Cabo San Lucas is synonymous with vibrant nightlife, but few venues capture its spirit quite like Cabo Wabo Cantina. A cornerstone of the Baja California Sur party scene since 1990, this iconic establishment blends rock ‘n’ roll history, world-class tequila, and an electric atmosphere that keeps travelers and locals coming back year after year. Whether you’re planning your first trip or revisiting Cabo in 2025, here’s why Cabo Wabo remains a must-visit destination.
Cabo Wabo Cantina was born from the vision of Sammy Hagar, the legendary rock musician and former frontman of Van Halen. After falling in love with Cabo San Lucas in the 1980s, Hagar teamed up with local architect Marco Monroy to create a tequila bar with a stage for live performances. The name “Cabo Wabo” emerged from a humorous local anecdote: Hagar coined the term “Cabo wobble” after witnessing a reveler stumbling along the beach post-party.
The cantina opened in April 1990 but faced early financial struggles. Hagar bought out his Van Halen bandmates’ shares and transformed the venue into a thriving hub for music lovers. By the late 1990s, Cabo Wabo had become a magnet for tourists as Cabo San Lucas grew into a global vacation hotspot.
Hagar’s influence extended beyond music. In 1996, he launched Cabo Wabo Tequila, collaborating with a family-owned distillery in Jalisco to produce premium 100% agave tequila. This venture revolutionized the spirits industry, elevating tequila’s status from a party shot to a luxury sipping drink. The brand’s success was meteoric: by 1999, it sold 37,000 cases in its first U.S. distribution year.
Hagar’s grassroots marketing—including singing about Cabo Wabo in his songs and hosting impromptu performances at the cantina—cemented the brand’s identity. In 2007, he sold an 80% stake to Gruppo Campari for $80 million, but the tequila remains a staple at the cantina. Don’t miss the signature “Waborita” (a margarita made with Cabo Wabo Blanco) or a flight of añejo tequilas.
Cabo Wabo’s stage has hosted icons like Iggy Pop, U2, and Guns N’ Roses, alongside surprise appearances by Hagar himself. The cantina’s weekly lineup features everything from classic rock covers to Latin beats, ensuring no two nights feel the same. Check their calendar for themed events like “Cantina Tuesdays” or DJ sets blending Top 40 and throwback hits.
The kitchen serves up bold Mexican fusion dishes, including:
- Lobster Burrito: Stuffed with fresh local seafood and chipotle crema.
- Tequila-Infused Guacamole: Made tableside with a splash of Cabo Wabo Reposado.
- Chile Relleno de Wagyu: A decadent twist on a classic, paired with black bean puree.
Every October, Hagar’s birthday celebration draws thousands to Cabo Wabo for multi-day parties featuring live bands, exclusive tequila tastings, and celebrity guests. It’s a bucket-list event for rock fans and a testament to the cantina’s enduring appeal.
From spring breakers to luxury travelers, Cabo Wabo’s dance floor unites all walks of life. The venue’s red-and-black decor, neon lighting, and rock memorabilia create a retro-meets-modern vibe that’s Instagram-ready.
At Mucho Cabo, we’re passionate about uncovering destinations that define Cabo’s soul—and Cabo Wabo Cantina is a cornerstone of that narrative. It’s more than a bar; it’s a cultural institution where rock history, culinary creativity, and Baja California’s festive spirit collide. Whether you’re sipping top-shelf tequila, dancing to a live band, or soaking in the electric atmosphere, Cabo Wabo guarantees a night you’ll remember long after the “Cabo wobble” wears off.
Ready to dive into Cabo’s legendary nightlife? Add Cabo Wabo to your itinerary and experience why this cantina remains a global party icon.
For more guides to Cabo’s best experiences—from hidden beaches to luxury resorts—explore Mucho Cabo.
