Palmilla Beach (Playa Palmilla)

The basics

A long stretch of sand ensures there is usually plenty of room to spread out on Palmilla Beach, which is sandwiched between turquoise water and a line of resorts. Unlike popular Playa de Amor, you don’t need a boat to get here, making this a popular option for independent travelers. The top activities here take advantage of all that calm, clear water: think paddle boarding, swimming, snorkeling, and sand-castle building for visitors of all ages.

Things to know before you go

• Lifeguards are on duty at Palmilla Beach.
• Umbrellas, paddleboards, and kayaks can be rented on the beach.
• Ample parking is available on-site.

How to get there

Playa Palmilla is located in the community of Palmilla, between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Follow the main road towards One&Only Palmilla hotel and look for a parking lot on the left. Playa Palmilla is 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from San José del Cabo and 16.7 miles (27 kilometers) from Cabo San Lucas.

When to get there

Since this popular beach gets busy towards midday, arriving before 10am is the best way to ensure a prime sunbathing spot. (The limited fixed palapas get snatched up first thing.) If you’re looking for the best light for photography, try sunrise, as the east-facing beach catches some of the day’s first rays.

Snorkeling at Palmilla Beach

Palmilla Beach offers snorkeling right off the beach, featuring bright tropical fish, a small reef, and protected water. Angel fish, puffer fish, and eels tend to cluster near the rocks, so take care when swimming nearby, especially on windy or wavy days. Snorkels, masks, and fins can be rented on-site.

Ways to explore

One of the loveliest beaches in the stretch between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Palmilla Beach is a popular stop on beach-hopping tours along the coast and boat trips that explore the coves and bays of the region. Other excursions available include stand-up paddleboarding lessons and guided snorkeling tours, which take you out to spot the abundant marine life in the bay. It’s also easy to visit independently, with free parking available, and plenty of space to spread out. Plan to spend at least a few hours here.

Accessibility

There is accessible parking and paved paths leading close to the water.

Age limits

None; this bach is a favorite with families, thanks to the presence of lifeguards.

What to pack

Snacks, water, snorkeling equipment, umbrella, beach towel, sunscreen, swimsuit

What to wear

Choose clothes that protect you from the sun, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Not allowed

Littering, pets, fishing

Amenities

Showers, restrooms, vendors for renting umbrellas and beach chairs, beachside restaurants

Address

Located a 15-minute drive away from San José del Cabo, travel to Palmilla Beach by self-driving or take one of the affordable local buses. Taxis and rideshares are another option if you’d prefer not to walk from the bus stop.

Driving

From San José del Cabo, follow the San José del Cabo-Cabo San Lucas/México 1 highway west until the exit towards Palmilla Dunes—turn left onto the overpass, and then left again. From Cabo San Lucas, take the same highway east (following signs for San José del Cabo), and take the exit for Cabo San Lucas/Carretera Federal 1—from there, it’s a right turn and then a left turn.

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 the Puerto Paraiso Mall, near Cabo San Lucas Marina. Flag down the bus and let the driver know where you’re going, and it’s a short walk from the highway down to the beach once you get off.

Best times to visit

Arrive early to enjoy plenty of space, a calmer beach, and to avoid the heat of the day.

Best days to visit

The beach stays fairly consistently busy throughout the week, but weekends are typically busier than weekdays.

Best months to visit

May tends to be a good month, before summer holidaymakers arrive en masse, but you’ll still enjoy warm, balmy weather. Otherwise, opt for late November, at the end of hurricane season, but before the winter holidays.

Special events

The nearby Palmilla Golf Club hosts a variety of tournaments throughout the year. Otherwise, aim to avoid the end of March and the start of April, when thousands of families travel to nearby beaches for the Holy Week, Semana Santa.