Medano Beach - The Hottest Beach in Cabo San Lucas

Medano Beach is the most popular beach in Cabo San Lucas. Stretching along the Sea of Cortez from the east side of the harbor entrance to the Villa del Palmar (approximately two miles), it is a safe swimming beach which means it's a great place for families with young children or those who don't consider themselves strong swimmers. However, don't be misled by the term "safe"—while there are no crushing waves or strong undertow, there are also no lifeguards. Children must be supervised at all times. If you are planning a family beach vacation, read my article about family travel tips.

With all that happens here, Medano Beach (in spanish, Playa El Medano) could be easily considered the main drag in terms of foot traffic. The strand is lined with big hotel/resorts, restaurants, water sports equipment rentals and the like. You can even go shopping while you're sunning on the beach because the locals walk back and forth all day long trying to sell their wares. You'd be surprised at all you can purchase on the beach: jewelry, hats, bikini coverups, pens, handwoven blankets, ceramics, tee-shirts and toys.

Although it's convenient that these sales people come to you, after a couple of beach days, the constant solicitation gets annoying, so I suggest you look the vendor politely in the eyes and say firmly, but kindly, "No gracias."

In terms of water activities, on this Cabo San Lucas beach you can rent kayaks, jet skis, wave runners, go parasailing, waterskiing or play a game of beach volleyball. You can also enjoy a sunset dinner on the beach at the many hotels and restaurants, most of which offer a view of El Arco (The Arch at the Baja tip) which is stunning at every hour, but particularly, at sunset.

If you're not staying at one of the hotel resorts along Medano Beach (like Club Cascadas, Pueblo Bonito Rose, Melia San Lucas, the Hotel Hacienda) or eating at one of the restaurants, you can gain access by driving down Km 1 (which is located along the Club Casacadas de Baja Resort where my family and I spend our yearly vacation) or Camino Hotel Hacienda near the hotel of the same name. You can also access it from Puerto Paraiso, the beautiful mall located at the marina. Since there's no public parking, find a place to park and walk.

Make sure to sign up for our newsletter: