Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are an easy, affordable hop from many cities across the U.S. – especially from the West Coast. If you’re ready to venture beyond your resort and put down your frozen cocktail, there’s plenty to do here. Whether your idea of a good time is soaking up local culture or diving into the water, here are some alternative ways to kick back. 

Art, Crafts, and Markets

Spend a leisurely morning or afternoon walking around the Gallery District in San José del Cabo. Here, you'll find more than a dozen galleries along the colorful side streets. Many prominent artists, both Mexican and international, have made the district their home. If you’re in town on a Thursday evening between November and June, be sure to attend the Art Walk, a weekly event where you’re likely to see as many locals as tourists. Many galleries hold special events and exhibitions, and it's good for both kids and adults.

If you’re looking to keep things strictly local and handmade, check out Mercado Organico, an outdoor organic market at the Huerta Maria near the center of San José. Here you'll find produce vendors, arts and crafts, jewelry, and clothing. The seasonal market runs on Saturdays from November to May.

On the Water

If you’re looking to get out on the water, your best bet is a boat tour to see the famous El Arco and Lover's Beach.

More adventurous travelers might want to try fly boarding, where a rider floats above the ocean while riding a special tethered board that propels strong jets of water from beneath. To try it, head to Marina Puerto Los Cabos, just five minutes from downtown, where you’ll find Hydro FlyBoard. Rates start at $199 for an hour of instruction and fly boarding that includes all equipment and a one-on-one instructor. If you are staying closer to Cabo San Lucas, check out Cabo FlyBoard in Medano Beach ($139 for 30 minutes). First-time participants typically fly between five and fifteen feet, although the tether hose measures forty-five feet – if you’re feeling bold.  

For a slightly tamer activity, try Dolphin Discovery, also located at the marina. Rates start at $109 ($99 for kids) for 30 minutes in the water with the dolphins. The facility also offers seasonal whale watching tours ($69 for kids; $89 for adults) between December 15 and April 15. In Cabo San Lucas, try Cabo Adventures for dolphin swimming ($189 for adults; $99 for kids for 40 minutes).