Cabo San Lucas All Inclusive Vacation: Your Complete Guide to Paradise
Imagine waking up to the sound of waves. You step onto your balcony. The sun is rising over the Sea of Cortez. You smell fresh coffee. Your day is planned with fun activities. All your meals and drinks are included. This is a Cabo San Lucas all inclusive vacation. It is a perfect way to relax and explore. This guide will tell you everything you need to know. We will cover the best resorts. We will talk about activities and food. We will give you tips to save money. Get ready for your dream trip to Mexico's beautiful Baja California.
Cabo San Lucas is at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. It is famous for its stunning beaches. It has amazing rock formations like El Arco. The weather is warm and sunny almost all year. An all inclusive vacation here means you pay one price. This price covers your room, food, drinks, and often entertainment. It makes budgeting easy. You can enjoy your holiday without worrying about extra costs. This guide is your complete resource. We will help you plan the perfect getaway.
Why Choose an All Inclusive Resort in Cabo San Lucas?
Choosing an all inclusive resort in Cabo has many benefits. First, it offers great value. You know your total cost before you go. This helps with vacation budgeting. Second, it is very convenient. You do not need to search for restaurants every day. Everything is on site. This is perfect for families and couples. You can focus on relaxing and having fun.
Budget-Friendly Luxury
All inclusive resorts bundle everything together. This often saves you money. A study by the U.S. Travel Association shows that bundled vacations can be 20-30% cheaper. You enjoy luxury without constant spending. Meals, snacks, and drinks are included. This is a big saving, especially for families.
Stress-Free Planning
Your vacation planning becomes simple. You book your flight and resort. That is mostly it. The resort handles meals and activities. Many resorts offer daily schedules. You can join yoga, water aerobics, or cooking classes. Everything is organized for you. This reduces travel stress significantly.
Perfect for All Travelers
These resorts cater to different needs. Some are adults-only for a romantic trip. Others are family-friendly with kids' clubs. There are resorts for party lovers and for those seeking peace. You can find the right fit for your group.
Top All Inclusive Resorts in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo has many excellent all inclusive resorts. We have selected the best in different categories. This will help you choose.
Best for Families: Grand Velas Los Cabos
This resort is perfect for families. It has spacious suites. Every room has an ocean view. The kids' club is amazing. It offers activities for children of all ages. There are multiple pools, including a family pool. The food is top quality with many restaurants. According to Tripadvisor reviews, families love the attentive service.
- Kids' club with supervised activities
- Family suites with separate bedrooms
- Children's menus at all restaurants
- Shallow pool areas for young kids
Best for Adults-Only: Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos
Le Blanc is luxury for adults. It is elegant and peaceful. The service is exceptional. The resort focuses on wellness. It includes a world-class spa (treatments cost extra). The pools are serene. The food is gourmet. It is ideal for couples or friends wanting a quiet, upscale experience.
- Butler service for every room
- Multiple gourmet dining options
- Beautiful infinity pools
- Daily wellness activities like yoga
Best for Nightlife: Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas
The Riu Palace is known for fun. It has lively pools with music. There is evening entertainment every night. The resort is close to downtown Cabo. You can easily visit bars and clubs. The all inclusive package includes 24-hour snacks and drinks. It is great for groups wanting a social atmosphere.
- Live music and shows nightly
- Swim-up bar in the main pool
- Sports bar open late
- Easy access to the Cabo nightlife scene
Best for Value: Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos
Sandos Finisterra offers great quality for a lower price. It sits on a cliff with amazing views. It has several pools and restaurants. The location is perfect. You can walk to the marina in 10 minutes. This gives you resort convenience with town access.
- Affordable all inclusive rates
- Stunning views of the bay and arch
- Walking distance to town
- Multiple a la carte restaurants included
What's Really Included? Understanding Your Package
"All inclusive" can mean different things. It is important to read the details. Most packages include the basics. Some include more. Always check before you book.
Standard Inclusions (Almost Always)
- Accommodation: Your hotel room or suite.
- All Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Usually buffet and some a la carte restaurants.
- Snacks: Available throughout the day at designated spots.
- Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Domestic brands are typically included. Premium brands often cost extra.
- On-Site Activities: Things like pool games, dance lessons, and non-motorized water sports (kayaks, paddleboards).
- Entertainment: Nightly shows, live music, or themed parties.
- Taxes and Service Charges: These should be included in the upfront price.
Common Exclusions (Check Carefully)
- Spa Treatments: Massages and facials are almost always extra.
- Motorized Water Sports: Jet skis, parasailing, and boat rentals cost more.
- Premium Alcohol: Top-shelf liquor, fine wine, and imported beer may not be included.
- Off-Site Excursions: Tours like whale watching or ATV adventures are extra.
- Room Service: Some resorts include it, others charge a fee.
- Wi-Fi: Many resorts now include basic Wi-Fi, but premium high-speed may cost extra.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a list of inclusions and exclusions when booking. The Los Cabos Tourism Board website is a good resource for general standards.
Must-Do Activities on Your Cabo All Inclusive Vacation
While the resort is wonderful, you should explore Cabo. Here are the top activities. You can book most through your resort's tour desk.
1. See El Arco (The Arch) by Boat
This is Cabo's most famous landmark. It is a natural rock arch where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour from the marina. The tour often includes seeing sea lions on Lovers' Beach. It is a must-do. Tours last about 45 minutes and are very affordable.
2. Visit Lovers' Beach and Divorce Beach
These two beaches are next to El Arco. You can only reach them by boat. Lovers' Beach is on the calm Sea of Cortez side. It is perfect for swimming. Divorce Beach is on the rough Pacific side. It has big waves and is great for photos, not swimming. A water taxi can drop you off for a few hours.
3. Go Whale Watching (Seasonal)
From December to April, humpback and gray whales visit Cabo. It is an incredible experience. Many tour companies offer trips. The NOAA reports that over 20,000 gray whales make this journey yearly. Book a tour for a chance to see these giants up close.
4. Explore San Jose del Cabo
San Jose is Cabo's quieter, more artistic sister town. It is about 20 miles away. The historic town square (Plaza Mijares) is beautiful. There are art galleries and nice restaurants. Go on a Thursday evening for the Art Walk. It is a fun change of pace.
5. Enjoy Water Sports
Your resort may include kayaking or snorkeling. For more adventure, try these:
- Snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay: The water is clear and full of fish.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Great for a calm morning on the water.
- Sportfishing: Cabo is a world-famous fishing destination. Book a charter for marlin or tuna.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Trip
Follow these simple steps for a smooth vacation.
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates
Consider the weather and crowds. The best weather is from October to May. It is dry and warm. June to September is hotter and humid, with a chance of rain. This is the "green season" and prices are lower. Holiday weeks (Christmas, Spring Break) are very busy and expensive.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
Decide how much you want to spend. All inclusive rates vary. They range from $200 to $800 per person, per night. Remember to budget for flights, tips, and extra excursions.
Step 3: Pick Your Resort Type
Think about your group. Are you a family? A couple? Friends? Choose a resort that matches your style (family-friendly, adults-only, party, quiet). Read recent reviews on sites like Tripadvisor.
Step 4: Book Your Flight and Resort
You can book separately or as a package. Websites like Expedia often have good package deals. Flying into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is easy. Many airlines have direct flights.
Step 5: Plan Your Activities
Make a list of must-do activities. You can book some tours in advance online. Others you can book at the resort. Do not over-schedule. Leave time to relax by the pool.
Step 6: Prepare Your Documents
You need a valid passport to enter Mexico. Check its expiration date. You do not need a visa for tourist stays under 180 days. Fill out the Mexican Tourist Card (FMM) on the plane or at the airport.
Practical Tips for Your All Inclusive Stay
These tips will make your vacation even better.
- Tip the Staff: Even though it's all inclusive, tipping is appreciated. Tip your housekeeper, bartender, and servers. A few dollars per day or per drink is customary.
- Reserve Restaurants Early: Popular a la carte restaurants fill up. Make reservations as soon as you arrive at the resort.
- Bring Sun Protection: The sun in Cabo is very strong. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen often.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you are drinking alcohol. The heat can cause dehydration quickly.
- Explore Beyond the Resort: Do not spend your whole vacation inside the gates. Cabo has so much to offer. Take a taxi to the marina or downtown for a few hours.
- Pack Smart: Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, cover-ups, and casual evening wear. Most restaurants have a "resort casual" dress code (no swimwear, shorts are often okay).
- Use the Concierge: The resort concierge is a great resource. They can help with restaurant recommendations, tour bookings, and transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the water safe to drink at all inclusive resorts in Cabo?
Yes, at reputable all inclusive resorts, the water is purified. The ice is made from purified water. Bottled water is also provided. It is safe to drink water at the resort. Be cautious with water from taps in public areas outside the resort.
2. What is the best time of year to go to Cabo San Lucas?
The best time is from October to May. The weather is perfect. It is sunny with low humidity. High temperatures are in the 80s°F (high 20s°C). This is peak season, so prices are higher. For lower prices, consider the summer months (June-September). It is hotter and there is a chance of rain, but it is still enjoyable.
3. Are all inclusive resorts in Cabo safe?
Yes, Cabo San Lucas is a very safe tourist destination. The resorts have security. The tourist areas are well-patrolled. Use common sense as you would anywhere. Do not leave valuables unattended on the beach. Use the hotel safe for passports and extra cash.
4. How much should I budget for tips?
Plan to budget $10-$20 USD per day for tips. This covers housekeeping, bellmen, bartenders, and servers. It is not mandatory, but it is a nice gesture for good service. Have small bills (US dollars are widely accepted for tips) on hand.
5. Can I leave the all inclusive resort to explore?
Absolutely! You are not locked in. You can come and go as you please. Many people enjoy splitting their time between the resort and exploring Cabo. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at resort entrances.
6. Do I need to speak Spanish?
No. In the tourist areas and resorts, English is widely spoken. Staff at all inclusive resorts are bilingual. It is always polite to know a few basic Spanish phrases like "Hola" (Hello), "Gracias" (Thank you), and "Por favor" (Please).
7. What is the currency, and should I exchange money?
The currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). US dollars are accepted almost everywhere in the tourist zones. However, you often get a better price in pesos. It is a good idea to have some pesos for small purchases outside the resort. You can exchange money at the airport or use ATMs in town.
Real Examples: A Day in the Life at a Cabo All Inclusive
Let's see what a perfect day looks like.
Morning
You wake up at 8:00 AM without an alarm. You order room service coffee to your balcony. You watch the fishing boats head out to sea. After coffee, you go to the breakfast buffet. There are fresh fruits, omelets made to order, and Mexican chilaquiles. After breakfast, you join the 10:00 AM water aerobics class in the pool. It is fun and energetic.
Afternoon
You grab a lounge chair by the pool. You read a book and take a dip to cool off. For lunch, you try the poolside grill for fish tacos. In the early afternoon, you take a kayak from the resort's beach. You paddle along the coast for an hour. Then, you relax in the shade with a frozen margarita.
Evening
You watch the sunset from a cliffside bar. The sky turns orange and pink. You have a 7:30 PM reservation at the resort's Italian restaurant. You enjoy pasta and wine. After dinner, you watch the nightly show in the theater—a fun Mexican folklore performance. You finish the night with a walk on the beach under the stars.
Conclusion: Your Dream Cabo Getaway Awaits
A Cabo San Lucas all inclusive vacation is the perfect escape. It combines luxury, convenience, and adventure. You get the beauty of Mexico with the ease of a pre-paid holiday. You can spend your days relaxing by a stunning pool. You can explore the famous El Arco. You can taste delicious food without ever opening your wallet.
Remember to choose the right resort for your needs. Understand what is included in your package. Plan a few exciting excursions. But also, leave time to do nothing at all. The goal is to return home feeling rested and happy. Cabo's warm sun, friendly people, and beautiful scenery will stay with you long after your trip ends. Start planning today. Your paradise vacation is just a booking away. For more travel inspiration, check out our other Mexico travel guides.