Is Cabo San Lucas the Same as Los Cabos? A Complete Guide
Los Cabos, a sun-kissed gem on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, is one of Mexico’s most scenic and sought-after destinations. With golden beaches stretching for miles, dramatic desert backdrops, and a vibe that balances laid-back luxury with adventure, it draws everyone from honeymooners and families to thrill-seekers and sun-chasers alike.
What many travelers don’t realize is that Los Cabos isn’t just one place. Los Cabos is actually a region made up of two distinct coastal cities: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, connected by the scenic 20-mile Tourist Corridor.
This guide breaks down the unique personality of each, helping you choose the one that fits your travel style — or why splitting your time between both cities might be the ultimate escape.
Why Visit Los Cabos?
Where desert meets deep blue sea, Los Cabos stuns with golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and iconic sights like El Arco — the natural rock arch rising from the sea like a welcome from nature.
With nearly 300 sunny days a year, expect warm afternoons and cool nights ideal for open-air dinners or moonlit strolls. Los Cabos is a destination built for play — jet skiing turquoise bays, teeing off with ocean views, or spotting humpback whales offshore.
By day, Los Cabos is all about adventure and sunshine. By night, it shifts gears — from candlelit dining to nightlife that doesn’t quit. Whether you crave adrenaline or relaxation, this place delivers.
Getting there is easy from the U.S. and Canada, with non-stop flights from cities including L.A. and Vancouver.
What Makes San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, and Los Cabos Different?
Planning a trip to Baja can get a little tricky once you hear the words Cabo or Los Cabos. Is Cabo and Los Cabos the same? Is Cabo San Lucas the same as Los Cabos? Is San Jose del Cabo the same as Cabo San Lucas? Let’s clear things up.
Los Cabos is the region at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. It includes two distinct cities — Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo — plus the scenic Tourist Corridor that connects them.
Cabo San Lucas is the lively one: buzzing beach clubs, booming nightlife, and adrenaline-fueled water sports. San José del Cabo is the artsy contrast — laid-back, charming, and full of culture, with colonial streets, boutiques, and galleries around every corner.
Think of Los Cabos as one destination, two personalities. Whether you’re into high-energy fun or artful serenity, knowing the difference helps you plan your perfect escape.
Now that we’ve cleared up those long-standing Cabo questions — Is Cabo and Los Cabos the same? Is Cabo San Lucas the same as Los Cabos? Let’s dive deeper into what makes them special.
Los Cabos
A region of contrasts, Los Cabos blends desert peaks, rugged coastlines, and two oceans, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific. Anchored by the high-energy Cabo San Lucas and the artsy, traditional San José del Cabo — plus the stunning Tourist Corridor in between — it’s one of Mexico’s top vacation spots.
Many visitors ask, “Is Cabo San Lucas the same as Los Cabos?” Not quite, Cabo San Lucas is one part of the larger Los Cabos region. With over 50 nonstop flight routes into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), the region is as accessible as it is memorable. Think luxury resorts, stylish villas, family-friendly all inclusives, and activities that range from world-class golf and Blue Flag beaches to whale watching and top-tier dining.
Thanks to its layout, most travelers explore more than one area, easily sampling the best of both cities.
Cabo San Lucas
Lively, loud, and built for fun, Cabo San Lucas is the commercial heart of Los Cabos — perfect for party-goers, first-timers, and groups chasing sun and energy.
A common point of confusion for travelers: Is Cabo and Los Cabos the same? Or, is Cabo San Lucas the same as Los Cabos? The answer — no. Cabo San Lucas is just one energetic slice of the broader Los Cabos region. And when people mention “Cabo,” they’re typically referring to this lively hotspot.
Cabo San Lucas’s bustling marina is the launchpad for deep-sea fishing, boat tours, and snorkeling at El Arco. Medano Beach buzzes with jet skis and beach bars, while nightlife brings rooftop lounges, clubs, and party spots like El Squid Roe.
Popular with cruise crowds and bachelor/bachelorette trips, Cabo always delivers the good times.
San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo is the relaxed, artsy side of Los Cabos — full of charm, colonial flair, and traditional Mexican culture. Its historic downtown is all pastel buildings, shady plazas, and cobbled streets leading to galleries and artisan shops.
Every Thursday night (November to June), the Art Walk turns the town into a creative street party, with live music, local wine, and open studios.
It’s ideal for couples, families, and travelers looking for a slower, more upscale escape. Smaller boutique resorts and peaceful beaches like Playa Palmilla and La Playita complement the easygoing vibe.
Tourist Corridor
Spanning 20 miles between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, the Tourist Corridor is a coastal highway that delivers the best of both worlds, with desert cliffs, turquoise waters, and luxury resorts at every turn.
Along this scenic stretch, you’ll find some of Los Cabos’ top stays—from icons like Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos to chic escapes like Grand Velas Los Cabos. It’s a haven for golfers, too, with championship courses by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio.
For those who want the best of both worlds — the energy of Cabo San Lucas, the charm of San José del Cabo, and a peaceful retreat in between — the Tourist Corridor offers the ideal mix of luxury, landscape, and laid-back comfort.
RELATED: 18 Things to Do in Los Cabos
Comparing Cabo San Lucas & San Jose del Cabo
Los Cabos is a tale of two coastal cities: lively Cabo San Lucas and laid-back San José del Cabo. Here’s how they stack up side by side.
Vibe Cabo San Lucas: Bold and buzzing—beach parties, marina views, and nightlife that never sleeps. San José del Cabo: Calm and cultured, with cobblestone streets and a creative, colonial spirit.
Accommodations Cabo San Lucas: Big beachfront resorts and all-inclusives, great for groups and first-timers. San José del Cabo: Boutique hotels and design-forward stays with rooftop bars and artful touches.
Activities Cabo San Lucas: Think jet skiing, snorkeling at El Arco, and sunset cruises. San José del Cabo: Explore the estuary, tee off at oceanfront courses, or browse the Art District.
Dining Cabo San Lucas: Lively and casual—tacos, seafood shacks, and beachside bites. San José del Cabo: Farm-to-table gems and modern Mexican fare.
Family-Friendliness Cabo San Lucas: Fun for families, but nightlife can overwhelm. San José del Cabo: Quieter beaches and cultural outings, perfect for all ages.
Which is Better: Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo?
Craving wild nights and beachside buzz? Cabo San Lucas is your spot. Prefer charming streets, art galleries, and romance? Head to San José del Cabo. Can’t decide? Stay in the Tourist Corridor and enjoy the best of both worlds. Whether you’re after vibrant energy or tranquil culture, Los Cabos caters to your style.
Book the Ideal Los Cabos Vacation for You Today!
Los Cabos has something for every traveler — from the high-energy thrills of Cabo San Lucas to the relaxed charm of San José del Cabo, or a blend of both along the Tourist Corridor. Whatever your style, the perfect Baja escape awaits.
Ready to book? Visit All Inclusive Outlet to explore top deals on Los Cabos vacation packages. Your paradise is just a few clicks away.
