Hey there, beach lovers! 🦀🌴🐠
Known as the crown jewel of Cabo San Lucas, Medano Beach is the go-to waterfront in town and will probably be your main hangout on your Cabo trip—it’s certainly an all-inclusive hub. If you’re looking for a killer summer vacation, The Dune Beach (as translated into English) is loaded with sunshine, soft white sand, tasty cocktails, and tons of fun.
This guide’s got the lowdown on this hotspot’s location, top activities, nearby restaurants and bars, and insider tips. We’ll also spill the tea on its swimmable waters so you can make the most of your visit— buckle up!
Where is Medano Beach?
Medano Beach (Playa El Médano) is located at the tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula and stretches about 3 km along the Pacific coastline in San Lucas Bay. It’s right near the Cabo San Lucas marina, just about 1.6 miles from the Cruise Port, making it super central and easy to get to.
Just a quick 5-10 minute walk from Cabo San Lucas downtown (depending on where you start), this Mexican beach is close enough to the city buzz and local vibes, giving you easy access to:
- Shopping malls and lovely walks around the marina dock
- Stunning views of the rock formations at Land’s End (“El Arco”)
- Boat trips to Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) and Divorce Beach (Playa del Divorcio)
- Adventure tours like whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing
- Amazing natural beauty and marine life
- Vibrant restaurants and bars
- Beach clubs at all-inclusive resorts
Is Medano Beach swimmable?
Absolutely yes! Most beautiful beaches in Cabo San Lucas aren’t swim-friendly due to gnarly currents, big waves, and sudden drop-offs. The way the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific makes things pretty sketchy here. The strong undertows and rip currents are no joke, especially for casual swimmers. Playa El Médano is one of the few spots with calm waters, making it safe for swimming and a hot spot for visitors. Plus, you can easily stroll along, enjoying its golden sands and lively beach scene.
Why you should visit
As mentioned above, this vibrant beach in Cabo San Lucas boasts a stunning landscape, soft sand, and a great atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and beach activities. But, its main tourist value comes from its family-friendly vibe, beach and water sports culture, cool festivals, live music, and the beautifully arranged all-inclusive scene.
Similar to the San Jose del Cabo coastline, there are popular world-class hotel chains such as Casa Dorada, Pueblo Bonito, Hotel Riu, and The Villa Group, all offering something that most resorts can’t: direct access to the best swimmable beach in Los Cabos and, of course, fantastic sea-view suites.
Things to do
This swimmable beach is the ultimate playground for anyone visiting Cabo San Lucas—hence, spring break central! Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, this bustling spot has it all. Here are some must-do activities that will make the most of your visit:
- Practice beach sports: Anything from frisbee sessions to beach volleyball.
- Book a water activity: snorkeling, swimming, water skiing, kayaking, jet-skiing.
- Join a fitness class: Stay active with yoga, Pilates, or even dance classes right on the sand, often hosted by nearby resorts.
- Enjoy family time: building sandcastles, sunbathing, lounging, or strolling along the seashore.
- Have some drinks: visit the famous beach clubs and cantinas nearby.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Catch live bands, DJs, and cultural performances that add a festive vibe to your beach day.
- Get a massage on the beach: Treat yourself and relax with the soothing sound of the ocean in the background.
- Beachfront Shopping: Stroll along the shoreline and explore local vendors selling unique crafts and services (jewelry, fresh fruit, blankets, sombreros, hair braiding, tattoos, etc.)
Best restaurants and bars
Playa El Medano is not just about the stunning views and soft sands; it’s also a food and drink lover’s paradise. From lively beachfront bars to cozy gourmet spots, here are some of the best restaurants and bars you shouldn’t miss during your visit:
1 . Cascadas Beach Grill
- Price: 💰💰💰
- Google Rate: 4.7
- Nestled within the Club Cascadas de Baja, this spot offers a mix of American and Mexican dishes in a relaxed, beachfront setting. A hidden gem for a quiet meal.
2 . SUR Beach House
- Price: 💰💰💰
- Google Rate: 4.6
- A chic and stylish beachfront venue serving up fresh seafood, sushi, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Ideal for a relaxed meal or sunset cocktails.
3 . Baja Brewing Company
- Price: 💰💰💰
- Google Rate: 4.5
- Located at the Cabo Villas Beach Resort, this spot serves up craft beers and delicious pub fare with a great view of the beach. A must-visit for beer enthusiasts.
4 . Omega Sports Bar & Grill
- Price: 💰💰
- Google Rate: 4.5
- A vibrant sports bar perfect for catching the game with friends. They offer a variety of bar snacks, burgers, and a wide selection of beers.
5 . Mango Deck Beach Club
- Price: 💰💰
- Google Rate: 4.4
- Known for its lively atmosphere, Mango Deck offers a fun mix of Mexican and American cuisine, strong cocktails, and daily entertainment. It’s a great spot for both daytime fun and nightlife.
6 . The Office on the Beach
- Price: 💰💰
- Google Rate: 4.3
- A beachfront classic offering a delicious menu with seafood and Mexican dishes, and stunning ocean views. Perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner with your toes in the sand.
Insider Tips
To make the most of your visit, check out these valuable tips to navigate the beach like a pro, stay comfortable, and uncover some local secrets. With these tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be all set for an unforgettable beach day:
Safety
- Stay Hydrated: The sun can be intense, so keep a water bottle handy and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen regularly and bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong sun.
- Use Beach-Friendly Footwear: The sand can get hot, so wear flip-flops or water shoes to keep your feet comfortable.
- Check for Beach Conditions: Before heading out, check local beach conditions and any potential warnings about water quality or weather—Look for safety flags 🚩👀 and don’t swim too far from the shore.
- Watch out for the hurricane season: Similar to most tropical destinations, avoid visiting during August-early October, as you might end up trapped in a not-so-blissful beach getaway.
- Avoid jellyfish: They show up in summer season and can sting painfully. If you’re stung, stay calm—pour vinegar on the sting, then ice it to reduce swelling. Keep an eye out for white flags, which signal their presence.
Experience
- Arrive Early: Get there early to score the best beach spots, seats at popular restaurants, and top water activity rentals. On weekends and holidays, the early bird truly gets the worm!
- Cash is King: While most places accept credit cards, some local vendors and smaller eateries may only take cash. Carry a little cash, just in case.
- Skip the crowds: if you want a more peaceful experience, visit the beach early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Also, consider booking your holidays during the low season.
- Explore Beyond the Beach: Take some time to explore the surrounding area, including nearby shops, local markets, and hidden gems around Cabo San Lucas.
- Be tolerant: Vendors are common on this beach. They’re just trying to make a living—politely say “no gracias” once or twice, and they’ll move on.
Money savers
- Plan for Tides: Check the tide schedule if you’re planning water activities, as tides can impact beach conditions and affect your experience.
- Watch Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your personal items and valuables, especially when the beach gets crowded.
- Be aware of scams: At bars and restaurants, pay as you go or keep track of your own orders to avoid inflated bills and unexpected charges—sadly, this is quite common.
Wrapping up your beach adventure
Medano Beach truly has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both. From its soft sands and vibrant atmosphere to the incredible food and unique local experiences, this beach is a must-visit on your Cabo San Lucas trip. Armed with these insider tips and recommendations, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy every moment of your time at Cabo San Lucas!
Feel free to leave your comment below. We love to hear from you!
Happy travels! 🌮☀️🌊🍹
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