Is Los Cabos safe for American Tourists?  Cabo San Lucas is the top destination for many U.S. travelers.  If you are worried about safety in Mexico let me say right off the jump, yes it is safe to travel to Cabo San Lucas.

Los Cabos is located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula and is an especially popular destination for American tourists.  But is Los Cabos safe?

There is still a misconception among some—fed by what are often one-sided portrayals in the U.S. media—that México is wracked by drug-related violence and unsafe for travel.

That simply isn’t the case, as anyone who has actually visited the country can attest

While it’s undeniable that México, like every country in the world, suffers from crime and has some undesirable areas, the vast majority of its cities and communities—cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo in particular—are extremely safe. And the statistics bear this out.

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning for Mexico, which includes the state of Baja California Sur, where Cabo is located. The warning states that “violent crime, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery, is common” in Mexico.

For years I wouldn’t travel to Mexico because the U.S. media painted this horrific picture of Mexico and I always wondered if it was safe to travel to Mexico. 

I believed Mexico was dangerous, I would be killed, kidnapped, and held for ransom by the cartel because of the Mexico travel warning issued by the U.S. Government.

As my readers are planning their spring and summer 2023 travels I have been receiving a lot of questions on is Mexico safe and more specific questions about how safe is Cancun.

I will also discuss the following on Cabo San Lucas safety.

• Is Los Cabos safer than Cancun?
• Is Cabo San Lucas safe at night?
• Is Cabo Safe for solo travelers
• Is Mexico safe overall?

Is Cabo Safe for American Tourists 2023?

U.S. State Department Travel Warnings

This year, the U.S. State Department revamped its travel advisory system. It gave Mexico an overall Level 3 warning for visitors to exercise caution.

Violent crimes, such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery are widespread throughout Mexico.

Los Cabos in particular is noted by the U.S. government for having zero travel restrictions.

Tourism is an important part of the economy therefore the local government has invested time, money, and energy into making sure there are not any Cabo travel warnings and that Los Cabos is safe!

Your safety in Cabo San Lucas is a priority for Los Cabos Tourism so if anything does occur, your resort and the proper authorities will help you sort out any problems and answer any questions about safety in Mexico. 

So, is Cabos safe? Yes, but it wouldn’t be wise to assume that there’s never a petty crime. 

It’s highly unlikely that any of your walks or excursions will lead you somewhere dangerous.

As you explore the city, exercise caution and avoid flashing a large amount of money or wearing expensive jewelry. These items as well as important travel documents can be kept in your safe at the resort.

If you’re going out at night, stay with a group, and don’t wander off on your own, especially if you’re a woman.

You’re not likely to be killed by an organized crime group in a resort city like Cabo San Lucas; instead, you’re more likely to have your valuables stolen while in a touristy area during daylight hours.

When my readers ask me is Los Cabos safe, my response is a resounding yes if you do not go looking for trouble! For the life of Gawd do not go to a foreign country buying drugs and then play the victim when something bad happens.

If you can’t spend the weekend in another country without smoking weed you should probably be checking yourself into rehab instead of traveling to Cancun.  

Almost all of the American tourists that have been killed in Mexico are due to them buying drugs from the cartel because they were too afraid to fly with weed so someone thought it was a good idea to buy drugs in a foreign country. 😩😩😩😩

Mexico Travel Restrictions 2023

Most of the homicides in Mexico and Cabo San Lucas are isolated incidents targeted by criminal organizations and turf battles between criminal groups.

Which has resulted in bystanders being injured or killed therefore you must remain diligent about your safety in Cabo San Lucas.

Do not let the over-exaggerated news stories deter you from traveling to this vibrant Latin American destination.

Aside from dangerous areas along the U.S. border and other regions where cartels operate, Mexico is safe and I firmly believe it is safe to travel to Mexico including Cabo San Lucas.

In general, if you’re not taking part in illegal activities you don’t have anything to worry about.

To put things in perspective, Level 3 is the same tier given to many other tourist hotspots that have an uptake in criminal activity including the following countries:

• Anguilla
• Dominican Republic
• Belize
• Brazil
• The United Kingdom
• Belgium
• Italy

I have been to both Belize and Italy and I have never wondered is it safe to travel to those countries.  Are you concerned about traveling to Italy?

Italy has the same level 3 warning so why is Mexico considered more violent and why are you asking is Los Cabos safe?

Cabo San Lucas Safety vs. The U.S. Safety

Mexico is statistically much safer than the United States.

So why is the U.S. State Dept. sending out Travel Alerts, calling Mexico “A Failed State”, and saying that ALL parts of the country (including popular tourist resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun) are now unsafe for travel?

There has been a lot of news coverage about violence in Mexico. But very little of it notes that Mexico is a HUGE country with thirty-one states (+ the Distrito Federal).

They also fail to mention that most of that violence is drug traffic-related, or that you could count the number of tourists who are affected by it on one hand.

Did you know that, according to the FBI, an estimated 15,241 persons were murdered in the U.S. in 2009 111 U.S. citizens were killed in Mexico last year, and almost all of them were involved in illicit drug trafficking, gun-running, or smuggling people across the border to/from the U.S?

Imagine 111 people out of the nearly 8 million visitors (about 1 million of whom make Mexico their full-time home). Do you know who else had 111 murders in one year?

Well, Boston for starters. Then there was Las Vegas. And Orlando. And Indianapolis. Is the State Dept. advising tourists to stay away from those places?

Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 U.S. citizens died in Puerto Rico, but did anybody raise a red flag about that? The State Department can’t issue a Travel Warning, because it is not a foreign country

How big is your own city when compared to Mexico? Here are the annual numbers of MURDERS, given by MSA (or Metropolitan Statistical Area)

• Atlanta – 325
• Baltimore – 298
• Boston – 111
• Dallas/Ft. Worth – 310
• Detroit – 447
• Houston – 462 
• Indianapolis – 111
• Jacksonville, FL – 120
• Kansas City – 163 
• Las Vegas – 133 
• Los Angeles – 68 
• Miami-Boca Raton – 377
• New Orleans – 252 
• New York City – 778
• Orlando – 111
• Philadelphia – 436 
• Phoenix – 302 
• San Francisco – 392 
• St. Louis – 210 
• Washington, DC – 325 

To put things in perspective, consider that the murder rate in Mexico’s Yucatan State is 2 per 100,000.

That is about the same as Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Or Evansville, Indiana. Mexico City’s murder rate is 8 per 100,000, despite being the second-largest city on the planet. That is on par with Albuquerque.

Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo:

Cabo San Lucas

The increased popularity of Cabo San Lucas is its outstanding nightlife. And it is for this reason that Cabo San Lucas is well known. 

Besides, it catches the attention of students, young people, and couples to head to this beach city during major holidays to celebrate.

There are tons of options for you when it comes to partying in Cabo San Lucas!

San Jose Del Cabo

Besides the ”Cabo” in its name, this city turns out to be just 20 miles from Cabo San Lucas too.  But don’t be fooled by this as it’s vastly different from the other popular city. 

First of all, San Jose del Cabo is a little bit older, just 250 years older.  Second of all, it’s a quieter place and attracts a different kind of visitors, it is definitely worth a visit!

San Jose Del Cabo is the place to be if you have disposable income and luxury accommodations are a must when you travel. 

It has some of the best luxury resorts in the world and is the perfect destination to relax and unwind.  You will not find drunk college students and loud partying going well into the night.

We’ve all heard the stories about the corrupt cops south of the border. With stories ranging from extortion to kidnapping, the police in Mexico and the rest of Latin America do not have the best reputation.

Police extortion of tourists detained for minor offenses is often a problem and there have been some grotesque incidents. The authorities cracked down hard, however, and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. They claim the problem is under control.

If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico, you will be asked for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and possibly proof of insurance. You will also be told what you did wrong.

 Of course, in the U.S. we would then be issued a ticket that requires us to pay a fine or appear in court at a later date.

If it is a minor infraction don’t bribe them, even so, it is possible that they ask for some money, the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction, if you passed a red light it is better if they only give you the traffic ticket

If you drive without a license, the car must be impounded and the fine is higher, in that case, I suggest you offer $ 200 pesos (if you look Mexican) if you are blond with blue eyes maybe about $500 pesos

If you are stopped drinking alcohol in the street, the fine is $ 1500 pesos or 24 hours of jail, you will probably have to pay your full fine

Those are the most common crimes for which a police officer can pull you over, obviously, if you steal or kill, the amount will be considerably higher

The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake and when it is inevitable that they take you to jail then subtly offer the bribe, it is like a negotiation, start with a low amount and they will go up to agree on an amount.

The strategy you Should NOT use to Deal with Corrupt Mexican Police

 Don’t be a tough guy or gal

This is the worst thing that you can do.  If you act tough and get angry and make threats, the officer will simply arrest you for being disorderly or assaulting him or her, etc.

This is a very big no-no. Towing your car is technically something that the officer can’t do, even though they will threaten it, but if you give them enough of a desire to cause you to harm they will absolutely find a way to make it happen.

While most officers will not do anything illegal beyond soliciting bribes for traffic violations, they most certainly can act above the law when they really want to.

Don’t give them a reason to want to, because you will not win. Having your car towed (and potentially never seeing it again) is a lot more expensive than paying him one hundred bucks.

20 Tips to Stay Safe in Cabo San Lucas

Although a travel advisory is in effect, it’s important to remember that tourists flock to Mexico every year without incident.

The Mexican government is highly motivated to keep tourists safe in order to preserve the tourist trade but you must also do your part when traveling to Mexico.

Traveling anywhere requires some safety precautions. So, remember to enlist these general rules during your vacation and you will not have to continually ask is Los Cabos safe.

Here are some precautions that you can take in order to make sure your trip goes as planned:

1. Keep Your Nose Clean: As mentioned above, much of the criminal activity in Mexico revolves around the drug trade and sex trade. Although many Americans go south of the border to have a little fun remember the last thing you want is to end up in a Mexican Jail. 
2. When Driving, Stick to Main Roads, and Daytime Travel: One of the most popular methods to extort money and protect cartel turf is through carjacks or roadblock ambushes. Avoid back roads and nighttime driving and hire taxis and driving services through the hotel where you’re staying.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date about safety news through a few methods. First of all, talk with your travel agent and/or hotel concierge about safety updates, and where to go. They’ll have the most current read on the situation. As an American Citizen, you should also consider signing up for STEP, the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program. This will sign you up for travel alerts, put you on the consulate and Embassy radar, and make it easier to work things out if there’s an incident. 
4. Leave a copy of your passport and itinerary with someone at home.
5. Keep your valuables locked up when you leave the hotel.
6. Learn the language as much as possible (This is not just for safety, but also for courtesy, which can actually keep you safer too!)  Remember the old saying you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar? 
7. Trust people who are invested long-term in making your stay a good one, like booking agents and hotel staff, and be on your guard with one-off opportunities.
8. Research your destination: Make sure you are up to date on the current travel warnings. 
9. Keep windows shut and doors locked in a car: especially at traffic lights
10. Use first-class bus companies– these bus companies take toll roads that have security checks on passengers as they board.
11. Don’t walk around by yourself late at night: You are asking for trouble.
12. Be careful taking money out of the ATM: these are good spots to rob people. 
13. Use a money belt: Keep the thieves at bay.
14. Don’t get scammed: If someone is asking you for your personal information will are likely scamming.
15. Don’t wear flashy jewelry – looking like you are balling out of control will get you robbed. Leave your LV and Gucci in the states. 
16. Ask for a hotel concierge: The hotel staff will be able to provide full tips about where to eat and what attractions you must see.
17. Avoid getting DRUNK: you need to know where you are at all times.
18. Don’t try to buy drugs: Don’t ask about buying drugs and don’t even think about buying drugs.
19. DON’T travel at night: Most crime occurs at night.
20. Only use well-known tour operators: Most of the cheaper tour operators will not have up-to-date equipment and experienced guides.

Beach Safety In Cabo San Lucas

One of the main reasons Americans travel to Cabo San Lucas is to enjoy the warm weather and the relaxing beach. 

The beaches in Los Cabos do not have lifeguards, though most resorts have access to medical personnel. Travelers should be careful when they swim and not take any risks like jumping off rocks or swimming near coral.

Finally, while I understand you are in Mexico and “dranking” is at the top of your to-do list remember the heat and too much alcohol do not mix well and can lead to massive dehydration.

Avoid swimming at the beach when a black warning flag is posted. Cover your child with sunscreen or protective clothing before heading to the beach.

Wear Sunscreen in Los Cabos

You didn’t fly to Mexico to stay inside but please beware that Mexican rays are intense and can lead to a severe burn or sun poisoning, especially during the warmer spring and summer months.

The sun in Cabos San Lucas is pretty strong and high in damaging UV rays. Stay hydrated and limit the amount of sun you get based on your skin type.

• Staying in the shade as much as possible.
• Protecting skin with clothing.
• Applying sunscreen to protect skin from harmful rays.
• Wearing a hat preferably with at least 2-3 inches brim all around.
• Wear sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.

Excessive Drinking 

The Mexican authorities do not tolerate excessive drinking and rowdy behavior. In Cabos, it is illegal to disturb the peaceful environment, litter, and drink on the streets, or on public transport.

• Don’t Get Drunk 
• Drink as much water and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Take along a friend whenever going to a party or club to guarantee the safety of both.
• Never drink and drive.

Eating Too Much in Los Cabos

Vacations are often synonymous with overindulgence – whether it’s too much food, water, the sun, a party, or even rest.

This is why it is called a vacation. And when you are in Cabo – you are bound to overindulge in all of the above. But when it’s over, it’s back to reality.

Cabo San Lucas offers variety in its cuisines and budget. Take your time, it’s a vacation, not an eating marathon.

• Packing a few healthy snacks with you.
• Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid ordering the “fancy drinks” available at pool bars. Packed with calories!
• Take a run or head to the hotel gym every morning before heading out for sightseeing.

Is Cabo Safe for Families? 

Mexico is safe but if you are traveling with small kids the beach resort areas of Los Cabos and other popular Mexican cities are popular vacation destinations for families with young children. 

These areas provide you with the opportunity to introduce your kids to a new culture, new food, and a different way of life.

Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Los Cabos?

For the most part, bus travel is the best way to get around in Mexico, but if you are anything like me I prefer to be on my own time and not have to wait on other people. 

I like to explore and make up my itinerary as I go and those tour buses do not give me the freedom and they may not cover every place I want to see. 

The Yucatan, for example, is especially suited to driving: Many beaches, barely developed ruins, and intriguing villages lie a good distance from the main road.

Highways are well-maintained, constantly being improved, and so straight that the slightest curve bristles with warning signs and reflectors.

It’s generally safe to drive in Los Cabos, but I suggest parking your car at night and don’t stay out too late.

Travel Insurance is a Must

I’ve traveled without insurance and trust me you don’t want to get sick on your vacation. I’ve had flights canceled and got sick in the Czech Republic. Travel insurance will help you keep peace of mind.

Depending on your needs you can find a policy that fits your needs.

Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure!  I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.

PLEASE GET TRAVEL INSURANCE!

 

Is it Safe to Drink The Water in Los Cabos?

Even the locals don’t drink the water in Mexico.   

You can buy bottled water anywhere, but when you buy water, make sure it is factory sealed to guarantee it is safe to drink. Crystal is one popular brand in Los Cabos.

Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Most ice in the area comes from factories and is purified. If you are uncertain about the ice, ask your waiter.

Many travelers take risks with food and water. If you are on a long trip, being sick for a few days isn’t such a big deal.

If this is a week-long vacation, do you really want to spend half of it sick just because you were too lazy to get bottled water when you brushed your teeth?

With nearly 6000 miles of coastline and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Mexico is great for families, couples, and solo travelers who love great beaches. 

Millions of people visit Mexico each year and 99% of travelers do not run into any trouble but the 1% that makes the news is all that you hear about and you began asking yourself is Cabo safe.

 

Best Beach Hotels in Los Cabos

Which resorts have swimmable beaches in Cabo San Lucas and the tourist corridor? Where can you walk out of your hotel room in Los Cabos and go for a swim in the ocean?

Esperanza, an Auberge Resort & Spa in Cabo San Lucas

Photo Credit: aubergeresorts.com

Waves crash along the rocks, sending salty spray into air warmed by brilliant sunshine. This centuries-old rhythm helped shape Cabo’s Punta Ballena coastline, named for its resemblance to a whale’s tail. You’ll feel at harmony with the vivid sensations of Baja California—and with the Esperanza family.

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Luxury Boutique Hotels Cabo San Lucas

Photo Credit: www.thompsonhotels.com

A Los Cabos boutique hotel like no other. Imagine a side of Los Cabos you never knew existed, where the soul willingly surrenders to el sol. It’s a fresh and vibrant approach to Los Cabos luxury—a singular beachfront retreat commanding a contour of the cape where every room and vantage point overlooks El Arco and the Bahia Cabo San Lucas horizon.

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Hotel Casa Costa Azul

Photo Credit: www.hotelcasacostazulcabo.com

Casa Costa Azul is located right on the beach, giving you the pleasures of nature, the feel of warm water, the sound of waves, the pleasure of sun and surf.

Time will slow down for you to enjoy the thrill of a majestic sunrise, and have a walk on our soft sandy beach.

This is the place for you to see gray whales passing, baby turtles going to the sea for the first time and watching marine birds in their natural habitat.

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San Jose del Cabo - Best Surf Spot in the area

Photo Credit: cabosurfhotel.com

Cabo Surf Hotel is part of "Balderrama Hotel Collection" a Mexican owned and operated hotel company with properties located in Copper Canyon, Mexico. A magnificent canyon land comparable in size and depth to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. An incredible place, land of the Tarahumara Indian tribe (well known by their stamina, running long hours on end) and only accessible by the "Chihuahua al Pacifico" train ride.

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Premier Five-Star Cabo San Lucas Luxury Resort - Casa Dorada Resort & Spa

Photo Credit: www.casadorada.com

Guests arriving at Casa Dorada Los Cabos, Resort & Spa find themselves in a setting distinguished by breathtaking natural beauty, chic luxury and unparalleled dining experiences. We welcome you to discover one of the best five-star resorts in Cabo – overlooking the immaculate white sands of swimmable blue flag Medano Beach and the magnificent Arch of Cabo San Lucas and just a five-minute stroll from downtown Cabo San Lucas.

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Old World Luxury on Cabo San Lucas' Luminous Pacific Coast

Photo Credit: www.pueblobonito.com

Step into a world of unforgettable moments at Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic getaway, fishing adventure or family vacation in Mexico, allow our collection of oceanfront resorts to be your home base for a beautiful vacation in Cabo San Lucas or Mazatlán. Get set to enjoy turquoise blue seas, sparking sand, waterfront swimming pools and peaceful gardens, all wrapped in Pueblo Bonito's brand of blissful coastal tranquility. From Mazatlán to Land's End, our spectacular resorts in Mexico will captivate your senses.

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Luxury Hotel & Beach Resort, Los Cabos, Mexico | One&Only Palmilla

Photo Credit: www.oneandonlyresorts.com

Our luxury Mexico resort on the azure coastline of the Sea of Cortez welcomes you. Surrounded by shimmering sands, swaying palms and the blue of the sky and the sea, reserve one of our One&Only Palmilla rooms, suites, Casita suites or luxury villas and fully immerse yourself into the charm of Los Cabos. Indulge yourself with Villa Cortez, a stunning escape unlike any other, and Villa One, our most exclusive villa perched at the highest point of the resort.

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Conclusion: Is Cabo Safe

Is Cabos safe? Yes, if you stay abreast of all Mexico travel warnings, exercise common sense, and pay attention to news about safety in the city you are visiting I don’t think you will have any issues.

Keep in mind that bad things can anywhere not just in Mexico but I am sure there are crimes taking place right in your very own neighborhood. 

No matter where you go in Mexico, follow the common-sense rules that are listed above like drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your expensive watches and rings at home. 

Mexico is safe to visit so long as you stay out of trouble, take precautions, don’t buy drugs, and ladies do not allow men to buy you a cocktail and I don’t care how cute he is.  BUY YOUR OWN COCKTAILS!

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ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Mexico vs. Costa Rica Which is Safer

Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico

Best Luxury Resorts in Los Cabos

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