Chileno Beach (Playa Chileno)

The Basics

Chileno Beach is a popular destination for those looking to do a bit of underwater exploration or visitors who just relax on the sunny shores of a secluded spot. Visit independently or make your way to this hidden beach on a tour to the area—options include sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking excursions—and take advantage of having a local guide and all your equipment provided.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Unlike other Los Cabos beaches, Chileno doesn’t have bars and restaurants—come prepared with snacks and drinks.

• This beach is considered an excellent spot for snorkeling, with plenty of colorful fish.

• Since its waters are calm, the beach is ideal for families with young kids.

• There are restrooms near the beach, but amenities—including rental stands—are otherwise limited.

How to Get There

Chileno Beach, located just off Los Cabos’ tourist corridor, is accessible by bus from both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo—tell the driver to drop you off at Bahia Chileno. From the bus stop, it’s about a half-mile walk down to the beach. If you decide to rent a car and drive, there’s an ample amount of free parking. Most sailing and snorkeling tours depart from the Cabo San Lucas marina.

When to Get There

There are no set hours of operation at Chileno Beach, but arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds. Like most beaches, Chileno is a popular spot for locals on the weekends and is less busy during the week. Also, during whale-watching season (December–April), you might be able to hear a humpback whale singing if you listen closely while underwater.

Nearby Santa Maria Cove

Another favorite spot for snorkeling, Santa Maria Beach boasts pristine white sands and similar conditions to Chileno; many tours combine the two locations since they’re just around the bend from each other, and some scuba-diving excursions include dives at both. The areas are home to sea turtles, some species of moray eels, starfish, sea fans, sea urchins, sea horses, and sponges.

Ways to explore

Ideally located between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Chileno Beach is a fantastic stop as you beach-hop your way along the coast. Rocky outcroppings on both sides of the beach offer snorkeling opportunities, and the peaceful bay is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. A large resort complex beside the beach has several upscale restaurants—you can book a table for a meal, even if you’re not a resort guest. Many boat cruises and bus tours of the area include time at the beach.

Accessibility

The beach is wheelchair accessible, thanks to a paved path leading down to the water.

Age limits

None; although some tours may have age restrictions, depending on the activity.

What to pack

Snacks, water, snorkeling equipment, umbrella, beach towel, reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuit

What to wear

Wear whatever you’re most comfortable in for a day on the beach, and add a protective top if you’re planning to snorkel.

Not allowed

Littering, speakers and loud music, fishing

Amenities

Restrooms, free parking, lifeguards, showers, vendors for water sport rentals

Address

Equidistant to both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, you can reach the beach by driving or by public bus. Taxis or rideshares are another option.

Driving

From San José del Cabo, take the San José del Cabo-Cabo San Lucas/México 1 highway west until the El Chileno exit—follow the road, and then continue straight through the roundabout to find parking. From Cabo San Lucas, take the same highway east (following signs for San José del Cabo), exit at Playa El Chileno, then make a right turn, and head straight through the roundabout to find parking.

Public transportation

The Ruta del Desierto buses don’t follow a set schedule, but they are an affordable option. A main stop in San José del Cabo can be found at the La Comer supermarket. In Cabo San Lucas, the main stop is at Puerto Paraiso Mall. Flag down the bus and let the driver know where you’re going, then it’s a short walk from the highway to the beach once you get off.

Best times to visit

Arrive early, as the beach can get busy. It’s not the area’s most popular beach, but Los Cabos is a bustling region.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are always better, as locals flock to the beach on the weekends to relax alongside the tourists.

Best months to visit

May and November are the shoulder seasons with fewer visitors but lovely weather. Aim for the end of November to avoid any late-season hurricanes.

Special events

Avoid the end of March and the start of April, which brings the Holy Week of Semana Santa, during which thousands of families travel to nearby beaches for relaxation and festivities.