10 Things to Do in Los Cabos in December

If you plan to visit Los Cabos in December you can experience a festive time in the region, with celebrations usually centred around Cabo San Lucas, but also some of the most interesting natural excursions, including humpback whale watching in the Gulf of California.

Among the best things to see and do in Los Cabos in December are surfing the waves of the Pacific Ocean, experiencing the Festival of Lights, attending the Nautical Christmas Parade, participating in the popular Posadas Navideñas, experiencing the Sabor a Cabo Gastronomic Festival and taking part in the celebrations of the Fiesta of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Taking a humpback whale watching tour in Los Cabos during December is an extraordinary experience, as this month marks the beginning of the breeding season for these mammals and is when most of the calves are born in the Gulf of California. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to witness the spectacle of whales in their natural habitat up close.

As you enter the waters of the Sea of Cortez, you will be able to watch humpback whales performing acrobatics, such as leaps, tails in the air and flipper blows. You can also listen to their songs, which are characteristic of this species. In addition, during the boat tours you will have the opportunity to experience snorkelling in Los Cabos and opt for scuba diving options, although the water temperature can be a bit cold.

Generally, during the tour you will be accompanied by expert guides who will provide you with information about humpback whale behaviour and their importance in the marine ecosystem, which will optimise your experience and facilitate the whale watching.

Whether you are a nature lover, a marine life enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique experience, the Los Cabos humpback whale watching tour will offer you a memorable encounter during the last month of the year in Los Cabos.

The annual Sabor a Cabo Gastronomic Festival, held annually during the second week of December in Los Cabos, is a culinary experience that will delight all your senses.

This festival is recognised as one of the most important gastronomic events in the region, bringing together renowned chefs and restaurants to showcase the best of local cuisine.

During the festival, you will have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of gourmet dishes prepared by talented chefs. From fresh seafood to cuts of meat to delicious desserts, Sabor a Cabo offers a taste of the region' s authentic and creative flavours.

In addition to the dining experience, the festival also offers live music, art performances and a lively festival atmosphere. You can enjoy wine, cocktail and craft beer tastings, as well as culinary demonstrations where chefs share their techniques and secrets. If you plan to visit Los Cabos in July you can experience the summer edition of this festival.

Visiting the picturesque towns near Los Cabos in December is a unique opportunity to explore the authentic beauty of the region and avoid the crowds of tourists. This month marks a seasonal change, as many travellers opt for warmer destinations during the colder months of the year.

By staying away from the more crowded destinations, you can immerse yourself in the tranquillity and authenticity of the charming nearby towns. One of them is Todos Santos, famous for its artistic atmosphere and art galleries. Here you can enjoy the colonial architecture, explore the local shops and sample the delicious local cuisine on one of the best excursions from Los Cabos.

Another town worth visiting is El Triunfo, where you can delve into Baja California Sur's mining past. There you'll discover the old gold and silver mines, admire the historic architecture and visit the iconic local theatre. Outside of these two towns you can also visit Santiago, Espiritu Santo Island and the Los Cabos Desert.

For an alternative experience, you can't miss the Cabo San Lucas Holiday Parade, an annual event that celebrates the festive season with the arrival of sailboats, cruise ships, catamarans and other vessels decorated in holiday motifs.

This parade is a show that illuminates the waters of Cabo San Lucas with sparkling lights and holiday decorations. Boats are transformed into colourful floating creations, while Christmas music fills the air, in one of the main spectacles of the season in Baja California Sur.

From the harbour you will have the opportunity to get a close-up view of the decorated boats as they sail along the coast. You can enjoy the view from the beach, the boardwalk or even from your own boat for an even closer experience. It's an exciting and festive event that attracts locals and tourists alike.

In addition to the visual beauty of the parade, there are also additional activities such as live performances, fireworks displays and food and drink stalls to enjoy during the event.

Participating in the Posadas Navideñas in Los Cabos during December will allow you to soak up one of Mexico's most deeply rooted traditions. These celebrations are an essential part of the Christmas season and consist of recreating the journey of Mary and Joseph in search of a place to stay in Bethlehem.

During the Posadas Navideñas, processions are formed through the streets of towns and cities, led by children dressed as Mary and Joseph. Participants sing carols and carry torches as they ask for lodging in different houses, symbolising the search for a place to stay.

The celebration continues with a series of rituals and festivities that include music, folkloric dances, candy-filled piñatas and traditional foods such as tamales, punch and fritters. Posadas are an occasion to gather with friends and family, share the joy of the season and strengthen community ties.

Participating in the Posadas Navideñas in Los Cabos is a culturally enriching experience. You can join in the processions, enjoy the music and dance, and indulge in delicious traditional dishes, while getting to know the local idiosyncrasies.

December marks the opening of the surfing season in the Pacific, as the weather conditions and waves start to be more favourable for this sport, so if you plan to visit Los Cabos during this month you can enjoy this unmissable experience.

With winter in full swing, the Pacific swells generate bigger waves, creating perfect opportunities to ride them and enjoy an adrenaline-filled experience, in an alternative that you won't even have if you visit Los Cabos in July or during the summer months.

The beaches of Los Cabos offer different types of waves, from the most gentle and suitable for beginners to the most challenging and exciting for more experienced surfers. No matter your skill level, you will always find the perfect wave for you.

Attending New Year's Eve parties at Los Cabos nightclubs is a vibrant way to welcome in the new year, especially if you opt for the celebrations at Mandala, which is known for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. There you can enjoy live music, international DJs and an energetic dance floor.

Another club of note is El Squid Roe, famous for its party atmosphere and multiple levels hosting different genres of music, but if you're looking for an exclusive experience, you can't miss the Pink Kitty club. This club hosts luxury parties with live performances and top-notch music.

Attending New Year's Eve parties at Los Cabos nightclubs will give you the opportunity to dance until the wee hours of the morning and celebrate the arrival of the new year surrounded by fun and good company.

The Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe is an experience rooted in Mexican culture and a display of religious devotion. This festivity honours every December 12th the Virgin of Guadalupe, considered the patron saint of Mexico, and is celebrated with fervour and joy all over the country, and Los Cabos is no exception.

If you plan to visit the region in December you will see how the locals dress up in traditional costumes and congregate in the churches to pay homage to the Virgin. Religious masses and processions are at the centre of the celebration, and there is singing, praying and religious music. In addition, the streets are filled with colourful altars, decorations and lights that illuminate the night.

In addition to the religious activities, cultural events such as folk dances and concerts are organised during the Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe, where you can immerse yourself in the rich Mexican tradition and culture.

Whether you participate as an observer or a devotee, the fiesta celebrations in December are an enriching and moving experience, as you immerse yourself in the faith, tradition and local culture.

The Festival of Lights in December is a magical experience that will immerse you in the festive spirit of the holiday season. The festival consists of illuminating streets, squares and public spaces with thousands of sparkling lights and themed decorations, which you can even discover during tours of Los Cabos.

During the festival, the main avenues and tourist attractions of Los Cabos are transformed into a spectacle of colour and sparkle. You can stroll through the streets and enjoy the beautiful Christmas lighting that creates a warm and cosy atmosphere. The festival also offers a series of events and activities for the whole family, such as parades with decorated floats and live musical performances.

The festival also features fireworks displays, making it one of the best things to discover as a family, especially if you plan to visit Los Cabos with children. Local restaurants and shops also join in the celebration, offering special menus and discounts for visitors.

Enjoying the fireworks show at El Medano Beach in Los Cabos is a magical experience not to be missed. Every season, to celebrate the New Year, the beach is illuminated with a display of colours and lights that light up the night sky.

El Medano Beach, with its vast expanse of sand and crystal clear waters, is the perfect setting to witness this breathtaking spectacle. Whether you are on the beach, at a nearby restaurant or even from the comfort of your hotel, you can enjoy the explosions of light and sparkles in the sky as they reflect off the sea.

The fireworks display at Medano Beach is a showcase of the joy and celebration that characterises Los Cabos. It is a time when locals and visitors alike come together to admire the beauty of the colours and enjoy the magic that is created in the air.

Whether you are alone, as a couple or as a family, watching the fireworks display at Medano Beach is an exciting and magical experience. It is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories and enjoy the beauty of the sparkling sky while surrounded by the festive spirit and positive energy of the region.

In December Los Cabos offers pleasant and mild weather, making it a popular destination despite the low season. Daytime temperatures usually range between 22° and 26°, providing warm, sunny days perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15°.

December's weather also offers ideal conditions for water sports such as diving, snorkelling and surfing, especially in the Pacific waves. The waters of the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean are relatively warm, with temperatures hovering around 23°, allowing you to dive in and enjoy the activities, something you won't usually be able to do if you visit Los Cabos in November due to the frequent rains.

Although December is a busy month in Los Cabos, due to the drop in temperatures it is part of the low season calendar, although during Christmas the region usually experiences an increase in visitors, especially in the Cabo San Lucas area, which is the epicentre of the season's festivities.

If you plan to spend Christmas in Los Cabos, I advise you to book accommodations and excursions in advance to secure your spot and to avoid last-minute increases. Also, keep in mind that during the holidays some attractions and activities may be more crowded.

In December, prices in Los Cabos may vary due to Christmas and New Year tourist demand. Therefore, you may find higher prices compared to other months of the year, although they will not be the same as in the summer.

However, it is also possible to find special offers and promotions, especially if you book in advance or if you are looking for options outside the most touristy areas. In addition, I recommend that you compare prices and look for options that fit your budget. There is a wide range of accommodations, restaurants and activities available for everyone, just as there is if you visit Los Cabos in August or in the mild months.

In December, despite the winter, temperatures are warm and pleasant in Los Cabos, although the thermometer can drop at night, so I recommend that you pack the following in your suitcase:

• Waterproof jacket
• Light jacket
• Lightweight T-shirts
• Lightweight trousers
• Comfortable shoes
• Beach shoes
• Swimwear
• Sunglasses
• Rain jacket
• Warm socks