Medano Beach
Cabo's most vibrant beach, offering swimmable waters, lively beach clubs, and endless water sports. A must-visit for fun and sun!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Medano Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cabo's most vibrant beach, offering swimmable waters, lively beach clubs, and endless water sports. A must-visit for fun and sun!
"The best and maybe only beach you can swim in Cabo with safeguards and so many amenities around."
💰 Cash is King for Loungers
Beach clubs often require a deposit for sunbeds, which can be used towards food/drinks. Bring cash!
🌊 Swim on the Right Side
For calmer waters and fewer waves, head to the right side of Medano Beach when facing the ocean.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swimmable Waters
Eastern side of the beach
Enjoy the ocean with calmer waves and warmer temperatures, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Vibrant Beach Clubs
Along the shoreline
Relax at lively spots like Taboo or Corazon, offering food, drinks, and music with beach bed rentals.
Water Sports Galore
Near the shore
Experience thrilling activities like jet skiing and banana boat rides for an adrenaline rush.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Swim Safely at Medano Beach
Budgeting for Beach Day Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Cash is King for Loungers
Beach clubs often require a deposit for sunbeds, which can be used towards food/drinks. Bring cash!
🌊 Swim on the Right Side
For calmer waters and fewer waves, head to the right side of Medano Beach when facing the ocean.
Medano Beach Questions
💧 Stay Hydrated
The sun can be intense. Purchase water from vendors or beach clubs to stay refreshed.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Public access points are frequent, making it easy to reach Medano Beach from nearby hotels.
I’m in Cabos at a resort, how do I swim in the ocean?
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Cash is King for Loungers
Beach clubs often require a deposit for sunbeds, which can be used towards food/drinks. Bring cash!
🌊 Swim on the Right Side
For calmer waters and fewer waves, head to the right side of Medano Beach when facing the ocean.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The sun can be intense. Purchase water from vendors or beach clubs to stay refreshed.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
Public access points are frequent, making it easy to reach Medano Beach from nearby hotels.
🛍️ Polite Vendor Interactions
Vendors are present but generally not pushy. A polite 'no, thank you' is usually sufficient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Medano Beach is a lively and popular destination in Cabo San Lucas, praised for its swimmable waters and abundance of amenities like beach clubs and water sports. Visitors appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and convenient access, though some note that prices for rentals and food can be high. It's considered a must-visit for its energetic vibe and family-friendly environment.
"This is most happening beach in cabo. There are many stopping and very good restaurants.. the water taxi takes from marina to this.beach for 5 to 7 dollars per person. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you needs.
Most of the water activities can be done here like jet ski, snorkeling and other.."
Suresh Bezawada
"The best and maybe only beach you can swim in Cabo with safeguards and so many amenities around from relaxing beach clubs like Corazon, Sur or Tamara, to more lively beach clubs like Taboo. Just walk by the beach and choose the beach club that fits your mood. Most beach clubs give you beach bed for a deposit you can use toward food and drinks. The water on calm days is suitable for swimming and the water temperature is great."
NS R
"This is such a nice short walk from my hotel. Leading up to the beach, you will pass through cobblestone pathways, restaurants and shops.
Medano Beach is one of the few places where you can swim in the ocean. The sand is such a beautiful golden brown. There are a lot of areas to lay your towel down or rent a lounger / day bed. A lot of food options with restaurants and lively music. You can also take advantage of the water activities like banana boats."
S J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Medano Beach is easily accessible. If you're staying nearby, it's often a short walk. Otherwise, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and can drop you off at one of the many access points. Water taxis from the marina are also an option, typically costing $5-7 per person.
Yes, there are parking options available near Medano Beach, though they can fill up quickly during peak times. Look for paid parking lots or street parking in the vicinity.
Depending on your exact location, it's often a pleasant walk from downtown Cabo San Lucas to Medano Beach, passing through shops and restaurants along cobblestone pathways.
Many resorts offer shuttle services to popular areas, including Medano Beach. It's best to check with your hotel concierge for available options.
Medano Beach is considered one of the safest beaches for swimming in Cabo due to its calmer waters and fewer dangerous currents compared to the Pacific side. However, always be aware of conditions and any posted warnings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Medano Beach is a public beach, so there is no entry fee. However, if you plan to use amenities like beach chairs, umbrellas, or daybeds at beach clubs, there will be costs associated with rentals or minimum spending requirements.
Medano Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Individual beach clubs and restaurants will have their own operating hours, typically extending into the evening.
Yes, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas from various vendors and beach clubs along Medano Beach. Prices can vary, and some clubs offer them as part of a package with food and drinks.
Some beach clubs may offer day passes, but it's more common for them to operate on a minimum spend basis for their loungers and daybeds. It's advisable to check with specific clubs like Corazon or Taboo for their policies.
The cost for a beach bed can range significantly, but expect to pay around $50-$100, often with a deposit that can be applied towards food and drinks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Medano Beach offers a wide array of activities, including swimming, jet skiing, banana boat rides, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. You can also enjoy relaxing at beach clubs and dining at various restaurants.
While not the primary snorkeling destination, some areas around Medano Beach can offer decent snorkeling opportunities, especially if you venture a bit further out or during calmer conditions. Renting gear is possible on the beach.
Popular beach clubs include Corazon, Sur, Tamara, and Taboo, each offering a different vibe from relaxed to lively. Choose based on your mood for the day!
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food, drinks, umbrella, and chairs to Medano Beach and relax on the sand without needing to use a beach club.
Yes, you'll find vendors selling various goods, from souvenirs to snacks. They are generally not overly pushy and will respect a polite 'no, thank you.'
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Medano Beach boasts a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to more upscale restaurants within beach clubs. You can find fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, and international dishes.
While many beach clubs can be pricey, you can find more budget-friendly options by exploring further down the beach or by bringing your own snacks and drinks.
Absolutely! All the beach clubs and restaurants serve a wide range of beverages, from refreshing cocktails to non-alcoholic options.
A light lunch with a drink and beach chair rental can cost around $50 per person, with more substantial meals and drinks increasing the total.
Many restaurants on Medano Beach are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask your server.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of Medano Beach offers great photo opportunities. Capture the iconic Hotel El Medano at the end of the beach, the vibrant beach clubs, and the stunning ocean views.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing the beach before it gets too crowded.
Drone usage regulations can vary and may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both wide beach scenes and details. Waterproof protection for your gear is also a good idea.
Consider capturing the colorful water taxis, the lively atmosphere of the beach clubs, or the sunset over the bay for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a beach bed at a club that offers a more relaxed vibe, or simply bring your own towels and enjoy the sand. The availability of water sports like banana boat rides can be a huge hit with older kids, while younger ones will enjoy building sandcastles and splashing in the shallows.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for water taxis from the marina instead of private transport if coming from further afield. Look for more local eateries slightly away from the immediate beachfront for more affordable meal options. Enjoy the free public access and the lively ambiance without necessarily spending a fortune.
🥂 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore at sunset, or opt for a sunset cruise that departs from the nearby marina. The vibrant atmosphere can be fun for couples looking for a lively beach day, while quieter spots can be found by walking further down the beach.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Medano Beach: Your Guide to a Perfect Day
When planning your visit, consider that while the beach itself is free to access, many of the amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas come with a cost, often a deposit redeemable for food and drinks. This makes it a popular choice for those looking for a full-service beach experience. The water is generally warm and pleasant, with the eastern side of the beach typically offering the calmest conditions.
Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Medano Beach is a hub for water sports. You can easily rent jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks, or even take a thrilling ride on a banana boat. The presence of numerous vendors adds to the lively ambiance, though they are generally respectful if you decline their offers.
Dining and Drinks on Medano Beach
Popular beach clubs like Taboo and Corazon are known for their vibrant atmospheres, extensive drink menus, and delicious food. These spots often have daybeds or loungers available for a fee or minimum spend, allowing you to enjoy their offerings in comfort. Expect to find fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and international cuisine.
For those on a tighter budget, consider bringing your own snacks and drinks, as Medano Beach is a public space where this is permitted. Alternatively, exploring slightly off the main strip might reveal more affordable local eateries. Remember that prices at the prime beachfront locations will reflect the premium setting.
Activities and Water Sports at Medano Beach
Jet skiing is a popular choice, allowing you to zip across the waves and take in the stunning coastline from a different perspective. Banana boat rides offer a fun, group-oriented thrill, while paddleboarding and kayaking provide a more serene way to explore the bay. Many vendors offer rentals and tours directly on the beach.
For those interested in marine life, snorkeling is also an option, though it's best to inquire about the best spots and conditions on the day of your visit. The water taxi services can also take you to nearby snorkeling locations.
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