A First Timer’s Guide to the Best 3-Day San Jose del Cabo Itinerary

Hola amigos! So you’ve booked a trip to Cabooo but don’t feel like stepping foot anywhere near a Senõr Frogs? Yep, I know that feeling. And that’s exactly why San Jose del Cabo exists. This laid-back, art-forward town is Cabo’s cooler (and quieter) cousin. But it’s still beachy, still beautiful, but with way more charm and waaaay less drunk young Americans. If it’s your first time visiting, this 3-day San Jose del Cabo itinerary is the perfect mix of chill, tacos, sunshine, and just enough activity to keep things fun.

So keep reading for the full 3-day San Jose del Cabo itinerary! Complete with the best time to visit, dreamy boutique hotels worth booking, must-try restaurants, and all the things to do to make the most of your trip. Let’s vamos muchachas 👇

And yes I’ve included a sample itinerary at the bottom based on my exact trip! So you don’t have to waste hours on research like I did 🙂

Read more on Mexico 🇲🇽

• San José del Cabo vs Cabo San Lucas: How to Choose?
• The Complete Guide to Visiting Balandra Beach, La Paz – Mexico’s Most Stunning Beach 
• 10 Reasons Why You Need to Host Your Bachelorette Party in Sayulita, Mexico
• The Ultimate Itinerary + Guide to Planning A Cabo San Lucas Bachelorette Party
• My Luxury Escape at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

3-Day San Jose Del Cabo Itinerary at a Glance

Short on time? Here are my top picks for the best boutique hotels for your 3 day San Jose del Cabo itinerary:

• Drift San Jose del Cabo (Downtown San Jose del Cabo) – A minimalist, adults-only boutique hotel with a laid-back social vibe, perfect for travelers who want modern style, mezcal tastings, and walkability to downtown’s galleries and restaurants.
• Hotel El Ganzo (Puerto Los Cabos Marina) — Artsy and adults-only, Hotel El Ganzo is known for its rooftop infinity pool, live music sessions, and creative spirit, perfect for travelers looking to mix luxury with local flavor.
• Six Two Four Hotel (Downtown San Jose del Cabo) – A budget-friendly boutique hotel with clean design, friendly service, and a peaceful vibe, great for low-key travelers who want a stylish base without the crowds.

How to Get to San Jose Del Cabo for Your 3-Day Itinerary

Okay so first thing’s first. The term “Cabo” can be pretty broad so let’s clear up the logistics about where San Jose del Cabo is before we get into the rest of this blog post. Cabo San Lucas and San JOse del Cabo are both located in Baja California Sur. Which is the southern half of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, known for its desert-meets-sea landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life.

Los Cabos refers to the two main towns at the tip of the peninsula: San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. We’re here to talk about San Jose del Cabo today 🙂

To get to San Jose del Cabo, you’ll mostly likely fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which is about a 20-minute drive from town. While you can take a taxi, I definitely recommend pre-booking transportation once you arrive. Especially in Mexico because there are people that will try to hassle you as soon as you walk out of customs. I usually use Cabo Airport Shuttle and they’re great. (Def a bit on the pricier side but worth it for peace of mind).

Best Time to Visit for Your 3-Day San Jose Del Cabo Itinerary

Is there ever a bad time to visit Mexico? I honestly don’t think there is 🤷🏻‍♀️ Especially if you’re in the states. It’s soooo easy to fly down to the border and escape whatever season you’re trying to run away from. No but seriously, I genuinely feel like there isn’t a bad time to visit San Jose del Cabo. You’ll still enjoy a ton of sunshine and good weather no matter what month you come. I visited in mid-February and it was pure perfection. Warm days, cool nights, and a solid head start on my summer tan thanks to a long President’s Day weekend. So keep reading for the best time to visit San Jose del Cabo 🇲🇽

Visiting San Jose Del Cabo in Spring/Summer

Spring and summer in San Jose del Cabo can get preeeeeettty warm. But good thing it’s pretty much always sunny and that’s why you want to make sure you optimize for a hotel with a pool. Temps during spring/summer hover around 85 to 95°F (29 to 35°C), with dry desert air and some humidity. Am I the only one that didn’t know Baja California was basically a desert?

Visiting San Jose del Cabo in summer is nowhere near as bad as other parts of Mexico like Cancun for example, which is basically just one big sauna. July and August can get a little toasty, but the ocean breeze keeps things feeling breezy enough for beach naps, art strolls, and rooftop hangs. Summer in Cabo is technically considered slow season, which means fewer crowds and better hotel deals 🌶️

Visiting San Jose Del Cabo in Fall/Winter

Fall and winter in San Jose del Cabo definitely don’t require a coat, but you’ll likely notice the cooler temps and breezy evenings. Daytime highs land around 77 to 85°F (25 to 29°C), and nights can actually feel a little crisp, especially if you’ve been roasting all summer. This is prime time to visit with perfect beach weather, clear skies, and a ton of stuff happening around town. Think outdoor concerts, art walks, and dinners under the stars without breaking a sweat. December to February is also whale watching season, so keep your eyes on the water. It’s a popular time to be here, so expect a few more tourists and higher hotel prices, especially around the holidays.

Top Boutique Hotels to Book for Your 3-Day San Jose Del Cabo Itinerary

Omg yay my favorite part of any blog post that I write. The part about all the cute boutique hotels 😍

San Jose del Cabo might be small, but there are a few key areas to know before you pick your hotel. First up is the super cute and central historic center aka Downtown San Jose del Cabo. This is where you’ll find the Art District, colorful streets, adorable cafes, and all the charm you’d expect from an old colonial town. It’s walkable, lively, and great if you want to be in the middle of it all.

Funny enough, I originally booked three nights in the historic center and stayed at Drift San Jose del Cabo, but ended up loving Cabo so much that I added an extra night to my trip! But I switched things up with a stay at the close by Hotel El Ganzo (which was adults-only).

The other nearby neighborhood is Puerto Los Cabos, a quieter marina area just outside of town (where Hotel El Ganzo is). Think modern, laid-back, and perfect if you want a little more peace without being too far from the action.

Lastly, there’s the farm region just a short drive inland, home to Acre Hotel and Flora Farms (a popular upscale restaurant). It’s a desert-meets-jungle vibe with dirt roads, great food, and some of the most unique spots in the area. There aren’t a ton of hotels out here, but if you’re craving something off the beaten path or planning a fancy farm-to-table dinner, it’s totally worth considering.

Here are the best boutique hotels to book during your San José del Cabo itinerary:

• Drift San Jose del Cabo (Downtown San Jose del Cabo) – A modern, adults-only spot in the heart of the Art District, Drift blends minimalist design with a relaxed social atmosphere. Great for travelers who want easy access to local galleries, great tacos, and nightly mezcal pours.
• Tropicana Los Cabos (Downtown San Jose del Cabo) – This charming, hacienda-style hotel is known for its vibrant colors, nightly entertainment, and welcoming vibe. Located in the Hotel Zone, it’s a solid pick for those who want culture and comfort near the beach.
• Hotel El Ganzo (Puerto Los Cabos Marina) — Located by the marina, this adults-only hotel is a creative hub with its own underground recording studio, rooftop pool, and art-filled spaces. Perfect for travelers craving a boutique experience that blends luxury with a bold artistic edge.
• Six Two Four Hotel (Downtown San Jose del Cabo) – Quiet, modern, and budget-friendly, Six Two Four is ideal for those who prefer a more local, no-frills stay. It’s stylish without being flashy and offers a peaceful break from the busier tourist areas.
• Acre Resort (Ánimas Bajas) – Tucked away in the jungle just outside town, Acre offers a unique stay in chic treehouse villas surrounded by nature. With a standout farm-to-table restaurant and an animal sanctuary on-site, it’s a favorite for foodies and design lovers alike.

Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in San Jose Del Cabo in 3 Days

San Jose del Cabo may be the quieter little sister to Cabo San Lucas, but don’t let the slow pace fool you! There’s plenty to do here. Between the charming historic center, local art galleries, tucked-away taco spots, and potential day trips, you’ve got options. Whether you’re into leisurely strolls with an ice cold paleta in hand, tequila tastings, or getting your steps in wandering art walks and markets, San Jose’s got something for you. Keep reading for the top things to do and places to visit while you’re in town.

#1: Witness San Jose’s Art Scene Come Alive 🖼️

Every Thursday night from 5-9pm, the streets of San Jose’s Gallery District turn into an open-air art party. There’s live music, glowing lanterns, and art galleries swinging their doors open for locals and tourists alike. It’s the perfect mix of culture and people watching with a glass of wine in hand, duh. Sadly it only happens once a week so if you happen to be visiting for a long weekend, make sure you add the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk to your list of things to do! Even if you’re not an art person, the vibes are worth it. Plus, it’s free and easy to walk from bar to bar afterward.

#2: Join a Guided Food Tour 🌮

If you’re the kind of traveler who plans trips around foood (like I do) then this one’s for you. I was honestly a bit surprised at the lack of options for food tours around San Jose del Cabo. I always like to browse Get Your Guide when I travel to see what types of activities or experiences are around. (You know I love my walking tours) But a lot of the stuff was mostly boat trips in Cabo San Lucas. Which don’t get me wrong are also super fun, but just a very different vibe.

So I was pleasantly surprised to find this very reasonably priced guided food tour which includes a visit to the local market. You’ll start in the heart of San Jose del Cabo and make 6+ stops along the way to taste traditional aguas frescas, mole, birria, sopes, assorted tacos, paletas (Mexican popsicles), and more! For under $80/person, you really get a ton of bang for your buck.

Given the limited number of options for food tours, this experience sells out rather quickly so make sure you book in advance. And yes, I highly recommend booking the 10am because you might be dripping sweat if you book the 230pm tour 😡

#3: Explore Local Shops for One-of-a-Kind Souvenirs 🏺

Forget the airport gift shop. San Jose’s charming boutiques and artisan markets are packed with colorful ceramics, woven bags, and handmade jewelry you’ll actually want to bring home. Bonus: shopping here feels more like wandering through a tiny museum with better lighting. Many shops are run by local artists and families, so your pesos go toward something meaningful. Look for hand-painted kitchenware, linen clothing, and bold statement pieces. I left Mexico with the cutest white and blue kitchen spoon rest for only $10 USD. Even if you’re not buying, window shopping here is a whole experience.

#4: Taste Small-Batch Tequilas in a Stylish Courtyard 🌿

What’s better than staying at a hotel that also doubles as a tequila bar? Nothing! Which is why you’ll want to head to Drift Hotel for an intimate tequila and/or mezcal tasting. The tastings take place at the onsite Drift Kitchen + Mezcal Bar and includes four artisanal mezcal pours, two al pastor tacos, and a mini masterclass from their in-house expert. Each tasting is around ~1000 pesos per person.

#5: Swim With a View Over San Jose del Cabo 💧

I’m 34 (woooooo except not) which means I’m officially in my comfortable travel era. Which also means I’ll probably never book a hotel room without a pool, especially if I’m going somewhere warm. There’s just something about dipping into a rooftop pool while on vacation that feels 🤌🤌🤌

Both Drift and Hotel El Ganzo have pools but El Ganzo wins by a landslide. It’s adults-only (so no kiddos splashing around) but the rooftop infinity pool is the main event. Absolutely next level with panoramic ocean views. (Pro tip- I was staying as a guest but it’s also one of those hotels where you don’t need a hotel key to get up to the pool). I legit spent my entire last day in Cabo posted up there with at least 8+ house margaritas. It was glorious.

#6: Indulge in a Taco & Tostada Experience (Margaritas Included) 🌶️🥭

Another food-related rec? Yeah can you guess there’s a theme here? Which is FOOOOOD. Especially in Mexico. Scared of Montezuma’s revenge? Don’t worry. There’s a farmacia on basically every corner and they 100% will have Immodium so don’t let that stop you from eating to your heart’s content.

Especially once you come across this deliciously authentic food experience in the heart of the historic center. This food experience was also down the street from Drift so bonus points for convenience. This wasn’t a food tour but rather a fun and traditional Mexican meal experience. The space itself is completely outdoors and super colorful. There’s a chef that prepares a ton of different tacos, ceviche, tostadas, and more!

And yes, there’s every type of margarita imaginable with some of the freshest juice you’ll ever sip in your life! I highly recommend the spicy mango marg as it had just the right amount of kick (and lots of tequila). The experience starts at around $100 and sells out quickly so make sure you book in advanece!

#7: Play with the Cutest Rescue Dogs at Acre Resort 🐶

I’ll be honest. I’m a little torn at this recommendation. If you know me, you’ll know that I love dogs more than anything on this earth but it absolutely breaks my heart to see rescue dogs all over the world.

Acre Hotel isn’t just a gorgeous resort, but it’s also home to Acre Dogs, a sanctuary for rescue pups and a whole crew of other animals. You can swing by any day to visit, and if you’re up for it, one of the caretakers will happily hand you a leash so you can take a dog for a stroll around the property.

What happens if you fall in love? They make adoptions super easy, and even pair pups with flight escorts to get them to forever homes across North America. I definitely recommend coming for lunch and some playtime with the dogs. Just be prepared to go home empty-handed or in the best case scenario, with a new four-legged best friend.

#8: Escape With a Day Trip to Balandra Beach 🏖️

With only 3 days in San Jose del Cabo, this one might be a bit ambitious. But hey, it wouldn’t be a Discover Over There blog post without a day trip or fast-paced itinerary. Balandra Beach is quite literally known as the most beautiful beach in Mexico. And after seeing it myself, I totally get why.

If you’re not planning another trip to Cabo or anywhere else in Baja anytime soon, then I really recommend making this a day trip. That’s what I did during my visit, and while it was a loooooong day, the views were epic.

I booked this exact day trip through GetYourGuide and it was such a great experience. The driver was on time, super friendly, and we ended up being one of the first cars to arrive at Balandra — meaning we got to enjoy the calm, turquoise waters without the crowds. On the way back, we even stopped in Todos Santos for a little exploring and a sunset moment 🌅

Where to Eat & Drink During Your 3-Day San Jose Del Cabo Itinerary

Mexico is known for its incredible food, and San Jose del Cabo is no exception. And in my opinion, way better than Cabo san Lucas because you get a good mix of chill spots AND upscale. Whereas Cabo san Lucas is mostly just upscale these days.

Whether you’re craving street tacos or fresh seafood with an ocean view, there’s absolutely no shortage of places to eat and drink here. Seriously, you could spend your whole trip just hopping from one delicious spot to the next. But if you’re kinda short on time…these are my top 3 picks food + drink picks for your 3 day San Jose del Cabo itinerary!

#1. Don Sanchez Restaurant

If you’re looking for one of the best meals in San José del Cabo, Don Sanchez is itttttt. This farm-to-table spot serves up modern Mexican dishes with an upscale twist like lobster tacos, pork belly pambazo, and the best octopus ceviche of your life. They also serve this homemade bread and butter that I INHALEDDDD in seconds. It was so good. The open-air courtyard is stunning, the cocktails are strong, and the vibe is laid-back but elevated (aka perfect for date night or a bougie group dinner). Pro tip: come hungry and don’t skip the catch-of-the-day tartar 🐟

Address: 📍 Blvd. Antonio Mijares 27, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Hours of Operation: Open 5-10pm
Approximate Prices:  $$

#2. La Lupita Taco & Mezcal

Yes you’re in Mexico which means yes, you should probably (most definitely) get some tacos. I know that’s probably a basic AF recommendation but it’s a popular rec for a reason. And it’s a good thing because La  Lupita Taco is right in the heart of San Jose del Cabo. I think there’s also a Cabo san lucas location too. I ordered a trio of tacos here and got the Santo Pastor, chipotle shrimp, and miso fish. The rustic-chic patio, mezcal flights, and live music give it that backyard block party meets gourmet vibe. Come hungry, bring a group, and don’t skip the mezcal pairing—it’s part of the full Cabo experience.

Address: 📍 Acuario, Av. del Pescador y, El Medano Ejidal, El Medano, 23479 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
Hours of Operation: Open everyday 2-10:30pm, except for Mondays
Approximate Prices: $

#3. Santoro San José

Last but not least, Santoro lights up San José del  Cabo with a killer rooftop experience. Perfect for lunch or dinner for first-timers to San Jose del Cabo. Santoro is an aesthetic-lovers dream with boho‑chic decor, lush greenery, and panoramic views straight over the city center and the mountains. The mood is laid‑back rooftop vibes with upscale flair. I highly recommend order the grilled octopus and any cocktail that’s made with their own house brand tequila!

Address: 📍  Ignacio Zaragoza 870, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Hours of Operation: Open everyday 12-10pm
Approximate Prices: $$

Sample 3-Day San Jose Del Cabo Itinerary

Check out my sample San Jose del Cabo 3-day itinerary below ⬇️

Day 1

• Check into Drift San Jose del Cabo
• Stroll around the arts & gallery district
• Lunch at La Lupita
• Walk around Plaza Mijares
• Go souvenir shopping
• Panoramic sunset drinks at Santoro
• Dinner at Don Sanchez

Day 2

• Morning breakfast at Acre Resort
• Play with the rescue pups at Acre Dogs
• Tacos & Tostadas Experience for lunch
• Sunset cruise around San Jose del Cabo
• Laid-back dinner at El Marinero Borracho

Day 3

• Full day excursion to Balandra Beach and Todos Santos
• Dinner at the nearby SAGE Baja

San Jose Del Cabo FAQ

To help you plan your 3-day San Jose del Cabo itinerary, here are some commonly asked questions for first time visitors to San Jose del Cabo 🇲🇽

What’s the currency in San Jose del Cabo?

They use the Mexican Peso (MXN), but most places accept credit cards. I only used pesos when tipping my transportation to/from the airport and Balandra. That said, it’s nice to have some pesos on hand for smaller shops, tips, and more local spots.

What language do they speak in San Jose del Cabo?

Spanish is the official language English is widely spoken, especially at the hotels and restaurants. I still recommend learning a few basic phrases — it goes a long way and locals really appreciate the effort.

What’s the best month to visit San Jose del Cabo?

I’d say November through April is prime time for visiting Cabo with January or February being the best month to visit. (Cheaper prices, warm days, and a whole loooootttaaa sunshine). 🌞

Do I need to rent a car in San Jose del Cabo?

It depends! If you’re sticking to San Jose’s walkable downtown and just doing a few tours, you can probably skip it. But if you want to explore beaches, visit towns like Todos Santos, or head up to Balandra Beach without booking a tour, a rental car makes life way easier.

Is San Jose del Cabo safe for tourists?

I think so! Cabo is definitely one of the safer spots in Mexico for travelers. Like anywhere, you’ll want to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and stick to well-lit areas at night. But overall, I felt super comfortable walking around solo.

What’s the difference between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas?

San Jose del Cabo is the chill, artsy sibling (cobblestone streets, colorful galleries, and cute cafés) whereas Cabo San Lucas is more of the party town, with big resorts and nightlife. Both are part of Los Cabos, but they each have their own vibe.

Torn between San Jose and Cabo San Lucas? My San Jose del Cabo vs Cabo San Lucas blog post will help you figure out which one’s more your speed.

Can I drink the tap water?

That’s gonna be a hard NO for all of Mexico. They say to also brush your teeth with bottled water which I never do but I definitely use bottled water for everything else 🤷🏻‍♀️

Is San Jose del Cabo expensive?

It’s all relative. I think San Jose del Cabo is slightly cheaper than Cabo San Lucas but compared to other parts of Mexico, it’s a bit on the pricier side. Unfortunately that’s just the result of a bunch of Californians like myself flying south over and over again so there are definitely some places that aren’t too far off LA prices. But if you’re down to explore local taquerias, markets, and boutique stays, it’s totally possible to do San Jose on a budget. Just depends on your travel style!

3 Days in San Jose Del Cabo: Final Thoughts

Three days in San Jose del Cabo goes by fast doesn’t it??? (Especially if you opted for the day trip to Balandra). Between the tacos, the beach, and the mezcal, spending 3 days in San Jose del Cabo is the kind of trip that makes you wonder why you don’t do this more often. Especially for us bay area folks. Cabo is literally a 2.5 hour plane ride away.

I hope I did a good enough job showing you all the highlights of San Jose del Cabo in 3 days, because this little town seriously deserves a spot on your bucket list. Whether you’re into beach lounging, art strolls, tequila tastings, or just want a quick escape that feels equal parts chill + special, San Jose delivers.

This 3 day San Jose del Cabo itinerary was designed to give you a balance of local flavor, a bit of adventure, and plenty of time to do absolutely nothing if that’s more your vibe (bc you know it’s mineee).

Did you get a chance to test out this 3 day San Jose del Cabo itinerary? Let me know in the comments below!

Visiting other parts of Mexico?

Check out my other travel guides on Mexico here.

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!