Swimming at Palmilla
Punta Palmilla wraps around the beach and blocks much of the swell, which makes this a designated protected swimming area and one of the few calm beaches near San José del Cabo. It's certified Blue Flag with an A+ rating from December 2025. Families come for the gentle water and the rocks at the ends are good for a snorkel.
Protected isn't the same as always safe. Lifeguards made several rescues here during Easter 2026, and the beach was closed with a black flag in September 2024 after storm washouts. Check the flag.
What else is here
Local fishermen launch pangas from the beach, and in the morning you can often buy the day's catch right off the boats. Panga fishing trips go out from here too. Restrooms exist but have had vandalism problems, so don't count on them being open.
Palmilla is also a good swim stop on a day in San José del Cabo, ten minutes east, or after a round at Palmilla Golf Club.
Getting to Palmilla Beach from Villa 1
About 28 km east of Villa 1 on Highway 1, 30 to 35 minutes. Around km 27, take the road toward One&Only Palmilla; the public beach parking areas are before the resort entrance.
What to bring
- Pesos if you want to buy fish from the pangas
- Snorkel gear for the rocks