Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

by Deborah Brown

Cabo San Lucas, located on the southern tip of the Baja peninsula, has long been a favorite beach destination for tourists from throughout the U.S., particularly California. The clear, deep turquoise waters, white sand beaches, scenic mountain terrain (including the famous landmark "El Arco") make this coastline destination a "must do" for many tourists, even those from sunny climes.

Located on the southern most tip of the Baja peninsula known as Los Cabos, meaning "The Cape," many airlines offer direct flights into this popular tourist region that is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. Los Cabos International Airport is about 20+ miles away.

Bisected by the Tropic of Cancer, Cabo San Lucas enjoys a balmy climate during the "high season" of October through April with daytime temps that range around 80 F degrees and nights that hover near 60 degrees. Those who like super hot weather may opt for bargain prices during the "low season" of May-September, when the thermometer tops 100F degrees plus, then cools off to the 70-80s at night. Note storm season is July through October.

The downtown area of Cabo San Lucas definitely caters to foreign visitors. A wide variety of charming shops and restaurants (including one eatery that features a giant marquee lobster) line a marina that boasts seaworthy crafts of all shapes and sizes. Local merchants, anxious for a sale, offer great bargains on anything from jewelry and T-shirts to hats, and bartering is commonplace.

Does this sound like the perfect Baja Mexico vacation? We think so, and travelers agree. Continue to read on about the important issues that you need to know when traveling to Cabo San Lucas. Cell phones, Internet access and drinking water are some topics discussed in the finish to this story written by author Deborah Brown.

In part one of the Cabo San Lucas travel story, Brown discusses the location of Cabo San Lucas, its temperature, and its welcoming atmosphere for tourists from around the globe.

First and foremost known as a world-class deep sea fishing mecca, locals and visitors to Cabo San Lucas frequently charter boats to look for billfish, dorado and tuna. Kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving are all available for those who love the water, and whale-watching is popular during several months of the year. Golf, horseback riding, cycling and rock-climbing are among the many popular non-aquatic pastimes.

A variety of resorts, many offering all-inclusive meals, lodging, entertainment and beverages, dot the coastline of the Cape. Although the scenery is beautiful, some hotels do not have a swimmable beach, so make sure to check ahead of time if that aspect important to you.

Are you ready to go to Cabo? If so, here are a few more things you need to know:

The local currency is pesos but American dollars are accepted. Be prepared that if you get change, it will likely be in pesos.

You need to bring your passport.

No shots required.

Many of the hotels cater to Americans, and therefore filter their drinking water. However, some people are more sensitive to the water than others It's a good idea to have bottled water on hand for brushing teeth, etc. How do you have bottled water on hand? Like most countries around the globe, hotels and stores catering to tourists routinely sell bottled water.

Regarding cellphones, check to see if your plan covers Baja, Mexico

Internet service at most upscale hotels is available. You'll also find Internet access businesses along the busy tourist shopping districts where you can buy affordable Internet access by the minute or in increments.