Is Los Cabos safe for your November vacation? As the peak season arrives, travelers are looking for the truth behind the headlines. While news outlets often generalize security in Mexico, the reality on the ground in Baja California Sur is far more stable.
This Los Cabos Safety Report November 2025 provides the latest crime statistics, government advisories, and local security insights to help you plan with confidence.
Current Travel Advisories: What the Official Data Says
The first step in any travel assessment is reviewing the U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories.
Decoding the Level 2 Designation
As of November 2025, Baja California Sur remains at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. To put this in perspective, this is the same safety tier assigned to popular destinations like the United Kingdom and France.
- No Restrictions: U.S. government employees face no travel restrictions within the tourist zones of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo.
- Geographic Isolation: The Baja peninsula is geographically separated from mainland border issues, creating a natural "buffer zone" for tourists.
2025 Crime Statistics: Facts vs. Fiction
To build an accurate report, we must look at hard data from INEGI (Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics).
Safety by the Numbers
- National Ranking: Baja California Sur consistently ranks as the second-safest state in Mexico.
- Homicide Rates: The local rate is approximately 2.2 per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than major U.S. cities like St. Louis or New Orleans.
- Tourist Safety: Violent crime involving visitors remains statistically rare. Most reported incidents involve petty theft in non-tourist residential areas.
Proactive Security: The November "Surge"
November marks the start of the "Guadalupe-Reyes" security operation. Local authorities increase their presence to protect the influx of high-season visitors.
Elite Marine and Police Patrols
Expect to see the Mexican Navy (SEMAR) and National Guard patrolling the Marina and Art District. This presence is a proactive deterrent, not a response to a specific threat.
Surveillance and Infrastructure
The Los Cabos C4 Intelligence Center has expanded its network to include over 300 high-definition CCTV cameras with real-time monitoring. This infrastructure ensures rapid response times throughout the Tourist Corridor.
Neighborhood Safety Breakdown
Where you stay determines your safety profile. Here is the ground-truth for November 2025:
1. Cabo San Lucas (The Marina & Medano)
The heart of nightlife and excursions. This area is highly safe and patrolled 24/7.
- Pro Tip: Avoid "Independent" ATMs on the street. Only use bank-affiliated machines to prevent ATM skimming scams.
2. San José del Cabo (The Art District)
Known for the Thursday Night Art Walk, this area is exceptionally safe for families and solo travelers. The atmosphere is relaxed, sophisticated, and community-oriented.
3. The East Cape and Remote Areas
While generally safe, we recommend avoiding remote desert roads at night due to poor lighting and livestock. For more on off-the-beaten-path safety, see our Guide to Driving in Baja.
Critical Safety Tips for Your November Trip
Safety isn't just about crime; it's about navigating the environment.
- The Airport "Shark Tank": After clearing customs at SJD Airport, walk directly outside. Do not stop for "free breakfast" offers, as these are aggressive timeshare pitches.
- Ocean Safety: November brings Pacific swells. Only swim at "Green Flag" beaches like Medano or Chileno. Check our 2025 Swimmable Beach List before heading out.
- Reliable Transportation: Uber is safe and active in Cabo, but drivers may ask to meet you just outside resort gates due to local union regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Los Cabos safe for solo female travelers? Yes. Los Cabos is a premier destination for solo women. We recommend using registered transportation (Uber or official Taxis) at night rather than walking alone between neighborhoods. For more tips, visit International SOS.
Can I drink the tap water in Cabo? Most high-end resorts use advanced filtration, but we recommend bottled or purified water to avoid "traveler's stomach." Learn more in our Cabo Health Guide.
Are Ubers safer than Taxis in 2025? Both are generally safe. Ubers offer GPS tracking and transparent pricing, while Taxis are readily available at hotel lobbies. Always confirm the fare before departing in a taxi.
Is it safe to walk in downtown Cabo at night? Yes, the main tourist thoroughfares are safe and well-lit. Like any city, stay in populated areas and keep your belongings secure.
The Final Verdict
Based on the Los Cabos Safety Report November 2025, the region remains a world-class, secure destination. By exercising basic common sense, you can focus on the whale watching and sunset dinners that make Baja famous.
Ready to Book Your Secure Getaway?
Stay informed and stay ahead of the crowds. Visit our Exclusive 2026 Cabo Safety Map & Neighborhood Guide here!