Is Cabo Safe? What Travelers Really Need to Know
- Jason Bailey
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Cabo San Lucas and the broader Los Cabos corridor have long been among Mexico’s most popular vacation destinations for American travelers. With world-class sportfishing, luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant marina scene, it’s no surprise that one of the most common questions first-time visitors ask is: “Is Cabo safe?”
The short answer is yes—Cabo is generally safe for tourists, particularly Americans who make up a large portion of the millions of visitors who travel here each year. Like any major tourist destination in the world, Cabo has its risks, but violent crime involving tourists is uncommon, and the vast majority of visitors experience a trouble-free trip.
How Safe Is Cabo for American Tourists?
Each year, hundreds of thousands of Americans vacation in Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and along the Tourist Corridor without incident. Serious crimes against tourists are statistically rare, especially when compared to many major U.S. cities or other international travel hotspots.
When crime does impact visitors, it is most often small, non-violent, petty crime, such as:
Pickpocketing in crowded areas
Opportunistic theft from unattended beach bags
Minor scams targeting unfamiliar tourists
Unsecured valuables being taken from rental cars
These types of incidents are typical in popular travel destinations worldwide and are not unique to Cabo. Importantly, they are largely preventable with basic awareness and common-sense precautions.
Why Cabo Is Considered a Safe Destination
Cabo is heavily dependent on tourism, which means local authorities and businesses prioritize visitor safety. Some reasons Cabo remains a secure and welcoming destination include:
Strong police presence in tourist areas – The marina, downtown Cabo San Lucas, and resort zones are regularly patrolled.
Well-developed tourism infrastructure – Resorts, marinas, and excursion operators are accustomed to hosting international travelers with onsite security present.
Established emergency and tourist support services – Bilingual assistance is available in key areas.
Gated resorts and private transportation options – Many visitors stay in secure properties and use trusted transport services.
Because of this, most travelers feel comfortable exploring Cabo’s beaches, restaurants,
nightlife, and fishing scene without concern.
Common-Sense Safety Tips for Cabo
To further reduce risk and ensure a smooth trip, visitors should follow standard travel best practices:
Stay in well-known hotel and resort areas
Use licensed taxis, Uber, or transportation arranged through your hotel
Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry
Keep valuables secured in your hotel safe
Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas
Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas
Stick to reputable charter companies and tour operators
These simple precautions go a long way in making your Cabo vacation safe and stress-free.
The Bottom Line: Is Cabo Safe?
For the vast majority of American travelers, Cabo San Lucas is a safe, enjoyable, and welcoming destination. While no place is completely free of crime, incidents involving tourists are uncommon and typically limited to minor, petty offenses rather than serious threats.
With a bit of awareness and common-sense travel habits, visitors can confidently enjoy everything Cabo has to offer—from deep-sea fishing in Cabo with us, and whale watching to luxury resorts, stunning beaches, and unforgettable sunsets over the Pacific.
If you’re planning a trip, you can feel reassured: Cabo remains one of Mexico’s most popular—and safest—tourist destinations for Americans.
I can also safely say that as a business that has been in operation in Cabo San Lucas since 1991, with guests who fish with us year after year and for decades in many cases, we very rarely hear of any issues outside of the types of petty crimes, such as theft.
Jason Bailey
Managing Partner-Top Anglers Sportfishing Charters Cabo
Comments