cabo travel destination

Welcome to Los Cabos

Los Cabos beckons visitors to an oasis where tranquility, adventure, and wellness fuse together to create an unparalleled experience. Its awe-inspiring beaches , crystal-clear waters, and enchanting desert landscapes provide a haven for those seeking a rejuvenating escape from the chaotic humdrum of daily life. Embark on a journey of self-discovery and wellness to uncover the essence of relaxation and rejuvenation in one of the world's most mesmerizing destinations. Los Cabos is where paradise intersects with wellness , a realm of unbridled bliss that invites visitors to create memories that last a lifetime.

Restaurants

Cabo san lucas, the arch of cabo san lucas, discover los cabos, outdoor adventures, horseback riding, camping & glamping, water activities, insider experiences, beyond the bridge, todos santos, rustic cuisine, farm to table, meet the locals, delicious eats, farm to table, coffee shops, group dining, mexican restaurants, italian restaurants, fine dining, romantic getaways, luxury hotels & resorts, honeymoons and romantic getaways, resorts & hotels with swimmable beaches, palmilla beach, popular trips, discover something unique, upcoming events , 2x1 at draque cocktail lounge & live music.

Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

Ayurvedic Morning

Rukhsana's Wellness & Heavenly Retreat

Candlelight Evening Yin Yoga

Easter bliss alkemia spa.

Alkemia SPA

Jazz Festival

Jazz on the Rocks

Jazz Live Concerts Every Day

Discover all los cabos has to offer, from the blog, off the beaten path adventures in los cabos, #visitloscabos, los cabos connectivity flight map, getting to los cabos.

Los Cabos always welcomes you whether by air, land or sea for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in paradise. There are more than 550 weekly flights from 40 destinations, connecting different places in the United States, Canada, and Latin America.

News & Media 

Inauguration of il splendid restaurant at palmilla dunes: a gem of italia/mediterranean cuisine..

With great enthusiasm, we announce the successful Grand Opening of the new Il Splendido restaurant, an upscale Italian establishment offering an unparalleled Mediterranean culinary experience. Learn More

San Francisco 49ers and Los Cabos Forge a Winning Partnership

Santa Clara, CA and Los Cabos, Mexico – October 26, 2023 – Today, the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Cabos Tourism Board, in a multi-year collaboration, are announcing the region as the Preferred Learn More

Los Cabos Tourism Board

Carretera Transpeninsular

KM 4.3 Plaza Providencia Local no.209

El Tezal, Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S

C.P. 23454 MEXICO

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Los Cabos Travel Guide

Located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos consists of three distinct areas: Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, and the coastal highway between them, referred to as the Tourist Corridor. The popular destination is served by San José del Cabo International Airport which is located about three miles from San José del Cabo and about twenty miles from Cabo San Lucas.

Los Cabos is a combination of desert, beachfront, and mountain terrain, with the Pacific Ocean on the west side of the peninsula and the Gulf of California, also called the Sea of Cortés, on the east. The warm, dry, sunny climate and beautiful scenery have turned the former fishing village into the home of hundreds of resorts, hotels, and vacation homes from Cabo San Lucas up to a newly developing coastal area north of the airport called the East Cape.

Sportfishing, snorkeling, swimming, diving, sailing, and surfing are among favorite water sports, and on land, visitors play golf and tennis, explore the desert and beach terrain on dune buggies, hike, and ride mountain bikes, horses, and camels. Guests enjoy lively nightlife and dine at top restaurants or casual cafés.

Mountain Standard Time, changing seasonally to Daylight Time.

Best Time to Go

Temperatures are warm year round, with August the hottest month (75 to 92 degrees F) and January and February the coldest (54 to 79 degrees F). For perfect weather with temperatures from the mid 70s to mid 80s as well as a getaway from colder climates, November through April are high season months, and prices reflect the demand.

April and May are the driest months with practically no rain at all, and in May and June, the temperatures get well into the 80s, and you'll probably want to be near a beach or pool enjoying the sunny weather.

Late July, August, and September are the warmest months with higher humidity, and the wettest months are August and September averaging about two to three inches of rain. Hurricanes are possible during those months, but they are relatively rare. For avoiding crowds and high prices, a late summer visit could be worth considering.

Whale watching season runs from about December through April, with humpbacks frequently seen during that time of their migration. In February, the calves (baby whales) become active. The gray whale season is from January through March. Boat trips to see the whales up close are very popular during that time.

The Festival of San José, patron saint of San José del Cabo, takes place from March 14 to 19, with parades, carnivals, dancing, food, parties, traditional costumes, entertainment, and music. Sportfishing tournaments are held in October and November. Music and film festivals, food and wine events, competitions, and religious holidays fill the calendar all year long in Los Cabos.

Things to Know

The Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortés meet at the southern tip of Baja where El Arco (The Arch), a rock formation, rises from the sea. The surf on the Pacific side is quite rough, and the Sea of Cortés is calm, although there can be strong currents. Before jumping in, be sure you're at a safe swimmable beach.

Timeshare sales people at the airport can be quite aggressive as you pass, and drivers will approach offering to take you to your hotel. It's advisable to arrange transportation in advance through your hotel or a reliable local service .

Although the currency is the Mexican peso, U.S. dollars and major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. It is possible to obtain pesos at the airport upon arrival, through ATMs, or at some hotels.

Tipping is customary in Mexico at bars, restaurants, spas, and at hotels for assistance with bags or other services. It is considerate to leave something for hotel housekeepers each day. Tour guides should also receive a gratuity. At restaurants and spas, the typical amount is 10-20%. For others, the equivalent of what you would leave in the U.S. is appropriate.

How to Get Around

Taxis: Taxis are available at hotels and at the airport. In San José del Cabo, red and yellow taxi vans operate and in Cabo San Lucas, the vans are blue and green—they operate 24 hours a day. From the airport, Los Cabos has an official taxi provider . The fare between the two cities is about $60-$70.

Buses: The Suburcabos buses run between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo every day from about 5:00 a.m. in San José and about 5:20 a.m. in Cabo. They run about every 20 minutes until approximately 9:30 p.m.

Airport Transportation: Car rentals , private companies, shuttles, and taxis provide transportation from the airport. Note that Uber is not permitted at the airport, and it is illegal in Cabo, although it may be operating.

Best Hotels

One & only palmilla.

Address: Carretera Transpeninsular, Tourist Corridor, 23400 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 146 7000 Book Now

This luxe resort features a variety of guestrooms, suites, villas, and casita suites with private infinity pools. Restaurants include chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Asian-style Suviche , and Seared , a gourmet steakhouse, as well as cliffside Agua for Baja cuisine. The adults-only Vista pool with a swim-up bar is centrally located, and there's a splash pool for children alongside the family Agua pool. Golfers will enjoy the award-winning Jack Nicklaus-designed course.

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

Address: Carretera Transpeninsular Km 7, Manzana 10, 23410 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexicoa Phone: +52 866 311 2226 Book Now

Choose a casita, many with infinity edge hot tubs, a suite, a one- to four-bedroom villa, or the four-bedroom Hacienda with your own personal Hacienda Host. Dine on fresh-caught seafood at Cocina del Mar to the sound of crashing waves or swim up to the bar for a margarita at casual outdoor La Palapa. Family-friendly Las Estrellas serves casual dishes in a poolside garden setting. The luxurious spa offers head-to-toe pampering and wellness treatments.

Montage Los Cabos

Address : Twin Dolphin, Carretera Transpeninsular KM. 12.5, Int. Bahía Santa María, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico Phone : (800) 772-2226 Book Now

Situated on Santa Maria Bay about a 20-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas, Montage Los Cabos offers a tranquil retreat with unparalleled views. The resort boasts 122 guestrooms, suites, and casas, an additional 52 Montage residences, and a 40,000-square-foot spa that's bound to make for a relaxing stay.

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas

Address: Calle Hacienda Eureka s/n, 23570 La Ribera, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 689 0292 Book Now

Located on the undiscovered East Cape, the Four Seasons offers a serene experience in a desertscape along the Sea of Cortés. Two miles of secluded beaches, six pools, golf course, Oasis Spa, shops, and a variety of restaurants provide many ways to relax or stay active. Guestrooms, suites, and villas feature contemporary decor, modern technology, and expansive outdoor terraces with ocean views.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort

Address: Carretera Transpeninsular Km 19.5, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 144 2800 Book Now

Set on the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Las Ventanas offers a variety of luxurious suites as well as one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations. Eight pools include the iconic infinity-edge Beach Pool with swim-up bar and the Oasis Pool with the Lazy River that takes guests through a grotto-like tunnel complete with music. Dine with views of the sea at Árbol featuring Asian-influenced coastal cuisine or at Sea Grill with traditional Mexican fare.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

Address: Camino del Mar 1, 23455 Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 163 4300 Book Now

This five-star resort features accommodations that include ocean view guest rooms and suites, one- and two-bedroom beachfront suites, and two-, three-, and four-bedroom villas. Every room and suite offers a private plunge pool, and guests are treated to fresh guacamole delivered to their room daily. Amenities include the ocean view Waldorf Astoria Spa, personal concierge, and superb dining at cliffside El Farallon and signature restaurant, Don Manuel's.

Marquis Los Cabos

Address: Carretera Transpeninsular Km 21.5, Fracc. Cabo Real, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 144 2000 Book Now

This adults-only, all-inclusive, and all-suite resort is set on the Sea of Cortés. Choose a beachfront suite with expansive views of the sea, and enjoy three infinity-edge pools and a stunning cascading waterfall. An array of dining venues includes five restaurants, a coffee shop, and in-suite service. The Marquis Spa treatments feature its line of luxurious Natura Bissé products.

Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort

Address: Carretera Transpeninsular Km 19.5, 23447 Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 145 6500 Book Now

In addition to a range of ocean view accommodations, the resort offers 14 beachfront suites with private plunge pools.The Enclave Beach Club features plush private cabanas, music, cocktails, and tapas-style menu for daytime fun or private sunset dinners. Stunning pools throughout the property include an adults-only Serenity Pool with a Jacuzzi and a family infinity pool, all bordered by plush lounges and wide umbrellas.

Pueblo Bonito Pacífica Golf & Spa Resort

Address: Prévio, Paraíso Escondido, Centro 23450, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 142 9696 Book Now

The luxurious resort features 201 guest rooms and suites, including 47 in the Towers at Pacifica, an intimate resort-within-a-resort with 24-hour butler service and exclusive access to an oceanfront VIP Lounge. A variety of dining venues includes The Market at Quivira, inspired by the great food halls of Europe and open from early morning to late night.

Best Restaurants

Flora's field kitchen at flora farms (farm to table).

Address: Animas Bajas, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 142 1000 Website

The seasonal menu is based on ingredients grown on the farm, and all meats come from their 150-acre ranch where animals are raised humanely without hormones or antibiotics. Chef Tellez specializes in creating dishes with the farm's organically raised products. Indoor and outdoor tables are available, and reservations are recommended.

Acre (farm to table)

Address: Calle Camino Real S/N, Animas Bajas, SJC La Playa, 23407 , San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 171 8226 Website

Local ingredients, international flavors, and creative cocktails combine for exceptional dining experiences at this farm-chic restaurant. Set in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, Acre offers indoor and outdoor seating in a casual, refined atmosphere. Reservations are suggested.

Edith's (Baja cuisine)

Address: Camino a Playa El Medano s/n, 23453, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 143 0801 Website

The cuisine of Baja California is presented with steaks, seafood, and fresh local ingredients. Dine outdoors with stunning views of starry skies and Medano Beach while enjoying fresh-caught local fish, lobster, Caesar salad prepared tableside, and hand-made tortillas. Reservations are recommended.

Nicksan (Japanese)

Address: Blvd. Marina Lote 10,m Local 2, Plaza de la Danza 23450, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 143 2491 Website

With locations in downtown Cabo San Lucas and at the Shoppes at Palmilla, Nicksan serves local, sustainable seafood as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. Sushi, beef, and chicken dishes are on their menu. Sushi fans will enjoy a one-of-a-kind omakase dining experience created by the chef. Dine at the sushi bar, tables, or al fresco with ocean views. Reservations are recommended.

Los Tres Gallos (Mexican)

Address: 20 de Noviembre Casi Esquina Leona Vicari 23469, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 130 7709 Website

This downtown Cabo San Lucas restaurant located in the art district serves traditional Mexican dishes indoors, outdoors, and on rooftop tables. Live mariachi music adds to the ambiance, and favorite menu choices are tortilla soup, cochinita pibil, and fresh seafood. Reservations are suggested.

El Farallon (seafood)

Address: Calle Camino Del Mar 1, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, 23455 Cabo San Lucas Phone: +52 624 163 4300 Website

Set on cliffs above the Pacific, El Farallon serves fresh seafood displayed for diners on shaved ice. Choose from the day's catch and select side dishes for the perfect meal. Live music, ocean breezes, and the sound of crashing waves accompany dinner along with beverages from the extensive wine and cocktail list. Enjoy a tasting on the Champagne Terrace for a lovely beginning. Reservations are required.

Vela (Mediterranean)

Address: Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort, Carretera Transpeninsular Km 19.5, Los Cabos Phone: +52 624 145 6500 Website

Dine indoors or al fresco with views of the resort's infinity pool and enjoy pasta, flatbreads, seafood, and meats prepared in the styles of the Mediterranean. Choose wine to accompany dinner or select a creative cocktail from their list that includes ten variations on Gin & Tonic. Reservations are suggested.

Things to Do

Art gallery district.

Address: Calle Alvaro Obregon between Miguel Hidalgo y Vicente Guerrero, San Jose del Cabo, 23400, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: N/A Website

Browse or buy the perfect piece during a stroll through the Gallery District, located behind San José del Cabo's historic main square. Art galleries display original paintings, sculpture, prints, photographs, and jewelry created by local artisans, as well as national and international artists.

Wild Canyon

Address: Carretera Federal Libre Transpeninsular Km 19.5, Cabo Real, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 144 4433 Website

Choose your activity from an off-road ride in an ATV, zipline tour, sling swing, camel ride, bungee jump, or hike. There's an animal sanctuary, horseback riding, sailing, and an aquatic park and restaurant for cooling off after your adventures.

Sportfishing with Cabo Magic Sportfishing

Address: IGY Marina B Dock, Paso de la Marina, 23450, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: 619 819-8634 or 888 475-5337 Website

Sportfishing is a year-round activity in Los Cabos, one of the world's best destinations for the sport, and many charter companies are available. Depending on the season, the catch includes marlin, swordfish, dorado, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna.

Luxury sailing tours and sunset cruise with Cabo Adventures

Address: Boulevard Paseo de la Marina (esquina Malecón) Lote 7-A, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 173 9528 or 800 916-8734 Website

Relax and enjoy the seas around Los Cabos on a vessel from catamaran to sailboat or yacht. A variety of companies offer full and half-day excursions, sunset cruises, whale watching, dinner and show packages, or snorkeling and diving adventures.

Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park

Address: East Cape, Baja California Sur, Mexico Website

Located about 60 miles north of the Los Cabos hotel area, the area features pristine beaches and a shallow bay with living coral reefs teeming with marine life. Scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming are the main attractions, and tours are available for transportation, lunch, and equipment rental.

Best Shopping

Flora grocery.

Address : Carretera Transpeninsular, San Jose del Cabo Km 30, Las Ánimas Bajas, 23407, San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 142 1000 Website

Farm fresh produce, meats, artisan breads, sweets, preserves, flowers, and pickled goods are available. Take home locally handmade crafts like candles, clay bean pots, paintings, aprons, napkins, and cooking utensils. Prepared foods, sandwiches, and organic juice drinks are popular take out items.

Puerto Paraiso Mall

Address: El Medano Ejidal, Marina, 23479, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 144 3000 Website

This mall includes clothing stores, specialty shops, beachwear, jewelry, and children's clothing as well as restaurants, fast food, and a movie theater. Visit a Sergio Bustamante art gallery, sign up for sportfishing, or pick up some new shades at Sunglass Hut.

J & J La Casa del Habano Los Cabos

Address: Calle Francisco I. Madero S/N, Col. Centro, 23450, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 143 9845 Website

Cigar fans appreciate the selection and authenticity of J & J's products.Their cigars are stored in ideal conditions of temperature and humidity. Whether you stop in for some of your favorites, a special gift, or a taste of tequila, you'll be welcomed by J & J's expert staff.

Eduardo Sanchez

Address: Blvd. Mijares #10 Colonia Centro, 23400, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 105 2313 Website

Jewelry designer Eduardo Sanchez studied in Florence and Paris, and his unique creations for men and women are handmade in his San Jose del Cabo workshop. His elegant designs and expert craftsmanship are displayed in rings, bracelets, necklaces, cufflinks, and earrings.

Luxury Avenue

Address: Ave. Lázaro Cárdenas, Marina Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 163 4280 Website

Since 2009, Luxury Avenue Los Cabos has showcased high-end designer products with brands like Carolina Herrera, Hugo Boss, Longchamp, Salvatore Ferragamo, Mont Blanc, and more.

Plaza del Pescador

Address: Paseo Malecón San José, Mza 7 Lote 1, Punta Palmilla 7 retorno 23400, San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur Phone: +52 624 177 5480 Website

Located in the hotel zone a short walk from downtown, Plaza del Pescador offers retail shops, restaurants, a spa, and activities that attract both visitors and locals. Stores feature surfwear, jewelry, furniture, clothing, and gourmet items, and Wednesday art shows, live entertainment, and special events make it a popular downtown spot.

Las Tiendas de Palmilla

Address: Carretera Transpeninsular Km 27.5, San José del Cabo 23406, Baja California Sur, Mexico Phone: +52 624 144 6999 Website

This luxury shopping area features an art gallery, beauty salon, and an organic grocery store in addition to clothing and jewelry shops. Furniture and home decor items are sold at Atlantis House, and SAX Boutique specializes in locally made jewelry and artisan pieces.

Neighborhoods to Know

Cabo San Lucas, at the southern tip of Baja, is home to dozens of resorts, beaches, the marina, and "the arch," where the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortés meet. Cabo is also known for sport fishing, with several major fishing tournaments each year.

San José del Cabo , also home to resorts, restaurants, and golf courses, retains much of its original Spanish colonial architecture, for example the 18th-century Misión de San José del Cabo and its 19th-century City Hall. The Art District and downtown plaza are favorite spots.

Tourist Corridor : This twenty mile stretch of coastline connects Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Luxurious resorts, sandy beaches, restaurants, shops, and golf courses line the corridor. Wild Canyon Adventures theme park is also located in the area.

Pedregal : Just above downtown Cabo San Lucas on the Pacific, Pedregal is one the most exclusive neighborhoods in Los Cabos. Luxury resorts, upscale restaurants, private homes, and wealthy communities are set in Pedregal.

Medano Beach : One of the most popular beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Playa el Médano offers several miles of swimmable shoreline starting on the east side of the harbor. Water sports, white sand, al fresco restaurants, cantinas, and hotels attract many visitors to this area.

Downtown Cabo San Lucas : This is the place for nightlife, with a variety of cantinas, bars, and nightclubs including Sammy Hagar's famed Cabo Wabo. Hotels, shops, traditional Mexican restaurants, and more affordable prices as well as the nightlife make downtown a popular area.

Marina : This lively area is home to fishing boats, yachts, and a variety of companies that offer sailing excursions, fishing and diving charters, whale watching, and sunset cruises. Restaurants, shops, hotels, the Puerto Paraiso Mall, and Luxury Avenue boutiques are also located near the marina.

East Cape : About 45 minutes northeast from Los Cabos International Airport on the Sea of Cortés, the tranquil area features desert landscapes, secluded beaches, and stunning views of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. A developing area called Costa Palmas includes an elegant Four Seasons resort, golf course, marina, beach club and an Aman hotel in the near future.

Weather is warm all year, with minimal rainfall totalling around 11.4 inches annually. September is the wettest month receiving about four inches of rain. Hurricane season runs from around August to October, but hurricanes are rare in Baja. Water temperature ranges from about 72 degrees in February and March to as warm as 85 degrees in September.

Average lows and highs by month follow:

January: 55.4 - 77.9 February: 54 - 78 March: 55 - 80 April: 58 - 83 May: 62 - 86 June: 66 - 88 July: 73 - 91 August: 75 - 93 September: 74 - 91 October: 70 - 89 November: 62 - 84 December: 57 - 79

Apps to Download

Los Cabos Offline Travel Map - offline map, weather, driving routes, hotels, banks, hospitals (iOs)

Los Cabos Travel Pro - pre-trip information and reference details for Los Cabos. (Android)

Art Walk San José del Cabo - information on galleries, news, events, photos, maps of the Gallery District. (iOs)

Explore Cabo San Lucas

Plan your trip to cabo san lucas: best of cabo san lucas tourism.

Travel Advice

Discover the best of mexico with meliá.

Essential Cabo San Lucas

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Where to eat

The perfect three days in Los Cabos

Adrenaline-revving adventures in Los Cabos

Browse collections

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Cabo San Lucas Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing cabo san lucas.

Bring lots of small bills. It's not necessary to convert your dollars to pesos. Just bring plenty of $1, $5 and $10 bills so you can bargain better and pay with exact change.

Dave_in_Cabo

The fishing is fantastic year-round but especially good in the fall. In the late winter, you can catch tuna and dorado and watch the gray and humpback whale migration.

Walk around and just get lost and remember: A taco a day will make you very happy.

Michael Mattos

I have never been to a place where every resort is so breathtakingly beautiful. I have visited many places in the world, but Cabo San Lucas is by far the best resort lifestyle living — period!!! There are places to visit for vacation, and there are places to live, Los Cabos offers both…

Cabo San Lucas is a safe and beautiful beach destination in Mexico. However, there is more than beaches for you to enjoy. "Los Cabos" downtown has very good restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

Cabo is where I go with my wife to relax, enjoy the warm sun during the day and delight on the local food at night. It is a true relaxation vacation.

What is the best way to get there?

Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) has more than 250 flights to/from many destinations in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Nearby Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL) is smaller and mostly for private planes.

Do I need a visa?

Americans do not need a visa to visit Mexico, just their passports, but citizens of certain countries may. Find more information on  visas.

All visitors need a  tourist permit (FMM)  from the Mexican government, which is easily obtained upon arrival in Los Cabos.

When is the best time to visit?

May and June: For the ideal mix of quiet beaches and warm, sunny days, head to Cabo San Lucas in May or June, when wintertime crowds have dispersed and the summertime storms are yet to descend. You can expect average daily temperatures this time of year to be highs around 90 Fahrenheit (32 Celsius) and lows of 66 Fahrenheit (19 Celsius).

Both Cabo San Lucas and nearby San Jose del Cabo — collectively known as Los Cabos — are very walkable.

Taxis are everywhere in Los Cabos, but rates can be high, especially when jaunting to/from Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

A cheaper option is buses, which run along the tourist corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo frequently and will stop pretty much anywhere you ask unless they’re express buses, which will stop at designated areas.

water taxis

Water taxis are readily available around the marina to take you to most beach destinations. Rates are typically $10-$12 per person.

ridesharing

Uber is available in Los Cabos and can be booked via its app on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Mexican Pacific Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

As in the U.S., the standard voltage in Cabo San Lucas is 110V to 115V, 60Hz AC. Outlets accommodate two-prong flat (not grounded) plugs or grounded three-prong plugs.

What is the currency?

Peso, but USD are widely accepted, too.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, is it easy to find a bank, how much do i tip.

Tipping in Cabo San Lucas is similar to that of the U.S., and it’s acceptable to tip in U.S. dollars (only bills, no coins) or pesos, which is usually preferred.

At least $1 or 24 pesos per drink.

10-20% of your bill is sufficient, more if you were particularly pleased or well taken care of.

Between 30-50 pesos is customary for bellhops who assist with your bags, while 25 to 50 pesos per day of your stay is standard for the housekeeping staff.

It’s standard to tip between 15 and 20% of your treatment.

It’s not standard to tip cabbies unless they help with your bags. In that case, 10 pesos per bag will suffice.

Are there local customs I should know?

The legal drinking age in Cabo San Lucas is 18.

Drugs are illegal in Mexico.

“Hola” (hello), “Buenos dias” (good morning), “buenas tardes/noches” (good afternoon/evening), “adios” (goodbye).

Keep an eye out for timeshare hawkers near the airport’s taxi area.

Though bottled water is widely available, many resorts, hotels, and restaurants provide purified water.

• Sandos Finisterra
• Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf And Spa Resort
• Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos
• Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos
• Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa
• Sunset Monalisa
• Metate Cabo
• El Farallon
• RosaNegra Cabo
• Cabo Airport Shuttle
• El Arco de Cabo San Lucas
• Medano Beach
• Massages At The Sand Bar
• Chileno Beach
• Los Cabos Luxury Sailing, Snorkel and Lunch Cruise
• Cabo San Lucas Sunset Cruise with Open Bar and Snacks
• 4x4 ATV Adventure with Tequila tasting and Mexican buffet lunch
• ATV tour, Camel Ride, Tequila tasting & Mexican Buffet lunch
• Outdoor Ziplining and UTV Adventure from Los Cabos

Planning a Trip to Cabo San Lucas: Essential Cabo Travel Tips

By: Author Janice and George

Posted on Last updated: February 21, 2024

Categories Tips

Home / Tips

Are you planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico? Well, you’ve found the right Cabo travel guide here!

Cabo San Lucas is one of our favorite places in the world.

This beach town sits at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, lapped on one side by the Pacific Ocean and the other by the Sea of Cortez.

The town itself is full of authentic taco places , lively bars, great restaurants and cool artisanal souvenir and gift shops . The whole Los Cabos area bubbles over with a happy and colorful atmosphere. 

In fact, we love it so much that we try to visit at least once a year and stay for a few weeks on average. If we count anywhere as our “second home,” it’s Cabo!

We’ve used our extensive experience visiting over the years to create this guide on how to plan a trip to Cabo, Mexico.

Whether you’re thinking about a month-long winter getaway as well – or just hopping down from the west coast for a few days of sunshine and margaritas – this Cabo trip planning guide has all you need to know about visiting Los Cabos. 

Contents: Planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas (and Los Cabos)

Cabo or los cabos.

Things to know before going to Cabo

Is Cabo safe to visit?

When to visit

Flying to Cabo

Transportation: Getting around Cabo

Choose where to stay in Cabo

Things to do in Cabo

Food and drink

How many days do you need in Cabo?

What to bring

Other Cabo travel tips

At this point, you might be asking the question: Is Cabo San Lucas the same as Los Cabos?

If you look at a map of the state of Baja California Sur , you’ll see two similarly-named towns sitting right at the bottom. 

These are Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, about a 30-minute drive from each other. (And the two towns are quite different .) 

The 20-mile stretch of coastline between them is known as the Tourist Corridor.

Cabo San Lucas is the more popular “vacation” town of the two towns.

The entire area is referred to as Los Cabos, though it’s often dubbed just “Cabo.”

However, Cabo is also a term to describe just the town of Cabo San Lucas.

Confusing, right? Don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it when you arrive!

Anyway, Cabo San Lucas is the town we focus on in this Cabo vacation guide, though we cover other parts of Los Cabos too.

Things to know before going to Cabo San Lucas

Let’s start with some of the basics – like what money to use, entry requirements and so on.

Like everywhere else in Mexico, the main language is Spanish.

However, Cabo has a busy tourist industry and it’s very much “Mexico-lite” due to the large number of Americans living or vacationing there at any given time of year. 

This means that virtually everyone in the tourist biz (and most other locals too) can and will happily speak English with you.

But it never hurts to learn a few words en Espanol , si ?

The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso. 

Generally, 20 pesos are about $1 USD, but double check the exchange rate before you travel , as it can fluctuate.

You can easily get pesos from an exchange office in the US before traveling. Or you can change money in Cabo or take pesos out of an ATM. 

Most places also accept U.S. dollars, but the exchange rate won’t be as good as banks and official exchange offices.

Your money will go further if you use Mexican pesos. 

Credit cards are accepted in an increasing number of places (and certainly by tour operators, resorts and most tourist restaurants).

But cash is still used a lot throughout Mexico. Some smaller mom-and-pop places only take cash, so it’s best to always have a few pesos on you. 

Visa and entry requirements

You need a passport to visit Mexico.

If you’re visiting Mexico from the U.S, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK or most European countries, you won’t need a visa for Mexico, however. 

If you’re visiting from anywhere else, check the entry requirements before your trip. 

You don’t need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test for entry to Los Cabos (or anywhere else in Mexico), but check the requirements for your home country before returning. 

No other vaccines are mandatory either, but you may want to ensure that your tetanus and typhoid vaccinations are up to date before traveling. 

Plugs and electricity

Mexico has type A and type B power plugs and sockets, with a 127 V voltage and 60 Hz frequency. 

It has the same plugs as the U.S and Canada. But if you’re visiting from Europe or elsewhere in the world, you might need an adapter.  

Yes, Los Cabos is generally a very safe place to go for a sun, sea and sand vacation.

We’ve actually written a whole post on: Is it safe to travel to Cabo San Lucas?

Check it out for scads of tips (on things like driving at night and beach and food safety) to help keep you safe on your Cabo vacation.

When to visit Cabo

So, when is the best time to visit this alluring desert-meets-the-sea vacation destination? 

Well, there’s no bad time to visit, apart from maybe September (although there are definite pros to visiting Cabo then too). 

Winter in Cabo

In the winter months, Cabo is quite busy, as visitors from the U.S. and Canada venture down then in search of a little warmth. 

The weather is pretty perfect in winter, with daytime temperatures hovering in the high 70s and 80s.

The months of January and February in Los Cabos , for example, aren’t super hot.

Winter isn’t as hot as, say, Cancun (and it’s not as humid). But it’s certainly a lot toastier than winter in places like Wisconsin and further north in Canada!

The winter season is also the main time when cruise ships visit Cabo San Lucas .

Shoulder months

We think that later on in spring ( after spring break in March and April) is one of the best times to visit Cabo.

But we love October and November in Los Cabos as well (bathtub-warm sea temps and endless water viz for scuba diving ). 

Hot and rainy season

September is the middle of hurricane season.

It’s by far the rainiest month and not the best time to go to Cabo (unless you’re into fishing). It’s also very hot and humid.

But Cabo is definitely quieter in September, with virtually no cruise ships anchoring in the bay and not many other tourists around, except sportfishers. If you’re into sportfishing for marlin, September is the best month – and the fishing is epic!

July and August are also quieter than winter, although the weather can get too hot some days.

However, if you are used to a warm climate and are happy to spend all day at the pool or beach, then this time of year could be perfect for you! 

Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) welcomes frequent direct flights from cities all over the U.S. and Canada. 

Mexican airlines (like AeroMexico and Volaris) and American Airlines (like Alaska, Spirit and Delta) ply the routes frequently, particularly to and from west coast destinations like Los Angeles (2½ hours) and San Francisco (3 hours). 

There are also routes to central and eastern cities like Chicago (4 hours 45 minutes) and New York (just under 6 hours). 

For Canada, there are direct flights from Vancouver (4 hours 20 minutes), Calgary (4 hours 30 minutes) and even Toronto (5 hours), provided mainly by WestJet and Air Canada. 

If you’re flying to Mexico from outside of North America, it’s best to connect in Mexico City or Cancun (there are direct flights from Europe to both of these destinations) before changing to a domestic flight to Cabo. 

Transportation in Cabo

Getting from the airport to your hotel

So you’re off the plane and you’ve gone through passport control.

And you’ve located your suitcase – always a relief to see that it’s arrived.

You’re just about to leave the air-conditioned airport in Cabo and step outside into paradise. Now what? 

Bypass the timeshare sellers

First things first. As soon as you exit the arrivals area, you’ll walk past timeshare sellers who’ll try and sell you the dream of a vacation condo in Cabo.

They’ll offer you freebies, like a free transfer to your accommodation or perhaps an activity, if you attend their timeshare presentation. 

This can be a high-pressure sales pitch, and we’d recommend only doing this if you’re very interested in a timeshare in Cabo. Even if you are, you can do your own research with a lot less pressure. 

Take a private or shared airport transfer

As for getting to your hotel, we’d advise against taking a taxi. Taxis are expensive in Los Cabos.

Make your life easy, and book your airport transfers in advance. (You can choose a private transfer or a shared shuttle service.)

This way, you’ll have a designated driver waiting for you at the airport. 

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, a shared shuttle is the best way to go (and your least expensive option). If you’re okay spending more money, then of course, book a private transfer – which will get you to your hotel faster.

If traveling to Cabo as a family or small group, a private van or SUV transfer makes the most sense.

The best airport transfers

The following are some of the cheapest transfers to and from the airport that we’ve found.

We’ve personally gone with Gray Line Los Cabos, which offers the second option (one-way shared shuttle), and our transfer was seamless.

• Shared roundtrip Los Cabos airport shuttle
• Shared one-way shuttle from the airport to your hotel
• Private roundtrip transfer (for a group of up to 10 passengers)
• Private one-way transfer (for a group of up to 5 passengers)

For more information, you can read our post on the best Los Cabos airport transfers on our other blog.

Getting around in Los Cabos

What’s the best way to get around Cabo ?

Once you’ve settled into vacation mode, the public bus between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is very easy and affordable.

If you want to explore other areas of Baja California Sur (such as the arty town of Todos Santos and its nearby beaches ) or if you’re staying in a resort on the Tourist Corridor, we recommend renting a car . 

If you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas town (e.g., close to Medano Beach), the area is very walkable. You won’t need a rental car to get around unless you want to explore beyond town. 

Also, taxis are readily available within town. And Uber works too, most of the time. (Uber has a complicated relationship with the taxi mafia, er lobby.)

Now you know how to get to this beautiful Baja California area, but what about where to stay in Cabo ? 

There are seven different areas. 

One important thing to note when you’re planning a trip to Los Cabos is that you can’t swim in the ocean at many of the beaches (it’s unsafe).

So if you want to be able to step out of your hotel and run straight into the sea, be sure to book accommodation located on one of the swimmable beaches in Cabo .

7 Different areas in Los Cabos

1) medano beach – best area to stay in cabo san lucas for swimming .

Medano Beach is swimmable, which makes it one of the most popular places to stay in the area. 

Most hotels in Los Cabos with a swimmable beach are on Medano Beach.

If you’re looking for somewhere luxurious on Medano Beach, there’s arguably nowhere better than the new 1 Homes Preview Cabo .

With plunge pools on the balconies and gorgeous ocean views, this accommodation is catnip for couples.

Families are also welcome though. The resort’s 2- and 3-bedroom retreats are huge.

Corazon Cabo (a Noble House Resort) is another one of Cabo’s newest hotels on Medano Beach. Along with stylish accommodations, it features the highest rooftop bar in Cabo, the largest beach club on Medano Beach and a lively vibe.

The Bahia Hotel & Beach House is another Cabo San Lucas hotel we like.

It’s more affordable as it isn’t right on the beach (about a block away).

But rooms are decorated in a boutique style and it has its own beach club (SUR Beach House), which is one of the hottest beach clubs in Cabo San Lucas .

At the quieter end of Medano Beach, Villa La Estancia is a popular beach resort. It’s family-friendly but it also has a relaxing pool and spa, so it’s great for adults too.

2) Downtown Cabo – Best place to stay in Cabo San Lucas for cheap prices and buzzing nightlife

Visiting Cabo on a budget ? You can save a bundle on your accommodation costs by staying in downtown Cabo San Lucas (and walking to the beach).

We recommend the boutique Casa Bella hotel or The Bungalows Hotel . Both are charming and have outdoor garden pools.

They’re two of the most affordable hotels in Cabo San Lucas .

For something even less expensive again, try Los Milagros .

Set in a traditional house and with an outdoor pool, it’s one of the nicest but cheap Cabo San Lucas hotels .

3) Marina – Best part of Cabo to stay for a range of activities 

The marina is situated close to Medano Beach, and from here you can organize lots of watersports and boat trips. 

Breathless is a trendy adults-only, all-inclusive resort that fronts both the marina and Medano Beach. 

4) Pacific Side – Best location in Cabo for quieter beaches and upscale resorts

The beaches on the Pacific side of Cabo do have one distinct disadvantage – you can’t swim here, due to strong currents and rips.

However, this means they’re a lot quieter. And you won’t encounter the beach vendors who plod up and down Medano Beach, selling their sun hats, ceramic plates and other souvenirs.

And, of course, the resorts on this side all have pools.

Plus, fancy high-end hotels like Nobu Hotel Los Cabos and the Waldorf Astoria Pedregal have set up shop on this side and are perfect for a luxury vacation. (Both of these hotels have fabulous spas .)

The all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Pacifica (for adults only) and the family-friendly Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach are also situated on the Pacific side.

5) Corridor – Best area for all-inclusive resorts

The Tourist Corridor extends between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, and is lined with many all-inclusive resorts.

Some are budget- and family-friendly. Others are more sumptuous, and several all-inclusive resorts are just for adult groups or couples seeking sophisticated secluded digs.

We’ve stayed at the Grand Velas Los Cabos , a high-end, all-inclusive resort along this strip – and loved it! 

We’ve also stayed at Las Ventanas al Paraiso (a Rosewood resort). While very high-end (and recommended) too, it’s not all-inclusive.

6) San Jose del Cabo – Best place in Cabo for art, culture and food

At the other end of the Tourist Corridor, San Jose del Cabo is a more traditional Mexican town.

The central old town is colonial in feel and full of art galleries, colorful boutique shops and excellent restaurants.

If it’s not your first time in Cabo and you want to experience somewhere a little different, we recommend staying here (or nearby) for at least a few days. You can mix it up by combining it with a stay at a beach resort on the Corridor or hotel in Cabo San Lucas.

Casa Natalia is a lovely boutique hotel right in the heart of San Jose del Cabo. It doesn’t have a beach, of course, but it has a sweet pool and a fine restaurant. And its rates are relatively easy on the wallet.

Also check out Hotel El Ganzo .

We’ve stayed here a couple of times too now and are always intrigued by the art on its walls.

The boutique adults-only hotel boasts a rooftop infinity pool and easy access (by boat) to a private beach club with safe swimming.

Then there’s the highly-rated Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos , which is all-inclusive.

Near San Jose del Cabo is the One&Only Palmilla .

We’ve also bedded down here – and were totally charmed by its colonial architecture, tropical gardens and top-notch service. (See our review of the One&Only Palmilla .)

It’s also one of the few hotels outside of Medano Beach that has a swimming beach (virtually private) at its doorstep. 

7) East Cape – Best area in Cabo to stay for seclusion and luxury

The East Cape coastline starts north of San Jose del Cabo and stretches all the way past the town of Los Barriles on the southeast tip of the Baja California Peninsula.

Unspoilt, it’s much more isolated that other areas in greater Los Cabos. But that’s what many visitors love about it!

For a splurge, we recommend Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve and the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos .

Condo/villa or hotel?

There are many vacation rentals available in Cabo San Lucas.

But if you want the best of both worlds (i.e. daily maid service, restaurants, pools and pool service), as well as a kitchen and all the features of a home-away-from-home, your best bet is a condo hotel (or villa resort) when you book a trip to Cabo San Lucas.

These are quite common in the area. 

There are also timeshare resorts, such as the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort . You can book and stay at these like you would at any hotel.

But you’ll probably be invited to attend a timeshare presentation (to lure you into buying a timeshare at the resort).

They are quite persuasive. And although you may get a free gift at the end of it (like spa treatment or a $150 resort credit), you might want to decline the invitation if you aren’t interested in buying a timeshare. 

All-inclusive or not?

We’ve mentioned there are plenty of all-inclusive hotels in Cabo. Most are strung along the Tourist Corridor.

Any accommodation along the Corridor is not within walking distance to restaurants in either Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo. So the all-inclusive option is useful at Corridor resorts.

If you’re located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, on Medano Beach or in San Jose del Cabo, you’re in close proximity to plenty of restaurants.

So you might prefer not to go the all-inclusive route here, if dining around is important to you.

(Then again, if you like knowing you can eat and drink as much as you want, and you don’t plan to venture beyond your resort much anyway, you might decide to go all-inclusive.)

Things to do in Cabo San Lucas

Now that you know where to stay in Los Cabos, what are the must-dos to put on your Cabo itinerary ? 

The following are some of our favorite fun activities.

Enjoy a sunset cruise

There’s no better way to end a day in Cabo than riding in a boat out to sea and cruising into the sunset – so romantic! 

Cabo San Lucas sunset cruises generally visit Land’s End and El Arco , a famous natural rock arch in the craggy rocky formations at Land’s End.

And Cabo is a veritable sunset machine – turning out the kind of fiery sunset every evening that makes you want to cheer and clap on the boat, as the orange globe slips behind the horizon.

Take a glass-bottom boat or water taxi to Lover’s Beach

It’s worth cruising to Land’s End and seeing the iconic arch (El Arco) in the daytime too.

You can take a glass bottom boat (or other water taxi ride) from the marina to Lover’s Beach. Flanked by towering rock cliffs, this idyllic sandy beach can only be reached from the sea. 

While it’s not really a hidden gem any more, the beach is incredibly romantic and scenic! (And you can swim and snorkel there too – but not at Divorce Beach on the other, Pacific side.)

Taking a boat ride to Land’s End (and Lover’s Beach) is one of the most popular water activities in Cabo San Lucas , so don’t miss this!

Watch whales in winter

Winter is whale watching season in Cabo .

If you’re visiting the region during high season, a whale watching cruise absolutely must be on your Cabo San Lucas itinerary! 

See humpback whales leaping out of the water. Or keep your eyes peeled for the more elusive gray whale. 

Cabo boasts world-renowned golf courses, with clubs like Quivira Golf Club and the 27 holes of Palmilla Golf Club open to both scratch golfers and casual players. 

Swim with whale sharks in La Paz

Whale sharks are the biggest fish in the ocean. Although they’re not whales, they get the name because of their immense size.

There are only a few places in the world where you can swim with these wondrous creatures – and Baja California Sur is one of them. 

From October to May, experience swimming with these gentle giants in La Paz, which is just over a two-hour drive away from Cabo, on the Sea of Cortez coast. 

Either book a day trip from Cabo with transport included (like this whale shark tour ), or drive there yourself and book a guided tour leaving from La Paz. 

Admire art on a free Art Walk

For something a little cultural, head to San Jose del Cabo on a Thursday evening for a free Art Walk .

Browse some of the city’s best art galleries while sampling Baja California wine. What a perfect evening! 

Go snorkeling

If chasing after fish is your thing, you’re in luck in Cabo.

There’s a range of snorkeling spots, thanks to the Sea of Cortez (one of the most biodiverse spots on the planet!) being at your doorstep. 

Head to Chileno Bay for a reef with the chance to see manta rays, or take your snorkeling gear to Lover’s Beach and see what you find.

There are many snorkeling boat tours, including private yacht charters .

What to eat and drink

Los Cabos shines when it comes to restaurants.

Expect mouthwatering taco joints, as well as places where you can try Mexican specialties like mole and tamales .

But you’ll also find eateries serving succulent local seafood, Italian pizzerias and trattorias and restaurants that make you want to wax poetic about their elegantly created dishes.

Both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are brimming with restaurants, and nearly all of them are phenomenal.

If you want a classy, farm-to-table dining experience in Cabo , we recommend Flora Farms and Acre .

Is it safe to eat the fruit and veggies in Cabo?

Yes, it’s safe to eat fruit and veggies in Cabo. And they’re fresh and delicious! If you’re worried, rinse them with bottled water before consuming. 

Is it safe to drink the water in Cabo?

No, one of the most important things to know before going to Cabo San Lucas is that you shouldn’t drink the tap water. 

Stick to bottled water.

How long is a piece of string?

If it’s your first time visit to Cabo San Lucas, spend a week or more – to enable you to tick off some of the attractions and unwind with some beach time.

If you live in California, it’s also worth visiting Cabo for just a long weekend. 

That being said, we frequently visit Cabo for weeks at a time, so if you’re looking for somewhere to hunker down for winter, it’s the right kinda place. 

What to bring on your Cabo vacation

While a vacation in Mexico seems like it’ll be warm every day, this isn’t always the case! 

In the winter months, Cabo can get a little chilly, particularly in the evenings or on cloudy days. 

So, one of our top things to know when traveling to Cabo San Lucas from December to February is that you should pack some light layers. 

You’re likely to have plenty of sunshine, so don’t forgo your summer wardrobe. But when packing for Cabo , also add a sweater or light jacket plus longer pants for the evenings.

Unless you’re visiting in summer or fall, you won’t need a heavy-duty rain jacket.

In the winter and spring, it rarely rains, but you might want to pack a light, foldaway rain jacket to be on the safe side.

Of course, this is Cabo, with beaches and pools that beckon, so you’ll want to pack a swimsuit and sandals or flip-flops too. 

Sun-protective rashguard

When you’re in and out of the water in Cabo, you might not realize how harsh the sun is. It’s a good idea to pack a sun-protective rashguard to ensure that you don’t get burnt. 

Reef-safe sunscreen is also important. Not only does this protect against sunburn, but it also doesn’t damage the natural corals and reefs that make Cabo the beautiful place we love! 

Snorkel or dive gear

So you know that snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Cabo… You could rent gear, but if you’re planning to go snorkeling a lot and want to be spontaneous, it’s best to bring your own snorkel, mask and fins . 

Waterproof phone pouch

Protect your phone from water damage. See this 8½-inch waterproof phone pouch , which works for most smartphones, including newer larger iPhones and other models.

Reserve top restaurants in advance

You won’t need to book tables at cheap and cheerful places. But it’s wise to reserve at popular restaurants (like Edith’s Restaurante , Flora Farms, El Farallon , Nicksan and Salvatore G’s ), particularly in high season.

Learn some Spanish

While many people in Cabo speak English, it never hurts to lean a little Espanol , especially if you are visiting local restaurants or are keen to explore some other spots in Baja California. 

It’s easy enough to pick up some of the basics with apps like DuoLingo . 

Get travel insurance

Our last travel tip (and it’s an important one): Don’t visit Cabo without travel insurance.

While healthcare is fairly affordable in Mexico, accidents can always happen and leave you out of pocket. 

Now you know how to plan a trip to Cabo San Lucas!

If you’ve been wondering “Is Cabo San Lucas worth visiting?” then hopefully this article shows you that it most certainly is! 

The golden-sand beaches of Cabo are waiting for you.

And with this Cabo trip planner, you should find planning a trip to Los Cabos hassle-free – leaving you with more time to dream of ice-cold margaritas, fresh fish tacos and unforgettable Mexican sunsets! 

Planning your trip to Cabo?

Here are our favorite travel resources:

Resorts: Booking.com is great for scoring a “wow” hotel in Cabo – or at least a decent one. (We especially like their flexible cancellation policy!)

Vacation homes, condos and rentals: We prefer and use Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner).

Tours: For the best local guided tours in Cabo, see Viator and GetYourGuide .

Car rental: Renting a car in Los Cabos is one of the best ways to explore. Discover Cars searches car rental companies so you get the best rates.

Travel insurance: SafetyWing is designed for frequent travelers, long-term adventurers and digital nomads. It covers medical expenses, lost checked luggage, trip interruption and more.

Need more help planning your trip? Check out our ultimate Cabo travel guide ! It’s packed with crazy useful trip planning info.

Pssst! If you make a booking or purchase through our site, we may earn a small commission (at no cost to you). Thanks!

About the authors

Award-winning travel writers Janice and George Mucalov are frequent visitors to Los Cabos. Here on Cabo Visitor , they share their essential tips for discovering the best of Cabo!

Cabo Travel Guide

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Quick Tips | Location | Getting There | Where to Stay  |  Things to Do  | Tours  |  Cabo Safety  | Blogs |  FAQ

cabo travel guide

Los cabos mexico: at a glance.

Cabo is one of the top Mexico travel destinations, along with Mexico City and Cancun .

Located on the Baja Peninsula, you’re surrounded by water on three sides — the Pacific Ocean to the south and west, and Sea of Cortez to the east. A body of water teeming with wildlife, diver Jacques Cousteau famously referred to the Sea of Cortez as “the world’s aquarium.”

Is it Cabo, or Los Cabos?

You might have heard Cabo referred to as Los Cabos, meaning “the Cabos.” There are in fact more than one Cabo, as this name indicates a places in locate withinn ght Los Cabos Municipality of Baja California state.

The two most popular Cabos in Mexico for visitors are Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo . The airport is located in the city of San Jose del Cabo, but most people then head to the town of Cabo San Lucas for vacation, located about 45 minutes away.

Cabo Mexico: Know before you go

✈️ Airport: Los Cabos International Airport, AKA San José del Cabo International Airport (code: SJD)

• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso

⏰ Time Zone: Pacific Daylight Time (GMT-6)

• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Cabo — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico for info on the process.

What’s the best time to visit Cabo Mexico?

Cabo is basically a year-round destination, which averages about 300 days of sunshine each year, though some say it can have as many as 350 sunny days!

There is a short Cabo rainy season in mid-July to September, but other than that, this city sees perfect weather for most of the year.

Cabo Shoulder Season: There are two shoulder seasons in Cabo — that magical time when the weather is still nice, and the prices are still low. To visit during the shoulder season, plan your trip for April to May or October to November .

For the best value: You’ll get the most bang for your buck in the summers, from July to September .

This is the rainy season, but with its desert climate, it doesn’t rain too much in Cabo. Besides the rains, it is quite humid in the summers, but if you don’t mind the non-ideal weather, you will enjoy lower prices and smaller crowds.

Where is Cabo Mexico located?

Cabo is in western Mexico, at the southernmost end of the Baja California Peninsula. It is located on the tip of the peninsula at an area called Land’s End, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.

What state is Cabo Mexico in?

Cabo San Lucas is in Baja California Sur state. This is one of the three states that makes up Mexico’s Baja Peninsula — along with Baja California state.

Besides visiting Cabo, you’ll find other things to do in Baja California Sur state in these cities: San Jose del Cabo , La Paz , Loreto and Todos Santos .

What’s the closest airport to Cabo Mexico?

Los Cabos International Airport (code: SJD) is one the largest airports in Mexico, and you can find direct flights to Cabo San Lucas from many places all over the world. It is located in the city of San Jose del Cabo , about 45 minutes from Cabo San Lucas.

What’s the best way to get to your Cabo hotel?

The safest, most-stress free, easiest and best way to get from Los Cabos Airport to your Cabo San Lucas hotel is via private shuttle, especially if this is your first trip to Cabo.

The private shuttle is the fastest way to get from Los Cabos Airport to your hotel, with door-to-door service. ▶︎ BOOK NOW!

Renting a car in Cabo at the airport is another option — however, if you just want to lay on the best beaches in Cabo San Lucas, drink in hand, soaking up the sun, skip the rental car and book the Cabo Airport shuttle instead.

Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas Mexico

The main tourist areas in Cabo San Lucas are all pretty close to one another, and you will want to stick to these, as it’s quite residential off the beach, with not much to see or do.

As one of the top Mexico resort cities, most visitors opt to stay at a Cabo all-inclusive resort on the beach, but you can save some money by staying in downtown.

Playa Medano Beach

Medano Beach is the main Cabo beach. It’s a favorite among visitors, and where you’ll find all the best Cabo beach resorts.

Playa Medano is one of the main tourist hubs in the city — and even if you don’t stay on Medano Beach, chances are you’ll spend quite a bit of time here.

Cabo Marina

The Marina in Cabo is a charming neighborhood located right on the waterfront.

It has the amenities of downtown Cabo, but is generally considered a bit safer, with nicer accommodations.

With   several shops, bars and restaurants, this is a lively area, but also peaceful enough for an evening stroll on the water.

Downtown Cabo San Lucas

Downtown is the heart and soul of Cabo San Lucas, and the neighborhood with all the action.

Here, you’ll find traditional arts and crafts vendors and street tacos at local mercados (markets), the best bars in Cabo, and more.

If you’re traveling to Cabo on a budget, opt for downtown.

Best things to do in Cabo Mexico

There is a seemingly endless amount of things to do in Cabo San Lucas, one of the best places to vacation in Mexico .

The majority of them involve being in, on, or near the water — though there’s a lot to see in the surrounding deserts as well. Click on any image below to learn more ⤵

El Arco Tours

La Paz Day Trip

Cabo Whale Watching

Camel Rides

Hike Mt. Solmer

Isla Espiritu Santo

Todos Santos

Swim With Whale Sharks

Best cabo san lucas tours.

Tours in Cabo are a great way to see the town and its surrounding areas — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Cabo, this is the best way to get around because transportation fees add up quickly! 💡 Note: If you do want to have a car in Cabo, make sure to check out this guide to Renting a Car in Cabo .

Below, you’ll find the most popular and best tours in Cabo and the surrounding areas — including El Arco de Cabo (Cabo San Lucas Arch), Los Cabos Adventure Park , and more.

Is Cabo safe?

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. In fact, the Baja Peninsula — where Cabo is located — is one of the safest parts in Mexico.

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Cabo; they do. As this is a complex topic, you can do a deep dive by check out the article Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Cabo Travel Safety Tips .

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

Is Mexico safe for solo travelers?

On a personal note, I traveled to half the states in Mexico by myself, and felt quite safe. Now, this wasn’t magic; I made it a priority to stay safe by not walking home alone at night, never drinking too much, etc.

Check out this Cabo Solo Travel Guide for more info on Mexico travel safety for solo female travelers.

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Cabo Travel Blogs: Learn more about Cabo Mexico 🇲🇽

10 Best Cabo San Lucas Private Boat Tours in 2024

10 Best Cabo Fishing Charters and Tours in 2024

Renting a Car in La Paz Mexico: What to Know in 2024

Cabo travel: frequently asked questions, can you drink the water in cabo mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

• If you’re renting a home with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

Is Cabo expensive?

When comparing Cabo to other beach towns in Mexico,  yes , Cabo San Lucas is on the expensive side. However, budget Cabo travel is possible by saving money here and there — like staying in Downtown Cabo, eating street tacos, and taking public transportation instead of taxis or Uber.

What’s the Cabo weather like?

Cabo has a desert climate — meaning you can expect warm temperatures during the day, and cool, crisp nights. The city sees an average of 300 sunny days each year, and has a short rainy season from mid-July to September.

In the summers, temperatures hover around 95°F (35°C) during the day, though can feel hotter because of the humidity. For the best weather in Cabo, visit between October to May.

Is Cabo worth visiting?

Yes — Cabo is a unique Mexico destination that so many types of travelers will want to check out, from beach goers and nature enthusiasts, to adrenaline junkies and those who want to party all night.

As one of the most popular (and touristy!) Mexico travel destinations, Cabo is crowded all year-long, so to avoid the crowds opt for nearby Todos Santo or Loreto instead.

How many days do I need in Cabo Mexico?

If you just want to explore Cabo itself, you’ll want three full days . However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas in Baja California Sur state on some Cabo day trips, you’ll want at least five full days; but of course: The longer the better!

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

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The best seasons in Los Cabos for sun, water sports and margaritas

Apr 2, 2022 • 7 min read

Los Cabos’ desert-meets-the-sea views look awfully beautiful all year long © ferrantraite / Getty Images

Picture-perfect  Los Cabos  offers a desert-meets-sea aesthetic, with gorgeous burnt orange rock formations that tumble down to meet the wide open Pacific.

Los Cabos is a natural stunner, but it also happens to be one of Mexico’s most luxurious destinations. Packed with some of the best resorts in the country, Los Cabos often sets the bar on a five-star experience. 

But there is much more to this southern Baja town than stellar accommodations. The destination is also known for its world-class water sports, diving, yachting, culture and events. It’s no wonder that Los Cabos is one of Mexico’s best year-round destinations.

Still, there are always things to consider when deciding the best time to visit Los Cabos. High-season holidays can drive up hotel rates, while low season can either make or break a vacation, with the potential for both rock-bottom prices and thrashing storms. Even in low season, however, Los Cabos manages to find a way to keep things fun and enjoyable.

Here’s our season-by-season, month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Los Cabos.

Stick to high season (December to April) for perfect weather

With average temperatures that range between a delicious 77 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, high season is the most popular time to visit Los Cabos for a reason. Thanks to cool breezes that ride in off of the Pacific, visitors to Los Cabos can expect sunny and warm days with cooler desert nights. Since Los Cabos is where the desert meets the sea, the cooler winter temperatures make this the best time for sightseeing in Los Cabos, from outdoor adventures like ATV riding and hiking to visiting its so-called Magic Towns, like Todos Santos . High season is also the best time of year to see the whale sharks that migrate past Los Cabos. All of this said, high season does bring crowds, especially around Christmas, New Year’s and spring break. Expect hotels and restaurants to increase their rates considerably.

Peace and quiet await during shoulder season (May to June)

Los Cabos’ shoulder season might be the destination’s best-kept secret. Not only are temperatures still perfectly pleasant (warm in the day, cool at night), but the majority of crowds have gone home – meaning prices come down, and the frenzied, vivacious holiday vibe gives way to one that’s almost sleepy. While the whales will have left for cooler waters, the increasingly warmer temperatures mean that the water is just right for swimming. (Though as always you’ll have to scope out the elusive swimmable beaches in Los Cabos, as many are too turbulent for a casual swim.) Temperatures start to really get up there in May and June as Los Cabos heads into its driest months. Still, with plenty of sun and prices that descend from the holiday highs, you’ll see that shoulder season is one of the best times to visit Los Cabos.

You can find great deals in low season (July to September) 

Late summer into early fall is when you’ll start to see temperatures rise into the 90s (Fahrenheit), bringing a thick blanket of humidity and lots of rain. While the rain may make it a little more difficult to catch those southern Baja rays, the rainy weather brings a green, lush carpet to the otherwise rocky desert environment. This time of year is incredibly quiet by Los Cabos standards, and visitors may find that restaurants or activities operate on more limited schedules. That said, this is the time to find the best deals in Los Cabos, from lower nightly rates to free upgrades.

Here’s a monthly guide to what you can expect in Los Cabos. Keep in mind that events and details are subject to change.

January is the coolest month in Los Cabos. But even the coldest day here is still pretty warm. Expect a large number of crowds and high hotel prices first week of the month, as New Year’s celebrations wind down.

Key events: El Día de los Reyes Magos, Todos Santos Music Festival

You’ll still be enjoying the perfect weather in Los Cabos, only this time with much more space to yourself. Except, of course, if you're into jazz. February is when Plaza Pescador in San José del Cabo plays host to the Jazz Festival, a key event of the vibrant cultural scene in the region.

Key events: Todos Santos Art Festival, Los Cabos Half Marathon, Jazz Festival

Daytime temperatures begin to inch their way into the 80s during the month of March, and with the start of spring break in schools, you’ll start to notice an uptick in both families as well as younger travelers looking to party by the pool by day and bar-hop by night.

Key events: Cheese & Wine Festival, Todos Santos Film Festival

By April, spring break and Semana Santa (Holy Week) are in full spring all across Mexico’s resort destinations, including Los Cabos. Expect high room rates and lots of people out on the beaches, in the streets, and at the bars, especially in Cabo San Lucas. San José del Cabo tends to be much more quiet. By the end of the month, though, the frenzy begins to cool off, while the temperatures begin to climb.

Key events: Spring Break, Semana Santa 

May languidly rolls in on a heat wave. Yet it’s also one of the best times to visit Los Cabos because the vibe still hums with energy, especially if you’re a boater or a surfer. Surf season in Los Cabos runs from May through October in the Sea of Cortez. May also brings thousands of aquatic enthusiasts to the marina to enjoy the Cabo Marine Show.

Key events: Cabo Marine Show, Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival

The southern tip of the Baja Peninsula is a tropical desert, and June weather will certainly remind you of that. The days stay hot, and precipitation is virtually nonexistent. But that does not stop Los Cabos from putting on a host of events. From surf competitions to golf and music, Los Cabos has plenty to entertain.

Key events: Los Cabos Open of Surf, Stars Stripes Fishing & Golf Tournament, Fiesta de la Música, Gala de Danza

Scorching temperatures hit their peak in Los Cabos in July. You may see a rainstorm here and there, but precipitation is still pretty rare at the peak of summer. July begins turtle-nesting-season in Los Cabos. It’s also peak time of year for Mexican summer vacation, which means beaches can be crowded and hotel occupancy high.

Key events: East Cape Dorado Shootout

Blazing temperatures and thick humidity continue. Thunderstorms start to become more normal towards the end of the month. Still, fishing is in full swing in the Sea of Cortez. 

Key events: East Cape Bisbee Tournament, Festival del Mango Todos Santos

Los Cabos crashes into September with a roll of thunder and heavy rain. It is the wettest month in Los Cabos. While hurricane season is said to start in summer, in reality the storms don’t kick up force until September.

Key events: Independence Day

Storms continue into October, though they tend to taper off considerably compared to September. October is also when Los Cabos begins to prepare for the rush of the holiday high season. Hotel rates start to climb, and the events calendar starts to pick up again, especially when it comes to fishing tournaments.

Key events: Los Cabos Billfish Tournament, Bisbee's Los Cabos Offshore Tournament, Bisbee's International Black & Blue Tournament, Fiestas Tradicionales Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos Gran Fondo

After months of heat and humidity, the temperatures finally begin to break in November, and the rains start to fade away. Peak season is just around the corner, so it’s best to book November travel a few months in advance in order to secure lower prices. Thanksgiving is one of the most popular times to visit Los Cabos. November is when many of the peak season events start back up, like the San José del Cabo Art Walks and the organic market.

Key events: Day of the Dead, Los Cabos International Film Festival, VIP Summit

Peak season officially kicks off when the calendar flips to December. If you like whale watching, December kicks off the season when the whales start to arrive in the warmer waters around Los Cabos. Crowds start to arrive in Los Cabos in droves and hotel rates reach all-time highs, especially in the days leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Still, this is one of the most energetic times to be in Los Cabos, with holiday celebrations, foodie events and lots of parties to enjoy.

Key events: Sabor a Cabo Festival, New Year’s Eve Fireworks

You might also like: Where and what to eat in Los Cabos right now Why Los Cabos needs to be next on your travel list Top 10 things to do in Cabo San Lucas

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Cabo San Lucas   Travel Guide

Courtesy of ferrantraite | Getty Images

12 Best Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Basking in the sun is Los Cabos' main attraction. Cavorting on breathtaking beaches like Playa Médano  or the ever-popular Lover's Beach  is one of the best free things to do in this Baja California Sur destination. However, when taking a dip,

• All Things To Do

Land's End (El Arco) Land's End (El Arco) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: As the terracotta-colored point where the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet, Land's End is always a mesmerizing spectacle. It's particularly impressive at sunset so don't miss taking a boat trip or dinner cruise during this magic hour. – Rosie Bell

Located at the end of Cabo San Lucas and sandwiched between Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach) and Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach), these rock formations were created from the rough winds and seas of the southern Baja Peninsula. Sea lions frequent the area (especially along the Los Frailes rock formation), and Land's End remains excellent for couples looking for a romantic spot to see the sunset.

San José del Cabo San José del Cabo free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Treat yourself to a sumptuous meal at  Clase Azul Mexico's restaurant and tequila boutique at  The Shoppes at Palmilla . This stylish retail center is a one-stop-shop for Mexican artworks and jewelry, and limited-edition tequilas. – Rosie Bell

Many say San José del Cabo is Cabo San Lucas' more attractive, pedestrian-friendly twin sister. Separated by the Corridor and situated 7.5 miles south of the airport, the city is commonly known as the "Old Town," exuding traditional Mexican charm while also impressing with its luxurious new resorts. If you're seeking respite from the party-laden streets of Cabo, take a ride out to San José where you can stroll around a lovely plaza, tour a beautiful church, feast on the sea's bounty or shop till you drop.

Santa Maria Beach Santa Maria Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While there are some palapas, they are limited. Arrive early to secure a spot, or bring your own beach umbrella for guaranteed shade. Also, pack adequate footwear if you plan to explore the rocky areas that flank the beach. – Rosie Bell

Santa Maria Beach is a secluded cove tucked between two towering granite rocks along Cabo's Tourist Corridor. Swimmers and families with little flippers will appreciate days spent there as the rocks shield this beach from strong winds and relentless ocean swells.

Popular Tours

ATV Tour, Camel Ride, Tequila Tasting and Mexican Buffet Lunch

(2082 reviews)

from $ 149.00

Los Cabos Luxury Sailing, Snorkel and Lunch Cruise

(1822 reviews)

from $ 139.00

Cabo Migrino Beach and Desert ATV Tour plus Tequila Tasting

(765 reviews)

from $ 75.00

Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach) Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you have taken a water taxi from the marina to Playa del Amor, be sure to arrange a pick-up time with the boat driver and only pay for the journey to the beach upfront. – Rosie Bell

Located near the famous Land's End  rock formations, Playa del Amor, or Lover's Beach, is one of Cabo's most famous stretches of shoreline. It sits south of Cabo's downtown area, but remains easily accessible by water taxi from the marina. Beachgoers say this stretch of sand is relaxing, providing a nice view of the blue water and a great spot for sunbathing.

Todos Santos Todos Santos free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to partake in Todos Santos' cafe culture. Get a taste of local life as well as delectable brews at Cafelix , the airy and spacious Doce Cuarenta or the surfboard-adorned La Esquina . – Rosie Bell

Once a prosperous sugar mill town in the 19th century, today Todos Santos is a captivating collection of charming boutiques, striking hotels, seafood-serving eateries and vibrant galleries housed within historic brick structures.

Chileno Beach Chileno Beach free

Chileno Beach's calm, shallow waters make it the go-to spot for snorkelers. But the real reason travelers love Chileno's cream-colored shore is the lack of noisy bars and restaurants that plague other Los Cabos beaches. However, this does mean that you'll have to come prepared with your own snacks and drinks and rely on public facilities (showers, toilets and rental umbrellas are on-site). Most travelers don't seem to mind these small inconveniences and say the impressive snorkeling conditions (and variety of colorful fish) make a trip here well worth it.

Chileno Beach is easily (and affordably) accessible by bus from both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo . Some visitors recommend arriving by car if you don't want to do a lot of walking and waiting in the heat for the bus. They also note that there is plenty of nearby parking. You don't have to pay to lay claim to this prime beach real estate, and although there are no set hours of operation, travelers recommend getting there early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Cabo San Lucas Whale Watching Cabo San Lucas Whale Watching

U.S. News Insider Tip: By choosing a reputable company that provides photography services along with astute nature guides, you can ensure that you stay in the moment and truly enjoy the experience of seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. – Rosie Bell

With several species of whales making their way to the area every year, whale watching is extremely popular in Cabo, with many visitors saying it's an absolute must-do activity. Generally, the best time to spot whales is between December through April, with January through March offering the chance to see baby whales, too. There are a number of tour companies offering whale watching adventures. 

Cabo San Lucas Golf Courses Cabo San Lucas Golf Courses

U.S. News Insider Tip: Los Cabos is awash with celebrity-designed golf courses. If you'd like to get your swing to pro levels, take lessons from the greats at  Golf Academy  at Diamante Cabo San Lucas. – Rosie Bell

It's hard to choose a golf spot in Los Cabos because the quality of greens remain among the highest in the world, not to mention you'll find multiple options in the area. Club Campestre San Jose and Palmilla Golf Club are two popular courses in San José del Cabo  that draw professionals and golf enthusiasts alike. Visitors said they were impressed by the varied terrain, superb layouts and impressive scenery at both Club Campestre and Palmilla.

Adults only Hip Hop Sessions Boat Party Cabo San Lucas

(364 reviews)

from $ 105.00

Cabo San Lucas Sunset Cruise with Open Bar and Snacks

(1079 reviews)

from $ 65.00

Cabo San Lucas Camel Ride with Mexican Buffet and Tequila Tasting

(6715 reviews)

from $ 109.00

Iglesia de San Lucas and Town Square Iglesia de San Lucas and Town Square free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Fridays are lively at Plaza Amelia Wilkes. Visit in the evening (around 6 p.m.) to catch Viva La Plaza!, a weekly cultural event in the square with food stalls, crafts and folkloric music. – Rosie Bell

If you're tired of the beach or if you've had your fill of margaritas, head to the Iglesia de San Lucas ( Church of Saint Luke), located a short jaunt – about a half-mile – from the marina. The landmark is the main church in Cabo San Lucas and an excellent place to view local architecture as well as observe local traditions by attending a service. Recent visitors said the church is lovely and worth a visit for the Mass at noon on Sundays. Keep in mind, the majority of the service will be celebrated in Spanish.

Playa El Médano (Medano Beach) Playa El Médano (Medano Beach) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Playa Médano is water sports central. Rev your engines and get your heart pumping with flyboards, banana boats and Jet Skis, all of which can be hired right on the beach. – Rosie Bell

Playa El Médano is Cabo's most crowded beach, with crystal blue waters and plenty of beachside watering holes attracting hordes of sunbathers. In addition to taking it easy with a drink, Playa El Médano also offers some active attractions, including beach volleyball, Jet Skiing, kayaking, boogie boarding and parasailing. From the nearby boat port you can also take a snorkeling tour or a panga (boat) out to the iconic El Arco .

Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach) Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: You can get to Divorce Beach by grabbing a water taxi from the marina or from Playa Médano . You will be dropped off at Lover's Beach and then you can make your way onwards on foot. – Rosie Bell

Cradled by Cabo's famed cliffs at Land's End , Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach) can be accessed by strolling through a crevice in the rocks from Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach). The names of these beaches are a metaphor for the tumultuous nature of relationships. Divorce Beach is difficult and unpredictable while Lover’s Beach is calmer and more inviting.

G-Force Adventures G-Force Adventures

U.S. News Insider Tip: The trails can be dusty and you're likely to encounter some mud and water. Choose comfortable, closed-toe shoes as well as outfits featuring long-sleeved shirts and garments you don’t mind getting dirty. – Rosie Bell

G-Force Adventures is a premier adventure tour company in Cabo San Lucas. It offers a wide range of tours to cater to different interests. This includes canyon zip line tours, Baja discovery all-terrain vehicle tours, horseback riding, sunset parties on boats, art-themed walks, snorkeling cruises and Mexican dinner tours. These diverse options ensure that there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a more relaxed cultural experience.

Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas FAQs

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8 best things to do in Cabo San Lucas for an unforgettable trip

Don't skip out on these attractions.

Located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a paradise with stunning beaches , a vibrant nightlife scene, and gorgeous natural attractions. No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, Cabo San Lucas has something to offer you. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or a laid-back traveler, here are the 8 best things to do in Cabo San Lucas.

• 1. Explore Land’s End and El Arco

2. Relax on El Medano Beach

3. enjoy fresh seafood, 4. go snorkeling in cabo pulmo national park, 5. visit flora farms, 6. go on a whale-watching tour, 7. play golf.

• 8. Explore the city’s nightlife scene

Check out these fun things to do in Cabo San Lucas

1. explore land’s end and el arco.

Exploring Land’s End is easily one of the best things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Land’s End is located at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, which is about two miles from downtown Cabo San Lucas. On Land’s End, you’ll find El Arco, which is a stunning rock formation that has become one of Cabo’s most iconic landmarks. If you want to view El Arco, you can hop on a boat tour or kayak excursion to see this beautiful sight up close.

No trip to Cabo is complete without a visit to El Medano Beach. El Medano Beach is one of the most popular swimmable beaches in all of Los Cabos and is easily accessible from the downtown area. In this area, you’ll find several beachfront shops and restaurants, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, jet-skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. You’re also able to view Land’s End from the shores of El Medano Beach.

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Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its fresh seafood, so indulging in some of the local culinary delights is a must. From casual beachfront eateries like Tequila Shark GastroBar and Fisherman’s Landing to upscale fine dining establishments like Lorenzillo’s, you’ll find an abundance of options to satisfy your seafood cravings. 

For those who want to explore Cabo from underneath the water, a visit to Cabo Pulmo National Park is a must. Cabo Pulmo National Park is one of the most vibrant coral reefs in North America, offering snorkeling and diving opportunities that you can’t find anywhere else. When snorkeling through the gorgeous waters of the Sea of Cortez, you’re sure to find colorful tropical fish, manta rays, and even the occasional whale shark.

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Cabo and take a trip to Flora Farms, which is an organic farm oasis nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. This 25-acre working farm offers spa treatments, cooking classes, summer movie nights, and more. While visiting Flora Farms, you can wander through the lush gardens and enjoy farm-to-table dining at the onsite restaurant. If you prefer to stay in this area during your visit, you can even check out the attraction’s vacation rentals.

Cabo San Lucas is one of the best spots in the world for whale watching, especially between mid-December and April. During this time, thousands of gray whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the Arctic to the warm waters of the Baja California Peninsula to breed and give birth. Whale-watching tours offer the opportunity to witness these incredible animals up close. With knowledgeable guides offering insights into the whales’ behavior and biology, a whale-watching tour in Cabo is an unforgettable adventure.

Cabo is home to some of the world’s most spectacular golf courses, offering wonderful opportunities for golfers of all skill levels. Golf enthusiasts can play a round of golf while enjoying stunning ocean views and breathtaking sunsets. One standout course is the Cabo del Sol Cove Club Course, which winds its way along the coastline, providing golfers with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez at every turn. If you are looking for a more secluded setting, then the Querencia Golf Club offers a private, members-only experience. 

8. Explore the city’s nightlife scene

Cabo San Lucas’ nightlife scene is legendary, drawing in thousands of people from around the world every year. As the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, the city comes alive. From lively beachfront bars serving up delicious cocktails to upscale lounges and bustling nightclubs, there’s something for every preference in Cabo. If you enjoy live music, then check out the Cabo Wabo Cantina, which was founded by rock legend Sammy Hagar. If you’re on the hunt for a more exclusive experience, then rooftop bars like The Rooftop 360 and The Rooftop at The Cape are great choices. 

Cabo San Lucas is a destination that truly offers something for everyone, and any one of these fun things to do in Cabo San Lucas is sure to provide you with a wonderful experience. Whether you are seeking relaxation on the beautiful beaches, unforgettable culinary experiences, or special recreational opportunities, Cabo is the place to be.

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Blissful Escapes: The 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Los Cabos, Mexico [2024]

Ashley Onadele

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How To Get to Los Cabos, Mexico

What is an all-inclusive resort, 1. breathless cabo san lucas resort & spa, 2. le blanc spa resort los cabos, 3. marquis los cabos, 4. secrets puerto los cabos golf & spa resort, 1. grand velas boutique los cabos, 2. paradisus los cabos, 3. pueblo bonito pacifica golf & spa resort, 4. zoëtry casa del mar los cabos, 1. garza blanca resort & spa, 2. grand velas los cabos, 3. hard rock los cabos, 4. hyatt ziva los cabos, book an all-inclusive resort through a travel portal, book directly with the hotel or through a trusted ota, best credit cards to pay for an all-inclusive resort, final thoughts.

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Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, or even just “Cabo” — you’ve heard about the popular Mexican resort destination. It’s been a top pick for travelers for several decades, largely thanks to its fantastic weather, beautiful beaches, excellent food, rousing nightlife, luxurious resorts, and much more.

The sun-drenched tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula seems only to get more popular year after year, and resorts continue to spring up along the beaches.

More recently, there’s been a trend of all-inclusive resorts opening in the area — with so many to choose from, which should you pick?

Whether you’re a group of friends, a couple on their honeymoon, or a family looking for a fun place to spend spring break, Cabo has an all-inclusive resort you can look forward to staying at.

Let’s look at 12 of the area’s best all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos!

First, a little geography lesson. The region on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula that you may think of as “Cabo” is really “Los Cabos,” the name for the region that includes both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo . Technically, “Cabo” refers to Cabo San Lucas, which is known to be the livelier part of the area.

In recent years, though, resort development has spread further into San José del Cabo, which is why you’re starting to hear the term “Los Cabos” more often to refer to the entire region.

Regardless of where you stay in the area, you’ll likely fly to San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) . The area’s other airport, Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL), is reserved for private jets and other small aircraft.

Most major airlines in the U.S. serve San José del Cabo International with flights from at least one of their hubs. It’s a very convenient destination for those living on the West Coast and in the Southwest , as it’s just a couple of hours by air from major cities, including Austin, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Diego, and more.

Getting from SJD to your resort, whether in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo, will take at least a half hour by car.

An all-inclusive resort includes accommodations, most or all meals and drinks, and some activities with the room rate. The most attractive part of an all-inclusive resort is that you can have a complete vacation without ever having to leave your resort for 1 price. If you want to do an excursion or tour that takes you off the resort , a concierge can likely help you make those arrangements.

Some items that may not be included in an all-inclusive resort are top-shelf liquors, excursions outside the property, and some meals at specialty restaurants.

You can usually make payments on your all-inclusive vacation, allowing you to slowly pay for your vacation over time. For families and those making a large investment on their trip, this can be a game-changer for making a vacation possible.

The resorts in this guide are organized by traveler type: adults-only, couples, and families :

• Adult-only resorts require guests to be 18 years old to check in, but guests don’t necessarily have to be couples. In fact, some of the resorts listed below would be great for groups of friends traveling together.
• A resort designed for couples might be great for a honeymoon, relaxation, or wellness .
• A family-friendly all-inclusive resort has specific activities for kids, teens, and adults to ensure the whole family has a great vacation.

The 4 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Los Cabos for Adults

Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa is the perfect resort for adults looking to have a ton of fun on their vacation. Thanks to the resort’s prime location on the Cabo marina and a daytime DJ at 1 of its 2 pools, there’s no shortage of energy at this resort.

In addition to what can only be considered a “party pool,” the resort also has a much quieter and smaller pool near one of the dining venues when you first enter the resort. Activities available from the resort include paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear , and more at the beach below the resort. Additional social activities include bubble parties and the Carnival of Champagne , a carnival-themed Champagne-fueled pool party.

There are almost a dozen restaurants and bars at Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa. Buffet-style restaurant Spoon serves breakfast and lunch, while The Nook is a cafe that serves coffee and snacks throughout the day. You can find burgers and snacks at beachside restaurant Barefoot Grill for lunch. For dinner, check out tapas restaurant Bites, Mediterranean eatery Kibbeh, or Fish Nets, which serves grilled specialties. Ocote serves Mexican cuisine for an additional charge of $45 per person.

Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa has club-level rooms that grant access to the Xhale Club Lounge . The lounge offers a personalized concierge, a continental breakfast, and top-shelf spirits. Club-level rooms also include an upgraded minibar and bath amenities, and guests can enjoy complimentary dining at Ocote.

Rates at Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa start at $484 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night for 2 adults.

Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos features luxury amenities such as a butler, wellness experiences, fine dining, and complimentary hydrotherapy. It’s an ideal resort for adults who want to stay active during their vacation .

Fitness and workout activities abound. Functional training, aquatic spinning, yoga, and personal training are just some ways to spend your time. The resort can help you arrange off-property excursions such as sunset sailing, ATV rides, and whale watching. You can also relax on-site with a private cabana or enjoy a private dinner on the beach.

Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos has 8 fine dining and bar venues . Cuisines include French at Lumière, Lebanese food at Habibi, and contemporary Asian at Yama. The resort also offers seafood, international cuisine, and pizza.

Rates at Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos start at $1,063 per night for 2 adults .

Marquis Los Cabos is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World , a collection of luxury and ultra-luxury hotels — this particular example is a beachfront, all-inclusive resort with sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez.

The adults-only property offers a roster of daily activities, nightly entertainment, and theme nights. Resort activities include wine tastings, dance classes, mixology, and cooking lessons. In-suite amenities include Molton Brown toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and nightly turndown service. A fitness center, infinity pools, and concierge services are all included , and you can book tours and off-property activities at an additional cost. The on-site spa offers treatment packages as well as à la carte treatments.

There are 6 included bars and restaurants at Marquis Los Cabos in addition to in-room dining. Some of the dining venues include poolside restaurant Dos Mares, which serves seafood specialties; Sakke, which features Teppanyaki tables; and Vista Ballenas, which serves buffet breakfast, international lunch, and Mexican cuisine for dinner. Contemporary French restaurant Canto Del Mar is not included in the all-inclusive rate , and reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance.

Rates at Marquis Los Cabos start at $669 per night for 2 adults .

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort is nestled in a quiet area of Los Cabos, away from the hustle and bustle. Though the hotel has a DJ at the main pool most days, it’s not a party resort and is an option for adults who want a healthy balance between relaxation and fun. The Secrets brand is a part of World of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection .

Daytime and nighttime entertainment at the resort includes cooking and Spanish lessons, theme nights, and wine and tequila tastings . Due to the resort being on a non-swimmable beach , guests cannot do water activities. However, an infinity pool overlooks the ocean , and Preferred Club guests have a private pool and hot tub. Beach and pool volleyball are available, and guests can access the Puerto Los Cabos Golf Course next door for a fee .

Preferred Club guests get extra amenities such as personalized check-in, premium liquors, and personal concierge service. In addition to a private pool and hot tub, in-room amenities include a pillow menu and an upgraded minibar.

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort has a dozen bars and restaurants. Cuisines include Italian at Portofino, Seafood at Oceana, Pan-Asian at Himitsu, and traditional Mexican at El Patio. All restaurants are included in the all-inclusive rate .

Rates at Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort start at $379 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night for 2 adults.

Find the best ways to earn World of Hyatt points in our complete guide!

The 4 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Los Cabos for Couples

Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos features just 79 suites on a private beach . Its sister property is the family-friendly Grand Velas Los Cabos. Guests staying at the boutique hotel can access to the larger property’s restaurants, bars, pools, and spa .

Like many hotels in Los Cabos, the beach is not appropriate for swimming. However, guests can spend their time at the pool or lounging on the beach with poolside food and beverage service . There are recreational activities, an agave tasting room , and a 24-hour personal concierge.

As it’s a small property, Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos offers just 2 restaurants. Buffet and à la carte options can be found for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Del Mar restaurant . Meanwhile, guests can order à la carte dishes at Loto, the hotel’s Japanese-inspired restaurant. Premium beverages can be enjoyed at any of the hotel’s 3 bars.

Rates at Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos start at $1,178 per night for 2 adults .

Paradisus Los Cabos features 4 pools, a swimmable beach , live evening entertainment, sports such as beach volleyball, and even a 2-story nightclub . All-inclusive activities include yoga, Zumba classes, cultural shows, and several workshops . The large resort has 7 bars, including swim-up and beach bars.

For an even more exclusive experience, you could consider booking at The Reserve at Paradisus Los Cabos . The Reserve has designated private areas and a private pool. Concierge services available to The Reserve guests include a personal butler and reservations at local restaurants.

Choose from a variety of restaurants at Paradisus Los Cabos. Naos serves an international buffet breakfast, while Tokimeku features Asian dishes, including sushi. Sal Steak Cave is available at an additional cost. The Reserve guests get 1 complimentary dinner at Sal Steak Cave .

Rates at Paradisus Los Cabos start at $590 per night for 2 adults .

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort was listed as one of the top 500 hotels by Travel + Leisure in 2023. The adults-only all-inclusive resort is located on the beach and is just a few minutes by car to downtown Cabo San Lucas .

Guests of Pueblo Bonito Pacifica can partake in several on-property activities, including beach yoga, dance lessons, and wine and tequila tastings . The full-service spa, Armonia, offers body treatments, a beauty salon, and a fitness center. The hotel’s location is convenient for a night out on the town or shopping in Cabo.

Within Pueblo Bonito Pacifica is The Towers , a luxurious resort-within-a-resort. The Towers features 47 guest rooms and suites, all with private terraces , and 6 suites with private plunge pools. Each room comes with 24-hour butler service . There’s also an oceanfront VIP lounge and beachfront fine-dining restaurant, Peninsula, exclusive to The Towers guests.

There are 7 bars and restaurants to choose from at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica. Siempre serves international cuisine and is open for all meals, including Sunday brunch. Peninsula Restaurant is open for dinner and serves local Baja cuisine. Peninsula Bar is an outdoor bar that serves tapas and cocktails all day. And be sure to check out Pescados, the resort’s sushi restaurant (reservations are recommended).

Rates at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica start at $353 per night for 2 adults .

Zoëtry Casa Del Mar Los Cabos is located along the Tourist Corridor connecting Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The 61-suite boutique resort is a part of the World of Hyatt Inclusive collection and focuses on well-being.

Relaxation is the goal at this resort — don’t expect to find a party atmosphere. Activities include 4 pools, including an infinity pool, daily afternoon tea, yoga, and a 20-minute wellness experience . Craft, dance, painting, and reflexology classes are also available. Spa treatments, such as a 3D collagen shock treatment and a citrus scrub, can be enjoyed at Zoëtry Spa.

Although it’s a small property, Zoëtry Casa Del Mar Los Cabos has 4 bars and restaurants. Mexican restaurant El Arroyo and Seafood eatery Saltwater are open for lunch and dinner all year. The restaurants alternate breakfast service throughout the year, with only El Arroyo open for the first meal of the day during the summer.

Rates at Zoëtry Casa Del Mar Los Cabos start at $496 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night for 2 adults.

The 4 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Los Cabos for Families

Garza Blanca Resort & Spa is a luxurious, family-friendly beach resort with amenities for the whole family. The resort has an all-inclusive plan, but guests can also choose room-only rates. The resort considers travelers who are 12 years old or younger to be children.

For those traveling with little ones, the resort offers plenty of the creature comforts you have at home, so there’s no need to overpack. You can request baby bottle sterilizers, strollers, bouncers, and even a baby monitor for use during your stay. Kid-friendly amenities include kid-sized robes and slippers , a handcrafted toy, and coloring books with games. The kids’ club has activities like sandcastle building, face painting, and video games. There are 8 pools throughout the resort and a long list of activities for every age group.

Adults and parents can find peaceful moments around the resort. Cooking classes, water sports, and kid-free experiences on the rooftop are available. The spa and its amenities are reserved for guests 18 and older.

There are 7 bars and restaurants at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa. Cuisines to look forward to include Italian at Noi, Japanese at Hiroshi, and modern steakhouse Bocados. You can also check out the Beach Raw Bar food truck!

All-inclusive rates at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa start at $519 per night for a family of 4 .

Grand Velas Los Cabos is another luxurious, family-friendly hotel with ocean views from every room.

Activities include yoga and mixology classes, as well as Mexican cooking classes. The resort also hosts ModuVated classes taught by trainers who specialize in Pilates, yoga, kickboxing, and other modalities. The hotel has a yacht that you can reserve through the concierge.

This property has clubs designed specifically designed for both kids and teens. Each is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. These hours are great for parents who want to enjoy a leisurely or late dinner but don’t want to hire a babysitter.

The kids’ club is available for children aged 4 to 12 and offers activities like piñata making, a splash area, and a covered playground. The teens’ club is for those aged 13 to 18 and features karaoke, pool tables, and gaming pods.

There are 7 gourmet restaurants at Grand Velas Los Cabos. Cuisines include French, Italian, Mexican, and seafood, plus a steakhouse and an international buffet. Cocina de Autor is the star of the hotel’s restaurants — it’s famous for serving an 8- to 10-course tasting menu prepared by a 2-star Michelin chef.

Rates at Grand Velas Los Cabos start at $1,447 per night for a family of 4 .

Kids’ clubs are fun and all, but a waterslide takes a beach vacation to the next level . Hard Rock Los Cabos has waterslides and so much more for families traveling to Cabo.

Hard Rock Los Cabos has 2 clubs for kids and teens . Kids 4 to 12 can spend time at Hard Rock Roxity Kids’ Club to do crafts, play games and sports, and participate in evening activities like karaoke. In The Zone Teen Club has things like a pool table, Xbox, and board games entertain older kids. The teen club is open for kids younger than 12, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

There are 6 pools at Hard Rock Los Cabos, including 1 adults-only pool. Rock Spa features a fully immersive music-centric spa menu that incorporates the vibrations of music into a relaxing massage or facial. Daily and evening activities such as a circus or Rock show are included in the all-inclusive rate.

There are 8 restaurants to choose from, including Brazilian steakhouse Ipanema. Other cuisines include Mexican at Los Gallos, pizzas at Pizzeto, Italian at Ciao, and an international buffet at The Market. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day .

Rates at Hard Rock Los Cabo start at $554 per night for a family of 4 .

Hyatt Ziva is the family-friendly sister brand to adults-only Hyatt Zilara by World of Hyatt. At Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos , there’s something fun for each family member.

In addition to a kids’ club, the biggest draw to this resort is the 5 waterslides and mini water park . There’s also an infinity pool, an adults-only swim-up bar, and a KidZ pool . One included activity that kids might find exciting is a magic act as part of the live entertainment offering. Tequila and wine tastings are available for adults, as are a spa and fitness center.

There are 14 bars and restaurants at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos. At La Plaza, the youngest guests can indulge in the kids’ buffet at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Additional restaurants and cuisines at the resort include steakhouse Hacienda Baja Grill, sushi and Japanese cuisine at Dozo, and French at Bon Vivant. For a casual meal of pasta, salads, and pizza near the beach, check out Zaffiro. Reservations are not required at any of the restaurants , and the bars are reserved for only adults.

Rates at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos start at $608 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night for a family of 4.

How To Book an All-Inclusive Resort in Los Cabos

While large hotel brands have made major moves to acquire and open all-inclusive resorts in recent years, plenty are still not bookable with points. For those that are, you can simply redeem hotel points or award nights for a free stay. You can also transfer credit card points, such as Chase Ultimate Rewards points to the World of Hyatt program at a 1:1 ratio.

But for those resorts that aren’t easily redeemable with hotel points, you’ll have to pay cash for your stay. Fortunately, there are typically ways to redeem points for all or part of your stay and/or earn points for the purchase, at the very least.

All of the major transferable point programs — American Express Membership Rewards , Bilt Rewards , Capital One Miles , Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Rewards — offer a travel portal through which you can book hotels. Depending on which card you have, you may receive an annual travel credit that you can use to save on your vacation. For example, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with a $300 Capital One Travel credit you can redeem for travel booked through Capital One Travel .

Even if your card doesn’t offer you an annual travel credit, or if the credit is small, you’ll likely earn bonus points on your hotel booking made through your credit card’s travel portal. Those with The Platinum Card ® from American Express earn 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com .

When booking travel through a travel portal, you can redeem points to pay for some or all of your booking. This isn’t the best way to use your points, but it can save you money on accommodations.

If you can’t redeem hotel points for your all-inclusive vacation, the next best thing is to book directly with the resort on its website. Booking directly with the resort usually ensures that you’re getting the best deal and reduces the chance that the resort will lose your reservation. Another option is booking through an OTA or online travel agent like Expedia. These sites often offer their own loyalty program and a way for you to save on current and future travel packages.

No matter how you reserve your all-inclusive resort, be sure to use the right credit card . The Venture portfolio of credit cards from Capital One earns an unlimited 2x miles on every purchase and allows you to redeem your Capital One miles for travel purchases . So if you use your credit card to pay for a hotel, either directly or through an OTA, you can cover your purchase with the miles you earn. Miles are redeemed in the form of a statement credit.

The best credit card to use to pay for an all-inclusive resort will depend on how you book. If you’re booking a resort that’s part of a major chain, it makes sense to pay for it with a co-branded hotel credit card that will earn you bonus points. At an all-inclusive resort, you’ll also get your elite status perks and earn elite-qualifying nights. For World of Hyatt reservations, use The World of Hyatt Credit Card to earn up to 9x points on Hyatt stays and a free night certificate after each cardmember anniversary.

If you’re not staying at a hotel brand that you have a credit card for or loyalty to, the next best thing is to use a credit card that will earn you transferrable points . When booking through their respective travel portals, you can earn 10x miles on hotels with the Capital One Venture X card and 5x points on prepaid hotels with the Amex Platinum card. The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card earns 5x points on travel booked through Chase Travel , while the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® earns 10x points on hotels booked through Chase Travel.

An all-inclusive vacation in Cabo is a fun and relaxing way to spend time away from home. Whether you’re going as a couple, with a group of friends, or with your kids and family, Cabo has a resort for every type of traveler.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth getting all-inclusive in cabo san lucas.

Whether or not an all-inclusive in Cabo San Lucas is worth it will depend on the traveler. For those looking to drink heavily on vacation or families with multiple travelers, being able to save on drinks or meals makes an all-inclusive resort appealing. However, if you prefer to explore off of the resort, for example, an all-inclusive may not be worth it.

Is Cabo nicer than Cancun?

“Cabo” and Cancún are both nice, though they are different. East Coast travelers may find Cabo to be too far away and that Cancún is the perfect distance away. Cancun’s beaches are more swimmable whereas the Los Cabos area may be a more welcoming destination for doing things off the property.

What’s the tipping practice in Cabo at all-inclusive resorts?

As with other all-inclusive resorts, it’s customary to follow the same tipping rules as at a traditional hotel. Depending on how much you would like to leave, you can expect to tip the porter/bellhop, housekeeping, bartender, and servers.

What does all-inclusive mean in Cabo?

An all-inclusive resort includes most meals, drinks, and activities in the price of your accommodation. Some resorts will offer restaurants, activities, or some top-shelf liquor at an additional fee.

How much is the average cost of an all-inclusive trip to Cabo?

According to cabovisitor.com, most all-inclusive resorts in Cabo start at $500 per night for 2 adults sharing a room.

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16 Essential Cabo Travel Tips for a Better Vacation

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: August 16, 2022  - Last updated: August 29, 2023

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There are a few important things to know before going to Cabo San Lucas that many people don’t realize until they get there. 

For example, there’s a few different areas to stay, important information about beaches and swimming, and age restrictions are hotels during certain times of the year. 

This post covers all the essential Cabo travel tips you should know before booking your vacation to Mexico’s Baja Peninsula.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Los Cabos vs. Cabo San Lucas vs. San Jose del Cabo – What’s the Difference?

Planning a trip to Cabo can be confusing if you’ve never been before. 

Los Cabos is the name for the entire region, which includes the two main cities: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. 

It’s important to know which city or area you want to stay in. 

Cabo San Lucas is the more popular destination for tourists, and this is where you’ll find all the nightlife, bars/clubs, lively beach restaurants, and the marina with all the water sports. 

San Jose del Cabo is about 40 minutes away, and this is where the international airport is. 

San Jose del Cabo is more of a residential vibe, a little quieter and laid back, with some upscale resorts and quiet family friendly hotels. 

Best Area to Stay in Los Cabos

Along the coast in between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are a lot of all inclusive resorts.

So if you want to visit each city for a half day, it might make the most sense to stay somewhere in the middle, also known as the tourist corridor. 

Any of the resorts along the tourist corridor are a great place to stay as far as location goes. 

If you want nightlife and beach bars, it’s best to stay at a boutique hotel or an all inclusive resort somewhere near the Marina in Cabo San Lucas. 

Cabo San Lucas Airport Tips

Transportation

Make sure you already have your transportation arranged before you land at the airport. 

After you exit customs, but before you get outside, you’ll walk through a corridor with lots of sales reps hollering at you trying to get your attention. 

These are timeshare reps, disguising themselves as transportation helpers. 

They will shout at you and ask you which company you traveled with and when you answer, they will pretend to be with that company. 

Avoid these people, and get outside as fast as you can. Outside is where the reputable transportation agencies are.

Money Exchange

If you can, avoid using the currency exchange and ATMs at the airport. The rates are horrible and will be way too expensive. 

Documents You Need to Travel to Cabo San Lucas

US citizens require a passport to enter Mexico, whether by air or land entry. 

Canadians also need a passport to enter Mexico, it’s a good idea to make sure it will be valid for at least 6 months from your date of travel. In other words, you don’t want to arrive in Mexico with a passport that’s set to expire in a few weeks. 

Keep Your Tourist Card 

When you arrive at the airport in Cabo, you’ll go through customs where you’re given a tourist card (you have to originally fill this out on the plane).

Keep this card with your passport in a safe place and don’t throw it away! You need this card to depart the country. 

The Beaches are not Swimmable

The most important thing to know before traveling to Cabo is that most of the beaches are not swimmable.

This is because the currents are too strong which makes it completely unsafe to swim in. 

Many all inclusive resorts are beachfront, but you won’t actually be allowed to swim in the water.

You might be able to walk along the beach, however, most beaches are very rocky. 

Beaches You CAN Swim in Cabo

• Medano Beach
• Chileno Bay/Beach
• Lovers Beach & Divorce Beach

There are a few beaches that are safe enough to swim in, Medano Beach near the marina in Cabo San Lucas is the most popular one. 

That being said, the views of the beaches and the ocean are absolutely stunning in Cabo.

So if you prefer to sit by the pool with gorgeous views, you’ll love Cabo. 

Here’s a list of 18 resorts in Cabo with swimmable beaches.

You Can’t Drink the Tap Water in Cabo

The tap water in Mexico has different bacteria than most people from the USA or Canada are used to, so it’s recommended that you just drink bottled water (which is always available and very inexpensive). 

I have no problem brushing my teeth with the tap water, but just try not to swallow any of it. 

You don’t have to be concerned about ordering drinks with ice either, as all ice used in restaurants, bars, hotels and resorts comes from filtered water.

So you can feel fine ordering your Margarita on the rocks in Cabo!

Uber in Cabo

Uber does exist in Cabo, but there are still a few issues being worked out.

The taxi companies do not like that Uber is becoming popular and this can cause some problems. 

For instance, if you’re staying at an all inclusive resort, there is a usually a large gate with a guard to enter the property. And then it’s a 2 or 3 minute drive to the hotel lobby. 

Most resorts do not let Uber through these gates.

So if you’re trying to get dropped off at your hotel, your Uber ride might not be let through.

Thus, if you’re booking a private car to or from the resort, it’s best to stick with a taxi. 

Also, you can’t take an Uber from the airport. 

However, if you’re hanging out in either Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo, using an Uber to get around the cities is no problem. 

Safety in Cabo

If you’re traveling to Cabo as a tourist on vacation, you’ll have no issue with safety. Especially if you’re planning to stay at your resort the entire time. 

If you do plan to spend some time walking around downtown Cabo San Lucas, as long as you don’t make yourself a target, you won’t have any issues.

This means being aware of your surroundings, not wearing flashy and expensive looking jewelry, not having large amounts of cash on you and not becoming completely inebriated. 

As long as you use common sense and don’t go looking for trouble, you won’t run into any safety issues. 

Los Cabos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico and there is no need to feel unsafe. 

Expect Vendors Selling You ANYTHING

From dusk into the night, as you walk along the Marina and the beach, there are many vendors trying to sell you items that you shouldn’t buy.

I’ll call these ‘party favors’ if you know what I mean.

You’ll likely get bombarded, with vendors asking you to buy things every 30 feet.

This surprises a lot of first time visitors to Cabo, but this is just the way it is. You can simply ignore them and keep walking or say ‘no gracias.’

Check the Age Restrictions of Your Hotel

Cabo is well known as one of the trendiest and also high-end places to vacation in Mexico. It’s also one of the most popular places for spring breakers to visit. 

Because of this, some hotels have minimum age requirements for check-in.

While the minimum drinking age is 18, many hotels and resorts require someone to be 21 to check-in.

Additionally, for the months of March and April, some hotels require you to be 25 years of age or older. 

Is It Better to Use Pesos or US Dollars in Cabo?

Technically, you can use either Mexican Pesos or US dollars to pay for things in Cabo.

While USD is widely accepted, you won’t get as good of an exchange rate, and you’ll end up overpaying slightly.

Also, each bar and restaurant might have their own exchange rate. 

Mexican pesos is the local currency that should be used in Cabo, and you’ll get a better rate by paying in pesos.

If it’s your first trip to Mexico, there are a few things you should know about the local currency, like tipping, using small bills and how to get change.

For more details, I suggest reading my full guide to Mexico travel tips . 

How Many Days Do You Need in Cabo?

Most people spend between 5 to 7 days in Cabo. If you’re staying at an all inclusive resort (like most people do), one week is the perfect amount of time to vacation in Cabo San Lucas.

This allows you enough time to enjoy the resort’s amenities for a few days, as well as one or two excursions, and a day or evening checking out the nightlife in Cabo San Lucas. 

When to Avoid Cabo

Cabo is a great place to visit most of the year, but mid-August throughout September is when you should avoid Cabo. This is when the short rainy season starts, and it could become very stormy.

August and September are also the most humid and hottest months, making the weather a little too unbearable for many people.

Many people avoid October as well, due to the heat and humidity. However, fishing can be really good during the month of October.

Be Aware of Timeshare Presentations

Many resorts and hotels will offer you free activities, vouchers, spa credits, transportation, etc., in exchange for going to a 2 hour timeshare presentation.

To some people, this is worth it, but you should know what you’re getting into beforehand. 

The timeshare reps usually approach you after you check-in, and offer to give you a tour of the property and show you around.

This happened to us when we stayed at the Grand Palladium in Puerto Vallarta.  

First, the sales reps usually say it’s only 90 minutes to 2 hours long. It’s usually during a complimentary breakfast.

Note that it usually lasts much longer than this, and often takes up to a half day by the time you leave. 

If you do attend, you should also know that you will be pressured to sign up. They use very skilled salespeople to ‘hard close’ you.

It can be too pushy and very uncomfortable for some people.

If you are not interested in purchasing any timeshare contracts and are confident in saying no, then the free activities might be worth it. 

Inside tip – sales people try to disguise timeshares as something else. Sometimes it will be called vacation rentals, club membership, or even a welcome breakfast or cocktail hour.

• Always ask if there is a presentation associated with this. If so, this is a timeshare sales pitch.

You can also watch my video below where I explain these travel tips from Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!

More Cabo Mexico Posts:

• Cabo San Lucas in August: Here’s What to Expect
• The Ultimate Cabo Packing List (Everything Fits in Your Carry On)
• Cabo vs. Puerto Vallarta: Here’s Which One You’ll Love Better

Before you go…

If you want to stay up to date, get behind the scenes content, or connect with me directly – you can follow my YouTube channel , Facebook Page , Instagram or Twitch channel !

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Your Cabo San Lucas Vacation

When a city getaway is calling, answer it with a vacation package to Cabo San Lucas. The neighborhood of Marina, which is great for shopping, nature and dining, makes an awesome base for your adventures. A trip to Cabo San Lucas is a great opportunity to see the sights. Make sure you visit big-name attractions such as The Arch , Lands End and Lovers Beach . No matter your travel plans or the size of your budget, putting together a tailored Cabo San Lucas vacation is a walk in the park with Expedia.

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Where to stay in Cabo San Lucas

Downtown Cabo San Lucas

A comprehensive natural history museum, an 18th-century church and a hilltop plaza with exquisite gardens feature in this area near the marina.

Cabo San Lucas Centro

While visiting Cabo San Lucas Centro, you might make a stop by sights like Marina Del Rey and Cabo San Lucas Bay.

Cabo’s principal tourism hub is a gateway to the resort’s gorgeous beaches, sport fishing, upscale shopping, watersports and wildlife-watching tours.

El Medano Ejidal

While visiting El Medano Ejidal, you might make a stop by sights like Marina Del Rey and Cabo San Lucas Bay.

Crowning the rocky cliffs in this exclusive neighborhood are some of the most deluxe and impressive homes and museums in Cabo San Lucas. 

Cabo San Lucas Beach Vacation Packages

Feel the sand between your toes, sun on your skin and stress slip away during a beach vacation in Cabo San Lucas. When you’re ready to sprawl out on stunning shorelines like Medano Beach , Santa Maria Beach or Chileno Beach , Expedia has a tempting range of Beach Hotels in Cabo San Lucas that you can add to your vacation package. Want to really kick back and relax? Choose one of our Cabo San Lucas Vacation Packages All Inclusive . Spectacular stretches of sand, relaxing amenities, activities, meals … These all-inclusive beach vacations have it all!

With its own private slice of Medano Beach, Riu Santa Fe All Inclusive is the stuff of beach vacation dreams. Swimming pools with sea views, swim-up bars and hydromassage areas help make this place a top pick. Or check in to Playa Grande Resort and Grande Spa , nestled on a private beach on the tip of the Baja Peninsula, a short walk from Downtown Cabo San Lucas . It offers poolside restaurants, outdoor pools, hot tubs and more. To find the perfect pad for your vacation in Cabo San Lucas, use our ocean view, popular locations and guest rating filters.

Luxury Vacation Packages in Cabo San Lucas

If only the best will do, book one of our Cabo San Lucas Luxury Vacation Packages . 

Indulge your senses at Grand Solmar Lands End Resort And Spa in Marina Cabo San Lucas . This 5-star getaway has 24-hour in-suite dining, a beachfront spa and sunrise and sunset infinity pools. Or splurge during your Cabo San Lucas vacation at the 5-star Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal in the Pedregal neighborhood. Oceanview infinity pools, a cliffside restaurant and private concierge and butlers are among the premium perks.

Finding your dream luxury Cabo San Lucas vacation package is easy with Expedia. Use the filters to search for 5-star properties offering amenities that help you put your feet up and unwind, like hot tubs, spas and pools. When you’re ready to take the plunge, bundle your airfare, accommodations and car rental to ensure the ultimate luxury of convenience!

Top Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

Your Cabo San Lucas vacation itinerary is about to get busy! Make your visit to this exciting city in Mexico’s Baja California peninsula one to remember with these ideas:

• Adventure : Up for some thrills? Add an ATV Desert & Beach Expedition , Fox Canyon Hiking Tour and Hidden Waterfalls Adventure to your Cabo San Lucas package.
• Nature : Admire iconic natural attractions like The Arch and postcard-perfect Lover’s Beach . Cabo Pulmo National Park is another must-see wonder.
• Water Sports : In it, on it or under it, Cabo San Lucas packs plenty of water-based fun! Fill your vacation package with experiences like Luxury Sailing and the Famous Arch , an Outrigger Canoe Tour or a Caborey Snorkeling Tour .
• History & Culture : Browse the fascinating collections of the Natural History Museum of Cabo San Lucas and admire the artwork at Golden Cactus Gallery . Historic buildings surround lively Plaza Mijares in nearby San Jose del Cabo .
• Nightlife : Sip cocktails and dance until dawn in Downtown Cabo San Lucas . More vibrant bars await in Marina Cabo San Lucas .
• Golf : Master your swing on top-notch fairways and greens at Cabo del Sol Golf , Diamante Golf Course and Quivira Golf Club .

For more inspiration, browse our What to do in Cabo San Lucas guide. You’ll find a terrific range of activities and experiences that can be added to your Cabo San Lucas vacation package.

Last-Minute Package Deals

A short flight from several major cities in the United States, Cabo San Lucas is ideal for a last-minute escape. Depart from Denver, Houston or Las Vegas, for example, and touch down at Los Cabo International Airport (SJD) in around three hours or less. You can choose one of our Last Minute Vacation Deals or create your own Cabo San Lucas vacation package. Simply enter your travel dates and see what’s still available, sometimes with special discounts!

Cabo San Lucas Essential Information

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in cabo san lucas, medano beach.

A favorite among Cabo’s young revelers, this scenic beach stands out with its fun bars, watersports rentals and party atmosphere.

This magnificent natural rock formation at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula marks the start of Land’s End, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean.

Chileno Beach

Traverse the raised walkway along the back of the beach, snorkel alongside the coral reef and investigate the boats and rock formations.

What to do in Cabo San Lucas

Margaritas beach & desert atv adventure, cabo san lucas: snorkel tour with open bar & snacks, other vacations you might like.

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Located on mexico's baja california peninsula, at land's end water giants roam the shoreline, cacti fill the landscape, ocean waves crest golden beaches and paradise waits for your arrival..

Los Cabos encompasses two distinct towns along the southernmost tip of the Baja California Peninsula. In this resort destination, visitors discover a diverse landscape filled with vibrant nightlife, renowned resorts, historic cobblestone streets, and dramatic coastlines. Connecting the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is a 20-mile-long corridor that winds around the shoreline playing host to all-inclusive resorts and championship golf courses.

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At the tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula is the magical resort destination of Los Cabos. This unique environment pulls together contrasting concepts to create a visually stunning backdrop. Known as "Land's End," this is a place where worlds collide. Arid desert and rugged mountains meet, and the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez become one. The natural beauty of this place is part of the reason Los Cabos is such a popular destination.

Cabo San Lucas is located on the Pacific side of the peninsula and features scenic desert landscapes and pristine golden beaches. Starting as an isolated fishing village with few settlers, Cabo has since developed into a world-class getaway. Today Cabo has popular resorts, pulsating nightlife, delicious dining options, a world-class marina, and the biggest fishing event in the world. The waters around Cabo offer some of the best deep-sea fishing opportunities around making this the place to go for those who want to tangle with the giants of the sea.

Connecting Cabo San Lucas to San Jose del Cabo is a golfer's paradise known as the Corridor, a 20-mile stretch of highway that cuts between rolling desert hills and the Sea of Cortez. Seven renowned courses designed by greats such as Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Tom Fazio, and Tom Weiskopf, lie along this coastline making this the premier place for those wanting to play a few rounds. Not only is this the place for golfers, but this is also a place for those who enjoy the water. The all-inclusive resorts in this area have beautiful beaches and safe waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving.

San Jose del Cabo, the second half of this region, rests on the Sea of Cortez. This old pirate hideout turned into a center of commerce with trade ships stocking up on supplies along their journeys. The transformation from a shipping port to a famous resort destination hit in the 1980s with the completion of the international airport allowing infrastructure to support growing development in the region. Today visitors flock to the area to explore top attractions such as the Mission of San Jose del Cabo, founded in 1730, and the Art District featuring works from local and visiting artisans. Beach lovers can gaze upon migrating gray whales, spot marine birds, and witness the excitement of turtle hatchlings as they emerge and venture into the sea for the first time.

Content provided by Costco Travel experts. Copyright © Costco Travel. All rights reserved.

Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 81° to 81° (Winter)
• March through May: 84° to 91° (Spring)
• June through August: 93° to 94° (Summer)
• September through November: 92° to 87° (Autumn)

Top Experiences

Art District : Every Thursday evening between November and June is an Art Walk featuring creations from local and visiting artists.

Beaches : Popular beaches include Lover's Beach, Divorce Beach, Medano Beach, and Solmar Beach in Cabo San Lucas. In San Jose del Cabo these include Acapulquito Beach, Costa Azul Beach, and Palmilla Beach.

Deep-Sea Fishing : This region is the 'it' place to try your hand at catching 'the big one.'

Golf Courses : Over a dozen championship golf courses are in the Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo area.

Whale Watching : January through March is an excellent time to sneak a peek at migrating gray whales.

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A boutique luxury destination company specialized in curating unique adventures, group incentives and event productions in Cabo San Lucas

Discover the beauty and adventure of mexico's breathtaking peninsula.

Let the Baja Peninsula be your playground, above or below the waves. Marvel at Cabo San Lucas golden beaches , paddle the ocean to catch a wave, pump-up your adrenaline off roading in the Sierra de la Laguna or spot humpback whales from the comfort of our luxury Pelican boat.

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Discover the next great adventure of your life, group incentives & corporate travel.

Cabo San Lucas is the perfect beach destination for Group Incentives, Corporate Travel, Weekend Getaways, and Special Events & Celebrations. From unique experiences, excellence in service, world-class hotels & infrastructure, fantastic cuisine,  unmatched weather, and excellent connectivity.

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BIG 3 WHALE EXPEDITION

During winter, the Baja Peninsula becomes the home of some of the biggest animals that have ever existed on earth: whales. Enjoy the playful humpback whales in Cabo in a luxury yacht, have heart touching encounters with gray whales in the Pacific lagoons, and see the impressive blue whales at Loreto - Baja will not disappoint when it comes to intimate sightings with these beautiful creatures.

Magdalena Bay Ocean Safari

Connect with nature in unexpected ways. Vist Magdalena Bay, a place that has Baja’s largest mangrove forest and wetland habitat which holds over 80 species of birds, is home to 4 endangered species of sea turtles and welcomes a large population of Pacific Grey Whales during winter to mate and give birth. Explore this biodiversity hot spot in a unique and memorable expedition.

Valle de Guadalupe Wine Experience

Nosh your way across Valle de Guadalupe, where world-famous wines pair perfectly with the local earth-to-table fare. Graze on Valle’s gastronomic specialties during a curated excursion of the valley led by one of Mexico's most renowned oenologists, with stops to taste local delicacies and exquisite unique restaurants.

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Whale Watching

Whale shark, shore fishing, sunrise sup to land’s end, espiritu santo island, sierra de la laguna.

Experience Cabo San Lucas!

Villa del Arco

Villa La Estancia

Villa del Palmar

Ideally situated on Medano Beach, the main swimming beach in Cabo and a short walk from downtown, these three side-by-side luxury resorts provide 5 star beachfront accommodations for even the most discriminating travelers. Click a resort picture above for a link to more information, rates and photos.

Discover unbeatable prices: Don't overpay for the same accommodations at our ocean front resorts in Cabo. Just like with airfares, where people pay different prices for the same seat, we offer the opportunity to book at significantly lower rates compared to online booking engines and resort sites. Booking directly through this owner's vacation club website will provide to you our exclusive rates that you won't find anywhere else for the same accommodations you might find anywhere on the web. You will also find incredible 2, 3 and 4 bedroom penthouses and ocean front luxury suites that none of those legacy alternative booking sites offer! Only this groundbreaking site offers guests all the vacation accommodation  advantages they have been looking for.

Limited inventory, act fast: Our discounted timeshare availability is limited and offered on a first come, first served basis. Don't miss out on the chance to secure your dream vacation at a fraction of the price, just like finding that incredible airfare deal before it's gone.

Experience personalized service: Unlike other booking sites, we are owners ourselves. When you contact us, you'll speak directly with us, not an offshore call center. Benefit from our decades of experience, expert advice, and firsthand knowledge of the resort and the Cabo area, just like having a trusted friend guide you through the best airfare options.

Relax, enjoy, and save: Once you book with us, you'll receive a resort-generated confirmation guaranteeing your stay. There are no tours or obligations—just pure relaxation and savings. Take advantage of the same exact suites at a much better price, just like enjoying your comfortable airline seat without worrying about the price the person next to you paid.

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11 Unbelievable Adults Only All Inclusive Resorts in Cabo

C abo San Lucas is the ultimate resort destination. This city in Mexico is perfect for anyone who wants to soak up the sun, find new adventures, and enjoy the amazing scenery of Baja California. And we especially love all the adults only all inclusive resorts in Cabo!

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The Best Resorts in Cabo for an Adults Only Vacation

Whether you want a serene romantic getaway , a kid-free girls’ trip, or a group vacation without little ones, an adults-only resort will be perfect for you. Cabo has great options for hotels that are completely kid-free or offer special adults-only services or areas. Plus, all-inclusive resorts make planning so much easier. 

Are you ready to escape everyday life and live it up in Cabo? Read along as we highlight some of the best Cabo resorts that are both adults-only and all-inclusive!

1. Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos

Le Blanc is the ultimate adults only, all inclusive resort in Cabo. Many visitors come to the area just to stay in this luxury resort, which is known for amazing food and service. 

Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos offers a relaxing, posh environment that still feels lively and fun. Enjoy live music, four pools, eight restaurants, multiple bars, and daily wellness experiences like paddleboard yoga and aqua spinning. 

It’s all elevated here, and you get a lot with the all-inclusive price. The 24-hour room service, top-shelf drinks, and amazing dining will exceed your expectations for an all-inclusive resort.

Suites include pedestal tubs, private balconies, and welcome champagne and tequila. Plus, a butler will help unpack your bags, draw a bath, and make sure your stay is comfortable and luxurious. 

The resort staff can also help book off-site experiences like camel rides, whale-watching tours, and sunset sails. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT LE BLANC LOS CABOS

2. Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort and Spa

We love Breathless Cabo because of its luxurious suites, great ocean views, and prime location in Cabo San Lucas. 

This adults-only, all-inclusive resort has 169 suites and excellent onsite restaurants and bars. There are plenty of options for relaxation. Get pampered at their world-class spa, swim at stunning Medano Beach, or enjoy wait service at their impressive pool. 

Or, enjoy a more lively atmosphere. The resort offers DJ pool parties, rooftop gatherings at sunset, and an array of onsite dining. Plus, you’re steps away from the excellent nightlife at Cabo San Lucas’s marina. 

Rooms are simple yet comfortable, with great views of the ocean and Marina. 

Breathless Cabo is a World of Hyatt resort, so it’s excellent for loyalty members looking for an all inclusive (and adults only) option. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT BREATHLESS CABO SAN LUCAS

3. Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos

Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos is the perfect choice for anyone who loves boutique hotels but also wants an all-inclusive, adults-only getaway. 

The 79-suite hotel offers excellent service and dining, plus you can also take advantage of the offerings at Grand Velas, the larger neighboring resort. 

Our favorite things at the Grand Velas Boutique are their oceanfront infinity pool and private beach. This helps extend the serene, all-inclusive atmosphere to the shoreline, where loungers, umbrellas, and beach activities await. 

You can also enjoy a tequila tasting at their Agave Tasting Room, exercise in their fitness center, or choose a rejuvenating service at the onsite spa. 

Off-site activities are available at an additional charge. Highlights include dolphin swims, snorkel excursions, and off-road ATV tours. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT GRAND VELAS BOUTIQUE LOS CABO S

4. Marquis Los Cabos

Marquis Los Cabos is one of the best Cabo adults-only, all-inclusive resorts, and we love its beautiful design, fantastic service, and luxury ambiance. 

The Marquis has 209 beautiful suites, but its casitas are definitely worth the splurge. These spacious options will allow you to have your own plunge pool and a front-row seat to the spectacular scenery. 

Stays here include meals at their four restaurants, casual cafe, and room service. Plus, you will enjoy premium alcoholic beverages and an in-suite mini-bar. The property also boasts tennis courts, multiple pools, a fitness center, themed dinners, cooking lessons, dance lessons, and tequila tastings. 

Upgraded experiences include treatments at their onsite spa, private dining, golf, and excursions throughout Cabo. 

Many guests are drawn to the Marquis Los Cabos because it has no timeshares on the property, so it’s perfect for anyone who feels overwhelmed by presentations and offerings at other all-inclusive resorts. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT MARQUIS LOS CABOS

5. Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica claims it’s the world’s most romantic resort, and it’s hard to disagree with them. A stay at this all-inclusive, adults-only resort feels completely luxurious and decidedly calm, allowing couples (or any adult traveler) to truly unwind and enjoy quality time. 

Even though it’s tranquil, it’s far from boring. Pueblo Bonito Pacifica has four onsite restaurants and offers access to dozens more at sister resorts. There are two pools, a fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts, and an award-winning spa. 

All rooms have private balconies, while suites also feature a 24-hour butler service and plenty of extra space. 

The resort also offers a wide variety of activities, like yoga, wine tastings, tequila tastings, and dance lessons. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT PUEBLO BONITO PACIFICA

6. Paradisus Los Cabos

Paradisus Los Cabos is the perfect place to enjoy all-inclusive luxury in the heart of Los Cabos, especially if you don’t mind upgrading for an even more inclusive experience. 

One offering that sets Paradisus apart is its Reserve Destination Inclusive. Certain suites at the resort provide an even more immersive experience, allowing access to a private pool, a water ritual at the spa, and offsite experiences. 

All of the guests at Paradisus have access to many of the resort’s great offerings. You can enjoy great restaurants, room service, evening entertainment, multiple pools, and a gym. Their restaurants and spa are anchored in local cultures and customs, though guests from around the world will feel at home here. 

Paradisus recently transitioned to an adults-only hotel, which allows couples and groups to truly unwind in its fantastic setting. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT PARADISUS LOS CABOS

7. Zoëtry Casa Del Mar Los Cabos

Zoetry Casa Del Mar comes highly recommended. It’s recently renovated and offers exceptional service that discerning travelers will appreciate. This Cabo resort is all-inclusive, but children are allowed. However, there’s not much for them here, and the overall vibe of the resort attracts mainly adult travelers. 

This is also a smaller resort, perfect for couples and groups who appreciate boutique-style hotels and personalized service. There are 61 suites, many of which have two-person bathtubs, private plunge pools, and incredible ocean views. 

The resort has a lot of onsite amenities, considering its small size. You can enjoy four pools, pickleball and tennis courts, an AquaGym, a small fitness center, and a superb spa. Included activities range from painting classes to bike tours. Wellness enthusiasts (or anyone inspired to recenter) can join a yoga or reflexology class. There are also wine tastings, tequila tastings, and afternoon tea time.

The resort can also help arrange snorkel excursions, golf outings, and kayak tours. 

Zoetry Casa Del Mar is a World of Hyatt Resort.  

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT ZOETRY CASA DEL MAR

8. Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos is perfect for a romantic retreat, and you will have the best time enjoying the beautiful property and its surroundings. This adults-only, all inclusive Cabo resort offers a refined experience with a relaxed ambiance. 

Reservations aren’t required at its on-site restaurants, and service is incredibly attentive. The rooms and suites at Secrets are truly impressive – each one has its own hot tub, room service, and a fully-stocked mini-bar. Specific club-level suites have exclusive swim-out pool access and access to the club lounge. 

Drink and dining options range from a swim-up bar to a scenic seafood restaurant, or you can upgrade to enjoy a romantic private dinner with an exclusive menu. 

Other resort amenities include an infinity pool, themed entertainment (like casino nights and beach parties), cooking and dance lessons, a fitness center, and an incredible spa. You can also join in on rec activities like soccer, water polo, water aerobics, and yoga. The hotel also offers weekly walking art tours of downtown San Jose del Cabo. 

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort is part of the World of Hyatt collection.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT SECRETS PUERTO LOS CABOS

9. Riu Palace Baja California

Riu Palace has a collection of resorts in Cabo and around Mexico, but Riu Palace Baja California is an adults-only option that you don’t want to miss. 

There are more than 600 rooms within Riu Palace Baja California – they have bathtubs, room service, and private balconies. 

For meals, you can choose daily buffet service or ala carte options that boast Japanese, Italian, and Indian menus. 

Onsite, you can enjoy four swimming pools, two swim-up bars, a gym with steam baths, daily group exercise classes, tennis courts, a reserved beach area, and a great spa. Guests of the Baja California resort can also access the neighboring Riu Palace properties. These family-friendly resorts have additional pools with waterslides, a nightclub, and themed nights. So it’s nice that you can enjoy the other properties while being able to retreat to the adults-only hotel. 

Riu Palace Baja California is in a great location, just a short drive away from the Marina. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT RIU PALACE BAJA CALIFORNIA

10. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos

Travelers familiar with the Nobu Restaurant name will love staying at the brand’s Cabo resort . You will be able to enjoy elevated and refined accommodations with many onsite amenities. However, this is a family-friendly resort, and it’s not all-inclusive. So this is a better option for travelers who want the flexibility and versatility of a pay-as-you-go vacation. 

The property still attracts a mostly adult crowd, since more kid-friendly hotels in the area are a better fit for families.  There’s an adults-only infinity pool, and many kids retreat to the kids club during the day. So it’s still an excellent option for couples and vacationers who don’t want to be surrounded by little ones. 

Onsite amenities include fantastic restaurants (including an oceanside Nobu), multiple pools, a golf course, water fitness classes, a pickleball court, a fitness center, and a spa. Select rooms feature soaking tubs, swim-up access, nightly turn-down service, and chic styling. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT NOBU HOTEL LOS CABOS

11. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, by Hyatt

The Cape is a fantastic boutique hotel in Cabo San Lucas. It is kid-friendly, but it’s not overrun with children, something you can appreciate if you’re here for a girls’ getaway or romantic retreat. This also is not an all-inclusive Los Cabos resort, but it gets an honorary place on our list because of its outstanding services and amenities. 

Guests of The Cape can enjoy the sleek onsite restaurants, like Manta , which features fresh seafood and other menu items inspired by cultures across the Pacific Ocean. There are two swimming pools, a spa with outdoor cabana treatments, and a small fitness center. Regular activities include special dining events, fitness classes (like oceanside yoga), wine tastings, and Sunday Brunch. 

Certain rooms and suites feature a freestanding tub, a private plunge pool, and a scenic balcony. There are also residences with one, two, and three bedrooms so everyone can say in the same space.

The Cape definitely appeals to a younger crowd who appreciates minimalist aesthetics and soulful experiences, but all ages could have a great time at this Cabo resort. 

CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AT THE CAPE

The post 11 Unbelievable Adults Only All Inclusive Resorts in Cabo appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

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The Very Best Hotels in Mexico, From Cabo to Cancún

By Michaela Trimble

Over the last few years, a slew of new openings in  Mexico  has drawn attention away from Cancún's supersized resorts and toward boutique stays with a focus on local artisans, design, and sustainability. Now, some of the best hotels in Mexico are found beyond the typical tourist strips and in places like  Tulum , up-and-coming  Zihuatanejo , and flourishing Mexico City . For a getaway on the west coast, east coast, or somewhere in between, our editors have selected the best hotels in Mexico, ranging from beachside treehouses to minimalist boltholes.

How we choose the best hotels in Mexico

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury and properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We're always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service—as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.

A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Jump to hotels in:

• Baja California Peninsula
• Pacific Coast
• Mexico City
• More in central Mexico
• Yucatán Peninsula
• Southern Mexico

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Montage Los Cabos Arrow

Located on 39 quiet acres of beachfront between the overdeveloped hotel zones of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Montage looks out on the serene, divinely swimmable waters of Santa Maria Bay. As impressive is the fact that all of the 122 guest rooms, suites, and casas (not just top-tier rooms) have ocean views, expansive terraces with daybeds, dining areas, and outdoor showers—just the sort of breezy indoor/outdoor setup you want on a beach holiday. And in a town where things can go from place-defining to cliché quickly, Montage gets it right. Interiors have a Mexican 2.0 aesthetic that leans into local materials while executed in a sophisticated desert palette (lots of native wood, earth-toned woven throws and hanging tapestries, and creamy sandstone), and landscaping embraces native, drought-resistant plants like agave, flowering desert figs, and saguaros. The real treat, though, is to sit by the pool with a book and michelada, knowing that the Pacific is there waiting when you’re ready for your plunge. —Rebecca Misner

Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas Arrow

Set right on the beach, against the backdrop of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, the Four Seasons is by far the area’s sleekest stay. Exclusivity is of course a draw—a handful of celebrities are rumored to have bought villas. But there’s also a strong outdoor-adventure pull, from snorkeling in nearby Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, where giant polka-dot whale sharks hunt for plankton, to quad-biking empty sand dunes. While there might not be the bars and restaurants to rival Los Cabos, they’re hardly missed. Toes-in-the-sand El Puesto is the spot for ceviche and margaritas; for a proper sit-down meal, an outpost of beloved Greek restaurant Estiatorio Milos serves seafood suppers. All 141 rooms are designed to blend into the surrounding desertscape with sliding glass doors that lead to private terraces, as well as views of the Sea of Cortéz. And unlike on the rough, rocky Pacific side of Baja, the waters here are as tranquil as a lake. —Jen Murphy

One&Only Palmilla Arrow

Arriving at this spot on the very tip of the Baja Peninsula feels like coming home. Many of the staff are third-generation employees who remember not only your name but whether you prefer your margarita made with tequila or mezcal (and which brand), and where you like your yoga mat to be set up in your room. And those rooms. Whitewashed hacienda-style architecture brightened with hand-embroidered textiles, plus perks such as private butlers and, in the case of Villa Cortez, an exclusive fitness suite, spa room, and beach cabana reflect Cabo’s emergence as Latin America’s latest luxury hotspot. There is no shortage of glitzy new five-stars, but as the area’s first proper hotel, Palmilla has a serious advantage: real estate. Its secluded location on one of Cabo’s only swimmable beaches is unbeatable. In the ’50s, Hollywood’s elite flocked here, and today a fresh generation of A-listers does the same. A commitment to discretion and timeless glamour in an age of social-media noise, as well as constant reinvention (new wellness offerings from spiritual healer Alicia Kanxoc), have allowed Baja’s big hitter to continue holding court. —Jen Murphy

Sarah Enelow-Snyder

Juliana Shallcross

Boutayna Chokrane

Sarah James

Paradero Todos Santos Arrow

Though experience-based lodgings are old news in countries throughout South America and Africa, Paradero claims to be the first hotel brand to introduce the model to Mexico. Located on a previously unused 5.5-acre plot within a farming community in Baja California Sur’s Todos Santos, it’s become the mission of Mexico City –based founders Pablo Carmona and Joshua Kremer to preserve the over 160 acres of family-owned farms that surround the property. The resort, set in front of a palm tree oasis about 20 minutes from the beach, is made up of a series of brutalist-inspired structures designed by architects Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo. They took note of the landscape’s sunbaked hues and designed the property in golden shades to blend into the sandy natural surrounds. The buildings’ desert tones also allow the plants in the resort’s 100,000-square-foot botanical garden to pop: red sand verbena, Mojave yucca, and Shaw’s agave. Though the resort’s outdoor spa and half-moon shaped infinity pool make it hard to leave the grounds, it would be a shame to miss out on guided hikes through cactus fields to reach the deserted Las Palmas beach, taco tours of the best local spots in Todos Santos, or private surf lessons. The hotel has custom boards positioned in the open-air living room, an airy sanctuary where guests kick back and relax post-adventure in anticipation of seafood-centric meals prepared by chef Eduardo Ríos, an alum of Enrique Olvera’s Mexico City restaurant, Pujol .

Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Arrow

The high-stakes Cabo hotel scene has been particularly frenetic for the past few years, with fresh openings from big-name players like Four Seasons , Montage , and Viceroy . Amid the fray, Ritz-Carlton managed to seek out a 20-acre plot for its fourth reserve, overlooking the indigo Sea of Cortez and built partially on the sand dunes. Suites feel both comfortable and considered, with vast living rooms featuring blue-and-white textiles, objets d’art from local artisans (woven leather baskets, painted pottery), and terraces with firepits. But it’s the staff that truly make the place stand out: remembering favorite breakfast tables and knowing the right chaise lounge around the enormous L-shaped pool at which to drop off each swimmer’s margarita. In one of the world’s most elevated hotel towns, Ritz-Carlton shows that the bar can always be raised. —Stephanie Wu

Baja Club Hotel Arrow

With the opening of Baja Club Hotel along the esplanade of La Paz , the coastal town now has its first proper boutique hotel. Attracting the creative, artistic elite of Mexico City and beyond, the 32-room, Spanish colonial–style property serves as a base for further explorations in the Sea of Cortez, from swimming with the area’s seasonal visitors—whale sharks and blue whales—to boating trips to the biodiverse Espíritu Santo island. The rooms all have either a balcony, terrace, or private outdoor patio, with cream-and-coral striped banquettes as well as Grupo Habita’s classic minibar staple: a house bottle of mezcal for guests to enjoy.

Casona Sforza, Puerto Escondido

You’ll reach Casa Sforza after a windy drive down the dusty roads of Puerto Escondido’s quiet La Barra district. Pure secluded luxury is the order of the day here, allowing you to disconnect and unwind. Mexican architect Alberto Kalach designed this beachfront property with the intention of capturing and not distracting from the striking natural landscapes. The impressive design blends seamlessly into nature, using naturally colored materials and smooth-flowing shapes. The hotel is made up of a series of huge, airy connecting domes that seamlessly slot together to form the 11 suites, an oval-shaped pool, and a bar and restaurant. (Note: There's a strict no children or pets policy throughout.) Beach beds and straw umbrellas spill onto the sandy beach as do spiky cacti, tall palms, and flowering beach shrubs. Follow the wooden stepping stone path to the beach bed dressed in linen curtains or to the shaded hammocks to divide your time between the pool and the beach. Flop and enjoy uninterrupted ocean views; if you plan your visit during migratory months, you may even spot a whale in the distance.

Bedrooms are huge, built from dusty yellow brick that glows warm at golden hour. Ground-floor suites have a private swim-up pool, while second-floor rooms come with a view of the Pacific Ocean, best enjoyed while soaking up the glow of sunset from the huge woven hammock or a freestanding hot tub. The kitchen is run by a husband (who previously did a stint at Lyle's in London) and wife duo originally from Venezuela. — Sophie Knight

Casa To, Puerto Escondido

Little boutique hotel Casa To is made up of just nine bedrooms. But this is a property that's a step above the rest among the boho beach-bum hostels on this corner of the Pacific coast. The self-cooling brutalist design was the craftsmanship of architect Ludwig Godefroy. A jigsaw of circular concrete archways makes up the heart of the hotel, crawling with vines that align and frame the lobby's features. There's a well-stocked bar run by a casually cool barman in a paisley shirt, and cozy corners are filled with wicker seating and sun loungers. Wooden stools dotted with retro teal lamps and the odd photography book, statement vases, and plenty of palms decorate the incense-infused space. Then, of course, the hotel's iconic swimming pool , which runs through a series of concrete circular walls spanning the length of the hotel. Beautiful guests spend most of the day sipping mezcal and lounging in the sunlight that beams onto the pyramid of concrete puzzle steps that make up the back wall, conveniently dotted with pillows and candlelight come dusk. The bedrooms follow suit. Bifolding doors reveal a private garden sheltered by lush green palms. All furnishings, such as the colorful woven rug, the striped linen bedding, and heavy wooden crafted chairs, are local artisanal pieces bringing that home-from-home feel. Glou Glou, the rooftop bar and restaurant, is run by a trendy Argentinian couple who were invited to relocate to Puerto Escondido by the hotel owner after he fell in love with their cooking and hospitality back in Argentina . The highlight is an innovative, intimate, and delicious seven-course tasting menu cooked and prepared right in front of you. — Sophie Knight

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, Mexico Arrow

This is not your parents’ Four Seasons. Formalities, like a front desk, have disappeared, and the traditional concierge has been replaced with guides who can help arrange everything from dinner reservations to surf lessons. The all-inclusive model means the entire stay is blissfully transaction-free, and the intimate scale—at just 30 guests, the size is also a shift for the brand—allows for unscripted experiences such as mezcal tastings with local distillers. And the tented suites are what it takes to persuade travelers to book a hotel in Punta Mita that isn’t right on the beach. Terraced into 48 acres of forested Pacific-facing cliffs, this adults-only luxury tented resort was designed by sustainably minded safari-tent pioneers Luxury Frontiers. Each of its 15 spacious rooms has an indoor soaking tub, an outdoor shower, and a private plunge pool with sunset views. Taking in and getting out into nature is at the heart of Naviva, but a visit to the two spa pods is a must for treatments informed by Mesoamerican traditions, like the five-hour Refuge Retreat. It includes a copal cleansing and Mayan mud massage, plus post-pampering time to soak in the pod’s oversized palm-shaded tub. Guests have access to the amenities at sister property Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita , just next door, but it’s doubtful you’ll want to leave this jungle oasis. —Jen Murphy

One&Only Mandarina Arrow

This glossy, globetrotting hotel group might pick up new destinations as if they were passport stamps, but each is uniquely rooted in place. Here, along the Riviera Nayarit on the wild Pacific coast, that means drawing deeply on Mexico’s magic, with considered references to the Indigenous Cora and Huichol people. Bedrooms, whether oversized treehouses or ocean-facing villas, are a celebration of local culture, from the traditional textiles and pottery to the robes by contemporary Mexico-based label Candor. The spa, set in a natural volcanic-rock garden, is based on ancient healing practices and offers treatments including temazcal sweat-lodge rituals. The hotel has also tapped the country’s top chef, Enrique Olvera—of Mexico City’s Pujol —for Carao, where feasts begin with fresh ceviche and end on homemade cinnamon buñuelos. Meanwhile Alma, an open-air, garden-to-plate spot helmed by French-Mexican Olivier Deboise, is centered around wood-fired, Pan-American-meets-Mediterranean dishes. It might be a step up from the surf hotels down the road, but one that still feels very much in step with Nayarit’s spirit. 

Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection Arrow

Everything about this property is seemingly curated to feel more like a boutique hotel than a resort. It’s normal to stumble upon things like a sound bath experience on the beach led by a local bohemian who infuses jazz with the singing bowls or a sombrero making class. The on-site boutique, a Fashionkind outpost co-owned by Nina Farran and Sophia Bush , includes leading designers from across Latin America, with a special focus on those local to Mexico. The design by Paul Duesing and Glazier Le Architects, sporting stone walls that continue from the balcony to the interior of the room with pebble-floored rain showers clad in colorful tiles almost entirely Mexican made and also supports local and regional makers, artisans, artists, and purveyors, solidifies the POV of being a boho-fresh, intentional, and barefoot sanctuary for those in-the-know. Don’t get me wrong, it still feels like a resort—just a resort that is focused on what is important to today’s customer. —Scott Bay

Four Seasons Tamarindo Arrow

Located in the relatively undeveloped western state of Jalisco, Tamarindo is intentionally secluded. From the moment you pass through its tucked-away gates and steal a far-away glimpse of the bright-blue Pacific through miles of lush jungle, it becomes clear just what a hidden treasure the resort is. The outdoor lobby acts as a central home base for the property, where contemporary seating invites you to leave your worries behind and ornate wooden beams frame sweeping views of the coastline below. To the right sits Tamarindo’s Discovery Center, where guests can learn about the wildlife and vegetation that surround the property and how they change throughout the seasons, as well as the resort’s boutique, which is filled with unique crafts, fashion, and homeware made my local artisans alongside some signature Four Seasons merchandise. Just beneath the lobby’s main structure are several levels of eateries and bars, three infinity pools, the spa, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, all cascading down the cliffside and overlooking the beach. An 18-hole golf course and two additional beaches are just a short golf ride away, as is Rancho Ortega, a 35-acre farm which supplies the resort’s produce, meat, and eggs and will soon produce its own tequila. —Gabby Shacknai

Verana Yelapa Arrow

Even the most seasoned traveler may have trouble thinking of the last time they stayed in a handmade hotel—they are extremely rare. Few places can be as intricately and ingeniously imagined as Verana. When set designer Heinz Legler and decorator Veronique Lievre left Los Angeles to purchase a plot of land in Mexico’s remote Bay of Banderas in 1997, they had one idea in mind—to build a home surrounded by nature at their own pace. The couple settled into the lush hilltop, only accessible by boat and mule, and began constructing, responding to the landscape and seasons, preserving as much of the natural environment as possible. It may sound romantic, surrendering to the unknown in the pursuit of artistic dreams, but the reality required dedication and true grit. The idea of a single home evolved into 10 casas embedded into the jungle with spellbinding views of the ocean, many of which are wall-less structures with modern thatched roofs and outdoor showers. Some have a private plunge pool or Japanese-style tea lounge. To stay here is to be immediately transported. Don’t be surprised to find it fully booked for a wedding or creative retreat. People come to Verana to become less distracted and more connected to themselves. To shut out the noise. But that’s not all. With thoughtfully coordinated color-blocked walls, an outdoor library, vintage objects made by Mexican artisans, and a spa to manage any tropical discomfort, the alchemy of inspired design dissolves any pressures from the outside world. Wake up to tea and freshly baked bread left on the doorstep, spend dreamy hours whale-watching, and fall asleep to the sound of wind gently swishing trees back and forth. In one of the most beautiful parts of Mexico, the real luxury is space to just be. — Jade Moyano

Rosewood San Miguel de Allende Arrow

The Rosewood's 13 acres are enviably sited in San Miguel de Allende's centro, and the hotel is without peer in a town that has its share of swank stays. Portals and stone paths lead to tiered swimming pools, two-person cabanas, covered patios, and a tequila bar, and the 67 rooms are grand and outfitted with regionally sourced hardwood floors and Spanish colonial furnishings. Even a standard king, at an already-generous 535 square feet, comes with special treatment: A bubble bath lit by candles is drawn at turndown upon request. Views from the rooftop Luna tapas bar make a seat here especially sought-after at sunset.

Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel Arrow

The babble of a courtyard fountain, a breeze that shoulders its way through stone arches: Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel is an unquestionably sensory experience. But the more elemental charms of this historical marvel, whose 17th- and 18th-century buildings are scattered across San Miguel de Allende ’s Centro district, are only part of its allure; the rest it owes to the human touch. I arrived at my suite—a corner unit cleaved from a former mansion—to find my wedding portrait set into a carved tin frame; one afternoon, I returned to find textured strips of paper on my reading stack—bookmarks. Chef Alejandra Puente told me about her daughter as we contemplated fresh avocados at the local market, gathering up the bounty we would need for my private cooking class. This is hospitality at its finest. —Betsy Blumenthal

Casa Delphine Arrow

San Miguel de Allende has captivated writers and artists including Jack Kerouac and Frida Kahlo since the 1940s. It also bewitched LA jewelry designer Amanda Keidan, who fell so hard for its bohemian vibe that she relocated to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed spot in Mexico's Central Highlands and bought an empty hotel. With just five rooms, it hits the right note in this artistic landscape so dominated by big-name players. And unlike other small properties opening in the outskirts, it has one of the more enviable addresses, just a 10-minute stroll from the famous neo-Gothic Parroquia church with its distinctive orange-pink towers soaring above El Jardín. The latter is the social heart of the city where everything—fiesta band practice, football games, lovers meeting on benches shaded by laurel trees—takes place. There are original cantera-stone fireplaces, colorful painted tiles from nearby Dolores Hidalgo and lampshades from printmaker Ri Anderson. Local woodworker Peter Grau crafted the cedar dining table where jalapeño-spiked avocado toast and pastries are laid out each morning. Keidan’s insider knowledge rivals any hotel concierge’s, offering tips on everything from her favorite restaurants (El Manantial for tacos) and shops (KM33 for dresses) to Pilates classes and spa treatments. Tarot suppers and chef-led pop-ups double as mini house parties. This feels like a revitalization of the scene, drawing in a new wave of creatives. —Jen Murphy

Insider tip: Book the rooftop suite with its hot tub and epic views of the church spires.

Octavia Casa Arrow

Fashion designer Roberta Maceda has crafted this seven-room retreat in the chi-chi area of La Condesa as a minimalist extension of her Octavia clothing line. On the ground floor, next to a breezy seating area with bamboo stools grouped around a concrete table by interior firm Habitación 116, there’s a shoppable bronze rail of her pieces that may include white button-up shirts or a black-and-white snakeskin ensemble. Upstairs, rooms are also decorated in neutral tones and each is named after a natural material, from walnut ( nogal ) and linen ( lino ) to earth ( tierra ) and bronze ( bronce ). The softest bedding comes from Octavia’s new homeware line, while the rest of the studied hangout spaces showcase other Mexican makers with blown-glass cups by Onora and cream-colored vases from ceramics studio Encrudo filled with dried magnolia leaves. There’s no restaurant, but breakfast is brought in from a nearby bakery— conchas (sweet pastries) are served with homemade hibiscus-and-ginger jam and eaten in the meditative pebble-floored garden under a guava tree. In the evenings it’s a short stroll to local favorites such as Italian restaurant Lardo and natural-wine bar Hugo. This is a meticulously designed gateway to Mexico City’s coolest scene.

Casa Polanco Arrow

Set in Mexico City ’s posh Polanco neighborhood , a stay at this elegantly renovated Spanish Revival-style mansion feels like a peek inside the lives of well-to-do chilangos (Mexico City locals). Polanco is within walking distance from sites like Chapultepec Park, a popular hangout for local families on the weekends, and lovely for morning jogs; and a short drive from Museo Soumaya, known for its unique architecture and mirror-like façade. Just around the corner are the trendy Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods for eating, drinking, and boutique shopping. While many Mexico City hotels play to classic heritage motifs, Casa Polanco shows off a different side of the city. Here, the lines are clean, neutrals take precedence, and there’s a subtle prep-school flavor with houndstooth pillows and plaid napkins. Given this is a home, soak up the spaces that so clearly remind you that you're in one. Order a glass of wine at the lobby bar and take it to one of the many shared terraces; after a long day, grab a nook in the well-curated library and flip through one of the many coffee table books on Mexican art, history, or culture. —Megan Spurrell

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City Arrow

Even though it’s set on busy Paseo de la Reforma, this name-brand luxury hotel delivers tranquil, boutique charms. Rooms are set around an interior courtyard, and you’re just a short distance from Chapultepec Park , offering respite from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City. Add to that all the other Four Seasons hallmarks—insanely comfortable beds, high-quality service, and wellness amenities like a pool, gym, and spa—and you’re guaranteed a memorable experience. —Susannah Rigg

Circulo Mexicano Arrow

Known for creating Mexico’s trendiest boutique properties, the hotel developer Grupo Habita transformed this 19th-century townhome in Centro Histórico into a Shaker-inspired boutique hotel. The result is Circulo Mexicano, which begins with a buzzing marketplace-style ground floor and moves up to the chilled-out rooftop with an infinity pool, Japanese soaking tub, and views of Centro Histórico sights: the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Templo Mayor. The 25 bedrooms are fitted out with custom oak pieces and most have their own contemplative terrace or balcony. Head to the courtyard Itacate del Mar restaurant for innovative takes on Mexican street snacks, the standout of which are the tostadas with tangy tuna or fried calamari topped with shiitake mushrooms.

Chablé Maroma, Riviera Maya Arrow

This may quite possibly be the only hotel in Mexico that combines the level of wellness travelers now hop planes for with the country’s trademark sugary beaches. It has 70 neutral-palette suites, each with its own pool, terrace, and palm-shrouded outdoor rain shower. And let’s not forget its access to Riviera Mayakoba’s powdery beach. True to the brand, Maroma’s bright spa remains deeply rooted in Mayan healing traditions (the temazcal ceremony, led by a local healer, is the real-deal, requiring a two-hour commitment). While your schedule in the Yucatán is packed with fitness classes and spa sessions, Maroma encourages time spent sipping margaritas by the infinity pool, as any Mexican resort should. Chef Jorge Vallejo of Mexico City ’s top-ranked Quintonil oversees the menus, sourcing ingredients from on-site ka’anches, Mayan gardens. Seafood is the star at Maroma, showcased at the rooftop raw bar and at casual restaurant, Kaban. The tasting menu-only restaurant Bu’ul is more ambitious, with regional dishes like mamey fruit tartare topped with glazed escamoles, surprisingly tasty ant larvae, which will challenge (and wow) your palate. —Jen Murphy

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya Arrow

The most distinctive part of Hilton’s luxury debut on Mexico’s Riviera Maya is its chameleon-like approach to hospitality. Yes, with its 349 rooms, acres of pools, 11 restaurants, and kids’ and teens’ clubs, the Conrad is the type of resort whose (large bronze) gates a traveler would be content to pass through only twice: right before check-in and right after checkout. Spiritually, though, it aligns more closely with the smaller-scale properties 30 minutes north in Tulum that seek to connect guests with the surrounding destination. Honoring the Mayan cultures that have occupied this stretch of Caribbean coast for centuries, a traditional sacbe, or “white road”—the name of the ancient roadways Mayans created to travel by moonlight—cuts through the jungled grounds. In the lobby, a soaring art installation takes a cue from Mayan macramé. And at the cenote-inspired spa, a traditional four-hands massage is second only to a jalapeño margarita in the open-air bar as a way to immediately shed any lingering real-life stress remaining after a dip in the sea. —Erin Florio

Waldorf Astoria Cancún Arrow

For all the resorts that crowd Mexico’s east coast, the Waldorf stands out for its truly white-glove service and amenities that make it hard to leave the property. There are infinity pools aplenty, acres of pristine coastline, and that most glorious asset of all, the feeling of complete privacy in one of the country’s most bustling vacation spots. The decor, a soothing sea of creams and sand hues, spotlights Mexican artisans and highlights materials like tropical woods and local stone. The vibe here is palpably slow—no rushing from one activity to the next, just relaxing. And there are enough private cabanas to go around—you can forget about the dreaded visit to the pool at dawn to reserve a great spot. There are also dozens of lounge chairs facing the beach for when the ocean is your dip du jour. With comfortable yet polished rooms, an excellent spa, and a clutch of bars and restaurants serving excellent riffs on traditional dishes and drinks, this is Cancun like you’ve never seen it. —Meaghan Kenny

Habitas Bacalar Arrow

A four-hour drive south of heavily touristed Cancún, the discreet Habitas Bacalar entrance on the side of a remote road makes you feel like you’ve been let in on a grand secret. The place is small—just 34 rooms, each with a maximum occupancy of two—and has a very communal vibe. The hotel makes an effort to bring the community to you, by hosting local vendors for guest experiences like a cacao-and-wine tasting, and partnering with local businesses for complimentary paddleboard tours, yoga lessons, and more. Meanwhile, the wellness program sources local ingredients for its spa products, and restaurant Siete uses traditional Mayan cooking techniques. —Mercedes Bleth

Hotel Esencia, Xpu-Ha Arrow

Right on Xpu-ha beach, the best stretch of white sands on this part of Mexico's Caribbean coast, Esencia is one of those hotels that is spoken about in hushed tones by bohemians in the know, none of whom want to let this secret get out. But those who do make it here discover a small, natural beauty of place set on a palm-swaying estate on the edge of the tumbling sea. There are hammocks to laze in, and a dimly lit spa where lotions and potions made from garden herbs are crushed into poultices to smooth out knots. For snorkeling among rainbow-colored fish, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is a five-minute hop on the hotel’s catamaran. There are ceviches and tiraditos to try at Mistura, a restaurant with views of the moon-dappled sea, and a wooden beach bar that does the best Margaritas in Mexico. Then there are the rooms. The interiors of the house, originally built as a hideaway for an Italian duchess, have splashes of fifties art and huge bedrooms with generous terraces. The Jungle Rooms, complete with plunge pools and beach suites, are a study in white. All in all, it is perfect. —Mary Lussiana

Casa Silencio Arrow

Located in a windswept valley within the community of Xaagá (about one hour outside downtown Oaxaca City ), this six-room boutique property is an isolated refuge for spirits enthusiasts who desire to taste rare editions of Mezcal El Silencio. Designed by the Mexican architect Alejandro D’Acosta, using a rose-hued shade of compressed clay—along with reclaimed wood, steel, and stone—the property’s heartbeat is an open-air dining room with outdoor fire pits, where its legendary mezcal tastings are held. Each of the six rooms features a moody aesthetic, with design touches like abstract black-and-white textiles produced by local artisans, copper light fixtures, and wood-burning fireplaces.

Escondido Oaxaca Arrow

The city of Oaxaca has long been celebrated for its ancestral artistry and gastronomy, which homegrown hoteliers Grupo Habita have drawn on for their latest opening here. Fusing old and new, behind an unassuming russet red facade downtown, architect Alberto Kalach has added a surprising Brutalist addition to this colonial-era home. Minimalist-looking rooms, four in the original building and eight in the new tower, are dedicated to elevated Mexican craftsmanship. Each features a majority of furniture produced from ahuehuete wood (a type of Mexican cypress that is sacred to the local Zapotec culture and even featured in their creation story), while locally-made olive bedspreads match the elemental interiors. Another surprise is dished up in the restaurant where chef Mario Petterino turns out classic dishes from his home region of Piedmont, Italy, such as homemade ravioli and gelato. Afterwards, enjoy a mezcal nightcap in the library-like ‘Culture Room’. The hotel is in walking distance of all the city’s attractions, from the famed restaurant Criollo by chef Enrique Olvera to the main plaza, home to the Templo Santo Domingo church and the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, that connects Oaxaca’s cultures of past and present; much like the hotel itself.

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