The Best Beach for Families with Kids in Cabo

If there is one question I get asked more than any other while I’m snapping photos of vacationing families, it’s this: "Alice, where can we take the kids swimming safely?"

It is a valid question. As beautiful as Los Cabos is, the ocean here is powerful. Many beaches have strong undercurrents and big waves that are dangerous even for strong swimmers, let alone toddlers. But don’t worry! As a local photographer in Los Cabos, I spend lots of time on these beaches, and I know exactly where you should go for a stress-free, fun beach day.

If you are looking for the absolute best beach for families with kids in Cabo, look no further than Chileno Bay (Playa Chileno).

Here is why it’s my top pick, along with a few other runner-up spots you might love.

Why Chileno Bay is the Winner

Located along the Tourist Corridor (the stretch of highway between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo), Chileno Bay is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

1. It is Actually Swimmable
This is the most important part. Chileno Bay is a protected cove, which means the water is usually calm, clear, and flat—almost like a swimming pool. It holds a "Blue Flag" certification, which is an international standard for water quality and safety. You can let your little ones splash near the shore without constantly worrying about a rogue wave knocking them over.

2. The Amenities are a Lifesaver
Let’s be honest: a beach day with kids can be messy. Chileno has excellent public facilities, including clean restrooms and outdoor showers. Being able to rinse the salt and sand off your kids (and yourself) before getting back into the car makes the entire day so much easier.

3. Incredible Snorkeling for Beginners
You don’t need a boat to see amazing fish here. The reef starts very close to the shore. If your kids have a mask and snorkel, they can just put their faces in the water and spot colorful Sergeant Majors and Parrotfish right away.

The Runner-Up: Santa Maria Beach

Just a few minutes down the road from Chileno is Santa Maria Beach. This is a stunning horseshoe-shaped cove that is also very safe for swimming.

Why it’s great: The scenery here is breathtaking. The cliffs surrounding the bay block the wind, making it very peaceful.

Why it’s second place: The sand here is a little different. Instead of soft powder, it’s made of tiny, rice-sized pebbles. It’s actually beautiful (it looks pinkish in photos!), but it’s a bit harder to build sandcastles with, and it can be a little tough on sensitive feet. However, the water is just as calm and turquoise as Chileno.

The "Convenient" Option: Medano Beach

If you are staying in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, Medano Beach is the main swimmable beach right in town.

Pros: It’s super convenient. You can walk out of your hotel, grab a lounge chair at a beach club, and order tacos and drinks right to your seat.

Cons: It is busy. There are lots of vendors selling souvenirs, loud music, and jet skis zooming around. It’s fun for a quick lunch and a dip, but for a relaxing family connection day, I still prefer Chileno.

Tips for the Best Experience

Here are my top tips for getting the most out of your visit:

Go Early: And I mean early! The water is calmest in the morning, and the light is soft and beautiful. By 11:00 AM, the snorkeling tour boats start arriving, and the beach gets crowded. If you arrive at 8:30 or 9:00 AM, you’ll feel like you own the place.

Bring Shade: While there are some palapas (thatched umbrellas) at Chileno and Santa Maria, they get taken fast. I recommend bringing your own umbrella if you plan to stay a while.

The Photo Op: Chileno Bay has incredible turquoise water that looks amazing in photos. If you want those bright, happy vacation colors, this is the spot.

Let’s Capture Your Family Memories

Watching your kids discover the ocean, build sandcastles, and laugh in the waves is magical. But usually, one parent is stuck behind the phone camera missing out on the fun.

Why not let me handle the photos so you can be part of the memory? As a Cabo family photographer, I love meeting families at these beautiful beaches to capture the genuine joy of your vacation. We can run, play, and create images that belong in a magazine—all while you enjoy the best beaches Cabo has to offer.

Enjoy the sunshine!

Published on 1st of January 2026