The Truth About Cabo San Lucas Safety in 2025
Is travelling to cabo san lucas safe? Yes, Cabo San Lucas is generally considered safe for tourists in 2025, with a Level 2 advisory (Exercise Increased Caution) from the U.S. State Department—the same level as many popular European destinations. Here’s what you need to know:
- Crime Rate: Significantly lower than other Mexican destinations like Tijuana or Acapulco
- Tourist Areas: Marina district, Medano Beach, and resort zones have dedicated tourist police
- Common Issues: Mostly petty theft and scams, with violent crime against tourists being rare
- Government View: Baja California Sur is not included in “avoid travel” advisories from the U.S. or Canada
When planning your sunny getaway, concerns about travelling to Cabo San Lucas safely are completely natural. With sensationalized headlines about Mexico occasionally making the rounds, it’s worth separating fact from fiction. The good news? The stunning beaches and crystal waters of Los Cabos aren’t just beautiful—they’re also among Mexico’s safest destinations for visitors.
“I feel safer in Cabo than even many stateside cities like New York City, Minneapolis, or San Francisco,” shares one frequent visitor to the region. This isn’t just a one-off opinion—it’s a sentiment echoed by countless travelers who return year after year. And the numbers back this up: Cabo San Lucas proudly ranks as the 4th safest city in Mexico, while Baja California Sur boasts the country’s 3rd lowest murder rate.
To put things in perspective, the U.S. State Department currently advises travelers to “exercise increased caution” in Baja California Sur—the same level assigned to countries like France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Notably, there are no travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in the state, unlike other Mexican regions where specific limitations are imposed due to safety concerns.
The Los Cabos region welcomes over 3 million visitors annually, with dedicated tourist police patrolling popular areas like the Marina district and Medano Beach. These officers are specifically trained to assist international visitors and maintain the security that has made Los Cabos a preferred destination for families and travelers seeking both trip and peace of mind.
Whether you’re planning to unwind at an all-inclusive resort along the scenic Tourist Corridor or explore the vibrant restaurants and shops of the Marina, understanding the actual safety landscape helps you relax and enjoy your Cabo experience fully. The most common issues tourists might encounter are petty theft or occasional scams—situations easily avoided with basic precautions you’d take in any tourist destination worldwide.
For those seeking more detailed information about current safety conditions, I recommend checking out these helpful resources:
With reasonable awareness and smart planning, your Los Cabos trip promises to be as carefree as those postcard-perfect sunsets over the Sea of Cortez.
Is Travelling to Cabo San Lucas Safe in 2025?
Snapshot: 2025 Safety Outlook
When you’re wondering “is travelling to Cabo San Lucas safe,” you’ll be relieved to know that Baja California Sur maintains its Level 2 advisory status from the U.S. Department of State in 2025. This puts it in the same category as many beloved European destinations like France and Italy. The “Exercise Increased Caution” designation is significantly better than the Level 3 or 4 warnings issued for other Mexican states.
The numbers tell a reassuring story: violent crime against tourists remains remarkably low, with most visitor incidents limited to petty theft and non-violent scams. Los Cabos welcomed approximately 2.13 million American visitors in 2024, with the vast majority enjoying trouble-free vacations.
A key factor in Cabo’s stellar safety record is its dedicated tourist police force patrolling popular areas like the Marina and Medano Beach. These officers are specifically trained to assist visitors and maintain a visible presence where tourists gather.
For the most up-to-date information before your trip, you can always check the Travel.State.Gov advisory.
Crime Numbers vs. Other Hotspots – Why Cabo Ranks Among Mexico’s Safest
Cabo San Lucas truly shines when comparing safety statistics against other destinations. According to the Numbeo Crime Index, Cabo scores 44.50, substantially lower than Cancun (56.16), Mexico City (67.95), and Tijuana (72.80).
To put this in perspective, consider these homicide rates per 100,000 residents:
- Cabo San Lucas: 138.26
- Cancun: 156.42
- Mexico City: 180.35
- Tijuana: 206.18
Even more eye-opening is comparing these numbers to some U.S. cities like St. Louis (60.59), Baltimore (50.52), Detroit (41.45), and New Orleans (36.87).
As travel expert Jack Ezon pointedly observes: “I cannot believe how many people from New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles ask if Mexico is safe, as bullets fly on corners from those cities every day.”
Los Cabos has invested heavily in security improvements, including over 300 security cameras and 150 specially trained tourist police officers. The National Guard has maintained a presence in tourist areas since 2018, with plans to continue through at least 2028.
Travel Advisories & What Governments Really Say
When researching if travelling to Cabo San Lucas safe, understanding official government advisories provides valuable context. Here’s what different governments currently say about Baja California Sur:
The United States maintains a Level 2 advisory, recommending travelers “exercise increased caution due to crime.” Importantly, there are no restrictions on U.S. government employees traveling to tourist areas in Baja California Sur—a detail that speaks volumes.
Canada advises citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.” However, unlike some Mexican states, Baja California Sur isn’t included in Canada’s “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” regional advisories.
For Americans heading to Cabo, we strongly recommend enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service registers your trip with the nearest Embassy or Consulate, enabling you to receive important safety updates and making it easier for the Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
Hospitality expert Alexis Schärer offers this straightforward advice: “Stay away from drugs and you’re likely to stay clear of trouble.” Simple wisdom that goes a long way in Cabo.
After-Dark Reality Check: Is Walking at Night Safe?
One question we hear constantly about travelling to Cabo San Lucas safe concerns nighttime activities. Can you safely stroll around after dark?
The answer depends largely on where you are:
In the Marina District, you’ll generally feel quite safe at night thanks to heavy tourist traffic and regular police patrols. The boardwalk area remains well-lit and busy until late, creating a comfortable atmosphere for evening walks.
Along Medano Beach, the main beach area has good lighting and security presence in the evening, especially near beachfront resorts and restaurants where visitors often enjoy dinner with ocean views.
In Downtown Cabo, the main tourist areas are generally secure, but you’ll want to exercise increased caution the further you wander from well-lit, populated streets. As one might expect, darker side streets are best avoided.
Locals consistently emphasize sticking to well-lit, busy areas and avoiding isolated spots after dark. As one long-term resident puts it, “Cabo has always been a safe place, especially for tourists, but common sense still applies.”
For evening outings, we at SJD Taxi recommend using reliable transportation rather than walking long distances, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Many seasoned visitors establish an informal “curfew” for walking, preferring to use taxis or ride-shares after 10 PM.
For more detailed information about safety in specific areas of Cabo San Lucas, visit our guide on Is Cabo San Lucas Safe?
Smart Safety Strategies: Enjoy Los Cabos with Confidence
Precautions Every Visitor Should Pack
Preparing for a safe Cabo trip starts before you even leave home. Think of safety precautions as essential items on your packing list—right alongside your swimsuit and sunglasses!
A quality anti-theft bag can be your best travel companion. Cross-body styles keep your belongings secure while freeing up your hands for that perfect sunset photo. Some seasoned travelers even bring portable safes for their hotel rooms—a bit extra, perhaps, but peace of mind is priceless.
When it comes to jewelry, the “less is more” philosophy truly applies. “I wear a simple wedding band instead of my diamond ring and leave my good watch at home,” shares one frequent visitor. This isn’t about fear—it’s about not drawing unnecessary attention to yourself, just as you would in any tourist destination.
Managing your cash wisely makes perfect sense too. Keep smaller amounts in different secure spots rather than carrying everything in one place. Most restaurants and shops in Los Cabos happily accept credit cards, so there’s rarely a need to walk around with a wad of pesos.
Your hotel room safe isn’t just a fancy amenity—it’s your personal security vault! Use it for passports, extra cash, and electronics when you’re out enjoying the beach. And yes, always lock your door, even when you’re inside relaxing.
The Cabo sun deserves serious respect. I’ve seen too many vacations derailed by severe sunburns or dehydration. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, reapply it generously, and keep that water bottle filled. As one local guide perfectly puts it: “The biggest dangers most tourists face in Cabo aren’t crime—they’re sunburn, dehydration, and drinking too much.”
Finally, travel insurance that includes medical coverage is absolutely worth considering. Mexican hospitals typically require upfront payment and may not accept your U.S. insurance directly. Having coverage that includes medical evacuation gives you options if something unexpected happens.
Getting Around: Shuttles, Taxis, Buses & Rental Cars
Transportation safety is a crucial piece of the travelling to cabo san lucas safe puzzle. After all, you’ll need to get around this beautiful destination!
When you land at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), look for registered transportation providers like us at SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle. We meet all our passengers outside both terminals under numbered umbrellas that correspond to your voucher—making the arrival process smooth and worry-free.
Choosing between shared and private shuttles comes down to your priorities. Shared shuttles are budget-friendly (typically $13-40 USD per person each way) and environmentally conscious since you’re sharing the ride. However, they do make multiple stops (usually 2-4) and cannot accommodate child car seats or grocery stops. They generally finish operations between 4-6 PM, depending on flight schedules.
For families, larger groups, or those wanting a more personalized experience, private transfers offer the ultimate convenience. With SJD Taxi, our private vehicles—from SUVs to Suburbans, Escalades, vans, and sprinters—come with a licensed, background-checked driver and thoughtful touches like complimentary welcome drinks. We can accommodate child car seats (just request when booking) and even make grocery stops so you can stock your vacation rental.
Planning flexibility matters too. Most reputable services, including ours, allow cancellations up to 72 hours before service for a full refund (minus a small processing fee).
If you’re considering a rental car, driving in Cabo during daylight hours is generally straightforward. However, night driving on highways presents unique challenges including limited lighting and, believe it or not, wandering livestock. As one visitor humorously noted, “Your biggest driving hazard in the dark might be wandering cows, not criminals.”
For getting around town, stick with licensed taxis or established ride-share services. With ride-shares, take the extra few seconds to verify the driver’s name, car model, and license plate before hopping in—just as you would back home.
Want to learn more about your airport transportation options? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Cabo Airport Shuttles.
Water, Trip & Ocean Safety (Plus Health Tips)
Los Cabos offers some of the most stunning beaches in Mexico, but enjoying them safely requires a bit of awareness.
First, get familiar with the beach flag system—it’s your at-a-glance guide to ocean conditions:
- Green: Safe for swimming
- Yellow: Exercise caution
- Red: Dangerous conditions, avoid swimming
- Black: Beach closed
Rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing away from shore that can catch even strong swimmers off guard. If you find yourself caught in one, remember to swim parallel to the shore until you’re free of the current, then angle back toward the beach. Fighting directly against the current will only exhaust you.
Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with August and September carrying the highest risk. But as travel expert Rich Biswell wisely points out, “Hurricanes are so hit-and-miss, you shouldn’t not travel to Mexico and block out those months.” Just keep an eye on weather forecasts if you’re visiting during this period.
For snorkeling and diving trips, choose operators with proper safety equipment and certifications. These activities are incredibly rewarding in Cabo’s clear waters, but always follow the buddy system—never snorkel alone.
While wildlife encounters are part of Baja’s charm, be mindful that the peninsula is home to a few creatures that demand respect, including the yellow-bellied sea snake, bark scorpions, and rattlesnakes. A simple habit of shaking out shoes and bags, especially in less developed areas, can prevent unwelcome surprises.
Health-wise, stick with bottled or purified water (most resorts provide this abundantly). Exercise the same caution with ice in drinks unless you’re at a resort that uses purified ice. Pack hand sanitizer for on-the-go cleanliness, and consider mosquito repellent to prevent dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses.
Before traveling, check that your routine vaccines are up-to-date and visit the CDC Travel Health Notices for any current advisories.
Special Considerations: Women, Families & Solo Travelers
Different travelers have different safety concerns when travelling to cabo san lucas safe, so let’s break it down by group.
Women travelers generally report feeling very comfortable in Los Cabos, particularly in tourist areas. That said, common-sense precautions still apply: use the buddy system after dark, keep drinks in sight, and consider using safety apps that share your location with trusted contacts. One seasoned female traveler puts it bluntly: “Ladies, do not allow men to buy you a cocktail, and I don’t care how cute he is. BUY YOUR OWN COCKTAILS!”
Families with children will find Los Cabos incredibly welcoming. Many resorts offer supervised kids’ programs that give parents some well-deserved relaxation time. Parents should note that the drinking age in Mexico is 18 (not 21 as in the US), and cannabis remains illegal nationwide. Most tourist areas are stroller-friendly, though sidewalks can sometimes be uneven. And remember, if you’re booking transportation with us, child car seats are available for all private transfers but not for shared shuttles.
Solo travelers flock to Cabo year-round and typically have wonderful experiences. Key recommendations include staying in well-reviewed accommodations in tourist zones, sharing your itinerary with someone back home, and considering group tours for activities—they’re not just safer but also a great way to meet fellow travelers. U.S. citizens traveling solo should definitely enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before their trip.
For more detailed guidance custom specifically to independent explorers, check out our article on Traveling Solo in Los Cabos: Tips for a Safe and Fun Experience.
Common Scams & How to Outsmart Them
While violent crime against tourists is rare in Los Cabos, visitors should be aware of common scams that can put a damper on your vacation.
Timeshare pitches are perhaps the most persistent annoyance. These often begin innocently with offers of “free” activities or tours. The key is to politely but firmly decline or clearly state “No timeshare presentations” if you’re not interested. Those “free” offers usually come with a 3-4 hour sales pitch attached!
When using ATMs, opt for machines inside banks or hotels whenever possible. Always cover your hand when entering your PIN, and quickly check for any unusual attachments on the card slot that could indicate a skimmer.
Book your activities through reputable providers or your hotel concierge rather than with random street vendors. Those extremely discounted excursions might seem tempting, but they often don’t deliver the experience promised—or worse, might not be legitimate at all.
If you’re shopping for jewelry, inspect your purchases carefully before leaving the store and get a detailed receipt. Some unscrupulous vendors have been known to switch out quality pieces for lower-value items during packaging.
Be wary of individuals who might demand payment after offering to take your photo at landmarks. This “photo tax” is not official—simply decline unsolicited photo offers.
Local experts warn visitors to be cautious when hearing phrases like: “Special price just for you,” “My cousin owns a jewelry store with the best prices,” “Free transportation to see a new resort,” “I work at your hotel,” or “The ATM at your hotel is broken.” These are often opening lines for various scams.
As hospitality expert Alexis Schärer wisely advises: “Use common sense and you’ll be fine. The vast majority of locals are honest, hardworking people who want tourists to have a great experience.”
At SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle, we take pride in making your Los Cabos experience seamless from start to finish. When you book with us, you’re not just getting a ride—you’re getting a warm welcome from a driver who knows the area intimately. For families, we offer child car seats with our private transfers, and our drivers are always happy to share local insights about which areas are best for your specific interests.
The reality is simple—Los Cabos thrives on tourism, and the vast majority of its 3 million annual visitors experience nothing but hospitality and beauty. By making informed choices, staying alert without being paranoid, and using reliable services, you’ll likely join the ranks of travelers who find themselves planning their return trip before they’ve even left.
