If you’ve chosen to rent a car for your Los Cabos vacation, you’ve made an excellent decision that opens up a world of spectacular landscapes beyond the typical tourist areas. While the beaches and resorts are certainly stunning, the true magic of Baja California Sur reveals itself along the winding roads and coastal highways that connect remote villages, hidden beaches, and dramatic desert vistas.
At BBB Rent a Car, we’re not just passionate about providing quality vehicles—we’re dedicated to helping you discover the authentic beauty of Los Cabos. That’s why we’ve compiled this exclusive guide to the five most breathtaking scenic routes Cabo San Lucas, complete with everything you need to make the most of your adventure.
1. The East Cape Road: Where Desert Meets Azure Waters
Distance: 40 miles (64 km) round trip
Driving time: 3-5 hours with stops
Best time: Early morning for photography, avoiding the afternoon heat
The East Cape Road leading from San José del Cabo toward the bohemian town of Cabo Pulmo offers one of the most visually stunning coastal drives in all of Mexico. This partially paved route hugs the coastline, with the Sea of Cortez—famously called “the world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau—providing a brilliant blue backdrop to your journey.
Must-Stop Viewpoints:
- Punta Palmilla: Just 15 minutes from San José, this elevated viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of Palmilla Bay and its turquoise waters.
- Zacatitos Beach: A secluded stretch of sand perfect for a private picnic or beach walk.
- Nine Palms: A surfer’s paradise with spectacular ocean views and frequent dolphin sightings.
- Shipwrecks Beach: Named for an old shipwreck visible from shore, this untouched beach offers spectacular photo opportunities.
Photography Tip:
The light between 8-10 AM creates a magical glow on the water as it reflects the desert mountains. For the best shots, bring a polarizing filter to cut glare and enhance the brilliant blue of the Sea of Cortez against the arid landscape.
2. The Sierra de la Laguna Mountain Loop
Distance: 65 miles (105 km)
Driving time: Full day (6-8 hours with stops)
Best time: October-April when temperatures are mild
This magnificent loop takes you from the coastal highway into the heart of the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected mountain range that creates a dramatic backdrop to Los Cabos. The route climbs from sea level to over 2,000 feet, passing through ecological zones ranging from desert to oak and pine forests.
Must-Stop Viewpoints:
- Santiago Oasis: This verdant village contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desert and features a natural hot spring.
- El Chorro Waterfall: A 30-minute hike from the road reveals a stunning seasonal waterfall (best after summer rains).
- Mirador Sierra de la Laguna: An elevated viewpoint offering panoramic vistas across mountains and all the way to the coast.
- San Dionisio Canyon: Dramatic rock formations and seasonal streams create picture-perfect landscape opportunities.
Photography Tip:
The changing elevation creates multiple microclimates, producing fascinating fog and cloud formations in the morning hours. For dramatic landscape shots, use a graduated neutral density filter to balance the bright sky with the darker mountain terrain.
3. The Pacific Sunset Highway
Distance: 35 miles (56 km)
Driving time: 2-3 hours with stops
Best time: 2-3 hours before sunset until dusk
This spectacular north-south route follows Highway 1 from Todos Santos toward Cabo San Lucas along the Pacific Coast. The road weaves between desert hills and pristine beaches, offering countless pullouts for ocean views. The real magic happens in the golden hours before sunset when the Pacific turns into a shimmering gold and orange canvas.
Must-Stop Viewpoints:
- Cerritos Beach Overlook: An elevated parking area offering views of surfers riding waves below.
- Migratory Whale Viewpoint: Between December and March, this designated lookout point often rewards visitors with humpback whale sightings.
- Pacific Cliffs: Dramatic rocky outcroppings where waves crash spectacularly against the shore.
- Sunset Point: Just north of Cabo San Lucas, this unmarked pullout is a photographer’s dream at dusk.
Photography Tip:
The “blue hour” (20-30 minutes after sunset) creates magical conditions along this route as the sky and ocean take on deep indigo hues. Bring a tripod for longer exposures that can capture the motion of waves against the rocky shoreline.
4. The Corridor Art & Beach Tour
Distance: 20 miles (32 km)
Driving time: Half-day (3-4 hours with stops)
Best time: Weekday mornings to avoid traffic
The famous Tourist Corridor connecting Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo is known for luxury resorts, but this alternate route takes you to hidden public beach access points and art installations that most tourists never discover. The drive features dramatic viewpoints where the highway climbs above the coastline.
Must-Stop Viewpoints:
- Divorce Beach Vista: A high overlook offering views of the famous beach without the crowds.
- Pelican Rock: Pull into the small parking area for a breathtaking view of this iconic rock formation.
- Mirador Corridor: An official scenic overlook with informational placards about local marine life.
- Santa Maria Bay: A horseshoe-shaped protected cove with crystal clear waters perfect for photos or snorkeling.
Photography Tip:
The dramatic difference between the azure Sea of Cortez and the arid desert creates perfect opportunities for contrast photography. Frame your shots to include both the vibrant water and the rugged cacti-studded landscape for truly memorable images.
5. The Ranchos and Gardens Inland Route
Distance: 45 miles (72 km) loop
Driving time: Full day (6-7 hours with stops)
Best time: Weekdays year-round
Last of our scenic routes Cabo San Lucas tips. Escape the coastal zone entirely on this inland adventure that reveals the authentic ranch culture of Baja California Sur. This loop takes you through small farming communities, hidden botanical gardens, and traditional ranches where time seems to stand still.
Must-Stop Viewpoints:
- Miraflores Village: A traditional Mexican pueblo with a charming central plaza and authentic local crafts.
- Cactus Sanctuary: An unmarked but impressive collection of massive cardon cacti, some centuries old.
- San Bartolo Oasis: A natural spring creates a lush paradise in the midst of the desert.
- La Candelaria Overlook: A high point offering views across the valley to distant mountains.
- Flora Farms. A great place to enjoy and have lunch.
Photography Tip:
The authentic ranchero culture provides excellent opportunities for portrait and cultural photography. Always ask permission before photographing locals, and consider bringing small prints to mail back as a token of appreciation.
Planning Your Scenic Drive
Each of these routes can be enjoyed in a standard rental car during dry conditions, though some sections of the East Cape Road and the Sierra loop benefit from higher clearance vehicles. Before setting out on your scenic adventure, we recommend:
- Fill your tank: Gas stations are limited on some routes, so start with a full tank.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat—many viewpoints have no facilities.
- Check weather: Avoid driving unfamiliar desert roads during or after heavy rains.
- Share your plan: Let someone know which route you’re taking and when you expect to return.
Our BBB Rent a Car team is happy to provide additional recommendations tailored to your specific interests and the season of your visit. Don’t hesitate to ask our staff for insider tips when picking up your rental vehicle.
Los Cabos has so much more to offer beyond the resort areas, and having your car is the key to unlocking these hidden treasures. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking authentic experiences, these five scenic routes Cabo San Lucas will create memories to last a lifetime.