Q: Who should we thank for putting Cabo on the map as a hot travel destination?

A: Pirates! The Cabo coastline remained virtually untouched by European explorers until 1542. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Spaniard, made the first contact with the Pericu people (a nomadic Guaycura Amerindian group, these folks were hunters-gatherers). The Spanish forces remained due to the obvious threat of English pirates in the area.

The harbor at Cabo San Lucas was used by pirates as a hiding place after attacks on Manila Galleons (you can see a ship similar to these in the harbor). The pirates also enjoyed the many coves and inlets; they were perfect places for staching loot. Who knows, there might still be treasures out there! Originally sought after by the pirates, the Los Cabos ("The Capes") region of the Southern Baja Peninsula Is now home to a spectacular coastline and ideal climate offering travelers an exciting fun-filled destination!

Try Something different...A Pirate ship cruise!

Experience something you cannot do anywhere else: relive the excitement and adventure aboard the "Sunderland" a unique Tall Ship built in 1885, that's over 100 feet long and almost 20' wide. The ship will take you back time with its crew in Pirate garb, wooden deck under your feet and real working cannon muzzles poking out from the gun ports. On your way out of the harbor, you will hear the pirate history of Cabo San Lucas as your professional captain takes you past the world famous "Arch", "Land's End", "Lover's Beach" and out into the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortes. Enjoy and participate in a battle between two pirate ships (don't worry, they don't use the working cannons)! In an area rich in pirate lore and buried treasure, those who think "Baja" is only about missions and cave paintings cannot afford to miss this aspect of local history. Look for the "Sunderland" at the Marina.