Parasailing
Parasail boats take off and land on the deck, so you don't need to get wet unless you ask for a dip. Flights last about 10 to 12 minutes, climbing to around 500 to 600 feet with views over the bay and Land's End; the whole outing takes about an hour including the other riders. You can fly solo, tandem or as a trio, and operators set a combined weight window, so lighter riders and children fly together with an adult.
Aries Water Sports, which works from an orange tent on Médano, lists single flights from USD 59 when booked online. A July 2025 comparison by a local rental agency found USD 70 to USD 79 for a single flight, USD 120 to USD 158 for a double and USD 160 to USD 237 for a triple across three operators. Mornings are best: Aries recommends 9 a.m. to noon, because the afternoon wind can lead the harbormaster to halt flights.
Jet skis and banana boats
Jet skis rent by the half hour or hour. Aries lists USD 64 for 30 minutes up to USD 168 for 90 minutes; beach vendors typically quote about USD 80 to USD 120 per hour. Drivers must be over 17 and show a driver's license, and a credit card is usually needed for the damage deposit. Riding is limited to the bay along Médano; the Arch, the sea lion colony, Lover's Beach and the Pacific side are off-limits, and alcohol before riding is prohibited.
Banana boats are the easy group option: a towed inflatable for six to eight riders, about 15 minutes, commonly around USD 20 per person. Life jackets are provided.
Kayaks and paddleboards
Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards rent by the hour along the beach, typically around USD 15 for a single kayak, USD 25 for a double and USD 20 for a SUP. On a calm morning you can paddle along the shore toward the marina entrance and the rocks of Land's End. Stay close to the beach, keep well clear of the busy boat lane at the harbor mouth, and note that Land's End sits inside a federal protected area where a CONANP wristband is required if you land at Lover's Beach.
Guests at Villa 1 can also simply swim: the calm Sea of Cortez side of the bay is Cabo's main swimming beach. Our Médano Beach guide covers beach clubs and services, and swimmable beaches compares it with others.
Rules, swim zone and safety
The swimming area in front of the resorts is marked by a line of rope and buoys. Motorized craft must stay outside it and approach and leave the beach only at slow speed through their operator's lane; if you are swimming or snorkeling, stay inside the buoys. Watch the flag at the beach: when the port captain closes the bay because of wind or swell, all rentals stop.
Use operators with a fixed stand, visible life jackets and clear prices. Agree the price, the exact time on the water and what is included before you pay, and inspect a jet ski for existing damage with the attendant before you ride. Parasailing is not suitable during pregnancy or for anyone with heart, back or neck problems.
Best time of day
Plan water sports for the morning. The bay is usually calmest from about 9 a.m. to noon, and afternoon breezes build chop and can cancel parasailing. From December to April you may see humpback whales in the bay while you're out; jet skis and paddlers must keep their distance, so see our whale watching page for a proper tour. The villa's 24/7 concierge can book activities for your group in advance.
