Is San José del Cabo safe? (2024)
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.
Is San José del Cabo is safe?
San José del Cabo is a safe destination known for its cozy downtown with typical Mexican architecture, farm-to-table restaurants, and golden sand beaches. Safety is usually not a concern for most visitirs who come here to enjoy the the cultural side of Cabo.
However, you still need to follow safety precautions, even if in a safe place like San Jose Del Cabo. And in this article, I will share my expertise with you.
I spent a lot of time traveling around Baja California and visited San José del Cabo several times. Since Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are just over 20 miles apart and share a lot of similarities, so it’s easy to confuse them. But there are also plenty of differences.
A smaller cousin of Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo is a budding travel destination that offers a more cultural side of Cabo thanks to its art galleries, historic old town and local restaurants.
Whether you are planning your first trip to Cabo, or have been there before, you likely heard comments that Mexico is a dangerous country.
It’s not surprising, given the amount of negative coverage that Mexico gets. Often times, people who make these comments have seen very little Mexico outside of all-inclusive resorts – or have never been here at all, so you should always do your research, before taking advise from someone.
Baja California is a peninsula separated from mainland Mexico by the Sea of Cortez, so the issue of safety plays out a bit differently here.
So, let’s take a look at what makes San José del Cabo different from Cabo San Lucas, and how you can stay safe while visiting these popular destinations.
Where is San José del Cabo?
San Jose del Cabo is a resort city located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. It’s part of the municipality of Los Cabos in the state of Baja California Sur. San Jose del Cabo, along with Cabo San Lucas, forms the major tourist destination of Los Cabos.
San Jose Del Cabo Map
San Jose Del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas: What’s the difference?
San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are the biggest towns in the Cabo area. The 20-mile tourist corridor between these two cities where you can find many hotels and beaches, is also part of “Los Cabos.”
✅ Check: Is Baja California part of the United States?
Safety in San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo is one of the safest destinations in Baja California. Many tourists come to San Jose Del Cabo to enjoy its beaches, sample food in local restaurants, and check out the San Jose Del Cabo Art Walk, a weekly event that takes places every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. and showcases local galleries and stores selling artwork and handicrafts.
✅ Read: Best hikes in Cabo San Lucas
Is San José del Cabo safe?
San José del Cabo is relatively safe for tourists, but it doesn’t mean that crime doesn’t happen here. Always lock your car, watch your belongings, and stick to popular tourist spots.
Remember that no place in the world is perfectly safe, and crime can happen even in one of the safest destinations. While your chances of becoming a victim of a crime in San Jose Del Cabo are lower than in most places in Mexico, you should always exercise caution.
Is San José del Cabo safe for solo travelers?
San José del Cabo is perfectly safe for solo travelers. I spent three days in San José del Cabo before heading to La Paz and never felt unsafe during my trip.
If you are a solo traveler in Cabo, you should be more cautious, even though it’s a relatively safe destination.
➡️ Read: Do I need a passport for Cabo?
Is San José del Cabo worth visiting?
Yes, San José del Cabo is one of the best places to visit in Baja California Sur. It boasts incredible golden beaches, a historic downtown with plenty of restaurants and bars, and unlike Cabo San Lucas, it doesn’t get too crowded.
Safety in Baja California Sur
Baja Sur is one of the safest states in Mexico. The crime in Baja Sur is relatively low, and local authorities do their best to keep visitors safe because tourism plays a huge part in the local economy.
If you look at the official data, you will find out that most crime in Baja California Sur is concentrated in the Los Cabos municipality, outside of San Jose Del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, which contribute little to the overall statistic.
✅ Learn about Playa Balandra – one of the most popular beaches in Baja Sur
What does the U.S. State Department say about safety in Baja?
As of 2024, The U.S. State Department advises to exercise increased caution when traveling to Baja California Sur, due to crime.
The agency has four different classifications for all of Mexico’s 32 states ranging from “do not travel to” to “exercise normal precautions.”
10 Safety tips for San Jose Del Cabo
1. Put on sunscreen
The sun in San Jose Del Cabo can be brutal, which is why it’s important to wear sunscreen at all times.
2. Only swim where it’s safe
The beaches in San José del Cabo are known for their gorgeous golden sand and ink-blue waters. Unfortunately, not all of them are safe for swimming due to strong currents and rip tides. Always check the conditions first if you want to go for a swim.
If there’s a lifeguard on duty, ask if it’s safe to swim, before getting in the water.
3. Participate in group activities
Taking tours is a good way to meet new people and enjoy some of the best things to do in San Jose Del Cabo. It’s also a safe way to enjoy new places that you might not be able to visit on your own.
I use Viator and GetYourGuide to find tours with local companies in Baja.
✅ Learn about the best boat tours in Cabo
4. Don’t stay at the beach at night (especially by yourself)
Although many hotels in San Jose Del Cabo have ocean views and have their beach areas, it’s best to wrap up your activities by the time it gets dark.
5. Avoid remote parts of town
San José del Cabo is usually safe, but for the sake of safety, it’s best to skip remote parts of town, especially when it gets dark.
6. Drink only bottled water
Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico, even in popular destinations like Los Cabos. Always buy bottled water or refill your water bottle at your hotel, if there’s filtered water available.
8. Don’t flash your wealth
For safety reasons, it’s best to avoid showing your wealth. It will help you to maintain a low profile and get better prices when bargaining at markets and tour agencies, as people will not assume you have tons of money.
9. Don’t accept food and drinks from people you don’t know
The main rule for anybody who wants to enjoy a great time in Cabo is to never accept food and drinks from strangers. Also, don’t leave your food and drinks unattended, if you need to step away. Always finish them first.
10. Don’t walk around with your documents
If you plan to explore the area on foot, don’t carry your passport around. Leave it in a safe in your hotel, or find another spot where you can store it safely. If you need an ID, make a copy of your documents and put it in your bag.
Do I need travel insurance for my trip to Cabo?
Buying travel insurance ahead of your trip to Mexico is always a good idea because you never know what might go wrong.
Whether it’s canceled flights, medical emergencies, or car accidents, many things could go wrong while you are on the road. I use SafetyWing, a travel insurance company that allows you to choose from several different plans.
SafetyWing the most budget-friendly insurance for long-term travelers and digital nomads, but you can also get WorldNomads, that has a variety of plans.
Register for the STEP program
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling to Baja California, consider enrolling in STEP, The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that allows U.S. citizens abroad to register their trip with the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Here are some of the benefits of enrolling in the STEP program ahead of your trip:
- Get updates from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination.
- Stay in contact with the U.S. Embassy in case of an emergency whether it’s a natural disaster, political unrest, or anything else.
- Help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.
Common Cabo scams
Like any popular destination, Cabo has its fair share of scams. Some of the most common scams in Cabo include taxis overcharging tourists, fake tour guides and people inviting you to visit bars or restaurants.
San José del Cabo neighborhoods
San José del Cabo, like many places in Baja, has a variety of neighborhoods, each with its character. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in San José del Cabo:
📍Downtown San José del Cabo
This area is the heart of the city and features a charming historic district with colorful colonial buildings, art galleries, shops, restaurants, and the main square, Plaza Mijares.
📍Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone)
Located along the coastline, this area is lined with luxury resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals. It’s popular among tourists for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and upscale amenities.
📍La Playita
This neighborhood is known for its laid-back atmosphere and fishing village vibes. It’s home to the Puerto Los Cabos Marina, where you can find fishing charters, restaurants, and shops.
📍Club Campestre San José
A residential area with a golf course, Club Campestre San José offers upscale homes and condominiums with views of the Sea of Cortez and the surrounding desert landscape.
📍Costa Azul
This area is known for its surfing beaches, including Zippers and La Roca surf breaks. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists thanks to opportunities for surfing, swimming, and beachfront restaurants.
📍Rancho Cerro Colorado
A gated community with luxury homes and stunning ocean views, Rancho Cerro Colorado offers privacy and tranquility just a short drive from downtown San José del Cabo.
📍El Encanto de La Laguna
Situated along the coastline between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, this exclusive residential community has beachfront apartments and some hotels and breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez.
Safe things to do in San José del Cabo
1. Enjoy snorkeling
Baja California is known for its wildlife diversity. Renowned French naturalist Jaques Yves Cousteau nicknamed the Sea of Cortez the aquarium of the world because of its stunning biodiversity like whales, turtles, manta rays, and colorful fish.
Diving in Cabo is a great way to see the marine wildlife, but you don’t have to be certified to do that. All you need to do is book a snorkeling tour in San Jose Del Cabo with one of the local tour operators.
Book this popular snorkeling tour of San José del Cabo.
Best San Jose Del Cabo Snorkeling Tours
2. Taste tequila in downtown San Jose Del Cabo
One of the best ways to discover Cabo is by sampling Mexico’s most famous drink – tequila. Join this fun tequila-tasting tour which will take you around town as you can interact with locals and learn about local culture.
And what about food tours? Joining one of the best food tours in Cabo is the best way to try Baja’s rich gastronomy and learn more about the culture of the region.
Book popular tequila tasting tours in Cabo
3. See majestic whales at sunset
There’s no better way to wrap up your day than by taking a sunset tour where you can watch whales. The whale season in Cabo is from December through April, and you can often see these giants splashing off the coast of the Baja Peninsula.
Best whale watching tours in Cabo
4. Tour the city with a local guide
If you are visiting San Jose Del Cabo for the first time, taking a small group tour around the city is an excellent idea.
This fun outing will help you to get your bearings on Cabo San Lucas and learn about the best restaurants, beaches, and popular landmarks, as it will be accompanied by a professional guide.
Cabo visitors leave stellar reviews for this tour, so I recommend you check it out.
Book best guided tours of San Jose Del Cabo
5. Take a surfing lesson
Baja California is known for its surfing and San José del Cabo is a great place to try your hand at this popular water sport. Book a surfing lesson with one of the local instructors at Costa Azul, a popular surfing spot.
6. Go for a hike
If you want to save some money, hiking is one of the best things to do in San José del Cabo. There are several trails around the city.
One of my favorite hikes near San José del Cabo is the Cerro de Las Chivas which you can reach by a quick drive from Downtown San José del Cabo.
Cerro de Las Chivas is a relatively steep trail, so wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. It takes an average of 45 minutes to get to the top, although you can do it faster, depending on your level of fitness. Be prepared for some rock scrambling near the top.
It’s a fairly exposed hike with little vegetation along the way, so it’s best to do it early morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the strong sun.
Book popular hiking tours in San Jose Del Cabo
How to get to San José del Cabo?
The easiest way to get to San José del Cabo is by flying to San José del Cabo International Airport (code: SJD), but you can also drive to Cabo from the United States or other destinations in Baja.
By Air
The easiest way to get to San José del Cabo is by flying into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). Many major airlines like United, Delta and American have direct flights to Cabo from various cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
By Car
If you’re already in Mexico or nearby, you can drive to San José del Cabo. The town is at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, so you can drive down from places like Tijuana or La Paz. The main highway is Highway 1, which runs the length of the peninsula.
📍If you are driving your car to Los Cabos, don’t forget to get a mandatory Mexico car insurance, which is required for all vehicles entering the country. A U.S. insurance is not valid in Mexico and will not cover you in the event of an accident.
Baja Bound Mexican Insurance offers the most comprehensive insurance plans for cars, motorcycles, RV’s and other types of vehicles.
By Bus
There are also bus services that connect San José del Cabo with other cities in Mexico. Aguila is the largest bus company in Baja California that has routes to and from San José del Cabo.
✅ Read: Cabo to La Paz transportation options
Renting a car in San José del Cabo
The best way to get around Cabo is by renting a car. You can find dozens of car rental companies near San José del Cabo Airport, and they will pick you up after you land. I rented my car with Budget and had a very good experience with them.
Where to find rental cars in San Jose Del Cabo?
The best place to find rental cars in San Jose Del Cabo is DiscoverCars, an online platforms that has dozens of listings from different car rental companies in Cabo.
All you need to do is set your filters and look for the vehicle you need.
✅ CHECK PRICES FOR CAR RENTALS IN SAN JOSE DEL CABO
Private transportation from Cabo Airport
If you plan to spend your vacation at one of Cabo resorts, you might not need to rent a car. To get to your hotel from the airport, you can book a private shuttle from Cabo Airport. It’s a perfect way to split your travel costs with other travelers and save on transportation if you don’t need a car rental.
Ruta Del Desierto
Ruta del Desierto Bus only departs from Terminal 1, though international flights usually arrive at Terminal 2.
Where to stay in San José del Cabo
Staying in safe, carefully vetted accommodations can make or break your experience in Cabo. Here are some of the most popular hotels that have stellar reviews from fellow travelers.
✅ Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort
Located a few steps from Boca del Tule Beach, Solaz, is a luxury resort that has free private parking, a fitness center, and a garden. It has five restaurants, three swimming pools, and a spa.
On-site restaurants serve Italian, Mexican cuisines, and seafood. You can also request vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan options.
✅ Cabo Surf Hotel
Only a 10-minute drive from the center, Cabo Surf Hotel is in one of the most popular surfing beaches of the region. It also has spa facilities, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub.
The property offers a free airport shuttle to its guests, free on-site parking, and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.
✅ Look for more hotels in San Jose Del Cabo
Is San Jose Del Cabo safe? FAQ’s
Is it safe to go to San Jose del Cabo?
While it’s fairly safe to go to San José del Cabo, you should always follow basic safety precautions and stay in popular parts of town.
Is San Jose del Cabo worth it?
San José del Cabo is a great place to enjoy the cultural side of the Los Cabos area if you need a break from partying and want to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
What’s better, San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas?
San José del Cabo is known for its great street food, farm-to-table restaurants, and a quaint downtown with typical Mexican architecture, while Cabo San Lucas is more about luxury resorts, parties, and high-end dining.
Is Cabo safe with the cartel?
Cabo San Lucas is not free from cartels, thanks to the constant tourist demand for drugs. The good news is that if you stay away from drugs and follow basic safety precautions, you are not likely to get in trouble.
Is San José del Cabo safe to live?
San José del Cabo is safe to live in and is home to many Americans and Canadians who own properties here. The area has been growing rapidly as more North American expats make the Cabo area their home.
Is San José del Cabo safe at night?
San José del Cabo is usually safe at night, but you should always avoid dark isolated areas and stick to popular areas where crime is less likely to happen. Like in most places, crime in San José del Cabo is more likely to occur at night.
It’s also a good idea to limit your alcohol intake, and if you have been drinking – take Uber to your hotel.
Is Cabo San Lucas safe from drug cartels?
Cabo San Lucas has a drug cartel presence, and Cabo has seen an increase in drug violence over the last few years. The good news is that drug cartels usually don’t target tourists directly, so you are not likely to become a victim of a serious crime unless you get involved with some shady characters.
The best way to stay safe in Cabo is by avoiding drugs or any drug-related activities.
Is San José del Cabo safe: final word
San José del Cabo is one of the safest places in Baja California. Although it’s not free from crime, it’s relatively safe, and you don’t have to worry about becoming a victim of serious crime if you follow common sense and watch your surroundings.
Baja California travel planner
Do I need a visa for Baja California?
If you are traveling to Baja California from the United States and Canada or Western Europe, you don’t need a visa. Click here to check Mexico visa requirements for your country. iVisa is a website that can help you with a visa to Mexico.
Do I need a car in Baja California?
You need a rental car to see the best of Baja California, as most places aren’t accessible by public transportation. I recommend DiscoverCars for finding rental cars in Baja and other parts of Mexico.
Click here to check prices on car rentals in popular detsinations in Baja.
Do I need a travel insurance in Baja California?
Personal travel insurance in not required in Baja, but it’s a good idea to get one ahead of your trip. Travel Insurance Master will cover you in case of hospital visits, missed flights, lost or stolen belongings and other accidents that could happen on the road.
Do I need a car insurance to drive in Mexico?
A Mexico car insurance is required for ALL vehicles entering the country. Note that your US insurance will not be valid in Mexico. Baja Bound Mexican Insurance is a popular website to find insurance for your car, RV, boat, motorcycles and other types of transportation.
Where can I find the best Baja tours?
the best websites for finding tours all over Baja is Viator. Guided tours are usually available in bigger cities like Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, La Paz and Tijuana.
Where can I book flights to Baja?
Click here to find cheap airline tickets to Baja
Where do I find cheap hotels in Baja?
Booking.com is the best website to find hotels all over Baja, but you can also use HostelWorld to find hostels. VRBO is a perfect place to find apartments and home-style places to stay in Baja.
Can I drink water in Baja California?
While major cities like Cabo and La Paz treat their water, it’s generally not advised to drink water in Baja California. Always carry your water bottle with you, or better yet, buy a water bottle with filtration for your trip.
