Entertainment Guide to San José del Cabo

If you poll ten people in downtown Cabo after 8pm and ask why they chose Cabo as a destination, chances are that they will say "to party." Downtown Cabo is certainly the place to be for that; in fact, some might say it is incomparable. The combination of sand, sea and surf seems to make people a little loco, and in this town, drinks flow freely at any hour. The many people who aren't downtown at night though, are vacationing here for other reasons: to relax, golf, fish, sunbathe, dive or snorkel. The mixture of visitors traveling to Los Cabos is changing. It is not just about the nightlife scene anymore.

Nightclubs & Nightlife

If you have arrived for the partying scene, you won't be disappointed. From live rock bands at Cabo Wabo Cantina to crazy beach volleyball games at Sunrise Charlie's to the one-of-a-kind Giggling Marlin, or the “three for the price of one” margarita-zone, known as Rio Grill, you could bar-hop all night long without having to leave the downtown/marina area. There is fun to be had around every corner and even on Medano Beach. This section of swimming beach touts The Office, Mango Deck and the Crazy Lobster as some of its hot spots. And this is just a small sample of what this town has to offer the party animal.

Historical Sights

Most travelers are also interested in exploring some culture when they travel to another country. Cabo, since it is such a young town, has only two historical buildings. The oldest of buildings is the Iglesia de San Lucas, a church from 1730. Interestingly, the church founder, a Spanish missionary, was killed in a disagreement with the locals over their practice of polygamy. The other historical attraction is the lighthouse, El Faro De Cabo Falso, that dates back to 1890. These recent constructions, of course, reflect only the dominant culture of the Spanish. For a nice depiction of native cultures from this area, check out the painted murals in the church turned restaurant, Mi Casa Restaurant & Cantina.

Arts & Culture

If you are interested in demonstrations that will provide some insight into this region and its peoples, tour Cuca's blanket factory and see how blankets have been loomed for centuries here. These gifted artisans are capable of taking your custom design and creating a blanket for you within 24 hours. Or head to the Glass Blowing Factory and be amazed by the skills of the craftsmen as they spin and shape glass into beautiful pieces of art. The Artisan's Market and Handicrafts Market are other great places to see the culture and artisans of this area. Using family designs passed down from one generation to the next, sandals are cut and shaped, dresses are embroidered in age-old designs, beads are turned into jewelry and cotton becomes serape dresses. These shops are great options if you want the opportunity to get to know the people, see their craft traditions first hand, and then take a piece of Cabo artistry back home with you.

Festivals & Celebrations

Mexicans have long been recognized for their colorful festivals and Cabo's citizens are fond of celebrating. If you happen to be in Cabo during a celebration, you really should attend. It will give you an opportunity to understand Los Cabos and its heritage in a unique way. Some of the most important celebrations are: the Virgin of Guadalupe Celebration on December 12, and the Cabo San Lucas Festival (Festival of the Patron Saint) on October 18. Each of Mexico's cities has patron saints that guide and protect the people of the city. One of the most important saints in Cabo is San Luis, because he protects the fishermen at sea, and the celebration in his name includes much feasting, dancing, parades, local musicians playing in the streets and, of course, drinking. The Virgin of Guadalupe celebration honors the patron saint of Mexico. During these festival days, many of the resorts have begun offering specific cultural nights.

Also, many of the big resorts put on a dinner show or hold a Mexican fiesta night once a week just for vacationers to enjoy. Some of those locations include the Hacienda Beach Resort, the Melia San Lucas and Solmar Suites (all of these on Saturday nights). The fiestas are mini-parties and typically include traditional songs and dances presented in authentic costume and a dinner of traditional dishes. Make sure to ask the chefs or wait staff to identify the dishes you are not familiar with. These fiestas, while not entirely authentic, are a terrific way to experience something of traditional Mexican culture, not to mention food. Meals are enormous, with plenty of choice to justify the steep prices, and a very festive atmosphere. Note that it may be wise to go easy with the free tequila shots that are traditionally offered at these occasions.