Los Cabos is more than its beaches. The Baja Peninsula is one of the most geographically diverse stretches of coastline in North America, and the best experiences often lie beyond the shoreline. Here’s the complete guide to day trips and excursions from Cabo San Lucas.
Todos Santos — The Artist Town
Todos Santos is a 45-minute drive north of Cabo San Lucas on the Pacific side — and it’s a completely different world. A former Jesuit mission town with a thriving art community, it’s one of the designated Pueblo Mágicos (Magical Towns) in Mexico. Highlights include:
- Hotel California — the iconic building that inspired the Eagles’ song (a completely different Hotel California from the song’s subject)
- Galerie Districts with dozens of working artist studios
- La Pastora surf break — excellent for intermediate and advanced surfers
- Farm-to-table restaurants using produce from the nearby Sierra foothills
- The mission at the north end of town — one of the oldest in Baja California Sur
Sierra de la Laguna — The Desert Mountains
The mountains that rise immediately behind San José del Cabo are one of the most surprising ecosystems in Baja. The higher elevations catch summer rains and support oak forests, wildflowers, and a surprising amount of wildlife. Guided hiking tours through the Sierra reveal a completely different side of the peninsula that most visitors never see.
Los Frailes Beach & the East Cape
The East Cape — the stretch of coastline east of San José del Cabo toward La Paz — is dramatically quieter than the Los Cabos corridor. Los Frailes Beach is one of the most beautiful in Baja, with turquoise water and excellent snorkelling. A day driving the East Cape and ending at the fishing village of Los Barilles is a local favourite.
Planning Your Day Trips from Villa Paraiso
Villa Paraiso’s concierge arranges all logistics for day trips — private drivers, restaurant reservations, winery appointments, and suggested itineraries. Todos Santos and Valle de Guadalupe require a full day; the Sierra and East Cape can be done in half a day. Contact our team to plan: Jack@villaparaisorentals.com or 877-300-4884.