Still have questions about holidaying in Los Cabos? Skim our list of frequently asked questions and see if we’ve covered all the bases.
When I book a tour/attraction, how do I receive my tickets?
Upon booking a tour/attraction, an email with your tour/attraction details will be sent to you right away. Please print this out and have it with at time of arrival for your tour/attraction.
Will I be able to use my credit cards? Can I get cash from the banks with my credit cards?
Yes, to both questions. All major credit cards (except Discover) are widely accepted. In restaurants, it is best to ask before ordering, not every business accepts credit cards, just as back home. All of the banks will give cash advances, most have ATM machines at their locations, for after hours cash.
What is the legal drinking age in México, and what time do the night clubs close?
The legal drinking age is 18. There is no set closing time, many of the night clubs stay open until the wee hours of the morning (3 or 4 AM).
Will my hair dryer (portable iron, electric toothbrush, etc.) work in México?
Yes, if you are from the U.S. or Canada. México uses the same voltage as the United States. If you are coming from Europe, or any country that uses 220 volts, you will need the proper adapters.
What about going topless or totally nude on the beaches?
Both are illegal in México although enforcement is almost always ignored. The practice may be tolerated in some areas and not in others. Use your common sense, look around, see what others are doing. If there are others that are topless nearby, the chances are pretty good that it is, most likely, locally accepted.
How can I access the Internet to receive my E-mail?
There are a few Internet Cafes within a block from the main Plaza in downtown, with more in the many strip malls located around the city. Many hotels and resorts also offer complimentary WiFi or internet hook ups. You should have no trouble finding a place to check your E-mail.
Can I buy Cuban cigars? Can I take them back with me?
Yes you can buy them, and yes, they are expensive. No, you cannot take them back to the U.S., but if you are returning to Canada it is OK. Be careful of counterfeits.
Can I drink the water?
In the hotels and most restaurants, you will get purified water. It is not recommended to drink the water from a private home or condo, unless you know there is a purification system installed. The water here is very pure, but the distribution system is not so perfect. Buy bottled water. Why not be completely safe!
Can we get married in Los Cabos?
Most definitely, many people do. However it will be almost impossible unless you hire someone who speaks the language, understands the legal requirements and procedures. You do not want to spend all of your time in Cabo running around after all of the necessary papers and permits. If you want to get married in Los Cabos check our Weddings section.
Is it safe to walk around the town at night?
Yes, most definitely. There is very little crime here, and what little there is, is usually very petty compared to the U.S. However, always use your common sense, and be careful.
Can you tell me what the taxi rates are?
Rates vary from taxi to taxi but tend to be pricey. Think renting a car if you plan to go very far. It is best to check with the desk at your hotel. They should be able to tell you what the fare should be. Then check again with the taxi driver, who should be able to show you a rate sheet for tariffs according to distance. Do this before you get into the taxi! You can try to bargain with the driver for a cheaper fare, especially if there are several in your party.
How will I know if I am getting a good deal on merchandise?
This is one question that nobody but you can answer. A good rule of thumb with street or beach vendors is always get at least a 30% discount, sometimes more. In most stores the prices are fixed, just as they are at home. If you are making large purchases or if there are several people in your party that are buying something, you can always ask for a discount. If you’re happy with the price of something, then you are getting a good deal.
What about hospitals and doctors?
There are some very competent doctors in Los Cabos and Mexico in general, many of whom speak English. The equipment here is usually older and somewhat out of date, compared to what you are probably used to. The hospital is not equipped for severe trauma cases. Check with your hotel for the name of an English-speaking doctor, write their phone numbers down and carry them with you. Always check with your doctor if there is any doubt in your mind. Medical service here is nowhere near as sophisticated as in the U.S. or Canada.
Are the beaches safe?
Generally, yes. The beaches here are usually safer in the winter than they are in the summer. The beaches in the hotel zone can be very dangerous in the summer. Costa Azul is probably the safest place to swim, but make sure there are no big swells. The bays of Chileno and Santa Maria are usually safe, but be careful. If there are any large waves (usually summer), the undertow can be fierce if the waves are crashing on the beach. There are some beautiful, swimmer friendly, beaches inland on the Sea of Cortez along the road to the East Cape.
What can I use as proof of citizenship to enter Mexico?
To enter Mexico you need to obtain a Tourist Card (FMT). To get your Tourist Card you will need to prove citizenship, a passport is best for this purpose. Other forms of accepted proof of citizenship include a certified birth certificate, voter's registration card, naturalization papers, or a notarized affidavit of citizenship. A passport can serve as proof of citizenship and photo ID. Airlines will furnish the Tourist Card on board. Be sure to save the your copy, as you must present this when leaving Mexico.
What is Los Cabos’ time zone?
Los Cabos is Mountain Standard Time and practices Daylight Savings time.
What is I.V.A.?
I.V.A. (Impuesto al valor agregado), is the Mexican sales tax, it is 10% in the state of Baja California Sur. Many items that you wish you purchase will have a notice: "tax included" or " I.V.A." not included.”
I was wondering if there are any nude beaches in Los Cabos?
No, there are no nude beaches in Los Cabos, but there are many remote areas where you can have more personal freedom. Please remember you are in a Catholic country and nudity in public is illegal. Please respect the local customs.
We are very interested in extreme sports, is there anything like that here?
Surfing, rock climbing, parasailing, ATVing, kiteboarding and other extreme adventures are all available in Los Cabos. Check out our tours and activities section for more information.
Are there dress codes, and how late will I be staying out?
The dress code at most hotels is resort casual, although many night clubs do not accept sandals, tank tops or shorts. Generally anything goes, as long as you are wearing shoes! You can stay up as late as 5 am in some bars in Cabo San Lucas, known as the party capital of Mexico.