Currency & Tipping

Everything you need to know about money matters in Los Cabos

Currency in Cabo

The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout Los Cabos. However, you'll often get better value paying in pesos.

Exchange Rate (Approximate)

$1 USD = 17-19 MXN

Rates fluctuate daily. Check current rates at xe.com before your trip.

Best Ways to Get Pesos

1. ATMs (Best Option)

Use ATMs at banks (Banamex, HSBC, Santander) for the best exchange rates. Avoid standalone ATMs in convenience stores.

  • • Withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees
  • • Decline dynamic currency conversion (always choose to be charged in pesos)
  • • Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks
  • • Typical fee: $3-5 USD per withdrawal

2. Credit Cards

Widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops. Best for larger purchases.

  • • Use cards with no foreign transaction fees (Chase Sapphire, Capital One)
  • • Always choose to pay in pesos, not dollars
  • • Bring a backup card in case one doesn't work

3. Cash Exchange

Available at banks and exchange houses (casas de cambio). Avoid airport and hotel exchanges.

  • • Banks offer better rates than hotels
  • • Bring small bills ($20s and smaller)
  • • Keep receipts for re-exchange if needed

Tipping Guidelines in Cabo

Tipping is customary and expected in Mexico. Service workers rely heavily on tips as part of their income. Here's what to tip in different situations:

Restaurants

15-20%

Check if service is included first. Tip in cash when possible.

Bartenders

$1-2 USD per drink

Or 20 pesos per drink. More for specialty cocktails.

Hotel Housekeeping

$3-5 USD per day

Leave daily, not at end of stay. Different staff each day.

Bellhops/Porters

$2-3 USD per bag

Or 40-50 pesos per bag.

Taxi/Uber Drivers

10-15%

Round up to nearest convenient amount.

Tour Guides

$10-20 USD

Per person for full-day tours. More for exceptional service.

Spa Services

15-20%

Check if gratuity is included in spa bill.

Concierge

$5-20 USD

Depends on service provided. Reservations, tours, etc.

All-Inclusive Resort Tipping

Even at all-inclusive resorts, tipping is appreciated and will significantly improve your service:

  • • Tip bartenders and waiters $1-2 per drink/service
  • • Tip housekeeping daily ($3-5 USD)
  • • Tip concierge for special requests ($5-10 USD)
  • • Budget $50-100 USD in small bills for the week

Money Tips for Cabo

  • Bring small bills ($1, $5, $20 USD) for tips - change can be hard to get
  • Keep pesos for local restaurants, street food, and small shops
  • Use dollars for tips at resorts (easier for staff to exchange)
  • Don't exchange money at the airport - worst rates
  • Keep some cash on hand - not everywhere takes cards
  • Split large bills at grocery stores or pharmacies, not restaurants

Cabo Esteban's Money Advice

I always arrive with $200-300 USD in small bills ($1s, $5s, $20s) for tips and immediate expenses. Then I hit an ATM at a bank for pesos once I'm settled. This combo gives you flexibility without carrying too much cash.

And here's the thing about tipping: yes, it adds up, but the service workers in Cabo work incredibly hard and rely on tips. Tip generously, especially if someone goes out of their way for you. It's appreciated more than you know, and you'll get even better service throughout your stay.