The Bottom Line
Los Cabos is one of the safest tourist destinations in Mexico. Millions of visitors come here every year without incident. The tourist areas are heavily patrolled, and the local economy depends on tourism, so safety is a top priority. Use common sense, follow basic precautions, and you'll have a safe, enjoyable trip.
Stay in Tourist Areas
Stick to well-known tourist zones: Cabo San Lucas downtown, the Marina, Medano Beach, the Corridor, and San José del Cabo's Art District. These areas are safe, well-lit, and regularly patrolled.
- • Avoid wandering into residential neighborhoods at night
- • Stay on main roads and well-traveled paths
- • If something feels off, trust your instincts and leave
Transportation Safety
Use official, licensed transportation services. Avoid unmarked taxis or rides from strangers.
- • Use hotel taxis, Uber, or pre-booked transfers
- • Don't accept rides from people approaching you on the street
- • If driving, stick to main highways (Highway 1 and 19)
- • Don't drive at night on remote roads
- • Never drink and drive - DUI laws are strict
Alcohol & Nightlife Safety
Cabo's nightlife is fun but requires smart decisions. Pace yourself and stay aware.
- • Never leave drinks unattended
- • Drink plenty of water between alcoholic beverages
- • Travel in groups, especially at night
- • Know your limits - the sun and heat intensify alcohol effects
- • Use official taxis or Uber to get home - never walk alone at night
- • Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering drinks
Beach & Water Safety
Cabo's beaches are beautiful but can be dangerous. Many have strong currents and undertows.
- • Only swim at designated safe beaches (Medano, Chileno, Santa Maria)
- • Obey red flags - they mean no swimming, period
- • Never turn your back on the waves
- • Don't swim alone or after drinking
- • Use reef-safe sunscreen (required at many beaches)
- • Stay hydrated - the sun is intense year-round
Scams & Tourist Traps
Be aware of common tourist scams and high-pressure sales tactics.
- • Timeshare presentations: Avoid unless you're genuinely interested
- • "Free" tours or gifts: Usually require sitting through sales pitches
- • Overcharging: Always agree on prices before services (taxis, tours)
- • Fake police: Real police don't ask for money on the spot
- • ATM skimming: Use ATMs inside banks during business hours
Health & Medical Safety
Take precautions to avoid common travel illnesses and know where to get help.
- • Drink bottled water only (ice at resorts is usually safe)
- • Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
- • Bring medications in original containers with prescriptions
- • Get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies
- • Know where the nearest hospital is (Cabo has excellent private hospitals)
- • Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and any prescription medications
Cabo Esteban's Safety Reality Check
I've been visiting Cabo for years, and I've never felt unsafe in the tourist areas. The reality is that Cabo is safer than many major U.S. cities. The local government and businesses have a vested interest in keeping tourists safe and happy.
That said, use the same common sense you'd use anywhere: don't get blackout drunk in public, don't wander into sketchy areas at 3am, and don't leave your phone on the beach while you swim. Basic precautions go a long way.
The biggest "danger" in Cabo? Sunburn, dehydration, and hangovers. Wear sunscreen, drink water, and pace yourself. You're here to have fun, not end up in the hospital. Be smart, stay aware, and you'll have an incredible, safe trip.