Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port – Sun, Sea, and Artisan Craft

Sailing into Cabo San Lucas (Spanish – Pronounced [KAH-boh sahn LOO-kahs]) by cruise ship is a sight worth waking up early for. The harbor opens into a stunning view of rugged desert mountains meeting clear turquoise water, with the famous rock formations of Land’s End rising dramatically from the sea. It’s one of those ports where the anticipation builds as soon as the tenders start shuttling passengers ashore.

Cabo’s history is steeped in maritime adventure, from early explorers and fishing fleets to the luxury yachts that now line its marina. Located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas has evolved from a quiet fishing village into a lively destination known for beaches, nightlife, and local art. Yet despite its growth, much of its charm still lies in the balance between desert and ocean, modern resort and traditional craft.

Every visit here feels both familiar and new, with the same sun-soaked landscape offering different colors depending on the season and light. It’s a place that pulls you back time and again—not for grand monuments or museums, but for the simple joy of returning to the sea.

My first visit to Cabo was through a cruise excursion that revealed the beauty beyond the harbor. The tour began with a drive along the coastal highway, where the deep blue water shimmered beside the desert cliffs. A stop at Playa Monumentos offered panoramic views that perfectly capture the rugged beauty of Baja California. Later, I visited San José del Cabo, a quieter sister town where the historic Misión San José del Cabo sits at the heart of the plaza, framed by palm trees and colonial-style buildings.

One highlight of that day was The Glass Factory, where artisans demonstrated the intricate process of shaping molten glass into colorful works of art. Watching a glowing orb slowly transform into a delicate sculpture was mesmerizing. The facility also showcased vibrant mosaic floors and stained glass panels, each piece glowing in natural light. It’s the kind of place where craftsmanship speaks louder than words.

Over time, Cabo became more than just a scenic stop. Friends I met during one of my voyages introduced me to Tacos Gardenias, a local taqueria that quickly became a personal favorite. The menu is simple, the flavors unforgettable. Whether I’m wandering the marina, admiring the sunset over the Pacific, or indulging in a plate of tacos al pastor with pineapple, Cabo always manages to feel like a perfect day condensed into a few precious hours.