Let's be honest – who hasn't dreamed of escaping to those iconic Cabo beaches? You know the ones I'm talking about: pristine sand, crystal-clear waters, and those famous rock arches that seem to show up on every Instagram feed.
Whether you're dying to try your hand at parasailing, looking to park yourself under a beach umbrella with a good book, or planning to do a bit of both, Cabo San Lucas has you covered.
The best part? Getting there is a breeze. If you're flying from the West Coast, you'll barely have time to finish your in-flight movie before landing. We're talking just a couple of hours from LA or San Diego, and not much longer from Dallas or Phoenix. But here's the thing – timing your trip right can make the difference between a good vacation and an absolutely incredible one.
Let's talk weather (because it matters!)
Peak season (December to April)
This is when Cabo is at its absolute best. With temperatures hovering between 75-80°F, you'll get those perfect beach days where you can actually enjoy being outside without melting. The skies are consistently blue, the air is dry (goodbye humidity!), and you can leave your umbrella at home. Sure, the water's a bit cooler this time of year, but it's ideal for those afternoon dips after soaking up the sun. If you're coming from anywhere that experiences real winter, you'll understand why these months are worth the premium prices – there's something magical about swimming in the ocean and sipping margaritas on the beach while your friends back home are scraping ice off their windshields.
Shoulder season (May/June & October)
Want to know a local secret? These months are actually my favorite time to visit. The temperatures are still amazing – think mid-80s – but without the peak season crowds.
The ocean is warmed up nicely, making it perfect for those early morning swims. Plus, you won't have to wait an hour for a table at your favorite beachfront restaurant.
Low season (July to September)
Okay, let's get real – it's hot. Really hot. We're talking 90s with humidity that'll have your hair looking... interesting. Yes, it's hurricane season, but major storms are pretty rare. The massive upside? Incredible deals and beaches that aren't packed shoulder-to-shoulder. If you can handle the heat (and pack enough sunscreen), this might be your sweet spot.
The crowd factor (Spring Break)
Want to party? Hit up Cabo during peak season, especially March for Spring Break. The energy is electric, the bars are pumping, and you'll make friends from all over the world. Trust me, Cabo knows how to throw a party. During Spring Break, the famous Medano Beach transforms into one endless celebration, with beach clubs like Mango Deck and The Office competing for the best DJ sets and drink specials. You'll find wild pool parties at ME Cabo and Breathless Resort, while nightclubs like El Squid Roe and Cabo Wabo keep the party going until sunrise.
Pro tip: if you're heading down for Spring Break, book your hotel on Medano Beach – it's where all the action happens. Just remember to reserve at least 3-4 months ahead, as the best party spots sell out fast. And here's something most travel sites won't tell you: the wildest weeks are typically mid-March when most U.S. colleges have their breaks, but the parties start ramping up from late February and keep going through early April.
Let's talk budget
Here's the deal with prices: December through April, you're paying premium. Everything from your flight to that ocean view room will cost more – sometimes double the off-season rates.
Plan to book way ahead (like, 3-4 months minimum) if you're coming during peak season.
Summer is when you'll find the real bargains. I'm talking 40% off hotel rates and some seriously sweet flight deals. Yes, it's hotter, but your wallet will thank you.
May, June, and October? That's the sweet spot for value. The weather's still great, and the prices haven't hit their peak. Win-win!
Cool stuff you won't want to miss
Whale watching (December to March)
Ever seen a humpback whale breach right in front of your boat? It's absolutely mind-blowing.
The whale watching here is breathtaking during winter months – definitely worth planning your trip around if you're into nature.
I'll never forget my first trip out: we were sipping our morning coffee on the boat when this massive humpback launched itself completely out of the water, like something straight out of National Geographic! The best part? This happens all the time in Cabo's waters.
Here's a pro tip that saved me some cash: book your whale watching tour right at the marina instead of through your hotel. The local operators usually charge about half the price, and they know exactly where these gentle giants hang out. Try to grab an early morning tour – the water's calmer, and the whales are super active. Plus, the morning light makes for killer photos.
You'll see humpbacks, gray whales, and if you're really lucky, you might spot some blue whales too. Just remember to pack some ginger if you usually get motion sickness (trust me on this one), grab a light jacket for the morning chill, and don't forget your camera – though honestly, sometimes it's better to just put the phone down and watch these magnificent creatures do their thing. Most tours last about 2-3 hours, which is perfect!
Fishing (October & November)
If you're into fishing, the Bisbee's Black & Blue Tournament is like the Super Bowl of fishing tournaments. Even if you're not competing, the atmosphere in town is incredible.
Cultural celebrations
Cabo knows how to celebrate. If you’re in town for Día de Los Muertos (November 1-2), prepare for an experience that’s beautifully alive with colour, music, and tradition. The streets fill with vibrant colours, traditional music echoes around every corner, and you’ll find some of the best street food in town. This isn’t your typical beach party – it’s a chance to dive into a celebration that honours Mexican culture and history. Picture altars (ofrendas) covered in marigolds and locals dressed up as stunning calaveras (those iconic painted skulls).
And if you’re around during Mexican Independence Day (September 16), Cabo lights up with parades, fireworks, and festivals. This is when the town really lets loose with dancing, music, and tequila flowing in every direction. It’s a party with all the Cabo flair, but with a local vibe that’s unforgettable.
Packing tips (Thank me later)
Take it from someone who's made all the rookie mistakes – check those flights early, especially for peak season. And here are a few packing tips I wish someone had told me:
● Winter nights can get chilly – throw in a light jacket.
● Summer? Pack like you're heading to a sauna. Light clothes, extra sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are must-haves.
● Those cute new sandals? Great for dinner, but pack water shoes for rocky beaches.
● Don't forget your GoPro – the water visibility here is incredible.
● Don’t forget to grab an eSIM for Mexico before you go. Nothing worse than getting lost in Cabo with no data to call an Uber.
Ready to book your trip?
Whether you're escaping winter blues, chasing summer deals, or hitting that perfect shoulder season sweet spot, Cabo's got something special waiting for you. Just remember to pack your sunscreen – that Mexican sun doesn't mess around!
And hey, if you see someone at the bar with a spicy margarita in hand, watching the sunset – that might just be me. ¡Salud!
- Megan Roberts is a freelance travel writer for Sim Local
