons bring different species, so check local fishing conditions before booking your charter.
Is Cabo San Lucas expensive?
Cabo can be expensive, particularly when it comes to resorts, restaurants, and excursions. However, you can adjust your budget based on where you stay, where you eat, and which activities you choose. Staying at an all-inclusive resort like we did can make it easier to plan your food and entertainment costs ahead of time.
How do you get from Cabo Airport to Cabo San Lucas?
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is roughly 30–45 minutes from Cabo San Lucas, depending on traffic and your exact destination. We pre-booked a private transfer through Cabo Seasons, which made our arrival simple. Our transportation company gave us very clear instructions about where to meet our driver at the airport.
Can you swim at the beaches in Cabo San Lucas?
Yes, but not every beach in Cabo is safe for swimming. Ocean conditions and currents can vary, so always pay attention to posted signs and beach flags. Medano Beach and Santa Maria Beach are among the beaches we enjoyed during our trip.
What is there to do in Cabo besides sitting on the beach?
Plenty! Some of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas include whale watching, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, shopping, exploring downtown, visiting San José del Cabo, and taking a boat ride around Land’s End and El Arco.
We found that mixing active excursions with relaxing beach and pool days made our week feel much more balanced.
Is snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas worth it?
Absolutely. Snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas was one of our favorite beach activities. We visited Santa Maria Beach, where the clear water and rocky areas provided a great place to look for fish. If snorkeling isn’t your thing, a glass-bottom boat is another way to see marine life without getting in the water.
Can you go wahle watching in Cabo San Lucas?
Yes. Whale watching was one of the highlights of our Cabo trip. We visited Cabo in March and saw numerous whales while we were out on the water, including whales breaching near our boat. We even had whale encounters during our fishing excursion, which was an unexpected bonus.
How many activities should you plan for a 7 day Cabo trip?
I’d recommend leaving some breathing room in your schedule. It’s tempting to book something every day, but Cabo is also a great place to slow down. During our 7 days in Cabo San Lucas, we mixed fishing, whale watching, snorkeling, and sightseeing with pool days, beach time, and relaxing at the resort.
What should you pack for a 7 day trip to Cabo?
For a week in Cabo, you’ll want lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, and something light for cooler evenings. If you’re planning to snorkel or spend time on rocky beaches, water shoes are helpful. A small dry bag is also useful for boat excursions.
For a more complete list, check out my Cabo San Lucas packing list before your trip.
Is 7 days in Cabo too long?
No! Seven days in Cabo San Lucas is actually a great amount of time if you want a relaxed vacation rather than a nonstop sightseeing trip. We enjoyed having enough time for several excursions while still being able to spend lazy afternoons by the pool and beach.
If you prefer a faster-paced trip, you could see many of Cabo’s highlights in three to five days. With a full week, though, you don’t have to choose between adventure and relaxation.
Final Thoughts on This 7 Day Cabo Itinerary
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone who just wants to sip margaritas by the sea, spending 7 days in Cabo San Lucas is the ultimate way to enjoy Mexico’s west coast. From diving into the waters on a snorkeling in Cabo San Lucas tour to gliding across the waves on a glass bottom boat Cabo experience, there’s something magical waiting for every type of traveler. Just be sure to book your airport transportation in advance for a less stressful arrival and departure to Cabo San Lucas.
With careful planning, strategic beach hopping, and a dash of spontaneity, your Cabo itinerary will become more than just a vacation—it will be a story worth telling.
2 Responses
Hi Heidi,
Does the Villa del Palmar have an “on property” beach, or do you have to walk to a public beach?
Thanks for the info! Very helpful for 1st timers.
It’s on Medano Beach which is a public beach. But it is directly on the beach, so you just have to walk down the property stairs to be on the beach.