Planning Your Perfect Cabo Family Getaway
When my own kids first dipped their toes in Chileno Bay’s crystal waters, I knew we’d found something special. The region strikes that perfect balance between excitement and relaxation that families crave. Visit between mid-December and April to witness the majestic humpback whales breaching offshore – a sight that leaves children and adults equally awestruck. If you prefer fewer crowds (and often better rates), consider the sweet spot of May-June before the summer heat peaks.
The beauty of Los Cabos is that it combines two distinct towns—lively Cabo San Lucas and the more relaxed, cultural San José del Cabo—connected by a stunning coastal corridor. With direct flights from over 25 major US cities, getting your crew here is surprisingly simple.
Once you arrive, you’ll find why families feel so at home. The region boasts several family-friendly beaches where little ones can splash safely. Medano Beach offers gentle waves perfect for first-time swimmers, while Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay provide incredible snorkeling opportunities even for beginners. My eight-year-old still talks about the rainbow of tropical fish she spotted at Chileno!
Regarding where to stay, Los Cabos truly shines with options for every family style. More than 60% of resorts feature dedicated kids’ clubs where young explorers can make friends while parents enjoy well-deserved downtime. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos impresses with its comprehensive all-inclusive approach, Grand Velas lifts family luxury to an art form, and Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach offers multi-bedroom suites perfect for larger families or multigenerational trips.
Beyond beach days, families can bond over unforgettable experiences like camel safaris through the desert landscape, sea turtle releases (seasonal but magical), or whale-watching excursions, where you might spot dozens of these magnificent creatures in a single outing.
Getting around with kids requires some planning, where pre-arranged airport transfers become invaluable. Private shuttles offer the convenience of grocery stops (stock the villa kitchen before you even arrive!) and door-to-door service with complimentary drinks. Shared shuttles are more economical if you don’t mind a few extra stops along the way.
Families considering Mexico often raise the safety question, but rest assured—over 80% of surveyed families report feeling completely secure in Los Cabos, which consistently ranks among Mexico’s safest destinations.
Whether your family seeks a trip, relaxation, cultural experiences, or poolside bliss, Cabo family travel delivers it all under the warm Baja sun. Start planning your escape today – those 3 million annual visitors can’t be wrong!
Cabo Family Travel Basics: When to Go, Where to Stay & How to Get Around
Planning a Cabo family travel trip starts with getting the basics right. Knowing when to visit, where to call home, and how to steer this sunny paradise with kids will set the stage for vacation magic.
Best Time for Cabo Family Travel
Los Cabos basks in sunshine almost year-round, but timing can improve your family experience.
December through April brings comfortable 75-85°F temperatures and incredible whale-watching opportunities. My kids still talk about the humpbacks breaching right from our hotel balcony! Just be prepared for higher prices and crowds, especially during holiday weeks when resorts reach peak capacity.
May and June offer what many parents (myself included) consider the sweet spot – the “shoulder season” with fewer crowds, better values, and still-perfect temperatures before summer’s heat kicks in. One family I met returns every June because “the pools are less crowded, and we can always get a reservation at our favorite restaurants.”
July through October is hurricane season, bringing warmer temperatures and higher humidity. While prices drop significantly (sometimes up to 40%), be aware that some activities might be limited if the weather turns stormy. Consider travel insurance during these months for peace of mind.
November marks the beginning of the dry season with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds before holiday rates kick in – another excellent option for families on a budget.
Consider timing your visit around local festivities for a cultural boost to your trip. October/November brings colorful Día de los Muertos celebrations that fascinate children of all ages. December lights up with Christmas and New Year festivities throughout Los Cabos. February/March features lively Carnival celebrations with family-friendly parades and activities, while March/April brings spring break energy (though some areas may skew more adult-oriented during this time).
As one experienced family traveler shared, “We’ve been to Cabo San Lucas with our kids a load of times and have spent the equivalent of three months there as a family. Mid-spring offers slightly cooler weather, milder ocean temperatures, and lower flight costs.”
Choosing Lodging for Cabo Family Travel: Resort vs Villa vs Airbnb
Your accommodation choice can dramatically shape your Cabo family travel experience, with three main options offering distinct advantages.
All-inclusive resorts provide the ultimate in convenience. Imagine your kids racing from the pool to the kids’ club while you decide between a beachfront massage and that margarita with your name on it. These properties excel at eliminating the constant decision-making that can drain parents on vacation.
“Once I have paid for an all-inclusive, I love setting aside my wallet and pretending all the food and drinks are ‘free,'” notes one family travel blogger who frequently visits Los Cabos. The downside? Higher costs and sometimes less authentic local immersion.
Family-friendly standouts include Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos with its impressive KidZ Club and splash park, Grand Velas Los Cabos offering sophisticated teens clubs with non-alcoholic bars for older kids, and Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach featuring six pools and spacious suites with kitchenettes. Grand Solmar Land’s End boasts a gorgeous saltwater lagoon, while Dreams Los Cabos runs an Explorer’s Club with supervised activities and beach movies.
Here’s an insider tip worth its weight in gold: request a ground-floor room with direct pool access at check-in. This setup is invaluable for families with toddlers who need frequent naps or breaks from the sun.
Private Villas offer a completely different experience. Think privacy, space for multiple generations, private pools, and full kitchens where you can prepare your picky eater’s favorite mac and cheese. Villas boast the winning combination of value, comfort, and luxury.
Many villas cater specifically to families with baby gear rentals delivered to your door, professional babysitting services, grocery pre-stocking before arrival, and even in-villa chef services for special meals. The trade-offs? You’ll need transportation to get around, there are fewer organized activities, and more planning falls on your shoulders.
Vacation Rentals/Airbnbs represent the most cost-effective option, often providing authentic neighborhood experiences and kitchen facilities at significantly lower prices. These work especially well for budget-conscious families, longer stays, or more independent travelers who don’t need the structured activities of resorts. Quality and amenities can vary widely, so reading reviews becomes essential.
For more detailed information about planning your family vacation in Los Cabos, visit our planning guide.
Money, Safety & Packing Tips for Cabo Family Travel
Let’s talk practicalities that can make or break your Cabo family travel experience.
The official currency is the Mexican peso, though US dollars are widely accepted everywhere from high-end resorts to street taco stands. Using pesos typically provides better value than paying in dollars, and you’ll often get a better exchange rate using ATMs rather than currency exchange booths. Major credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but inform your bank of travel plans to prevent unexpected card freezes. I always recommend carrying some cash for small purchases, tips, and local vendors.
Safety-wise, Los Cabos stands as one of Mexico’s safest destinations, with more than 80% of surveyed families reporting feeling extremely safe. Still, common-sense precautions apply: keep valuables secure, use hotel safes for passports and extra cash, and stay in well-traveled, tourist-friendly areas. Parents of teens should note the drinking age is 18 years old (versus 21 in the US), and cannabis remains illegal nationwide.
Packing for Cabo with kids requires some strategic thinking. Beyond standard vacation items, don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen damages the local marine ecosystem), wide-brimmed hats, and rash guards or sun shirts. The Cabo sun is deceptively intense, even on cloudy days. Water shoes prove invaluable for rocky beaches, and bringing your own snorkel equipment saves on rental fees if you plan multiple outings.
A well-stocked health kit should include basic medications, bandages, anti-diarrheal medicine, and hand sanitizer. All family members—including infants—need passports, and I strongly recommend travel insurance information be easily accessible. Finally, downloaded movies, books, and games can be lifesavers during airport delays or resort downtime.
“Apply reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and water shirts to keep kids safe from sunburn,” advises a family travel expert who visits Los Cabos regularly. “The sun is stronger than you might expect, even on cloudy days.”
For the latest information about family-friendly activities in Los Cabos for 2025, check out our comprehensive guide.
Getting Around Los Cabos with Kids
Transportation decisions can make or break a family vacation, especially with younger children in tow.
Your first transportation choice happens immediately upon landing at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), and it sets the tone for your entire vacation. You have several options:
Shared Shuttles represent the most economical option ($13-40 per person each way). They transport multiple passengers with 2-4 stops along the way, which means potential wait times of 15 minutes to 1 hour before departure. Important limitations for families: shared shuttles cannot make grocery stops, don’t permit car seats, require a paid seat for children of all ages, and typically end service between 4-6 pm daily.
Private Transfers with SJD Taxi offer direct service to your accommodation without waiting for other passengers. Families appreciate each passenger’s complimentary water or beer, the option to make grocery stops along the way, and available child car seats upon request. The service includes flight monitoring for delays, 24/7 availability, and door-to-door convenience, including inside gated communities where shared shuttles can’t enter.
When you exit the airport terminals, look for the umbrella number listed on the email provided to meet your transportation representative. Having your confirmation details readily accessible will speed up this process considerably.
Once settled in, you have several options for getting around during your stay:
Rental Cars offer maximum flexibility for families, especially convenient for exploring multiple beaches or taking day trips. US and Canadian visitors don’t need an international driver’s license, and car seats are available (though quality varies). Just be aware that parking can be challenging in downtown areas during peak seasons.
Public Buses provide a very economical option, running between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo regularly. However, limited routes and schedules make them less ideal for families with young children or lots of beach gear.
Walking works surprisingly well in Los Cabos. Many resorts are self-contained with amenities in walking distance, while downtown Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are pleasantly pedestrian-friendly. The marina area is stroller-accessible with numerous family-friendly restaurants and shops.
For hassle-free travel, pre-arrange airport transfers at least 72 hours before arrival. Cancellations within 72 hours receive full refunds (minus a $5 processing fee), and same-day reservations are possible based on availability. If arriving on evening flights, double-check the latest departure times for shared shuttles to avoid being stranded.
For more information about our shuttle services, visit our Cabo Airport Shuttle Services page.
Best Things to Do in Los Cabos with Kids
Los Cabos transforms into a natural playground for families, offering everything from gentle beach days to thrilling desert trips. After helping hundreds of families steer their vacations, we’ve gathered the most beloved Cabo family travel activities that consistently deliver smiles and memories.
Beaches & Water Trips Kids Love
The magic of Los Cabos begins at its stunning beaches, though choosing the right one makes all the difference for families with little ones.
Medano Beach stands as the crown jewel for families visiting Cabo San Lucas. With its gentle slope into the water and minimal waves, even toddlers can splash safely while older siblings venture a bit deeper. The beach buzzes with energy as vendors offer everything from beach toys to fresh mango slices, and beachfront restaurants mean parents don’t have to pack a full day’s worth of snacks.
“We spent three full days just at Medano with our kids aged 4 and 7,” shares Maria from Colorado. “They built sandcastles in the morning and practiced their swimming in the afternoon while my husband and I took turns relaxing under our rented umbrella.”
Chileno Bay deserves its reputation as the snorkeling paradise for beginners. The crystal-clear waters reveal colorful fish even in shallow areas, making it perfect for cautious first-timers. My best advice? Arrive before 10 am to claim one of the limited shade structures, as the midday sun can be intense for little ones.
Santa Maria Bay offers a more secluded experience in its horseshoe-shaped cove. The natural protection from waves makes it ideal for families, though you’ll want to bring your own supplies as amenities are limited. The extra preparation is worth it for the uncrowded snorkeling experience.
For something truly unique, take a water taxi to Lover’s Beach near the famous Arch. Kids are fascinated by the boat ride alone, and the dramatic rock formations create natural exploration zones. Just be sure to stay on the Sea of Cortez side, as the Pacific side (aptly named Divorce Beach) has dangerous currents.
Before heading to any beach, check current conditions. Even typically gentle beaches can have rough days, and no vacation memory is worth risking safety. Most resort concierges post daily beach condition reports, or you can ask your SJD Taxi driver for current local knowledge.
Beyond beach days, the waters around Los Cabos offer extraordinary experiences for families. The glass-bottom boats and Yellow Submarine tours let everyone enjoy marine life without getting wet—perfect for mixed groups where some kids might be hesitant swimmers.
From mid-December through mid-April, whale watching becomes a must-do family activity. These gentle giants migrate through local waters, often breaching and slapping their tails offshore. The pure joy on children’s faces when spotting their first 40-foot humpback whale creates vacation memories that last a lifetime.
The sea turtle release programs combine education with meaningful action for families with animal lovers. Children assist in releasing hatchlings to the ocean at sunset, learning about conservation while participating in something truly special.
For more details about the best family-friendly beaches, check out our best swimmable beaches in Cabo guide or the official Things To Do With Kids resource from Pure Cabo.
Inland Excursions & Easy Day Trips
When your family needs a break from the beach, Los Cabos reveals its surprising inland treasures.
The Outback & Camel Safari ranks consistently as a family favorite. Children’s eyes widen at first sight of these gentle desert ships, and the guided ride through stunning landscapes combines excitement with education about desert ecosystems. Most tours include traditional Mexican lunch and sustainability workshops that engage even typically restless kids.
For families with teenagers, ATV desert tours provide the perfect balance of a controlled trip and spectacular scenery. Racing through desert trails and dry riverbeds offers a different perspective on the region’s beauty. Most tours require drivers to be at least 16, but younger children can ride as passengers with parents or as young as eight on their own Kids UTV.
Zip-lining above desert canyons delivers thrills for the whole family. Companies like Wild Canyon and Costa Azul offer courses suitable for children as young as 6 (weight restrictions apply), with additional attractions like suspension bridges and climbing walls to create a full trip day.
The cultural heart of Los Cabos beats strongest in San José del Cabo, particularly during the weekly Art Walk (November through June). Galleries open their doors every Thursday evening while street performers and food vendors create a festival atmosphere perfect for families. My insider tip? Start at the main plaza around 6 p.m. and follow the crowds—no planning required.
Day trips from Los Cabos reveal even more of Baja’s magic. The charming town of Todos Santos sits just an hour north, offering cobblestone streets, art galleries, and the famous Hotel California. Kids love the legend that this inspired the Eagles’ famous song (though the band disputes this), and parents appreciate the authentic Mexican atmosphere away from resort areas.
For truly spectacular natural beauty, the journey to La Paz and Balandra Beach (about 2.5 hours each way) rewards families with what USA Today once named “Mexico’s most beautiful beach.” The shallow, crystal-clear waters create natural wading pools perfect for younger children, while the distinctive mushroom rock formation provides the perfect family photo backdrop.
“We hesitated about making the drive to Balandra with our kids,” shares Amanda from Texas, “but it ended up being everyone’s favorite day. The water is so shallow they could walk out 100 yards and still only be knee-deep.”
Families seeking gentler waves for beginning surfers should head to Cerritos Beach, where boogie boarding and surf lessons cater to first-timers in a more forgiving environment than most Cabo beaches.
For a deeper dive into family-friendly activities throughout the region, our Top 10 Things to Do in Los Cabos with Kids guide provides even more tested recommendations.
Kid-Approved Dining & Treats
Finding restaurants that please both sophisticated palates and picky eaters can make or break a family vacation. Fortunately, Los Cabos offers plenty of options that bridge this gap beautifully.
Tacos Gardenias has been serving simple, authentic Mexican food for decades, and their unpretentious setting welcomes families with open arms. Kids gravitate toward the quesadillas and plain tacos, while parents can explore more adventurous options. The outdoor seating means wiggling children won’t disturb other diners, and the quick service works well with shorter attention spans.
For a truly special family meal, Flora Farms Kitchen delivers a farm-to-table experience where the setting is as appealing as the food. Children can explore the gardens between courses, parents can sip craft cocktails made with fresh ingredients, and everyone enjoys wood-fired pizzas made with ingredients harvested just steps away.
El Huerto Farm to Table offers a similar concept with a more accessible location in San José del Cabo. Their fresh ingredients and relaxed garden setting create the perfect environment for families to decompress after busy sightseeing days.
Beach days pair perfectly with lunch at Corazón Beach Club, where kids can alternate between swimming and eating without ever changing out of their swimsuits. Their dedicated children’s menu features familiar favorites alongside gentle introductions to Mexican flavors.
For breakfast, Pan Spring Cabo wins the family-friendly award with their fresh pastries and simple egg dishes. The casual counter service means no long waits with hungry children, and their coffee gives parents the energy boost needed for another day of family trips.
Even the pickiest eaters usually find something to enjoy in Mexico. Simple quesadillas (just cheese in a tortilla), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and fresh fruit plates appear on most menus. For treats, churros (cinnamon-sugar fried dough) and paletas (Mexican popsicles made with fresh fruit) delight children of all ages.
Mexican dining customs differ slightly from those in the US and Canada. Dinner typically starts later (7-9 pm), so eating earlier (5-6 pm) often means quieter restaurants and more attentive family service. Making reservations for popular restaurants, especially during high season, prevents disappointment after promising kids a special meal.
Always ask for “agua purificada” (purified water) for the safest drinking option. Most restaurants automatically serve bottled or filtered water, but confirming gives parents peace of mind.
Families staying in villas or condos should consider arranging a grocery stop during their private transfer from the airport. SJD Taxi drivers happily wait while you stock up on breakfast essentials, snacks, and beverages, saving both money and early-morning restaurant trips with hungry children.
The authentic flavors at Tacos Gardenias have been delighting families for generations, making it a must-visit for at least one meal during your stay.
Conclusion & Easy Booking with SJD Taxi
After exploring all that Cabo family travel has to offer, it’s clear that the perfect family vacation in Los Cabos begins and ends with thoughtful transportation planning. Your journey sets the tone for the entire experience, and the right transportation partner can transform what might be a stressful arrival into the seamless start of your family trip.
While shared shuttles provide a budget-friendly option, many families find that the convenience of private transfers more than justifies the additional cost. Consider how valuable those first moments in paradise can be when you’re not waiting for other passengers or making multiple stops along the way—especially after a long flight with tired children.
“The private transfer was worth every penny,” shares Maria, a mother of three who visits Los Cabos annually. “After a five-hour flight with our toddler and two school-age kids, the last thing we wanted was to wait around the airport or make stops at other resorts. Our driver was waiting with cold drinks and whisked us straight to our villa.”
With SJD Taxi, your family enjoys door-to-door service, making that crucial transition from airport to accommodation smooth and stress-free. Our spacious vehicles comfortably accommodate your entire family and all the extras that family travel requires—strollers, car seats, beach toys, and those seemingly endless bags.
Parents particularly appreciate our thoughtful touches: complimentary welcome drinks (water for the kids, beer options for adults if desired), flight monitoring to adjust for any delays, and the invaluable option to make a grocery stop on the way to your accommodation. Imagine arriving with breakfast essentials, snacks, and beverages already in hand—no need to venture out again until everyone’s had a good night’s sleep.
Safety remains a top priority for family travelers, and our private transfers offer the option of proper car seats for young children—something not available with shared shuttle services. Our bilingual drivers are not just transportation providers but local ambassadors who can offer family-friendly recommendations custom-made to your specific interests.
The key to successful Cabo family travel lies in balancing structure with spontaneity. By pre-arranging your transportation and securing those essential transfers in advance, you free yourself to enjoy the magical, unplanned moments that often become cherished family memories—an unexpected sea turtle sighting, a perfect sunset over El Arco, or the pure joy on your children’s faces as they build their first sandcastle on a Los Cabos beach.
Los Cabos has evolved into one of Mexico’s premier family destinations, offering the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and family-friendly amenities. From whale watching excursions to gentle beach days, from casual taco stands to farm-to-table dining experiences, this destination delivers memories that will have your family planning a return visit before you’ve even departed.
For families seeking an extra-special arrival experience, learn more about our luxury transportation options. These options can accommodate groups of all sizes while providing premium amenities that set the perfect tone for your vacation from the moment you land.
