Seaside Safety
Beware riptides and busted diving equipment
In recent years southern Baja has become a top destination for golfers and party animals, but the exquisite beaches and exceptionally fertile offshore waters remain the best reasons to visit Los Cabos. Just remember that real dangers lurk in this rugged environment, so a certain amount of caution is in order any time you engage in aquatic recreation.
Before swimming, snorkeling or diving in the ocean, seek local advice about when and where it is safe to enter the water. As a general rule, beaches facing the Pacific are not good for swimming, but gulf-side beaches also can be subject to rip currents or rogue waves. And even in water with no natural hazards, keep an eye out for jet skis, because their throttle-happy pilots might not be keeping an eye out for you.
Some activities, such as scuba diving, parasailing and anything that involves riding in a boat, rely on equipment and services that place your personal safety in the balance. When patronizing water sports outfitters, seek recommendations from people you trust. If you’re dangling from a parasail, you don’t want a novice at the controls of the speedboat that’s dragging you past palm trees and resort buildings. At 60 feet under the water, you don’t want to learn the bargain-basement dive guide you booked set you up with a bum regulator. Finally, think twice about boarding any boat that doesn’t have a working radio, a sober skipper and life jackets for all passengers.
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