Los Cabos: Unveiling the Ultimate Luxury Retreats for Your Dream Vacation

Los Cabos is the perfect destination for those seeking incredible landscapes, excellent gastronomy, and luxury mega-resorts with All-Inclusive options.

Whether in the vibrant city of Cabo San Lucas or the picturesque San Jose del Cabo (separated by 33 km), you will have a plethora of options for restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and many… many excursions. Los Cabos is undoubtedly an excellent alternative if you want to experience something different from Cancun, for example.

To help you plan your trip to this incredible destination in Mexico, I have created a guide where you can choose what to do in Los Cabos, where to stay, where to eat, and much more.

Things to do in Los Cabos: 11 Must-Visit Places

#1 Los Arcos

Los Arcos, the postcard image of Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos, is nationally and internationally recognized. It is a rock formation emerging from the sea at the tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula, known as “the end of the earth.”

Just 100 meters from Los Arcos, you’ll find Playa del Amor, with crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. You have the option of taking a walk to see and photograph the formation, but you can also spend an unforgettable day at the beach.

Friendly sea lion colonies can be spotted near the beach.

#2 Playa Santa Maria

In your trip to Los Cabos, you cannot miss a visit to this paradisiacal horseshoe-shaped cove. Santa Maria Beach is a snorkeling and diving paradise, thanks to its clear and generally calm turquoise-blue waters.

Located within a protected sanctuary, it boasts abundant underwater life, with colorful fish and various flora and fauna species adhering to the rocky walls. You can access the beach through tours departing from Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo.

#3 Playa El Médano

Located close to Cabo San Lucas, this beach is one of the most frequented in the area and, for many, one of the best. From here, you can see the tip of the peninsula, known as “the end of the earth.” The waters are calm, and the sand is pure white.

You can also go snorkeling, diving, and even skydiving at the beach. The sunset over the Pacific seen from El Médano is spectacular.

#4 Playa El Chileno

This beach on the coastal corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo stands out for its calm waters and the relaxing shade provided by its palm trees.

You can rent equipment to enjoy the beach, and boat tours to nearby attractions are also offered. Visitors to this beach can enjoy snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or simply swimming. Shower facilities are available.

#5 Parque Nacional Cabo Pulmo

This protected area in the Sea of Cortez has several attributes that make it very special. It is the only reef on the Baja California peninsula and the only living reef in North America.

The nearest town is Cabo San Lucas, located just over 60 kilometers away. Abundant species in its waters include mother-of-pearl, lobster, and oyster, while reptiles dominate the land.

The place is a favorite among North American tourists, who mainly visit for sport fishing.

#6 Playa Palmilla

Another magnificent option in the beach corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, Palmilla Beach boasts diverse oceanic life, making it ideal for underwater entertainment.

Fishermen also enjoy their favorite activity in Palmilla, using typical pangas, small boats for touring nearby attractions or fishing. Occasionally, there are good enough waves for surfing.

#7 Playa Balandra

Located in Baja California Sur, Balandra Beach is one of the beauties you can find in the municipality of La Paz. The beach is part of a Protected Natural Area, and to access it, you’ll have to travel from La Paz by car, taxi, or bus, taking about 30 minutes.

If you’re on vacation in Los Cabos, it’s also a great idea to take a tour. There are boats that offer beautiful tours in Balandra, Isla Espiritu Santo, and other stunning places in Baja California Sur. If you’re in the region, this is one of the places you cannot miss.

#8 Art Galleries in San José del Cabo

During the high season, the streets of San José del Cabo are closed to traffic, and craft shops operate, creating a pleasant space for walking and shopping.

Often, artisans themselves sell their crafts, providing an opportunity for relaxed conversations about their work. The shops close late at night, and the place becomes very enjoyable for having a drink and enjoying good music.

#9 Estero San José

It is the estuary of the San José River where it meets the Pacific Ocean. In this 50-hectare paradise located near San José del Cabo, the meeting of fresh and saltwater creates a habitat conducive to the proliferation of unique flora and fauna species.

It boasts abundant vegetation, and you might be lucky enough to see a sea rooster. This beautiful bird has the peculiarity of being one of the few that migrates from south to north, with one of its stops being the estuary.

#10 Miraflores

A city located just over 40 kilometers from San José del Cabo, Miraflores has an excellent tradition in the production of products based on pitaya, a cactus fruit known as the dragon fruit when it’s red.

The locals prepare pitaya in various ways and offer it to tourists. The Pitahaya Fair takes place in July, during which the Pitahaya Queen is chosen. She is always a beautiful villager wearing a picturesque traditional costume dominated by the colors of the Mexican flag.

#11 Santiago

This small town, located 45 kilometers from San José del Cabo, was the site of the Jesuit mission Santiago de los Coras Aiñiní in the 18th century.

After the Jesuits were expelled, the mission came under the administration of Franciscan and Dominican monks until it was abandoned. The current church is a later reconstruction.

For a while, Santiago enjoyed the distinction of being the only city with a zoo in Baja California Sur. It also has a fossil site. It’s worth exploring!

#12 Enjoy a Seafood Feast

In Baja California, you can choose from seafood caught in the isolated Sea of Cortez or the Pacific Ocean. From both sides, they extract fish and mollusks to prepare delicacies fit for the most discerning palate.

You can order soups, ceviches, cocktails, and anything you desire. Seafood with shrimp, squid, octopus, clams, mussels, crabs, fish, and other non-mollusk species make an excellent selection. Bon appétit!

All-Inclusive Resorts in Los Cabos: 5 Options for Your Vacation

#1 Cabo Azul Resort by Diamond

Cabo Azul Resort by Diamond is one of the top ten hotels in Los Cabos and Mexico, ranked among the four best places to stay in Los Cabos according to U.S. News.

This Los Cabos hotel stands out for its villas with private terraces, sophisticated decor, a three-level infinity pool, and the award-winning Spa Peace & Mind Body, which will customize each of your treatments based on your needs.

Located on the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, it gives the feeling of being on an island. This is perfect if you enjoy sports like diving and snorkeling, as you can admire its coral reefs.

Don’t forget to plan any of your routes to observe the magnificent humpback whale in its natural habitat. An unforgettable experience!

#2 Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos All Inclusive

 

If you’re looking for all-inclusive hotels in Los Cabos, the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is undoubtedly a great option.

At this hotel, you can treat your taste buds to any of its six restaurants offering buffets, Mexican, Japanese, Italian cuisine, among others.

If you’re fond of the sea, worry not, as all of the restaurants provide an incredible view.

If you’re traveling with children, take them to the Kidz Club, an area specially designed for the little ones, including a water park. Fun guaranteed!

Keep in mind: We recommend booking one of their 34 Swim-Up suites, as they come with a private pool.

#3 ME Cabo

For a romantic getaway, this Los Cabos hotel is perfect for the occasion, as Me Cabo caters exclusively to adult guests.

The property has also been awarded multiple times as one of the most modern hotels in Mexico. Its style is elegant and contemporary, with cutting-edge technology.

The pool parties with the region’s best DJs are not to be missed, and the YHI Spa, inspired by the Australian goddess of light, is one of the guests’ favorite experiences, as this area certainly invites you to revitalize your senses.

A super relaxing environment. Due to its location on the beautiful El Médano beach, the ME Cabo hotel is the perfect fusion of luxury, relaxation, seduction, and perfect beaches.

We’re sure you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of peace and tranquility with a touch of fun.

#4 Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa Resort

A bit far from the city, this all-inclusive hotel in Los Cabos is located behind the famous Arch of Los Cabos.

The geography of the place places Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Golf & Spa on a stunning coastal cliff that maintains colonial style in each of its rooms.

When you stay at this hotel in Los Cabos, you’ll appreciate the calm that fills every corner because, despite being an all-inclusive hotel and a favorite for family trips, you’ll always have privacy and tranquility.

If you’re traveling with family, spend your days on their private beach or in the pools. To change the environment, enjoy the various activities this property offers, such as cooking classes, water aerobics, dance classes, or bingo.

The little ones will love the Kids Club, where they can have fun with crafts or play in the pool.

If your traveler’s heart yearns for an adventurous moment, you can enjoy whale watching tours or go quad biking and even dive into the incredible Sea of Cortez.

#5 Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos All Inclusive Resort

Be enchanted by the incredible views of the Sea of Cortez that the rooms at Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos have for you.

Unpack your suitcase and get ready to spend a few days in total relaxation, enjoying the activities this property offers.

Enjoy the sun on its beautiful beach or take a dip in the pool while ordering a delicious cocktail. If you want to be a bit more active, the hotel has an entertainment team that organizes games and activities for guests, where, of course, you can participate.

For lunch, Sandos Finisterra Los Cabos will surprise you with its unique cuisine, where you can indulge in any of its restaurants with à la carte menus.

6 Unmissable Restaurants in Los Cabos

#1 Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar

The acclaimed author of the New Mexican Kitchen – Richard Sandoval – offers a unique experience at Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar, one of the best restaurants in the country.

However, the culinary proposal is rooted in the southern continent: a combination of Peruvian and oriental flavors in the Nikkei and Chifa style.

The place boasts privileged views, as is usual in most renowned restaurants in the area. We recommend trying the wood-fired shrimp or the shrimp and crab enchiladas… delicious!

Location: Transpeninsular Highway Km 6.5, Fracc. Punta Ballena, Cabo San Lucas, BCS

#2 Flora’s Field Kitchen

You will not find another place in the region with the organic and fresh concept that distinguishes Flora’s Field Kitchen. It is located in San José del Cabo, at the foot of Sierra de la Laguna, and in its outdoor facilities, you can enjoy dishes based on farm produce.

The wood-fired pizzas and the freshest salads in the region are highly recommended. Additionally, this place, where you can have excellent contact with nature, features musicians who will make your lunch or dinner even more enjoyable.

Location: Ánimas Bajas, San José del Cabo, BCS

#3 Romeo y Julieta Restaurante

On this gastronomic journey, it is not uncommon to suddenly find yourself in beautiful Italy. Pastas, pizzas, salads, meats, and fish prepared strictly following Tuscany’s recipes make Romeo y Julieta one of the region’s top culinary spots. Excellent music will accompany your dinner any day of the week!

Location: Paseo de la Marina, Marina, Cabo San Lucas, BCS

#4 Sunset Monalisa Restaurant

The location is one of the most spectacular in the gastronomic route of Los Cabos. This is one of the destination’s most emblematic restaurants, and its cuisine is in the hands of two great figures from European and Latin American cuisine: Chef Vincenzo Balzano from Naples, Italy, and Chef Casiano Reyes from Oaxaca, Mexico.

Both chefs are the creators of a new Mediterranean fusion in Los Cabos. At Sunset Monalisa, you will find 6 different outdoor spaces where you will have one of the best views of the famous Cabo San Lucas Arch.

Moreover, legend has it that this is the most romantic place in the region, perhaps why the Express Tribune ranks it as the “5th most incredible place in the world.”

Location: Transpeninsular Highway Km. 6.5, Cabo San Lucas, BCS

#5 Carbón Cabrón Los Cabos

Although the origin of this peculiar name is unknown, I believe it has much to do with all the dishes prepared with mesquite wood. This culinary proposal belongs to Chef Alfonso Cadena, who is also the creator of the restaurant Hueso in Guadalajara.

The grill is the soul of the place, and the smoke is an omnipresent touch. The restaurant resembles a kind of bunker with all the logs on the walls, which will eventually be used in the preparation of fish, shellfish, meats, and poultry. Its design has been recognized, naming the place in the Bar & Restaurant Design Awards 2018.

Location: KM 24.5 Transpeninsular Highway, Rancho Cerro Colorado, BCS

#6 El Farallón Restaurante

Speaking of top-notch places, the sunset view from El Farallón is hard to beat. [

It is located on a cliff by the sea and claims to offer the best fish and seafood in the region, with the menu focusing mainly on excellent quality cuts.

The dishes are accompanied by salads and soups for those who appreciate an even more complete meal.

Location: The Resort at Pedregal, Cabo San Lucas, BCS

5 shopping places in Los Cabos

#1 Eclectic Array

Eclectic Array’s mission is to support artisans in creating unique products, connecting them with consumers and promoting the local economy.

They have incredibly talented artisans from various regions of the country who create beautiful items for home decoration, bedding, pillows, tablecloths, lamps, and high-quality women’s clothing.

#2 Puerto Paraiso Mall

The three-story mall has over 100 stores, offering everything from elegant clothing to leather jackets and boots, as well as 10 movie theaters and a bowling alley.

Enjoy dozens of restaurants, art galleries, and various live entertainment options. The mall houses brand stores such as Forever 21, Harley Davidson, Nautica, Diamonds International, Adolfo Dominguez, among others.

#3 The Glass Factory

Blown glass has been present since ancient times in almost all cultures. Cabo San Lucas houses what was, for many years, the only glass factory in the Baja California peninsula. Moreover, witnessing the artisans working with glass is fascinating.

Some travel agencies offer guided visits to the factory, or you can take a taxi to the destination and travel at your own pace. There is a store where you can buy a myriad of beautiful products.

#4 Mercado de la Marina

Take a stroll through the beautiful Marina de Los Cabos while admiring a wide variety of items for purchase. Enjoy typical Mexican handicrafts, high-quality fabrics, straw hats, and silver jewelry. Some vendors accept card payment.

Take a break from shopping and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the nearby restaurants.

#5 Joyería Manuel Sanchez

Find and purchase carefully crafted unique pieces using ancient techniques combined with modern procedures to obtain textures and shapes rarely found in common jewelry. During the creative process,

Manuel implements all the techniques learned throughout his career in the family business and combines them with his personal style, characterized by a taste for contemporary arts, travel, and nature.

Where is Los Cabos

Los Cabos is located at the tip of the Baja California Sur state, in a place known as “Finisterra” (end of the earth).

It is between the waters of the Pacific Ocean and the beautiful Sea of Cortez, making it an ideal place to enjoy excellent seafood and explore through diving or snorkeling.

Los Cabos Airport

The Los Cabos airport is located 11 km from San José del Cabo, serving the Los Cabos area, which includes the municipalities of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas.

Considering the significant growth in the number of visitors who fall in love with the majesty of Los Cabos, a new FBO with 180 square meters has been built, providing ample space for planes, passengers, and pilots, as well as offering top-notch international services.

New Year’s Eve in Los Cabos

New Year’s Eve in Los Cabos is known for excellent All-Inclusive parties at luxury resorts and is an unforgettable option if you want to welcome the new year in style.

Almost all restaurants, resorts, and bars in Cabo San Lucas offer a banquet, music, and New Year’s entertainment, all included. Prices range from USD 100 to USD 450, but if you search carefully, you can find parties with prices between USD 150 and USD 200 per person.

For an unforgettable dining experience, head to the De Cortez restaurant at the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar hotel. De Cortez offers a sumptuous New Year’s dinner with various courses for USD 170 per person.

How to get to Los Cabos

There are direct flights from the United States and Canada to Los Cabos. If  you are in another country, the easiest way to reach the destination is by connecting in Mexico City. The flight from the Mexican capital to Los Cabos takes approximately 2 hours.

Best time to visit Los Cabos

The climate in Los Cabos is dry almost year-round, and the best time to visit the destination is during the winter in the northern hemisphere (December to March). During this time, the weather is mild, and there is no rain.

Additionally, it is much easier to observe the Humpback whales that arrive from Alaska. If you are considering going between July and October, keep in mind that the heat is intense, and there are higher chances of rain.

Getting around Los Cabos

If you only plan to stay in the Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo region, there is no need to rent a car.

You can use public transportation between the two cities (departures from Puerto Paraiso Mall) or take a taxi. If you want to explore neighboring colonial towns to connect more with Mexican culture, renting a car is more interesting.

This way, you’ll have the freedom to visit various places in a single day. If you want more tips about Los Cabos, just leave a comment or write directly to the Guia México Instagram.