If you’re planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas maybe to enjoy a scenic yacht charter, a lively sunset cruise, or a float party in Medano Bay you’ll eventually find yourself walking the vibrant marina. It’s a beautiful area filled with shops, waterfront restaurants, tour booths, and excursion check-in points, but one question travelers frequently ask before they arrive is: are there ATMs and banks in the marina area? The short answer is yes, there are several ATMs and banks conveniently located near the marina. But as with any international destination, it helps to know where to go, which machines are safest, and how to avoid high fees or scams.
In this detailed guide provided by Booze Cruise Cabo, we’ll cover everything you need to know about managing your cash and card transactions while exploring the Cabo marina including locations of trusted ATMs, tips for withdrawing money safely, how currency exchange works, and why preparation before your trip can save you time and frustration.
So grab your travel notes let’s dive into how to handle money around the Cabo San Lucas marina like a pro traveler.
Understanding the Marina and Its Banking Access
The Cabo San Lucas Marina is the heartbeat of downtown Cabo the area where most charter tours, fishing trips, and yacht excursions depart. It’s where you’ll find the iconic Arch in the distance, pelicans perched on docks, and dozens of local businesses catering to tourists. Because the marina is so central, it’s naturally surrounded by banks, ATMs, currency exchange offices, and convenience stores that provide quick access to cash.
However, not all ATMs are created equal. Some are operated by reputable banks such as Banorte, BBVA, or Scotiabank, while others are independent machines charging excessive fees or offering poor exchange rates. Understanding the difference can make a huge impact on your spending power during your stay.
Why You Might Need Cash in the Marina Area
Even though Cabo San Lucas is modern and most businesses accept cards, there are several times when having cash in pesos is incredibly useful — especially around the marina.
- Tipping the Crew or Staff:
Whether you’re hopping on a fishing charter or heading out on a Booze Cruise Cabo yacht for a private Medano Bay float party, gratuities are best given in cash. It’s the local standard and always appreciated. - Street Vendors and Small Shops:
Around the marina, you’ll find artisan markets, street taco stands, and souvenir kiosks that either prefer cash or charge extra for card payments. - Taxi Rides or Water Taxis:
Most taxi drivers and water taxi operators prefer pesos. Having small bills makes transactions easier and avoids exchange confusion. - Last-Minute Purchases:
Sunscreen, bottled water, snacks, or souvenirs are often cheaper when paid in pesos instead of using a card. - Currency Flexibility:
Although U.S. dollars are widely accepted, using pesos typically gives you a better rate since exchange values fluctuate daily.
So, even if you plan to use cards most of the time, having a small stash of pesos for the marina area is highly recommended.
Types of Banks You’ll Find Near the Cabo Marina
Cabo San Lucas hosts branches of Mexico’s major banks, and many of them are located within walking distance of the marina or in nearby shopping centers like Puerto Paraiso or Luxury Avenue.
Here are the main banks you’ll come across:
- Banorte – One of Mexico’s largest and most trusted banks, offering ATMs and full-service branches around Cabo.
- BBVA (Bancomer) – Known for good exchange rates and reliability.
- Citibanamex (Banamex) – A global name, convenient for U.S. travelers with Citibank accounts.
- Scotiabank – Located inside the Puerto Paraiso Mall, very close to the marina.
- Santander – Found throughout Cabo, with ATMs that usually accept Visa, Mastercard, and Plus/Cirrus networks.
- CIBanco – Offers ATMs on Blvd. Marina, often used by visitors staying or docking near the main boardwalk.
- HSBC – Another safe option, with an ATM inside Walmart and other commercial plazas.
All these banks dispense Mexican pesos, and most have bilingual on-screen instructions for ease of use.
Where to Find ATMs Around the Marina
If you’re staying near downtown Cabo or within walking distance of the marina, you’ll have no trouble locating an ATM. Here are a few popular and reliable options frequently used by travelers:
- CIBanco ATM on Blvd. Paseo de la Marina
Located right along the marina promenade, this ATM is ideal for visitors who need quick cash before boarding a boat or after a day on the water. It’s easy to find and usually well-stocked with pesos.
- Scotiabank Inside Puerto Paraiso Mall
One of the most recommended ATMs due to its security and convenient location. The mall’s indoor setting adds an extra layer of safety compared to open-air machines.
- Banorte Branch near Plaza Puerto Paraiso
Just a short walk from the marina, this full-service branch has indoor ATMs that are regularly maintained and well-lit ideal for early morning or evening withdrawals.
- Banregio and Banco Azteca near Tesoro Hotel
Across from the Tesoro Los Cabos Hotel (right beside the marina), you’ll find a few local bank ATMs that cater to cruise passengers and charter guests.
- Casa de Cambio Locations in Plaza Gali
Currency exchange houses (casas de cambio) sometimes include ATMs or exchange counters. Plaza Gali has one of the more established offices near the marina walkway. When in doubt, look for a physical bank branch rather than a random standalone ATM. The machines attached to actual banks are much safer, have better exchange rates, and charge lower transaction fees.
ATMs to Avoid Around the Marina
Because Cabo is such a high-traffic tourist destination, not every ATM you see is trustworthy. Around the marina, you’ll often notice standalone ATMs built into small kiosks, storefronts, or convenience shops. While they look convenient, these machines often:
- Charge very high withdrawal fees (sometimes $10–$15 USD per transaction)
- Offer poor exchange rates or auto-convert at unfavorable rates
- Have less security and higher chances of card skimming
- May dispense U.S. dollars only with hidden conversion costs
It’s best to stick to bank-branded ATMs, ideally during daylight hours and in areas with security or cameras.
Currency Exchange Tips for Cabo Marina Visitors
Cabo San Lucas accepts both U.S. dollars and Mexican pesos, but the conversion rate depends on where you exchange your money. Here’s how to get the best value during your stay:
- Use ATMs at Real Banks:
These typically offer a more accurate market exchange rate than hotels or exchange booths. - Avoid Airport Exchange Counters:
Rates at the airport are notoriously low — they take advantage of travelers who need quick cash upon arrival. - Decline “Dynamic Currency Conversion”:
When an ATM or payment terminal asks if you want to be charged in U.S. dollars, always decline and choose to be charged in pesos. Your bank’s rate is almost always better. - Withdraw Larger Amounts Less Frequently:
Each transaction carries a fee, so it’s more cost-effective to make fewer, higher withdrawals. - Check Your Home Bank’s Fees:
Some banks in the U.S. and Canada have partnerships with Mexican banks, reducing or waiving international ATM fees.
Being aware of these small details can easily save you $30–$50 during a typical vacation week.
Safety Tips for Withdrawing Money in the Marina Area
Cabo San Lucas is generally very safe, especially around the marina, but it’s still smart to follow basic ATM safety habits the same way you would at home.
- Use ATMs attached to bank buildings or inside malls.
- Avoid isolated kiosks, especially late at night.
- Shield your PIN when entering it.
- Keep an eye out for loose card readers or strange attachments on the ATM.
- Don’t let strangers offer help while you’re using the machine.
- If the machine doesn’t dispense cash but deducts from your account, note the exact time and location then report it to your bank immediately.
By sticking to these habits, you’ll minimize risks and feel more confident handling money during your trip.
Cash vs. Card: What Works Best in Cabo?
You’ll likely use a combination of both cash and card during your stay.
- Use your card for restaurants, bars, and retail stores. Most major establishments accept Visa and Mastercard.
- Use cash for tips, local markets, taxis, and smaller cafes.
- Bring both pesos and a small amount of U.S. dollars, since both currencies are accepted (though pesos are preferred).
Some ATMs in Cabo even allow you to withdraw either USD or MXN pesos, but be aware that dollar withdrawals almost always have higher fees and poorer conversion rates.
Preparing Before You Arrive in Cabo
Before boarding your flight to Los Cabos International Airport, take a few simple steps to make your financial experience smoother:
- Notify Your Bank of International Travel:
This prevents your card from being frozen due to suspicious activity. - Know Your Daily Withdrawal Limit:
Adjust it if necessary so you can take out enough pesos without hitting limits. - Bring a Backup Card:
If one card gets lost or blocked, you’ll still have access to funds. - Download Your Bank’s Mobile App:
It allows you to track charges in real time and lock your card if anything suspicious occurs. - Carry Some Emergency Cash in USD:
While pesos are ideal, small U.S. bills are handy for airport taxis or immediate expenses before visiting an ATM.
Being proactive ensures you spend more time enjoying Cabo and less time troubleshooting money issues.
Using ATMs When You’re Out on a Booze Cruise Cabo Charter
If you’re planning a private yacht charter or float party with Booze Cruise Cabo, knowing where and how to get cash beforehand is helpful. Before heading to the dock at IGY Marina, stop by one of the reliable bank ATMs nearby such as Scotiabank or CIBanco to withdraw enough pesos for crew gratuities, photos, and spontaneous purchases. Many travelers tip their crew at the end of the trip in cash. It’s a thoughtful gesture that recognizes great service especially when the team goes above and beyond to create a memorable experience.
Having pesos also helps if you want to buy souvenirs, drinks, or snacks near the marina after your yacht returns.
Traveler FAQ: Money and ATMs in Cabo San Lucas
Q: Are there ATMs and banks in the marina area?
A: Yes, you’ll find multiple ATMs and bank branches (CIBanco, Banorte, Scotiabank, etc.) within walking distance of the Cabo marina.
Q: Do ATMs dispense pesos or U.S. dollars?
A: Most dispense pesos. Some may offer USD options, but at a less favorable rate.
Q: Are ATMs safe to use in Cabo?
A: Yes, especially if you use machines located inside banks or shopping centers. Avoid independent street ATMs.
Q: What’s the best way to get pesos?
A: Use a bank-branded ATM in Cabo instead of exchanging at the airport or hotel.
Q: Can I use my U.S. debit or credit card in Cabo?
A: Absolutely. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted; American Express is accepted at some higher-end restaurants and resorts.
Q: How much should I tip my charter crew?
A: Standard gratuity is around 15–20% of the charter cost, depending on service quality. Cash in pesos or USD is fine.
Q: Do I need to carry large amounts of cash?
A: Not usually. Cabo is card-friendly. Keep only what you need for daily use, plus some for tips or small purchases.
Helpful Money Etiquette in Cabo
When dealing with money in Cabo, especially around the marina where tourism drives most of the economy, understanding a few etiquette points will enhance your experience:
- Tip generously when service is good. Crew members, waiters, and guides often rely on gratuities as a key part of their income.
- Count your change. Mexico uses coins frequently (especially for 5 and 10 pesos), so always double-check when paying cash.
- Avoid paying large bills for small purchases. Keep smaller denominations handy for convenience.
- Exchange at banks or casas de cambio, not with street vendors.
- Be patient. Sometimes cash registers or card machines take a few extra moments to process due to local network speed.
A little respect and patience go a long way and it’s always appreciated by locals.
Why Cash Access Matters for Marina Adventures
If you’re joining a Booze Cruise Cabo charter, your adventure starts right at the marina. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the lively energy music, smells of grilled seafood, and the laughter of travelers returning from the sea.
Having cash on hand makes it easy to:
- Grab a cold drink before departure
- Tip dock staff or guides who help with boarding
- Buy photos or souvenirs offered at the dock
- Pay for last-minute upgrades, like floating islands or snorkeling gear if available
While most bookings are prepaid online or via card, a little extra local cash ensures you’re covered for the fun, spontaneous parts of the experience.
Final Thoughts: Yes, The Cabo Marina Has ATMs and Banks, Just Use Them Wisely
So, to answer the main question are there ATMs and banks in the marina area of Cabo San Lucas? Absolutely. You’ll find several safe and convenient options just steps from the docks. From the Scotiabank ATM inside Puerto Paraiso Mall to the CIBanco machine on Blvd. Marina, there’s no shortage of places to grab cash when needed. Just remember to use bank-branded ATMs, avoid random kiosks, and always select Mexican pesos when prompted.
Being prepared with a mix of cards and cash ensures a smoother, stress-free experience whether you’re exploring the boardwalk, dining at the marina, or climbing aboard a Booze Cruise Cabo yacht for an unforgettable afternoon on the water.
About Booze Cruise Cabo
Booze Cruise Cabo is Cabo San Lucas’s premier private yacht and party charter company, offering unforgettable experiences on the Sea of Cortez. From scenic Arch photo stops to Medano Bay float parties, sunset cruises, and snorkeling tours, each trip is designed for fun, comfort, and celebration. The English-speaking crew provides top-rated hospitality, open bar service, and plenty of water toys to make every charter feel like a VIP experience.
To book your yacht or private event, visit Booze Cruise Cabo
619-842-0001 (U.S. number)
