DIY Excursion to Medano Beach in Cabo!
Medano Beach is a famous tourist hotspot in Cabo San Lucas. While we usually try to avoid those areas, we had very limited options when our cruise landed in Cabo on Christmas Day. Understanding that only the most tourist central places will be opened, we decided to give Medano Beach a try. Here’s a quick guide to our DIY excursion: how we got there, what we did, and how we made the most of our time.
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Getting to Medano Beach
Cabo is a tender port, meaning you might spend some time waiting to get ashore. On our visit, we waited nearly two hours due to congestion at the ferry landing. Once on land, we had about four hours before needing to return to the ship—so timing was key!
Transportation Tips
To get to Medano Beach, we opted for an Uber, which is usually cheaper and more efficient than local taxis or pedicabs. We adjusted our pickup point to the front of The Ridge at Playa Grande hotel to avoid aggressive hawkers and get a smooth ride. While the beach is walkable (20-30 minutes), the heat and logistics made Uber the better choice for us.
The Beach Atmosphere
Medano Beach is known for its bustling atmosphere, complete with jet skis, water taxis, and persistent hawkers. If you prefer a quieter time, try to sit away from the beach or reserve a table. The coarse sand and sharp water drop-off mean caution is advised, especially with designated swimming areas to keep boats clear.
Relaxation at the Sand Bar
Once we arrived at the Sand Bar, we checked in for our massage appointment. Reservations can be made via WhatsApp, but walk-ins are often welcome. Be prepared for a wait, and consider dining in the quieter upstairs area for a more peaceful experience.
Enjoying the Day
While we were there, my wife enjoyed a massage upstairs, where the sounds of the waves provided a soothing backdrop. Meanwhile, we indulged in tacos downstairs. The food was decent, but the views—especially of our ship—made it all worthwhile.
Wrapping Up the Day
After spending about 2.5 hours at the beach, we made a quick stop at a local OXXO store for snacks. We then caught another Uber back to the dock, just in time as the sun was setting.
Returning to the Ship
Heeding the crew’s advice to return early, we avoided long lines at the tender. Although the wait for boarding took about 30 minutes, it was manageable.
Final Thoughts
Our brief visit to Cabo San Lucas was a delightful taste of what this vibrant destination has to offer. We definitely can see why Medano Beach, with its lively atmosphere and beautiful views is a major tourist draw.