The resort town of Cabo San Lucas, named for the slender cape extending eastward from Baja's southernmost tip, gradually developed into a tourist hot spot the last forty years. During the Spanish colonial era, its natural harbor was periodically used by passing mariners. Although English pirates used the harbor as a hiding place for attacks on Manila galleons, many of the historical incidents ascribed to Cabo San Lucas may have actually occurred near present day San Jose del Cabo, where ships often watered at the Rio San Jose estuary.
In the past few years, new hotels and sleek condos have been added to round out this vacation destination. Superb sportfishing put Cabo San Lucas on the map, but non-fishermen will enjoy the thriving beach community as well. Snorkeling gear, boats, waverunners, kayaks, pedalboats and windsurf boards are all available for the active vacationer.