Cortes first visited Los Cabos (as the tip of the Baja peninsula is known) in 1535, but it wasn't until a Jesuit mission was built in 1730 that Europeans began to settle in the region. It became a minor center of commerce in the 19th century for passing ships, and now it is a vacation destination for throngs of water and fishing enthusiasts, cruise passengers and tourists from around the world.



Before even Cortes came to visit the area, Cabo's first visitors were the humpback and grey whales who came to the area to give birth and nurse their young. You can take a whale watching tour to get close to these beautiful, majestic animals in their natural habitat. The waters are also teaming with fish, and sport fishing is a major draw to Cabo San Lucas. You can also enjoy the beautiful waters from a kayak or explore the sights under the sea while snorkeling or from a glass bottomed boat. Catamarans can take you out to see the fabulous Los Arcos - the dramatic stone arch guarding the harbor - and the beautiful beaches surrounding Cabo San Lucas.

The main beach area close to town is Playa Medano, and here you will find a beautiful two mile stretch of sparkling white sands beckoning you to swim, sun and enjoy yourself. Water sports equipment is also available for when you tire of relaxing. There are a number of top golf courses nearby, designed by some of the top names in golf. Shopping in town includes lovely black coral jewelry from local artists, as well as other items which have been imported. Whether you are shopping or sailing or sport fishing, you will certainly enjoy your stay at Cabo San Lucas.

San Jose del Cabo has a more subdued, mature atmosphere, as compared to the younger, more active crowd at Cabo San Lucas. The downtown area has many old adobe homes which have been converted into trendy shops and restaurants, and there is plenty of construction from a beautification process which is underway. San Jose del Cabo includes the center of government for this area of Mexico, and the Palacio Municipal - or City Hall - is worth a visit. It is located next to the Plaza Mijares, where you can sit in the shade of the gazebo and enjoy a concert or art show. There are shuttle buses which run the 17 miles between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, stopping at some of the beaches and resorts located along the corridor between the two cities.