Best Cabo San Lucas Cruise Excursions
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Cabo San Lucas, often called Cabo, is a vibrant and picturesque destination at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Nestled where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, this coastal gem is known for its stunning landscapes, iconic rock formations like El Arco, and vibrant marine life.
Cabo has long been a favorite stop for cruise itineraries, offering something for every type of traveler, from luxury seekers to outdoor adventurers.
The city’s warm, sunny climate and clear waters make it ideal for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and whale watching during the migration season.
While Cabo’s pristine beaches are a significant draw, it’s important to note that due to strong currents, not all are swimmable.
Popular options like Medano Beach offer safe waters and lively atmospheres. Cabo’s tender port allows cruisers easy access to its bustling marina, where excursions range from sailing and ATV tours to enjoying fresh seafood and shopping for artisanal goods.
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Skip To The Good Part- Best Shore Excursions For Cabo
Most popular cruise lines include visiting Cabo San Lucas on 7-day Mexican Riviera itineraries. Some unique itineraries even include an overnight visit, allowing cruisers to have a full day of excursions and experience the nightlife Cabo is famous for.
Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port
Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, meaning cruise ships anchor offshore and bring passengers to the marina via smaller boats. This setup provides a stunning approach, with views of Cabo’s iconic El Arco rock formation and crystal-clear waters.
While some travelers may initially find the tendering process less convenient than docking, it adds to the charm of arriving at this vibrant destination.
As a seasoned cruiser and travel advisor, I’ve visited Cabo multiple times and assure you that the tender process is smooth and efficient. There is also plenty to see and do once you step ashore.
Upon disembarking at the marina, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Cabo San Lucas’s bustling waterfront. If you haven’t booked an excursion, there’s no shortage of things to do directly off the tender.
The area is very walkable and packed with shopping, dining, and sightseeing options. Vendors can be a bit persistent here, especially around the marina, but a friendly “no, gracias” is usually enough if you’re not interested.
For those who love to shop, plenty of stalls and stores offer everything from artisanal crafts and souvenirs to luxury goods. Foodies will find no shortage of eateries nearby, from casual taco stands to seafood restaurants offering the day’s freshest catch.
Safety is rarely a concern in this part of Cabo, as the marina area is well-patrolled and designed for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, keeping an eye on your belongings is always a good idea.
Whether you’re in the mood for a stroll along the waterfront, a cold drink at a beachfront bar, or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Cabo San Lucas offers an enjoyable experience without venturing far from the tender dock.
This port of call is a gateway to adventure and a destination for cruisers looking to explore independently.
Whale Watching and Shopping
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tour Length: 4 Hours
The “Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas: Sightseeing Cruise and Shopping” excursion offers cruise travelers a comprehensive 4-hour experience that combines marine wildlife observation, beach relaxation, and shopping in Los Cabos.
The tour begins with a 2-hour whale-watching cruise, where participants can observe gray whales, humpbacks, and other marine life in their natural habitat. I booked this for my sister and her family, and they had the most incredible whale encounter! I was home crying with jealousy (not really) over her photos as she was texting them to me!
Following the cruise, guests can unwind on a local beach, subject to weather conditions, and later explore the shops of Los Cabos for unique gifts and souvenirs. The excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
I recommend this excursion for its well-rounded itinerary that caters to diverse interests. The combination of wildlife viewing, leisure time on the beach, and shopping provides a balanced experience for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation during their cruise stop in Cabo San Lucas.
The small group setting, limited to 14 people, also ensures a more intimate experience. It allows for personalized attention and a deeper connection with the destination.
Migrino Desert & Beach Off-Road Tour
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tour Length: 2.5 Hours
The “Migrino Desert & Beach Off Road Tour” offers an exhilarating adventure for cruise travelers seeking to experience the rugged beauty of Baja California Sur. Participants navigate through diverse terrains, including desert landscapes, mountain paths, and the pristine sands of Migriño Beach, all while driving a double RZR or double ATV. This 2-hour guided tour allows one to explore areas typically inaccessible by conventional vehicles, making it a standout choice for thrill-seekers.
The tour is designed to accommodate small groups, enhancing the personalized nature of the adventure.
I recommend this excursion for its unique blend of adrenaline-pumping activity and natural sightseeing. The tour’s duration and proximity to Cabo San Lucas make it a convenient option for cruise passengers with limited time ashore.
Cabo San Lucas Paddleboard and Snorkel at the Arch
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tour Length: 3 hours
Experience the beauty of Cabo San Lucas with a guided stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and snorkeling tour of the iconic Arch. This adventure begins with a paddle through the clear waters of Cabo’s Bay, offering up-close views of the Arch and its surrounding rock formations.
After paddling, you’ll have the chance to snorkel around Pelican Rock, known for its vibrant marine life. This tour suits all skill levels and includes all necessary equipment, making it a fun and accessible way to explore Cabo’s stunning coastal scenery.
Single or Double PARASAILING in Cabo with Views of The Arch
- Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tour Length: 1.5 hours
Soar above the stunning Cabo San Lucas coastline on an exhilarating parasailing adventure! Enjoy unparalleled views of landmarks like the Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Medano Beach as you glide through the sky.
Whether you choose to fly solo or tandem, this experience offers a unique perspective of Cabo’s natural beauty. No prior experience is necessary, and professional guides ensure a safe and memorable flight. Don’t miss this chance to add a thrilling highlight to your Cabo vacation!
Fun Camel Ride and UTV COMBO with Tequila Tasting
- Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Tour Length: 3 hours
Combine two thrilling adventures in one unforgettable excursion in Los Cabos! Start with a relaxed camel ride along the scenic Migriño Beach and through Baja’s wild desert landscapes, where you’ll discover diverse ecosystems and breathtaking views. After your camel ride, rev up the excitement by hopping on an ATV or UTV for an off-road adventure through the desert mountains, white sandy dunes, and ocean-side cliffs.
This combo tour also includes a tequila tasting, making it the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and local flavor for an unforgettable day in Cabo!
Looking for other options? Check these out!
I know many cruisers are afraid to book outside the cruise line but remember that these tour operators work with cruisers daily, and it’s their livelihood. They would be out of work if they had even one review of a guest missing the ship. These companies work hard to keep a good reputation, and I do not hesitate to book with them.
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