Some of the best experiences and places to visit in the south of the peninsula are located in the surroundings of Los Cabos at a distance of 1 to 2 hours drive. To make these excursions you can rent a car or hire a tour.
1. Cabo Pulmo National Park
Cabo Pulmo National Park is located on the East Coast of the Baja California Sur Peninsula, two hours away from San José del Cabo, Cabo Pulmo is a Protected Natural Area designated a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO and the only hard coral reef area in the Gulf of California.
The reef is around 20,000 years old and has more than 300 species of fish, hence its nickname as “The Aquarium of the World”. Five of the world’s seven endangered species of sea turtles find refuge in Cabo Pulmo and the largest collections of sharks, including bull sharks, tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks, blacktip and white tip sharks. It has become a world famous place for diving and snorkeling. Other great activities to do in the area are kayaking and Hiking.
2. Visit Todos Santos
Todos Santos is one of the most popular tourist attractions, located on the Pacific Ocean 47 mi/76 km away from San Lucas. Founded in 1724 as a Spanish mission, Todos Santos today maintains its small town charm and walking through its cobblestone streets is like a trip back in time. It was officially declared a “Publo Magico” for its beauty and cultural richness.
Walking through this beautiful and quiet town is a pleasure, some of the places to visit are the historic Santiago Mission, its art galleries and the famous Hotel California, where according to local legend, the Eagles were inspired to create their famous song (a fact that was denied by the band). Cerritos beach located 8 mi/13 km from Todos Santos is an ideal spot for those looking to get started in surfing. Another activity to highlight are the hiking trails by the sea where you can enjoy incredible panoramic views.
3. Visit La Paz
Balandra Beach
La Paz is the capital city of Baja California Sur and is located 98 mi/157 km from Los Cabos, almost a 2 hour drive. Its beautiful oceanfront boardwalk offers unforgettable sunsets. La Paz has beautiful beaches including the famous Balandra, chosen as one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.
The city was declared by UNESCO as a protected marine area. Between the months of October and April the bay of La Paz provides food and shelter to the largest fish in the world, the whale shark, giving us the opportunity to observe it in its habitat. A classic when visiting the city is the tour to Espiritu Santo Island where hikings, snorkeling and diving activities take place.
4. Visit Santiago
Sol de Mayo Ecological Ranch, Fox Canyon
Santiago is a small community in Baja California Sur, about 27 mi/45 Km north of San José del Cabo. The town was founded in 1721 under the name of ajo Misión de Santiago. The present church preserves the original altar of the old mission.
Nearby is the Sol de Mayo Ecological Ranch, access to the popularly known Fox Canyon. A short hike of 0.6 mi/1km will take you to an incredible oasis in the middle of the desert with a small 35 ft waterfall that flows into a small lagoon where you can swim and cool off. The perfect place for a picnic and relaxation.
5. Sierra de la Laguna Hot Springs
El Chorro Hot Springs
There are two natural hot springs in the area around Los Cabos and both are located in the vicinity of Santiago. Santa Rita and El Chorro Hot springs.
El Chorro Hot spring is located 4 km/2.5 mi from the town of Agua Caliente.The hot springs water comes bubbling right out of the rock into small pools just above the dam. The places where the water is warmest is along the canyon wall. You can pay extra to camp. Be sure to bring water and food.
Santa Rita Hot Springs are located 10,3km/ 6.4 mi to El Chorro Hot Springs, near San Jorge Village. Santa Rita Hot Springs are smaller but also less visited than El Chorro. You will have to climb over some rocks and after a short walk, you will arrive in a hidden gem. Palm trees and delicious warm pools fed by underground hot mineral springs are waiting.
In Both hot springs, there’s a small entrance fee to contribute to the conservation of the area.
