Cabo San Lucas is one of those rare cruise vacation ports where the logistics feel as memorable as the destination itself. The clear blue water, the iconic Arch at Land’s End, and the bustling marina all sit right in front of you—but unlike many ports, you won’t pull up to a traditional cruise port dock.
Instead, your cruise ship anchors offshore, and your day in Cabo starts with a tender ride. For first-time cruisers, this can feel like a curveball. For frequent cruisers, it’s part of the charm. But either way, knowing exactly how to get from ship to shore—and then how to get from the marina into Cabo San Lucas itself—can save you time, confusion, and unnecessary stress.
This guide gives you a clear, friendly and practical walkthrough of how to reach Cabo’s beaches, marina, excursions, restaurants, and activities. The goal is simple: help you make the most of your day with smooth transitions, minimal waiting, and maximum fun.
Understanding Cabo’s Tender-Only Cruise Port
Cabo San Lucas does not have a deep-water cruise port, so your cruise ship will anchor in the bay. The tender boats ferry passengers to the marina, usually taking about 5–7 minutes.
The tender arrival point is conveniently located right in the heart of the marina. That means as soon as you step off the boat you are already inside Cabo—no long walks, no confusing port terminals, and no industrial shipping zones to navigate.
This setup makes Cabo one of the easiest ports for independent exploring, even if you didn’t plan a shore excursion in advance.
How the Tendering Process Works
The specifics vary slightly by cruise line, but here’s the simple version of what to expect:
- Your ship calls numbers or groups when tenders are ready
- Early tender tickets are usually needed for those without shore excursion bookings
- Cruise line shore excursion groups get priority tendering
- The boat ride is short, scenic, and very smooth
Because Cabo is such a popular destination, tenders run frequently throughout the day. If your cruise booking includes a morning excursion, you won’t need to worry about transportation—the excursion staff gathers your group and escorts you to your tender.
Where the Tender Drops You Off
The tender dock places you right in the marina near:
- Waterfront restaurants
- Water taxi stands
- Tour operators
- Shopping areas
- Excursion meeting points
- The main walkway to downtown Cabo
Everything you need is either visible or within a 2–10 minute walk, which is a major perk for both first-time visitors and experienced cruise travelers.
How to Get Around Once You Reach the Marina
Here’s where Cabo is unique: your “transportation” options are very different from most cruise ports. Because the marina is central, you may not need traditional transportation at all.
Below is a practical walk-through of every option, who each one works best for, and what to expect.
Walking — The Easiest and Most Popular Option
Many of Cabo’s best attractions sit within walking distance of the tender dock. The marina is extremely pedestrian-friendly, and the main tourist zones are close together.
Walking is the best choice if you want a relaxed, flexible day without planning.
Destinations you can walk to from the cruise port:
- Cabo Marina restaurants and bars
- Downtown Cabo
- Shopping areas
- Medano Beach (25–30 minute walk, flat and safe)
- Water taxis to the Arch
- Local tour operators
The sidewalks are wide, well-marked, and busy with other cruise vacation travelers, making it an easy option even for first-time visitors.
Water Taxis — The Fastest Way to Get to Medano Beach & the Arch
Water taxis are Cabo’s signature form of transportation, especially for cruisers who want beaches or views.
They’re everywhere along the marina, and captains will often approach politely with tour offers.
Water taxis are best for:
- Quick access to Medano Beach
- Scenic trips past the Arch
- Getting the classic Land’s End photo
- Reaching Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach
Things to know:
- Prices vary but are always negotiable
- Boats leave continuously
- Bring cash (USD is widely accepted)
- Expect a splash or two on windy days
This is often the most fun and memorable mode of travel for cruisers.
Taxis — Best for Short Trips Around Town
Taxis line the marina walkway and are easy to spot. They’re reliable, fast, and help you avoid long walks in the sun.
Taxi rides from the cruise port typically go to:
- Medano Beach
- Downtown Cabo
- Hotels and resorts
- Beach clubs
- The shopping district
Cabo taxis have fixed pricing by zone—not by meter—so ask the fare upfront. If you’re used to metered taxis, this may feel new, but it’s straightforward.
Rideshare Apps — Yes, Uber Is Available
Uber operates in Cabo San Lucas, and many cruisers use it successfully.
Pros:
- Generally cheaper than taxis
- Payment in-app
- Drivers often speak English
- Easy if you’re already familiar with the app
Cons:
- Pickup spots vary
- You may need to walk slightly away from the marina for easier pickup
- Cell service can be spotty near the tender dock
Despite those minor challenges, Uber is a great option if you prefer app-based rides during your cruise vacation.
Cruise-Line Shore Excursions — Best for Travelers Who Want Zero Logistics
If your cruise booking includes an organized shore excursion, you don’t need to plan transportation at all. Each tour includes shuttle service, boat transfers, or guided walks from the tender dock.
Cabo shore excursion options often include:
- Snorkeling tours
- Whale watching (in season)
- Beach resort day passes
- Sailing or catamaran adventures
- Sunset cruises
- Glass-bottom boat rides
- ATV excursions
This is the most stress-free option, especially if you prefer not to negotiate with local vendors or arrange your own plan.
Private Tours — Perfect for Repeat Visitors
Cabo hosts many reputable private tour companies that pick you up directly at the marina.
This works especially well for travelers who:
- Have been to Cabo before
- Want personalized experiences
- Prefer small groups
- Want deeper cultural or nature-focused tours
Private experiences can include everything from taco tastings to luxury sailing trips.
Local Tips to Make Your Day Easier
These practical insights help you avoid common mistakes:
- Pack water before boarding the tender—Cabo can be hot.
- Bring cash, especially for water taxis and tips.
- Screenshot directions in case your cell service is slow at the pier.
- Wear sandals or water shoes if you plan to visit Lover’s Beach (your feet will likely get wet).
- Give yourself buffer time when returning to the tender line—afternoon lines get long.
- Expect light crowds near the marina; it’s a lively but friendly atmosphere.
These details seem small but make your cruise vacation day run much smoother.
Which Transportation Option Is Best for You?
Here’s a quick breakdown based on traveler style:
For first-time cruisers:
Walk the marina, then take a water taxi to Medano Beach or The Arch.
For beach lovers:
Water taxi directly to Medano Beach.
For frequent cruise travelers:
Use Uber or negotiate with a water taxi for a combo Arch + drop-off trip.
For families:
Take a land taxi to Medano Beach to avoid climbing into boats.
For adventure seekers:
Book a private shore excursion or water-based tour.
For cruisers short on time:
Stay in the marina area—it’s lively, beautiful, and walkable.
Final Thoughts
Because Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, getting from your cruise ship to the shoreline feels like part of the experience itself. You’re dropped right into the heart of the marina, surrounded by colorful boats, waterfront cafés, clear blue water, and easy access to everything you want to see.
Whether you’re walking, grabbing a taxi, booking a shore excursion, catching a water taxi, or opening Uber, Cabo makes transportation simple—even for travelers stepping into Mexico for the first time.
With a little planning, your day in Cabo becomes effortless, memorable, and exactly what you want from a cruise vacation.