Question 1

What is the "Counterfeit Tequila Sales" scam in Cabo San Lucas?

Accepted Answer

Some bars and street vendors sell cheap spirits labelled as premium tequila brands. Counterfeit alcohol causes serious illness; reports of tourist poisoning from adulterated spirits occur regularly in Mexican resort towns. Buy spirits only from licensed stores or major hotel bars. Check that bottles are factory sealed. Avoid unmarked or unusually cheap "premium" spirits.

Question 2

What is the "Rental Car Additional Insurance Pressure" scam in Cabo San Lucas?

Accepted Answer

Car rental agents at the airport aggressively sell expensive supplemental liability insurance, sometimes implying Mexico law requires it or that your home country coverage is invalid. The pressure is intense and confusing. Research Mexican car insurance requirements before you travel. Your credit card may cover CDW. Know exactly what your policy covers before the rental desk conversation.

Question 3

What is the "Police Traffic Stop Bribe Request" scam in Cabo San Lucas?

Accepted Answer

Tourists driving in Cabo are occasionally stopped by local police and told about minor or invented violations. The implication is that a cash payment avoids the paperwork. Request a formal written ticket for any alleged violation. Never hand over your original passport or significant cash in a street stop.

Question 4

What is the "Beach Sunbed Unofficial Fee" scam in Cabo San Lucas?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial individuals on tourist beaches collect fees for sunbeds and umbrellas, claiming to represent the hotel or beach authority. Fees are collected regardless of whether equipment was actually provided. Use only sunbeds supplied by your hotel or a licensed beachfront restaurant where you are a customer. Ignore anyone collecting fees on a public beach.

Other Tourist Scams in Cabo San Lucas

Counterfeit Tequila Sales

Rental Car Additional Insurance Pressure

Police Traffic Stop Bribe Request

Beach Sunbed Unofficial Fee

Experienced a scam here?