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    Beaches & Nature

    Shipwreck Beach (Playa Barco Varado)

    Secluded beach with rusty Japanese freighter wreck, tidal pools, and unique desert-meets-ocean scenery

    Price
    Free
    Duration
    2-3 hours
    Difficulty
    Easy
    Location
    Cabo del Sol, Tourist Corridor KM 10-11

    About This Experience

    Not far east of town on the Corridor, this secluded stretch is named for the wreck of the Inari Maru, a Japanese freighter (though only its rusty outline remains onshore today). At low tide the tidal pools are fun to explore, and the skeletal hull still sticking out of the sand is an eerie photo subject. The backdrop of the old freighter and nearby golf course fairways makes for unique vistas. This beach is often deserted, making it perfect for families who want to picnic while kids explore the pools.

    Highlights

    Rusty Japanese freighter wreck for photos
    Excellent tide pools at low tide
    Often completely deserted
    Perfect for family picnics
    Unique golf course and ocean backdrop
    Kids love exploring the wreckage and pools

    What's Included

    Resort area parking
    Beach access through Cabo del Sol

    Best For

    FamiliesPhotographyTide poolingSolitudePicnicking
    Typical price
    Free
    per person, approximate
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    Location

    Cabo del Sol, Tourist Corridor KM 10-11

    Beaches & Nature FAQs

    Which Cabo beaches are best for swimming?

    Médano Beach, Chileno Bay, and Santa María Bay are the safest for swimming with calm conditions. Most Pacific-facing beaches have dangerous currents and are not swimmable. Beach guide →

    Can I visit The Arch (El Arco) beach?

    Yes! Water taxis from Médano Beach take you to Lover's Beach near El Arco. You can't swim there due to strong currents, but it's perfect for photos and exploring the rock formations.

    Are there hiking trails in Cabo?

    Yes, the Sierra de la Laguna mountains offer jungle waterfalls and canyon hikes. Fox Canyon near Cabo has easy trails. Desert tours explore dramatic landscapes with giant cacti.

    Where can I see wildlife in Cabo?

    Sea lions at Land's End and Espíritu Santo Island, whales (December–April), sea turtles at Todos Santos, and desert wildlife on ATV/UTV tours. Birdwatching is excellent at the estuary.

    What activities are best for kids in Cabo?

    Whale watching, snorkeling at calm beaches, glass-bottom boat tours, camel rides, and resort kids' clubs are all family favorites. Many adventures welcome children ages 5 and up. Family activities →