Medano Beach Association Protects and Promotes Cabo’s Signature Seaside Sands
Everybody knows where the seaside action is in Cabo San Lucas: the golden sands of Playa el Medano (“Medano Beach” in English). This is the two-mile stretch that bounds Cabo San Lucas Bay and is home to a succession of luxury resorts and laid-back seaside cantinas, as well as acres (or hectares, if you prefer) of tanned bikini- or board-short-covered flesh. Medano may reach its crazed zenith during the spring break months, but the beach is packed year-round with sun and fun seekers looking for barefoot food and beverage venues, prime people-watching posts, safe swimming, and water-based activities rentals.
Spectacular views are par for the course at Casa Dorada, one of the founding members of Medano Beach Cabo.
Less known is the fact that the top hotels, restaurants, and activities companies on Medano Beach have banded together to form an association, Medano Beach Cabo, whose goal is to strengthen and promote the businesses that share Los Cabos’ most popular shoreline. This beachfront coalition began in 2010 with two founding businesses, Casa Dorada and Cabo Villas, and in the interim has grown to include a number of the area’s most well-respected members.
In addition to promoting the area and its businesses, Medano Beach Cabo is exhibiting a commitment to long-term sustainability, organizing frequent beach and underwater cleanings to help keep Medano Beach spotless (it was recently named one of the cleanest beaches in Mexico), and allaying security concerns by maintaining a consistent contingent of Tourist Police.
Like fresh seafood? Make a reservation at one of Medano Beach Cabo’s affiliated restaurants.
Part of this commitment is the sponsorship of ecological efforts and health-conscious destination events. Yoga classes were hosted on the beach last month, and a Pilates program has been announced for next weekend, August 10–11. If you’ve never tried serious stretching on a stand-up paddleboard with spectacular views of Land’s End, this is your chance. The classes are surprisingly affordable, with beach prices set at 60 pesos, and board prices at 100 (about $8 U.S.). For reservations, email reserve@medanobeachcabo.com.mx.
Medano Beach Cabo is also spearheading an ongoing program to help protect endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles from extinction, one of many initiatives designed to preserve the natural habitat and wildlife of Los Cabos. Casa Dorada has been granted permission to establish an Olive Ridley nursery, and the participating businesses have established beach patrols to monitor the Cabo San Lucas Bay area in the interest of turtle safety.
For hip nightlife and dazzling sunsets, visit Nikki Beach at ME Cabo Hotel.
Although the exercise and ecological efforts are garnering some well-earned praise from locals, the most popular idea generated by the area’s associated businesses has got to be the Escape to Medano Beach. This is the ultimate seaside tour for visitors, with round trip transportation from your hotel to the beach, and seven hours of sun-kissed fun on Cabo’s most glorious stretch of golden sand. After an introduction to the area from a knowledgeable guide, visitors are set loose with prepaid vouchers, access to services and amenities at Medano Beach Cabo businesses, and wristbands good for significant discounts at participating hotels, restaurants, spas, and activities companies. Don’t feel guilty for having a good time. Fifty percent of the proceeds go to turtle preservation efforts.
Where can you take advantage of these great deals?
Traditional fiestas are a popular feature at Médano Beach Cabo restaurants like Baja Cantina.
I’m glad you asked. Participating members of the Medano Beach Cabo association include the luxurious seaside lodgings Bahia Hotel & Beach Club, Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa, Cabo Villas Beach Resort and Spa, and ME Cabo; top area eateries like 12 Tribes, Baja Brewing Company, Baja Cantina, Bar Esquina, Bar Esquina Direct Trade Coffee & Bakery, Mango Cantina at the Marina, Mango Deck, Milky Way Cafe & Deli, Nikki Beach, and Tequila Fusion; pampering spas such as Sparitual at Cabo Villas, Saltwater Spa at Casa Dorada, and YHI at ME Cabo; and the water-based activities companies Andromeda Divers, Bad Medicine Sportfishing, Cabo SUP, and Mango Deck Water Sports.
For more information about coalition members, or tour information, events, and promotions, go to www.medanobeachcabo.com.mx, or visit their Facebook page.