As a photographer who recently expanded the business to Cabo, I’ve spent a lot of time chasing golden hour across beaches, back streets, and boats. And while that’s technically for work—capturing beautiful families, couples, and influencers—I’ve fallen totally in love with this place.
Oh, and if I’m being honest… my partner Enrique, who is a true local, introduced me to the actual best spots.
If you're planning a trip and googling “things to do in Cabo,” let me save you some time. Here’s what I recommend not just as a local photographer, but as someone who appreciates beauty, authentic experiences, and getting off the typical tourist conveyor belt.
1. Rent a Private Boat (It’s Easier Than You Think)
Everyone talks about Cabo’s gorgeous coastline—and it lives up to the hype. But you don’t need to shell out thousands for a fancy yacht charter. One of the best things to do in Cabo is rent your own private boat, and there are a few ways to do it on a budget:
Join Cabo Facebook groups like “Cabo Friends” and search for boat rentals, or post that you’re looking. Plenty of boat owners advertise directly there.
Use the “Rent My Boat” app, where locals list boats at better rates than big tour companies.
Or… be bold! Walk down to the Cabo marina and ask around. Many boat owners are happy to make you a deal on the spot if you’re flexible.
Nothing beats sailing past the Arch with a cold drink in hand while the sun melts into the Pacific. (Bonus: it’s one of our favorite spots to take photos if you want to book a session with us. 😉)
2. Eat Like a (True) Local
Cabo has no shortage of beachfront restaurants and all-inclusive menus, but if you want to experience Cabo the way locals do, skip the tourist traps and go to the side streets.
Start with taco stands—I’m talking plastic chairs, bottled Coke, and meat grilling right out in the open. These hidden gems have the best al pastor and carne seafood tacos you’ll ever taste. Don’t be afraid to follow the locals; if there’s a line, it’s probably worth the wait. Taqueria El Castor (pictured above) isn’t far from the main strip and has the best Enrique-approved tacos in town.
One of my favorite sit-down spots is Pezcabo, tucked away from the marina crowds. It’s got incredible ceviche, fresh seafood, and that cozy local vibe you won’t find in chain restaurants. It’s where I go when I want to feel like I live here, not just visit. Bring some cash to tip the mariachi band that comes through!
3. Take a Guided Hike to Cabo’s Highest Point
This two-hour hike up Mt. Solmar will be one of the most memorable things you do in Cabo—and it’s free! Not to be confused with our photographer Enrique, your guide Enrique Perron will show you am incredible perspective of Cabo you can only get with some serious height. His wise and witty banter will keep you entertained as he teaches the rich and mystical history of Mt. Solmar and the people who lived there. It’s not overly strenuous—but you’ll want to make sure you have good balance and wear the right shoes—and you’ll likely be accompanied by Enrique’s friendly rescue dogs! The hike draws tourists and locals alike by word of mouth, and you can join any day at 8am (except Saturday). The meeting point is at the marina, across from the navy base (SECTOR NAVAL). More information on Facebook.
4. Enjoy Cocktails at Tres Sirenas
There are plenty of places to grab a margarita in Cabo—but if you want to feel like you’ve wandered into a dazzling Mediterranean dream, wander right in to Tres Sirenas. It’s a little bit mermaid, a little bit upscale cantina, and all-around stunning. The cocktails are handcrafted, the vibe is chill, and the atmosphere makes it one of my favorite stops after a shoot. It’s pure magic and every female in your group will thank you.
Pro tip: if you're looking for cute vacation content, this is the spot. It’s seriously one of the best cabo photo ops.
5. Book a Sunset Cruise
Cabo really shows off at sunset—and I don’t say that lightly as someone who builds her business around beautiful light. One of the most unforgettable things to do in Cabo is to hop on a sunset cruise.
There are plenty of options, from family-friendly catamarans to romantic, adults-only booze cruises. The view as the sun dips below the horizon, with the Arch in silhouette and the sky exploding in color, is something you don’t forget. Bring a light jacket, a good camera (or just your phone), and someone you love watching sunsets with.
6. Visit The Arch (El Arco)
It’s iconic for a reason. El Arco—also known as Land’s End—is the natural stone arch you’ve probably seen on every Cabo postcard. But seeing it in person hits different.
You can reach it by kayak, paddleboard, water taxi, or boat tour. If you’re feeling adventurous, try to visit early in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds haven’t arrived. As a photographer, I can’t overstate how cool this spot is—whether you're snapping a selfie or letting me handle the lens.
7. Whale Watching (Seasonal, But Worth It)
If you're visiting Cabo between mid-December and April, consider yourself lucky—you're in prime whale-watching season. Humpback and gray whales migrate through the waters just off the coast, and it’s one of the most awe-inspiring sights we've witnessed.
There are many of whale-watching tours available (some of which double as snorkeling trips), but a smaller boat will usually get you closer. Seeing a whale breach against the backdrop of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains is nothing short of breathtaking. You might even see a mama and her baby like we did!
Bring a zoom lens if you’re a photo nerd like me—or just keep your eyes on the water and your jaw ready to drop.
8. Book a Vacation Photo Session 📸
One of the most meaningful things to do in Cabo is capture the memory while you’re here.
We started Cabo Family Photos because we saw how many families, couples, and solo travelers wanted more than just selfies on the beach. For just $100 (limited time offer), you can book a 15-minute mini session with Enrique during golden hour. His playful energy is contagious and he has a gift for capturing your best self. He’ll make sure you walk away with frame-worthy keepsakes you’ll look back for years!
It’s short, sweet, and perfect for anyone who wants to remember this trip without handing their phone to a stranger.
👉 Book your mini session, or check out all of our Cabo photography packages.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Cabo
Cabo isn’t just tequila shots and cruise ships. It’s late-night tacos, quiet beaches if you know where to look, surprise whale sightings, and turquoise waters that make you forget what day it is. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a few weeks, I hope this list of things to do in Cabo helps you experience the soul of the place—not just the surface.
And if you need someone to capture it all, you know where to find us!