Santa Maria Beach (Playa Santa María)
The Basics
Santa Maria’s wide strip of golden sand and horseshoe-shaped bay tucked between two bluffs make it one of the nicest beaches in Los Cabos.
Most visitors arrive as part of a snorkeling cruise that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off. There’s also a popular snorkel and kayak combo tour to consider. Excursions typically include free time to enjoy the beach. If you want to spend more time soaking up the Baja tranquility, plan to visit independently.
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Things to Know Before You Go
Choose a half-day snorkeling cruise that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off.
Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
Santa Maria Beach has basic facilities, including parking, wheelchair ramps, and restrooms.
Snorkeling gear and beach umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Santa Maria Beach is on a boat tour from Los Cabos. Or, if you’re driving, take Highway 1. The beach is accessible via a well-marked stop off the road, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) east of Cabo San Lucas and 12 miles (19 kilometers) west of San Jose del Cabo.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
Santa Maria Beach can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. The middle of the week has fewer crowds, and mornings offer better conditions and calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Snorkeling at Santa Maria Cove
Santa Maria’s horseshoe-shaped bay is a popular destination for snorkeling cruises that ply the Los Cabos coast. Santa Maria Cove is one of the best spots to snorkel and see colorful coral formations, troves of tropical fish, and maybe sea turtles or manta rays. Its calm, shallow waters and ease of snorkeling from shore make it an ideal snorkeling spot for families.