Los Cabos is a vibrant paradise with stunning beaches, lively towns, and a rich cultural vibe that draws travelers from all over the world. To make the most of your visit, it’s important to follow some basic safety guidelines and respect local customs. This guide will help you have a fun and safe experience while exploring everything that Los Cabos
—especially Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo— has to offer.
General Safety Tips in Los Cabos
When visiting Los Cabos, it’s best to stick to popular areas like Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, which are well-known not only for their beauty but also for being generally safer for tourists. Avoid wandering into isolated areas, especially after dark. To further ensure your safety, keep important numbers handy, such as local police, your embassy, and the nearest medical facilities.
Emergency Numbers in Los Cabos:
- Emergency: 911
- American Consulate: (624) 143-3566
- Canadian Consulate: (624) 142-4333
- Cabo San Lucas Fire Department: (624) 143-3577
- San José del Cabo Fire Department: (624) 142-2466
- Red Cross Cabo San Lucas: 065 or (624) 143-7869
- Red Cross San José del Cabo: 065 or (624) 142-0316
- State Police in Cabo San Lucas: (624) 143-0296
- State Police in San José del Cabo: (624) 142-4104
- Tourist Police: (624) 143-3977
What to do in Case of Emergency
Health and Wellness Safety in Los Cabos
The summer sun in Los Cabos can be intense, so regular use of sunscreen, wearing hats, and staying hydrated by drinking bottled or purified water are crucial. Though tap water may be safe for locals, it’s recommended for tourists to stick with bottled water to avoid any issues. Pharmacies and hospitals are widely available, so it’s a good idea to locate nearby medical facilities in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo.
Transportation Safety in Los Cabos
Getting around Los Cabos is easy and safe, with various options including taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rentals. If you decide to rent a car, be mindful of local driving habits and road conditions, practicing defensive driving. Public buses are another affordable way to travel, though they can be crowded, especially during peak times.
For more information, check our transportation guide.
Money Handling and Tipping Practices in Los Cabos
When handling money in Los Cabos, use ATMs located in busy, well-lit areas, and only carry the cash you need for the day. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or tips. Tipping in Los Cabos is customary; in restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is expected. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides also appreciate tips for good service.
Read our full article on the tipping culture in Los Cabos.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs in Los Cabos
A big part of what makes Los Cabos special is its warm and welcoming people. To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, take the time to engage in traditions and activities. A simple handshake is a common greeting, and learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and building rapport with locals.
Planning a safe and enjoyable vacation to Los Cabos means staying informed about safety tips, local customs, and cultural etiquette. By following these guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to experience everything Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo have to offer—whether it’s relaxing on the beach, exploring the vibrant towns, or immersing yourself in the local culture.
