Cabo San Lucas is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Millions of tourists visit the city each year to enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore the marine life, discover the delicious Mexican food, and deep-dive into the regional culture. However, it is common for people to have a few questions and doubts about traveling to Cabo San Lucas, specifically about safety and criminal activity.
At La Isla Tour, we want our clients to feel safe during their vacations, and our priority is to offer all the information and guidance possible so you can have the best experience here. We have created a detailed guide about what to expect in Cabo answering the most common questions tourists have.
If you are considering Cabo San Lucas as your next tourist destination but are wondering how safe it is to visit, keep reading to find all the answers.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe to visit?
Long story short: yes! It is safe to visit Cabo San Lucas. It is considered a luxurious tourist destination that many celebrities or high-profile public personas choose for vacation or a getaway, and it has been for many years since the 80s. The reality is that the city is a hot tourist spot, so almost everybody is a tourist just like you, looking to have some fun and relax.
To further explain Cabo San Lucas we have curated a list of questions or factors that are relevant to the topic. We already covered the most popular myths and established some facts, but it is important to dissect the subject to truly understand the reality of the city.
Crime rates
If you search violent crime statistics about the city, you will see that Los Cabos has a “high rate of crime”, and some media use this information to alert tourists. However, Los Cabos includes many regions besides Cabo San Lucas. These neighborhood cities rank high in violent crimes, but Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are a different story.
Crime rates in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
| Crime Type | Index | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Crime increasing in the past 5 years | 56.73 | Moderate |
| Worries home broken and things stolen | 45.67 | Moderate |
| Worries being mugged or robbed | 36.54 | Low |
| Worries car stolen | 36.06 | Low |
| Worries things from car stolen | 43.75 | Moderate |
| Worries attacked | 33.65 | Low |
| Worries being insulted | 30.00 | Low |
| Worries being subject to a physical attack because of your skin color, ethnic origin, gender or religion | 19.90 | Very Low |
| Problem people using or dealing drugs | 51.00 | Moderate |
| Problem property crimes such as vandalism and theft | 50.96 | Moderate |
| Problem violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 45.19 | Moderate |
| Problem corruption and bribery | 59.50 | Moderate |
Now, compare that with the crime rates of some popular US cities, like Los Angeles and Dallas:
| Crime Type | Cabo | Los Angeles | Dallas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crime increasing in the past 5 years | 56.73 Moderate |
63.33 High |
66.18 High |
| Worries home broken and things stolen | 45.67 Moderate |
47.20 Moderate |
46.70 Moderate |
| Worries being mugged or robbed | 36.54 Low |
47.02 Moderate |
45.41 Moderate |
| Worries car stolen | 36.06 Low |
47.30 Moderate |
44.11 Moderate |
| Worries things from car stolen | 43.75 Moderate |
56.68 Moderate |
62.15 High |
| Worries attacked | 33.65 Low |
47.99 Moderate |
46.67 Moderate |
| Worries being insulted | 30.00 Low |
49.36 Moderate |
48.79 Moderate |
| Worries being subject to a physical attack because of your skin color, ethnic origin, gender or religion | 19.90 Very Low |
34.90 Low |
40.81 Moderate |
| Problem people using or dealing drugs | 51.00 Moderate |
65.58 High |
58.43 Moderate |
| Problem property crimes such as vandalism and theft | 50.96 Moderate |
61.90 High |
57.01 Moderate |
| Problem violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 45.19 Moderate |
55.65 Moderate |
53.50 Moderate |
| Problem corruption and bribery | 59.50 Moderate |
53.71 Moderate |
45.00 Moderate |
Plus, the latest data about Cabo San Lucas specifically shows that the city has a low crime rate. The most common ones are petty crimes, which can be avoided by using common sense, equally as you would do visiting another major city, like Paris or Rome.
| Crime | Share of Total Reported Crimes |
|---|---|
| Robbery | 22.43% |
| Domestic violence | 11.93% |
| Injuries | 10.86% |
| Drug dealing | 6.09% |
| Breach of family assistance duties | 3.46% |
| Breach of trust | 2.51% |
| Other crimes against property | 1.79% |
| Sexual abuse | 1.55% |
| Rape | 1.31% |
| Dwelling | 1.31% |
The U.S. Department of State places Cabo San Lucas as a Level 2 travel destination called “Exercised increased caution”, which is relatively safe, and the main concerns are petty crimes.
Another great example of this is Cabo San Lucas murders, which if you search for information about it, you will find shocking numbers. However, these are old data widespread by the media. Currently, Cabo San Lucas has the second lowest rate number of murders in the entire Baja California Sur state. With lower rates than many states in the US like California.
Debunking common myths about Los Cabos
There are many common misconceptions about Cabo San Lucas, some of them popularized by sensationalist media. In this section, we will debunk the main myths and replace them with factual insights that shed light on the true essence of this remarkable destination.
High violent crime rate
A lot of people think Cabo San Lucas is unsafe due to high violent crime rates. The reality is that Cabo San Lucas boasts a commendably low crime rate compared to many other tourist destinations.
In fact, the city is known for its proactive safety measures and a welcoming community that prioritizes the well-being of both residents and visitors. We will explore this in more depth below.
Drug related violence
Another popular question is, is Cabo San Lucas safe from drug-related crime? Actually, Cabo San Lucas doesn’t see much crime related to drug cartels since cartels understand the high value of tourists. It is not convenient for them to scare visitors since many of them are the main clients.
Dangerous neighborhoods
Lastly, a popular myth is that there are unsafe zones and neighborhoods in Cabo San Lucas. For this, it is important to understand the separation between Los Cabos municipality and Cabo San Lucas. The latter is located inside Los Cabos municipality.
Among the different zones in Los Cabos municipality, Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are considered safe zones for tourists with low crime rates.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe compared with other cities?
As we mentioned, Los Cabos includes different areas, not only Cabo San Lucas. Comparing these other areas and other cities in Mexico like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Mexico City, Cabo San Lucas has a low crime rate.
When people research crime statistics, oftentimes they pay attention to Los Cabos or the entire Baja California Peninsula, but Cabo San Lucas is just one city among all of them, and it shows different numbers.
The U.S. State Department considers Cabo San Lucas a Level 2 travel destination, which is the same ranking as the UK, Italy, Belgium, and Belize. If you consider that the UK or Italy are safe for tourists, then Cabo San Lucas will be equally safe.
Law enforcement and security measures
The city has different security measures to ensure a safe environment for tourists and locals. Cabo San Lucas is home to a dedicated force of law enforcement professionals who prioritize the well-being of the community.
The city’s commitment to safety is further underscored by its extensive network of surveillance cameras strategically placed throughout key areas. These modern systems serve as an additional layer of security, providing real-time monitoring and aiding in the rapid response to any potential issues.
Besides this, most resorts and hotels have private security staff available at all times to provide an extra layer of security and be able to help in any case. Public law enforcement agencies collaborate seamlessly with private security firms, bolstering the overall safety infrastructure.
Cabo San Lucas safe areas and neighborhoods
Since Cabo San Lucas is a tourist destination, most areas in the city are completely safe. Downtown Cabo San Lucas, the marina, the tourist corridor, and even San José del Cabo are safe in the daytime and nighttime. These are the most popular zones for tourists and the people you find here are visitors just like you.
It is not common for people to want to leave these areas to explore, but if you like the idea of leaving Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo and discovering the nearby neighborhoods, we recommend going with tour operators or locals who know the area.
As always, like in any other city, we recommend following basic safety practices and common sense. Avoid flashy jewelry, be aware of your belongings, and keep an eye on your surroundings. If it is nighttime, avoid drinking too much alcohol, and if you do, take a taxi back to your hotel.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe for solo travelers?
Is Cabo San Lucas safe for solo travelers? Of course! Compared with other cities, the rich cultural background of Los Cabos and the constant affluence of tourist has made Cabo San Lucas a welcoming place to all visitors. Regardless of your nationality, race, or gender, you will feel safe walking around and exploring the city. You can even hop on a shared boat tour with us if you want to meet more US tourists.
At nighttime, like with any other big city, we recommend staying aware of your surroundings and avoid drinking too much booze. Practicing the basic safety measures will be more than enough in all situations.
To exercise increased caution, we recommend having with you at all times emergency numbers, hotel numbers, and embassy information. In case of any emergency, you have all the information necessary to ask for help.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe from drug cartels?
This is a common concern for some people. Mexico travel warnings sometimes include the dangers of visiting cities with active drug cartels. However, Cabo San Lucas is not one of these and you should not worry about cartel violence.
What happens in Cabo San Lucas is an interesting phenomenon. Since the city has a vibrant nightlife, a lot of tourists want to buy drugs while having fun. This is convenient for cartels that sell them. However, since tourists are the main clients, cartels know it is best not to show violence or bring crime to the city which could scare and prevent tourists from coming in the future.
Therefore, Cabo San Lucas is safe from drug related crime, but be aware that it is possible to find people selling drugs, especially in nightclubs. The best recommendation at all times is to stay away from sellers and avoid consuming.
Safety tips for visitors in Cabo San Lucas
While Cabo San Lucas is safe to visit, it’s always wise for tourists to take precautions to ensure a worry-free experience. These recommendations will give you an idea of what to expect in Cabo, and how to prepare for your next vacation here.
These are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:
Basic safety precautions
As we mentioned above, following some common sense and basic precautions you will be fine in Cabo San Lucas. We recommend doing research previously, so you have all the information you need before your trip.
Among the basic safety recommendations we like to include: be aware of your belongings at all times, and if you travel with expensive items, leave them at the hotel if possible. If you worry about pricey items, most hotel rooms include or offer a safe.
Keep with you emergency numbers, so you can ask for help quickly if needed.
At nighttime, avoid drinking too much and consuming any substance that can put yourself and your health at risk. In case you want a couple of drinks, take a taxi back to the hotel instead of walking.
Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or attracting too much attention to yourself. The most common incidents in the city are petty crimes, so a good way to avoid them is to dress casually and follow the local customs.
Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your gut. If a situation doesn’t feel okay, it is best to leave or ask for help. Trust your instincts no matter what.
Stay aware of street vendors and common scams. Like any other tourist city, you will find scammers trying to fool visitors. Exercise increased caution when dealing with street vendors and be aware of common tourist scams. Always verify prices and agreements before making purchases or engaging in services.
Opt for reputable transportation services, such as registered taxis or trusted ride-sharing apps. Be cautious when hailing random cabs from the street, and always negotiate fares beforehand.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe at night?
The town has a vibrant nightlife where you can find many activities to do, and parties! It is a lively and stimulating environment filled with music, live events, dancing, delicious food, and drinks!
To have a Cabo safe and enjoyable time we recommend consuming alcohol in moderation and abstaining from substances that can alter your awareness or damage your health. As we have mentioned, if you plan on drinking, the best is to call a taxi to go back to the hotel instead of walking or driving.
If you are traveling with family or a group, stay with the group the entire night. If you are traveling alone, stay in high-traffic tourist hotspots like the marine, and be aware of your surroundings.
If you don’t know the zones outside the downtown Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo, we don’t recommend visiting them at night. It is always best to stay in the tourist areas of the city.
Safest places to stay in Cabo San Lucas
You will find that most resorts and hotels are located in downtown Cabo San Lucas, the Cabo marina, or the tourist corridor. These are the safest and most popular areas for tourists, always with high traffic even at nighttime. You will find that most people here are visitors just like you, looking to have fun, explore, and relax.
San José del Cabo is another safe region, but it is not common for tourists to stay there. The sister city of Cabo San Lucas is known for its calm and relaxed pace, filled mostly with locals who want to avoid the high energy of Cabo San Lucas. You can visit San José del Cabo and explore the main square, and the museums, and don’t forget to do the Art Walk.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe for a solo female traveler?
Is Cabo San Lucas safe for solo female travelers? The answer is: yes! The city is very welcoming and safe for women visiting, and you can expect a joyful time exploring Cabo. If you want to stay on the cautious side, we recommend some basic safety tips that are applicable to any other city:
First, choose well-reviewed, centrally located accommodations with good security measures.
We also recommend joining online communities or social media groups for solo female travelers to exchange tips and recommendations. If there are groups traveling to Cabo San Lucas at the same time, connect with them!
Familiarize yourself with reliable transportation options, and if using ride-sharing services, verify driver details before getting in the vehicle. You can use different apps here, like Uber.
At nighttime, opt for group activities or arrange for safe transportation after dark. Also, we recommend avoiding drinking too much or consuming substances. Of course, don’t accept drinks from strangers.
If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and take necessary precautions. Don’t hesitate to remove yourself from any situation that doesn’t feel right, and seek help if needed.
Public transportation tips
Is the public transportation in Los Cabos safe?
The reality is that Los Cabos has a very safe public transportation system, and you can use it to move around the city. It is a cheaper option to explore other locations, and it is efficient and simple to use.
You can also use the public bus when you land or when you go back to the Cabo Airport. The bus will take you to downtown Cabo or the tourist corridor. However, if you fear getting lost, we recommend taking a hotel shuttle. This service will be cheaper than a taxi and it will take you straight to your destination.
Areas to avoid
We have mentioned the safest areas in Cabo San Lucas, but what are some areas to avoid? Cabo San Lucas is just one city in the Baja California Sur state, and compared to other cities, it boasts a lower crime rate. If you are visiting Cabo San Lucas, we recommend staying in the city and San José del Cabo, since other cities aren’t as safe or used to tourists.
Inside Cabo San Lucas, you can explore all the areas if you want to, but we recommend staying in tourist areas at nighttime to ensure that you will be in a completely safe zone. Downtown Cabo San Lucas, the Cabo marina, the tourist corridor, and San José del Cabo are your safest choice.
There are tour operators and groups that plan activities outside these areas. These activities are completely fine and are an excellent option to explore more of Cabo San Lucas, and you will have the advantage of having guides with you explaining and giving you more information about Cabo Mexico.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe for children?
Cabo San Lucas is completely safe for children of any age. It is a familiar city with many activities for kids, like exploring the marine life by snorkeling, discovering whales on a whale-watching tour, and participating in the different games or activities available in hotels and resorts.
If you are visiting with your kids, we recommend acquiring travel insurance just in case your child gets sick or needs medical attention. It is better to stay covered, and the insurance policy will cover any situation quickly so you don’t have to worry about it.
Our last recommendation is about beach safety. Some beaches in Cabo can have strong waves, so be aware of your child at all times or go swimming with them to help them if needed. Also, Cabo is always sunny with high temperatures, especially in the summer, so don’t forget to use generous amounts of sunscreen to avoid sunburns.
Other than this, you don’t need to worry about the safety of your kids. Cabo San Lucas, specifically the tourist areas, is completely safe and welcoming to all members of the family.
Local laws and customs
One of the gold rules of traveling to a different city is to be aware of the local laws and customs. Cabo San Lucas is a vibrant location, where you can explore, enjoy, and have a lot of fun. However, we recommend following the basic safety tips we share above, like avoiding drinking in excess, abstaining from taking substances, and avoiding wearing flashy jewelry.
Emergency contacts and services
Knowing who to reach out to in case of an emergency is crucial for any traveler. Familiarize yourself with these essential contacts and services in Cabo San Lucas:
Emergency Services Contact (dial 911)
Police
Medical Emergencies
Fire Department
Consulate and Embassy information
It is important to have information about the consulate or embassy of your country. You can reach out to them via phone, email, or through their web page. In case of local assistance, you can check the address on their official sites.
Travel Insurance and Assistance
If you hire travel insurance, which we recommend for all trips, remember to take with you all the contact information that is needed. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and other unforeseen events.
Roadside assistance
If you’re renting a vehicle, make sure you have contact information for your rental agency’s roadside assistance service.
Hospital and Medical Facilities
Some local facilities are Cabo San Lucas Medical Center, and Blue Net Hospital, which have different locations.
Street vendors
Like any other tourist city, Cabo San Lucas has a fair amount of street vendors. As a general rule, they don’t represent any harm, and many sell incredible local crafts that can be wonderful tokens of your trip. However, we recommend you stay aware of scammers or pickpocketers.
If you want to engage with them, always be respectful of their customs, and consider the price and the product before accepting the purchase.
If in any instance street vendor insists or pushes your boundaries, just say no respectfully and walk in another direction to create distance between you and them.
The best beaches in Cabo San Lucas, like El Medano Beach, tend to be crowded, which is attractive to street vendors. They sell mostly food and crafts, and as we mentioned, by following the basic precautions you will be fine.
Mexico Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a vital component of any trip, offering financial protection and peace of mind in unforeseen circumstances. Here’s what you need to know about travel insurance before embarking on your adventure to Cabo San Lucas:
- Choose a plan that covers different kinds of situations. The ideal policy will take care of medical emergencies, lost luggage, cancellations, and even unexpected events like natural disasters. If you plan on practicing some water sports or activities, make sure that the plan also includes those adventurous endeavors.
- Take time to ride and vastly understand your policy. It is important to know what is exactly covered, what are the limits, and exclusions, and how exactly is the process to make use of it when needed. This will help you save time and act quickly in any case.
- Keep a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contact information with you at all times. Share this information with a trusted contact as well. No matter where you are, have the information in hand in case you need to use the emergency contacts.
Visiting San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo is a sister city, located right on the side of Cabo San Lucas. Both cities are united by the tourist corridor, so you can explore it on your trip.
Like Cabo San Lucas is well known for its vibrant nightlife, San José del Cabo is known for being calmer and relaxing. It is a charming town where most locals live, especially the ones who work in Cabo San Lucas. Wanting to avoid the crowded situations, they have relocated to San José del Cabo.
In this beautiful city, you can embark on different activities. You can explore the beaches, as pretty as the ones in Cabo San Lucas. The advantage is that you will find fewer people in them, so you can swim or enjoy water sports like surfing.
You can also discover the rich history and culture of Los Cabos by exploring the main square and museums. There are many restaurants and coffee shops on the sides, with gorgeous architecture and stunning patios where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks.
If you feel like discovering the art of Los Cabos, you can do the Art Walk San José del Cabo. This is available every Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and it is a walk where art galleries show publicly their best pieces of art, including cultures, paintings, and other incredible pieces.
Some of them are available for purchase, and while you admire them, you can grab some snacks and drinks available inside the galleries.
Choosing Safe Tour Operators
Selecting a reputable tour operator is paramount to ensuring a safe and enriching experience in Cabo San Lucas. Here are key criteria to consider when making your choice, along with tips to avoid potential scams:
Your tour operator should have proper licensing and accreditation by local authorities. Look for licensing information on their website or ask for more details. This validates their legitimacy and adherence to safety standards.
A good sign to detect possible scams or bad service is unrealistic lower prices. Be careful of tour operators offering prices significantly lower than the average in the region. This could be an indication of substandard equipment, inadequate safety measures, or hidden costs that aren’t disclosed.
Always verify for safety measures and equipment. A good tour operator, regardless of the activity, will guide tourists through different safety protocols and explain in detail the working of any gear. A responsible tour operator prioritizes safety by adhering to strict equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and staff training.
Inquire about environmental practices. A good and reputable operator in Cabo San Lucas is committed to the maintenance and preservation of nature, fauna, and flora. They adhere to eco-friendly practices and promote responsible tourism. Look for operators that actively contribute to conservation efforts.
Lastly, but most importantly, do your research and search for reviews and opinions. A quick search online can tell you a lot about the company and you can compare prices, plans, and experiences in a couple of minutes.
At La Isla Tour, we are proud of serving excellence in our 17 years of experience and providing all of our clients with a wonderful time exploring the Sea of Cortez. If you are interested in going on a tour during your visit, you can navigate the beautiful waters of Los Cabos with us!
Why is Cabo San Lucas such a popular tourist destination?
Nestled at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas attracts travelers with its enchanting blend of natural wonders and vibrant culture. With its stunning beaches, crystalline waters, and awe-inspiring rock formations, Cabo San Lucas is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Discover the natural beauties of Cabo San Lucas
The iconic El Arco or Cabo San Lucas Arch, a towering arch-shaped rock formation at Land’s End, serves as a testament to the area’s geological marvels, inviting visitors to explore its captivating depths. Another marvel of the city is the wide variety of marine fauna, which is possible to explore by snorkeling or scuba diving.
At La Isla Tour we offer snorkeling and whale-watching tours, two options to explore the wonders of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. We cruise around the landmarks of the ocean while discovering the many species available. Tropical fish, sea turtles, sea lions, stingrays, different species of whales, sharks, and more. Our tours include snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks!
Water sports adventures for all the family
Blessed with incredible weather and temperature, many visitors choose Cabo San Lucas to enjoy the paradisiacal beaches and the many activities you can find there. Some of the most popular are world-class sport fishing, surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, snorkeling, visiting water parks, even golfing, and so much more.
Vibrant nightlife and delicious food
Lastly, the city is also well known for its lively nightlife. Cabo Mexico offers an array of bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to every taste. From beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood to lively cantinas resonating with the rhythms of local music, the culinary scene here explores Baja California Sur’s rich flavors.
Explore Cabo San Lucas landmarks on a private boat excursion with La Isla Tour
To take your trip to the next level, you cannot miss the opportunity to discover the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean with our private catamarans. And yachts. Discover the marvels of Los Cabos in a boat tour adapted to your needs!
We will cruise around the Sea of Cortez landmarks, like The Arch, Lover’s Beach, Neptune’s Finger, Pelican Rock, The Sea Lion Colony, and more! Explore the marine life or enjoy a beautiful sunset cruise at Land’s End that will take your breath away.
Snorkeling tour
Our snorkeling tours will take you on an adventure under the sea where you can explore the different sea animals.
Spot many colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, sting rays, and even sharks!
We will include snorkeling gear and paddle boards, snacks, and drinks, so your only worry is to have fun and enjoy the day!
Whale-watching tour
Our whale-watching tour will take you on a magical adventure to meet the giants of the sea!
In Cabo San Lucas, between mid-December and mid-April, you will be able to spot different species of whales: Humpback whales, blue whales, sperm whales, grey whales, whale sharks, white whales, and more!
Of course, we will include snacks and drinks to have the best time while sailing in Cabo.
Enjoy a luxurious catamaran tour in the Sea of Cortez
