Las Olas is one of the few complexes in front of some of the best swimmable (and surfable) beaches in Los Cabos. Most of the beaches in front of the hotel resorts in Los Cabos are not swimmable and extremely dangerous. It is important to have ocean knowledge before putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation. Cabo sits at the Baja Peninsula's tip, amidst the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean. This merging of the seas can cause extremely strong currents and powerful waves, which are not always safe to swim in. Baja's rocky ocean floors can cause dangerous situations if you are not aware of what lies beneath you. This article will help inform you about what areas of the Los Cabos Coast are the safest to swim and snorkel in.
Safety Flags
It is important to be aware of the different colored flags that let you know the intensity of the waves.
- Green Flag: Water conditions are safe for swimming.
- Yellow Flag: Use caution while swimming.
- Red Flag: Dangerous conditions.
- Black Flag: This is the highest warning level. Do not swim.
When traveling to Mexico, tourists mainly come to two areas: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Cabo San Lucas is more of the party scene, with endless bars and restaurants and thousands of spring breakers looking to let loose and have a good time. San Jose del Cabo, on the other hand, is more laid back and draws in a more family-friendly, active crowd looking for fun water activities. This article will give tips for the best swimmable beach in San Jose del Cabo and two swimmable beaches in Cabo San Lucas.
Playa Acapulquito or "Old Man's Beach" - San Jose del Cabo
Old Man's is a world-famous surf break that is inviting for beginners and pros alike. This wave is every surfer's dream: an open-faced, glassy wave peeling for hundreds of yards! If you don't know how to surf, you could snorkel or SUP Paddleboard along the reefs and admire the abundant wildlife of tropical fish under the sea. There are also two other incredible surf breaks ("The Rock" and "Zippers") as well as Zippers Restaurant and Bar located right on the beach. If you are looking for more affordable beachfront accommodations, Las Olas Condominiums are the most affordable luxury condos with prices that can't be beaten. Book with us today and our team can help facilitate the vacation of your dreams!
As this is Baja and you don’t always know what may be lingering along the bottom of the ocean, we recommend that kids use water shoes, surf booties, rashguard (girls) (boys), and/or a wetsuit.
Medano Beach - Cabo San Lucas
Medano Beach is where the majority of Cabo's all-inclusive resorts are located. It is the most accessible Los Cabos swimmable beach, which means that it is also overwhelmingly crowded with tourists. Located by the downtown marina, this beautiful beach is surrounded by 5-star restaurants and bars that are only a short walk away from the water. This beach is highly monitored and extremely safe for locals and visitors.
Chileno Beach - Cabo San Lucas
Chileno Beach is a beautiful beach that is well known for its incredible snorkeling. The waves are gentle and reefs are abundant with tropical fish. Located in between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, Chileno Beach is known for its cleanliness and is much less crowded than Medano Beach. There is a lifeguard stand, porta-potties, and trash cans along the sandy coast.