Are you looking for a family-friendly destination? Then, San Jose del Cabo is what you need! This Mexican city is full of surprises, from beaches to iconic landmarks, that cater to both younger visitors and adults. It is also a secure destination with supervised beaches and cultural exploration opportunities, offering families a golden chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and learn about the city’s history. While deciding on how long to spend in this town depends on your preferences, here is a helpful 5-Day San Jose del Cabo Itinerary For Families that can be altered to however long you want to stay.
👉 Bonus: We even made a free downloadable 5-day San Jose del Cabo Itinerary for Families PDF to make your planning super easy. [Get it here👇🏻]
Budgeting For A Family Trip In San Jose del Cabo
San Jose del Cabo can be considered an expensive travel destination compared to other cities in Mexico. But don’t let this halt your family vacation plans; the town offers options for budget-conscious travelers as well. These include affordable accommodations, food, and transport options. With a reasonable budget plan, you can reduce the original travel cost from $1,000 to $1,500 per person to figures that you can afford.
Food
Eat local to save money in San Jose del Cabo. Choose budget-friendly eats at local taco stands and eateries, with meals averaging around $10 to $20 per person. Families can opt for mid-range restaurants, which can cost $20 to $50 per person. Upscale dining experiences cost more than that.
Transportation
Use public transit to access attractions in San Jose del Cabo. Ruta del Desierto buses run every 8 to 10 minutes between the Los Cabos Airport, the downtown area, and Cabo San Lucas. The public bus charges MX$37 for trips between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas and MX$80 for trips to or from the airport. Taxis and rideshares charge around $10 to $20, depending on the location and group size.
Accommodation
Budget-conscious travelers should consider staying in a vacation rental or a more affordable hotel. A basic hotel or apartment charges somewhere around $58 to $102 per night. You will find mid-range hotels below $250, while high-end resorts and villas charge $500 and over per night.
5-Day San Jose del Cabo Itinerary for Families: Day 1: Arrival And Beach Time
Land at the San José del Cabo International Airport (Los Cabos International Airport) and take a taxi to your hotel. After checking in, freshen up or sleep the jet lag off.
Spend The Afternoon At Playa Palmilla⛱️
- Address: Tourist Corridor, 23405 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Things To Do: Swimming, Sunbathing, Snorkeling, Fishing
Start your San Jose del Cabo trip at the infamous Playa Palmilla. This public beach is renowned for its pristine sands, swimmable waters, and a protected cove. Its waters are relatively calm and protected, making them perfect for families with young children. You can also relax under palapas or rent a chair with a beach umbrella. In addition to swimming, this calm beach is perfect for snorkeling and fishing. You can also enjoy leisurely walks through its long stretch of white sand.
Optional: Head to San Jose del Cabo’s swimmable beach, Costa Azul, on the southwestern edge.
Evening: Dinner At A Family-Friendly Local Restaurant🍝
San Jose del Cabo’s culinary scene is renowned for its bold flavors with emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. While traditional Mexican cuisine is readily available everywhere, you will also find eateries offering international fare. Reserve a table and enjoy the city’s signature dishes such as Damasco, Chiles en Nogada, and Ceviche. Here are some family-friendly restaurants in San Jose del Cabo to choose from:
- La Antonia Restaurante San José del Cabo: Calle de las Pangas Chalupa esquina, Mauricio Castro, 23405 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; 8 AM – 2 PM
- La Forchetta: Plaza el Pescador Misión San José 24, 23406 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; 5 PM – 10 PM
- Los Tres Gallos: Alvaro Obregon 15, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; 11 AM – 10 PM
- George’s Restaurant at La Marina Inn: Mantarraya S/N, La Playa, 23403 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; 7 AM – 10 PM
- Casa Martin: Miguel Hidalgo 9-Local # 7, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; 5 PM – 10 PM
Day 2: Wildlife And Nature Exploration
Morning: Migriño Beach🏍️
- Address: 23597 BCS, Mexico; Google Map
- Things To Do: Off-road Adventures, Horseback Riding, Camel Rides
Begin your second day in San Jose del Cabo with an adventurous activity. Migriño Beach is located by the sign at Km. 97 and is among the renowned destinations for off-road adventures. ATV and RZR tours allow visitors to explore the desert and dunes in style. You can also book a thrilling Dune Buggy tour and drive through the dunes in a dune buggy. If you want something relaxing, choose horseback riding or camel rides, which allow you to explore the beach at a slower pace. Other must-try activities here are nature and wildlife tours, sunset cruises, snorkeling expeditions, and 4WD tours.
Afternoon: San Jose Estuary and Bird Sanctuary🦜
- Address: Blvd. Antonio Mijares s/n, Campo de Golf Fonatur, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Things To Do: Birdwatching, Hiking, Biking
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Estero San José, or San Jose Estuary and Bird Sanctuary. The estuary is a haven for bird lovers, featuring hundreds of tropical native and migratory birds. Nearly 150 to 250 different types of birds migrate here, including Red-Tailed Hawks, Egrets, Herons, Turkey Vultures, Pelicans, Spoonbills, Cuckoos, Woodpeckers, Mockingbirds, and Tyrant Flycatchers. In addition to abundant bird life, this nature reserve features scenic hiking and biking trails. Stroll, bike, or hike this estuary.
Early Evening: Sunset Cruise In San Jose del Cabo⛵️
- Duration: 2 hours
- Price: $95 onwards
Close the day with a picturesque sunset cruise in San Jose del Cabo. These cruises are usually two hours long and are ideal for couples, solo travelers, and families. They typically depart in the late afternoon or early evening, around 5 PM, to ensure visitors get the best sunset views. Expect a golden sunset glow, gentle ocean breeze, and a serene atmosphere. You can also choose the dinner and drinks option while booking a cruise.
Day 3: Adventure And Water Activities
Full Day: Snorkeling Tour At Chileno Bay🤿
- Address: Baja California Sur, Mexico; Google Map
- Entry Fee: Free Entry
- Things To Do: Swimming, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding
Travel to the Striped Marlin Capital of the World, Los Cabos. It is renowned for its paradisiacal beaches, water adventures, and vibrant nightlife. Your destination is Chileno Bay, a blue flag, golden sandy beach known for clear waters and abundant marine life. Its laid-back atmosphere is ideal for families wanting to spend some quality time together. Snorkel in its calm, azure waters and check out sea turtles, moray eels, and diverse species of fish. This public beach has a designated lifeguard station, showers, restrooms, and shaded areas, guaranteeing a comfortable and enjoyable place for a vacation.
Optional: Book a kayaking or paddleboarding tour in the calm bay.
Evening: Local Markets🍅
- What To Buy: Handcrafted Jewelry, Woven Blankets, Pottery, Ceramics, Embroidered Clothing, Local Art
- Top Destination: San Jose Organic Market, El Merkado, California Ranch Market, Plaza Artesanos
Relax at your hotel or hit up local markets in the evening. The San Jose Organic Market is an ideal destination for purchasing locally grown, organic produce. It also features local artisans selling a variety of handicrafts, including paintings, jewelry, and photography. If you’re a foodie, visit the infamous El Merkado, which offers a variety of seafood and diverse cuisines, including Mexican, Japanese, and Italian. Likewise, San Jose del Cabo-based Plaza Artesanos features over 75 vendors selling authentic Mexican jewelry, hand-stitched dresses, tote bags, potteries, textiles, rugs, ceramics, and street art. It is a perfect destination for buying gifts and souvenirs.
Day 4: Cultural And Historical Exploration
Morning: Misión San José del Cabo⛪
- Address: Miguel Hidalgo S/N, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 8 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free Entry
Start your morning at the historic Misión San José del Cabo. This historic Jesuit mission is in the heart of the city near Plaza Mijares. Initially established in 1730, it suffered damage in 1822 from an attack by insurgent ships and in 1918 from a hurricane. The current structure, built in 1940, features twin bell towers, arched entryways, and a pale brick façade. Its interior features a pulpit, traditional pews, and wall recesses with religious statues and depictions. Learn about local history and Cabo’s colonial past here.
Afternoon: The Gallery District🖼️
- Address: Alvaro Obregon 12, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Social Media: Official Instagram, Official Facebook
Take a walk to the up-and-coming Gallery District, in the heart of San Jose del Cabo. This cultural center features former colonial houses housing high-end, interactive art galleries. They showcase contemporary paintings, original artworks, photography prints, sculptures, and jewelry by local and international artists. You will also find works by the top folk artists and artisans of San Jose del Cabo and Mexico. Check out paintings and buy if something catches your eye. The district also features low-key gastropubs, bars, shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Evening: The Art Walk🎨
- Address: Alvaro Obregon 20, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; Google Map
- Opening Day: Thursday
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 9 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
If it’s Thursday, you might as well attend the Art Walk. The Gallery District Association hosts this famous weekly event every Thursday from 5 to 9 PM. The art walk takes visitors on a colorful tour of cobbled streets, where art galleries and artisan shops open their doors to the public. These galleries typically host special events, such as ‘artist in attendance’ sessions or the launch of new exhibitions. Stroll through the color-filled back streets, sip wine, and dine in a local eatery. This is a great cultural experience for all ages, including little children and teenagers.
4 hours
EN, ES
- 2 Hours of Free Time
- Art Galleries
- San Jose Del Cabo Art District
Day 5: Outdoor Fun And Farewell
Morning: Horseback Riding On The Beach🐎
- Duration: 2 hours
- Price: $85 onwards
It is now the last day in this 5-Day San Jose del Cabo Itinerary For Families. Book a horseback riding experience on the beach for your morning expedition. These horse riding tours are usually two hours long and feature an English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. You will explore a beach or desert landscape on the backs of well-trained horses. Visitors will receive an introduction and training before the experience. While you don’t have to be a skilled horse rider, most horseback riding tours typically have a maximum weight limit. Alternative: Book a family-friendly ATV tour.
Midday: Lunch At A Local Eatery🍽️
- Recommended Restaurant: La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
- Address: Jose Maria Morelos s/n, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico; Google Map
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Treat yourself and your family to a hearty lunch at a local eatery. If you want any recommendation, La Lupita Taco & Mezcal is a go-to option for diners wishing to savor traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant follows traditional recipes to create mouthwatering dishes with authentic flavors. Tacos are a must-have item here, followed by Peruvian Ceviche, Santo Pastor, and Esquites. Families can order the special menu, A Taste of La Lupita, featuring a Sikil pack, guacamole, grasshoppers, blue chips, and a mini tortilla. Enjoy your meal with a cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Shopping🛍️
Finally, stop by a few malls for last-minute shopping. San Jose del Cabo features many shops, boutiques, markets, and malls, where you can purchase anything you want, from clothing to jewelry, ceramics, handmade crafts, and quirky souvenirs. You can bargain or haggle with sellers, particularly at markets and street vendors. However, don’t be rude and instead opt for respectful negotiation. Alternative: Enjoy some family beach time before you depart from San Jose del Cabo.
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Our 5-day San Jose del Cabo Itinerary for families is designed to help you enjoy a hassle-free trip with your little ones. It can be customizable to your preferences and used by couples and other types of visitors. Before traveling to this Mexican city, be sure to carry your important documents (ID, visa, travel tickets, and insurance) and other essential travel items (hygiene products, hair care, skincare, and electronics). Pack comfortable shoes, dresses, bathing suits, cover-ups, light jackets, casual clothes, and dinner outfits. Also, never forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
