Palmilla Beach in Cabo San Lucas is a pristine sanctuary of unspoiled beauty. Tourists head to this coastal paradise where the long white sand beach speaks of romance and honeymoons.
Its tranquil surroundings, breathtaking sunsets, and lack of crowds make it an ideal escape for those seeking a quieter beach getaway. If you’re one then the pristine shores of this beach are sure to leave you yearning to return time and time again.
In this article, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Palmilla Beach, covering everything you need to know, from transportation options and activities to dining choices and more.
Things to Know Before Visiting Palmilla Beach
Before starting your trip visit Palmilla Beach, Let’s discuss some important things you should know.
Is Palmilla Beach Safe To Visit?
Palmilla Beach is safe for tourists. The Mexican authorities are committed to keeping the Blue Flag program Standard, ensuring safe beaches for all visitors. However, as with any destination, you need to exercise some caution while there.
This includes being aware of your surroundings, safeguarding your belongings, and adhering to local guidelines or advisories to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Where Is Palmilla Beach Located?
Palmilla Beach is in Los Cabos, a municipality in Baja California Sur, Mexico. It is positioned on the southern coast of the Baja California Peninsula, offering picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
The beach is part of the larger Palmilla Resort community, encompassing luxury resorts, golf courses, and residential areas.
Is Palmilla Beach Public?
Yes, Palmilla Beach is a public beach and is free for all. While it is located within the Palmilla Resort community, access to the beach is not restricted to resort guests only.
Visitors like you and I can enjoy the beach, swim in the ocean, and relax on the sandy shore. However, keep in mind that certain amenities, such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment, may be available for rent through the resort or local vendors.
Is Palmilla Beach Swimmable?
Yes, Palmilla Beach is swimmable and safe for all ages and skill levels. It has gentle waves, shallow waters, and lifeguards on duty. The beach has excellent water quality and holds the prestigious Blue Flag certification, ensuring clean and safe waters for swimming.
Some of the other well-known swimmable beaches in Cabo Include Medano Beach, Lovers Beach, Cannery Beaches, Chileno Beach, Tequila Cove Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.
Further reading:
Parking at Palmilla Beach
There is no valet or pay to parking areas. There is a long, narrow lot right next to the beach. To secure a closer spot, it’s best to arrive early, as it tends to get crowded around 10:00/11:00.
How to Get To Palmilla Beach?
Figuring out how to get to Palmilla Beach Los Cabos is a breeze. The beach is conveniently located near the main highway, so driving yourself is the most convenient way.
Moreover, plenty of clear signs point you in the right direction towards the public access point. Trust me, you won’t have trouble finding your way to this beautiful spot!
If you’re not in the mood for driving, consider these alternative transportation options:
Take the Local Bus
To reach Palmilla Beach via local bus, you can take the Cabo Los Cabos bus (red, green, or yellow) from any bus stop along the highway leading to Cabo San Lucas. Make sure to clearly communicate to the driver that you want to be dropped off at Palmilla Beach.
This is because most drivers don’t understand English well, but they know the name of the beach. Speak clearly and pronounce the name correctly to make sure they understand.
Once you board the bus, it will take you about 15-20 minutes to get to the overpass near the properties close to Palmilla Beach. From there, you can enjoy a scenic walk of approximately 800 meters through beautifully manicured grounds filled with various plants and flowers.
On your left, you will find the public beach entrance at the bottom of the hill. As you cross the overpass on your way to the beach, keep an eye out on your left for the bus stop where you can catch the return bus. The fare for the return trip is 14 pesos (less than a dollar) which is very cheap.
Taxi or Ridesharing Service
A taxi or ridesharing service is a great choice if you prefer a more convenient and direct option. Taxis are widely available in Los Cabos, and you can easily hail one from your hotel or any other location.
My only advice, if you decide to use this mode of transportation, is to make sure to agree on the fare before starting the journey, and if possible, opt for a licensed taxi or a reputable ridesharing service for a reliable and safe experience.
The prices are generally between $20 to $40 USD. The ride to Palmilla Beach from popular tourist areas like Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo should take around 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
What’s The Best Time to Visit Palmilla Beach?
If you’re looking for the most ideal weather conditions to visit Palmilla Beach, plan your trip from May to June. During this period, the Beach experiences its dry season, characterized by pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall.
However, The region enjoys a semi-arid desert climate, so you can expect hot and sunny weather throughout the year. You can expect sunny skies, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. It’s an excellent time to soak up the sun, relax on the beach, and enjoy various water activities.
That being said, during this period, the winter crowds have subsided, and the summer storms have yet to arrive. This means you can enjoy the beach with fewer people and take advantage of the relatively calm weather.
I would also recommend going in October and November, they’re great months to consider for a visit to Palmilla Beach. The weather remains pleasant, and tourist activity tends to be lower at the beach compared to the peak season and you can secure some great deals if you’re traveling on a budget.
For those interested in whale watching, come to Palmilla Beach from mid-December to mid-April for a good chance of spotting them. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, late summer and fall are the ideal seasons to visit Palmilla Beach.
It’s important to note that while Palmilla Beach generally enjoys favorable weather conditions, the Pacific hurricane season runs from mid-May to November.
Though the Cabo San Lucas region typically experiences tropical storms during this season rather than direct hits from hurricanes, it’s still wise to stay informed about weather forecasts and any potential changes that may affect your travel plans.
Best Activities to Do At Palmilla Beach
When visiting this amazing beach, there are numerous activities, and water sports that cater to various interests.
Here are some of the best activities to do at Pamilla Beach in Cabo:
- Go Swimming
- Go Surfing
- Go Snorkeling
- Hike in the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains
- Tee Off at Palmilla Golf Club
- Take a Boat Tour
- Visit the Palmilla Spa
1. Go Swimming
If you don’t know what activity to start with Palmilla’s ample beach offerings, start with swimming. This is one of the few places where you will get to enjoy a peaceful swim with your family and friends.
Yep, that’s right, the gentle waves, few crowds, and clear waters make it a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim.
There are lifeguards present, and public restrooms, showers, and changing areas for your convenience. If you prefer some shade, there are a few beach palapas, or you can rent an umbrella and lounge chairs to relax under the sun.
2. Go Surfing
Besides being a safe swimming beach in Los Cabos, surfing is another popular thing to do when visiting Palmilla Beach. The prevailing winds from the south and southeast create consistent waves that are ideal for surfing. The best time to surf is during the summer months, but you can catch good waves all year round.
If windsurfing or kitesurfing is more your style, this beach is perfect for that too. Beginners can rent a board and find local instructors to help you get started.
3. Go Snorkeling
I have snorkeled a few beaches in Cabo, and this is my favorite. Snorkeling in Palmilla Beach in Cabo is surprisingly great due to the quiet setting and great rock outcroppings.
Notable fish I’ve seen there are parrot fish, cowfish, an eagle ray, and loads of urchins. Angelfish, eels, and puffer fish tend to gather near the rocks, so it’s important to exercise caution when swimming in their vicinity, particularly on windy or wavy days. Really, though, it is still one of the best snorkeling beaches in Los Cabos.
Keep in mind that snorkel tours are also present there, and it tends to get crowded, so come early in the morning after 10 a.m. for a better experience.
If you plan to rent snorkeling gear, there are a lot of on-site rentals for snorkels, masks, and fins.
4. Hike in the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains
If you’re looking for a break from the beach, venture into the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. This scenic mountain range offers excellent hiking opportunities with trails of various difficulty levels. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, enjoy panoramic views, and discover hidden waterfalls and natural pools.
November until early spring is the best time for hiking in Cabo. Note that the trails within the Sierra de la Laguna can pose challenges in terms of locating and staying on track. Unless you possess expertise in hiking or are familiar with the area, I recommend going with a guide.
5. Tee Off at Palmilla Golf Club
If you’re a Golf enthusiast you’ll be delighted to discover Palmilla Golf Club, a premier golfing destination located adjacent to Palmilla Beach.
Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this 27-hole championship golf course offers stunning ocean views and challenging fairways suitable for players of all skill levels.
6. Take a Boat Tour
Exploring the coastline and nearby attractions on a boat tour is a popular activity at Palmilla Beach. You can choose from various options, such as guided tours, sunset cruises, or fishing excursions.
The most popular options include:
- Los Cabos Luxury Sunset Sail
- Land’s End Luxury Sail & Snorkel Cruise
- Luxury Sailing Yacht and Chef Dinner
- Los Cabos Luxury Sailing, Snorkel and Lunch Cruise
The boat tours often take you along the scenic shoreline, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, coves, and secluded beaches. You may also have the opportunity to spot marine wildlife, such as dolphins and sea turtles, in their natural habitat.
7. Visit the Palmilla Spa
End your day with a rejuvenating experience at One & Only Spa, within the Palmilla Resort. The spa’s dedication to preserving Mexican traditions adds an authentic touch, inviting you to immerse yourself in the rich culture as you embark on a wellness journey.
The spa menu typically includes a variety of treatments such as massages, facials, body wraps, manicures, pedicures, and other beauty services. These treatments are often inspired by local traditions and ingredients, incorporating elements of the surrounding culture for a unique and authentic experience.
Where to Stay At Palmilla Beach Cabo?
Palmilla Beach in Cabo offers an array of luxurious accommodations that cater to diverse preferences and needs. Let me share some of my favorite hotels and resorts near the beach.
One & Only Palmilla
One & Only Palmilla offers stunning oceanfront views, a private beach, and top-notch amenities such as infinity pools, a world-class spa, and exquisite dining options. The resort features opulent suites and 13 private villas designed with a perfect blend of contemporary elegance and traditional Mexican style.
Casa Manana Luxury Villa Beachfront
Casa Manana Luxury Villa Beachfront is another excellent accommodation option situated just 4 minutes from Palmilla Beach. This exclusive villa provides comfortable and air-conditioned rooms with a private pool. With its 5 bedrooms, it can accommodate a large group or family. You can also enjoy the luxury of a hot tub.
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Los Cabos
Hampton Inn & Suites is located 5 minutes away from Palmilla Beach. If you’re a couple seeking a romantic escape this is the ideal retreat in this enchanting destination. The hotel offers a fitness center, shared lounge, terrace, and bar. You can enjoy a hot tub and car rental service. The rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms.
Where to Eat At Palmilla Beach?
Here you will find a wide selection of restaurants and bars for you to enjoy the culinary offerings of Mexico. Here are a few of my go-to places that you can consider:
Bar Esquina
Bar Esquina is a great choice for both casual dining and enjoying a lively nightlife experience. They offer a diverse menu with a fusion of Mexican and international cuisine with dishes ranging from fresh seafood, grilled meats, pasta, and salads. There is also a well-stocked bar offering a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and other beverages.
La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
This casual eatery specializes in authentic Mexican tacos and mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. It’s known for its vibrant and colorful ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating options. They also have a wide selection of mezcal, which you can enjoy as a sipping drink or in creative mezcal cocktails.
Pitahayas Restaurant
Pitahayas Restaurant is a fine dining establishment with a romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the ocean. The restaurant specializes in gourmet cuisine with a focus on Asian-Mexican fusion dishes. The menu features a range of seafood, including fresh fish and shellfish, along with other exquisite dishes prepared with local ingredients.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Palmilla Beach in Mexico stands out as a truly remarkable destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. With its safe and welcoming atmosphere, accessible location, and a plethora of activities to enjoy, it is truly a great place to visit.
When contemplating your itinerary for Los Cabos, Palmilla Beach deserves special consideration. So, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this coastal haven and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.