Bahía Santa María is a protected marine sanctuary, so bring along a bag of bread or tortillas and feed the multi-colored creatures of the deep. This is an excellent spot for snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach.This marine preserve is a prime destination for many charter boats that offer snorkeling and SCUBA diving excursions departing from the Cabo San Lucas harbor. If you want to see a world of friendly colorful tropical fish, this is the place to go. Mornings, when it’s calm, is usually best for optimum underwater visibility. There are no facilities available other than a dirt parking lot and a few beach vendors so bring what you need with you. This is truly one of the most beautiful places in Los Cabos and well worth a visit.
Not too far along the highway east of Km. 12 is the very popular and often photographed Bahía Santa María, a small bay next to the renowned Twin Dolphin Hotel. The turn off is not well marked, look for the beach access sign and follow the dirt road to the parking area. If you have a lot of gear, the walk's tedious but well worth it. Horseshoe-shaped Playa Santa Maria is crowded on Sundays; mid week is better for more exclusive snorkeling and sunning. There are no facilities and little shade, bring supplies if you're staying the day. Watersports are heavenly if it's not too windy; and Santa María Bay is a protected marine sanctuary, so you're likely to see many species of fish. Another way to see Santa Maria is by boat. Various tour companies offer snorkel and diving tours and charters from Cabo San Lucas. An excellent beach for families, but use caution with children if the wind comes up. The unique pea-sized grains of sand are known for their lovely pink hue, and grace some of the older hand-set stone floors in the area.
NOTICE - WARNING
We emphatically stress that swimming off all the beaches on the Pacific side is dangerous due to swift sea currents and powerful waves. Use caution. As you will discover along the Los Cabos coast, almost all roads lead to a beach and a new adventure
Please do not drive on any of the area's beaches. Mexican Federal law prohibits driving any motorized vehicles on any beach in Mexico.
Please do not litter our beaches. Always take along a plastic trash bag for your trash. Also, consider picking up any trash left by other inconsiderate people. Help keep the beaches clean and beautiful.
Things to Remember
It is important to remember a few things before beginning your Baja Beach trip:
Number One: There are no lifeguards here, not even at most hotel pools. So, try not to swim alone as no big lifeguard hunk wearing red Speedos is going to come to your rescue.
Number Two: One won’t find a convenience store on every corner here (or on any corner for that matter), so bring lots of sunblock, sunglasses, water, snacks, bathroom tissue, film as well as a beach umbrella, snorkeling gear, sand toys, etc. And don’t forget a bag to carry your trash out in.
Number Three: Certain beaches have seas with severe undertows, dangerous breakers, rip tides, or deep drop-offs close to shore. Pay attention to any warning signs.
Number Four: Remember that it’s illegal to drive on beaches in México. Environmental protectionism is growing in countries all over the world and one needs to be as sensitive here in México as in the USA. In either country, a fuel spill from one’s boat or 4x4 on most beaches can result in stiff fines.
Photography: Santa Maria / Los Cabos Corredor / Carlos Aboyo
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