Los Cabos History

Los Cabos boasts a fascinating background. Encompassing the cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Los Cabos is located at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula, where the waters of the mighty Pacific meet the Sea of Cortez. This spectacular setting has witnessed dramatic human history unfold over thousands of years leading up to the booming resort destination of today.

It is believed the first humans reached the southern end of the peninsula 14,000 years ago. Throughout the Baja Peninsula, archaeological sites and rock paintings remain as a testament to the long occupation of the region. At the time of the first European contact, the Pericú tribe occupied Los Cabos.

Beginning in the 1530’s and through the 1600’s, Spanish conquistadors surveyed the region, among them Hernán Cortés and Sebastián Vizcaíno. The area quickly became known for its abundance of pearls. During this period, Spanish galleons routinely stopped in the area of San José del Cabo to replenish supplies as they sailed back and forth to the prosperous Manila trade. This attracted the attention of pirates, including Thomas Cavendish who attacked a galleon off the coast of Cabo San Lucas.

Early colonization was sparse. In the late 1600’s, the Jesuits began their missionary efforts; they were later followed by the Franciscans and Dominican padres. Throughout the missionary period, indigenous populations were devastated by Old World disease and violence. The beautiful architecture of this complicated period still graces old San José del Cabo.

Fast forward to the 20th century—by the 1940’s, rumors of an extraordinary abundance of big-game fish began to attract sportfishermen. However, only those with private yachts and planes could access the area. As word got out, more travelers began to flock to the region and access improved. Today, Los Cabos has grown into one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations boasting abundant natural beauty and first-class accommodations.

....More about Cabo's history - article from Cabo Life Magazine