Are Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas the Same?

Planning a dream vacation to Mexico's Baja California Peninsula often leaves travelers with one big question: Are Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas the same thing? This common query deserves a clear and concise answer.

In this blog post, not only will we explain the difference between Cabo and Los Cabos, but we'll also help you decide whether Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo is the ideal destination for your getaway.

Los cabos san lucas typical houses

Is Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos the Same Thing?

To put it simply, yes and no! Cabo San Lucas, a major tourist destination, is part of a larger region known as Los Cabos. This region encompasses the cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, as well as the Tourist Corridor that connects the two.

While the names Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas are typically used interchangeably, they don't exactly refer to the same thing.

Check out Los Cabos Fishing l Everything You Should Know.

sea and beach in los cabos

What is the Difference Between Cabo and Los Cabos?

Cabo San Lucas is a city within the Los Cabos region, which also includes the more tranquil town of San Jose del Cabo.

Both cities are served by the same airport, Los Cabos International Airport, located approximately 40 minutes from Cabo San Lucas and 30 minutes from San Jose del Cabo.

You may be interested in Cabo San Lucas Excursions.

Boats at the Los Cabos dock

Los Cabos Mexico Map

Looking at a Los Cabos Mexico map will reveal the geographical difference between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Cabo San Lucas is situated at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, while San Jose del Cabo lies just northeast of Cabo along Highway 1. Together, they make up Los Cabos, which translates to “the (two) Cabos.”

This article may be helpful: Frequently Asked Questions About Cabo San Lucas.

historic center los cabos

Los Cabos vs Cabo San Lucas

When choosing your vacation spot, it's less crucial to know the difference between Cabo and Los Cabos than it is to understand the distinct characteristics of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

For travelers seeking a leisurely vacation away from the commotion of a bustling downtown area, San Jose del Cabo is the perfect choice. This charming village boasts a thriving art scene, quaint boutique shops, and a relaxed atmosphere compared to its livelier neighbor, Cabo San Lucas.

If you're after a more action-packed holiday with numerous restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions, then Cabo San Lucas is your go-to destination. With a wide range of all-inclusive resorts to pick from, Cabo San Lucas offers an unforgettable experience.

However, since the two towns are just a short drive apart, you can easily enjoy the best of both worlds, regardless of where you choose to stay.

Now, when someone asks you, Is Los Cabos the same as Cabo San Lucas?, you'll not only be able to explain the difference between Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas but also provide insight into the unique qualities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Understanding these distinctions might not drastically alter your vacation plans, but it will certainly make you sound more knowledgeable as you recount your incredible Baja California Peninsula adventure.

Here you will find The 18 Types Of Fish You May Catch In Los Cabos.