Los Cabos Travel Guide
Take a journey to “Land’s End” – Los Cabos
Journey to “Land’s End” where the crystalline blue waters of the Sea of Cortez meet the golden sand beaches and rusty desert of the Baja Peninsula. The contrasts of the landscape are matched by the two main destination towns of the area which couldn’t be more different – San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. All of this is topped off with a multitude of luxury hotel options, delicious dining, and great nightlife. Come explore the bustling streets, stunning beaches and natural wonders of this glamourous paradise. Best Plinko site – https://plinko-australia.com
Location:
Los Cabos refers to two towns— Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo — found at the end of Baja California Sur, about 1,000 miles south of San Diego, California, just south of the Tropic of Cancer
Main Airports & Travel Details:
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is in San Jose del Cabo and welcomes international, domestic, and private charter flights. With two terminals, SJD serves as Los Cabos’ central connectivity hub with the United States and Canada and has recently undergone several upgrades to ensure high levels of comfort and safety for travelers.
Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL) is located in Cabo San Lucas and is a smaller, privately-owned airport
that welcomes private aircrafts and domestic flights. It serves as Mexico’s only International Private Airport, with a
long runway of 7,000 feet long. Flying into CSL is an excellent option for private planes and jet passengers looking for expedited and personal service.
To enter Mexico, you need a valid passport. All foreign travelers must pass through immigration and customs. Once you clear immigration, collect your luggage and proceed to customs, where you push a button on something that looks a lot like a traffic light; if the light turns red, your luggage has been selected for inspection. After getting through customs and immigration, you may walk past timeshare salespeople eager for your attention. Unless you’ve arranged pick up with your hotel, yellow and white mini shuttles are a good option. They are less expensive than taxis, but they won’t depart unless full, so you may find yourself waiting a few minutes. Cab drivers and other pre-arranged transportation providers have a designated waiting area just outside.
Climate:
It’s a subtropical desert. During the summer, the highs can reach 90° F with sporadic showers. Winter evenings may drop to 60° F, with daytime highs near 80° F.
Language:
Spanish but English is widely spoken throughout Los Cabos, especially by those within hospitality industry.
Getting Around:
To get from one town to the other, you can expect to pay between $50 and $60. Red and yellow taxi vans operate in San José del Cabo; blue and green vans cruise Cabo San Lucas. They are available 24 hours a day. Uber is also available in Los Cabos.
Destinations of Interest
Cabo San Lucas, the most well known of the Los Cabos twin cities, is a fun-loving town with a bustling downtown area full of shops, restaurants and bars. While Cabo San Lucas has a reputation for keeping the party going all the time, there’s more to see and do than a visit to Cabo Wabo!
The tamer San Jose del Cabo is like an elder sibling to Cabo San Lucas. This charming colonial town has a laid back vibe and is the area’s cultural hot spot with galleries and shopping galore. When you tire of strolling through the shops head down to the stunning marina for sunset sail.
Around 2 hours drive from Cabo San Lucas lies the town of La Paz, a charming town full of old world glamour with a laid back attitude. The waterfront Malecon (boardwalk) along the beach offers a beautiful stroll and the city itself hides charming cafes, restaurants and shops. The real star though lies not on land but in the sea – La Paz is one of the only places in the world where travelers can swim alongside the gentle giants of the sea, whale sharks.
Located on the eastern shoreline of the Baja Peninsula, this new development will offer an enclave of luxury accommodations, dining, and nightlife away from the hustle and bustle of Los Cabos. With a new Four Seasons already open and AMAN recently breaking ground, Costa Palmas is the place to visit for those looking to get away from it all in a stunning locale.
This “Magic Town” is located about an hour away from Cabo San Lucas but feels a world away. Spend a day here visiting the local artisans offering traditional Mexican arts and crafts, eating the regional cuisine or catching a wave at the local surf spot. Before heading back to Los Cabos make sure to stop in at Hotel California (yes the inspiration behind THAT song) for a cocktail in the courtyard.
Out of this World Experiences for...
Adventurers
There are tons of options to choose from for your daily adrenalin rush! While many of the beaches in the Los Cabos area are not “swimable” due to strong currents, there are great surf spots all along the coast. For something dryer, head inland on an ATV adventure through the surrounding desert. For a slower pace head out on horseback (or camelback!) along the beaches and into the desert. Everyday brings a new adventure!
Art & Design Lovers
While on the surface Los Cabos may not seem like a destination with a lot to offer for art lovers when you dig a little deeper you’ll find that there are plenty of places for you to explore. For high end galleries and shops with local (and international) art alongside locally made crafts such as furniture, ceramics and more head into San Jose del Cabo. If it works with your trip days we recommend checking out the weekly “art walk” on Thursday evenings in the charming downtown area. Alternatively head to the nearby town of Todos Santos for local handicrafts and traditional artworks at a more accessible price point.
Foodies
The Sea of Cortez offers some of the richest fishing waters in the world, why not head out on a charter in the morning and have your “catch of the day” for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for something a little less hands on check out one of the many great restaurants in the area. Flora Farms, The Office, Acre and Sur Beach House are some of our personal favorites! P.S. If you see chocolata clams on the menu try them – they’re a local delicacy!
Nature Lovers
For nature lovers there is often one major check box on their Los Cabos bucket list – swimming with the Whale Sharks in La Paz. But we’re here to tell you that there are more fish in this sea! Head over to the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Marine Park, Cabo Pulmo and swim through the coral reef populated with over 800 species of marine life. This park is so full of marine life that it’s often called the “aquarium of the sea”.
Everyone
While December to April may not seem like any “season” that you’ve ever heard of, in Los Cabos it marks one of the most anticipated times of the year – the Humpback Whale migration! As these gentle giants head north to Alaska they make a pit stop all along the Baja Coast to enjoy a break in their long journey. During the season there are many charter and tour options available to get up close and personal with the whales, but much of the time they are close enough to shore that you can see them from your guest room!
Golf
Home of 18 signature designed courses around high equity real estate developments. Los Cabos
has seven of the top ten courses in Mexico according to Golf Digest, built by design legends such as
Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Robert Trent Jones Jr, Tiger Woods, David Love III, Tom Fazio and Fred
Couples. Los Cabos can rightfully claim the title as the ‘Golf Capital of Latin America.’
Sportfishing
The waters off Los Cabos enclose the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. Both consisting of prolific marine environments and submarine seamounts, countless species can be found anywhere from right along the shoreline out to 60 miles. Its world-renowned striped marlin fishery highlights big game fishing in Los Cabos. Other marine sportfishing includes Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, Wahoo, Yellowfin Tuna, and Dorado. Los Cabos is one of the world’s best sportfishing destinations; more Marlin and Swordfish get caught here than anywhere else in the world. World-famous sport fishing tournaments, such as Bisbee´s Black & Blue Marlin and East Cape Offshore derbies, are held annually. Catch & Release is the general rule.!
Our Favorite Hotels in Los Cabos
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedrigal
Great For: Families of All Ages, Couples
The Cape, A Thompson Hotel
Great For: Couples, Design Lovers,
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Los Cabos from one of the luxury hotel suites, complete with sweeping ocean views and resort-style amenities. Each room has been carefully designed with a private balcony and hanging daybed, freestanding copper tub, craft cocktail bar and more, to offer a unique vacation experience that captures Cabo San Lucas luxury with every single indulgence. Guests will appreciate two pools, including an infinity pool with a swim-up bar and another built within a natural rock formation found on the property. Do not miss The Rooftop, a six-story-high rooftop lounge and garden with unmatched views of the city and sea..
Esperanza, An Auberge Resort
Great For: Couples, Families, Spa Lovers
Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, this luxury resort with a private beach offers an exceptional natural setting on 17 lushly landscaped acres. The fifty-nine casitas and luxury suites, tucked between two picturesque bluffs, cascade down a gentle hill providing dramatic ocean views from every room. The perfectly styled guest rooms, restaurants, pools, spa, and public spaces exude barefoot elegance while channeling Cabo’s coastal setting.
Montage Los Cabos
Great For: Couples, Families, Foodies, Beach Lovers
Montage Los Cabos is a sanctuary where the Sea of Cortez’s blue waters meets the Baja desert sands. Set on Santa Maria Bay’s sweeping shores with spectacular views and walking access to the finest swimming, diving, and snorkeling in the region. The resort includes Montage’s signature children’s program, Paintbox, and access to Twin Dolphin Club. We invite you to experience Montage Los Cabo’s natural splendor, authentic allure, unparalleled service, and comfortable luxury.
Chileno Bay Resort
Great For: Small Groups, Families, Couples
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Great For: Groups, Families, Foodies
Grand Velas Los Cabos is one of the most recognized resorts in the destination with a privileged location. Mexican culture and art meet the contemporary design that’s nothing short of magical. You’ll be pampered in exceptionally spacious ocean-view suites with private terraces that naturally combine the indoors with the outdoors, some with private plunge pools and wellness options. Spend your day resting or swimming at multi-tiered infinity pools – all with a view of the Sea of Cortez, walking on golden sand beaches, or indulging in one of our exclusive over the top experiences of land and sea.
Solaz, A Luxury Collection Resort
Great For: Families of All Ages, Couples
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort
Great For: Romance, Spa Lovers, Design Lovers
Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort, consistently redefines pampering and pleasure with exceptional service and attention to detail. Much praised for its architecture and artistry, this striking resort is recognized by the consistent attention to detail and striving for something better. The stunning design of Las Ventanas creates a uniquely beautiful setting for Los Cabos vacations, and the resort’s approach to landscaping is key to its look and feel. Designed to be in unison and harmony with the local ambiance, Las Ventanas nestles into the land’s natural slope and shapes. The external color scheme reflects the white of the sands and ocean surf.
One&Only Palmilla
Great For: Families, Beach Lovers
Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, this luxury resort with a private beach offers an exceptional natural setting on 17 lushly landscaped acres. The fifty-nine casitas and luxury suites, tucked between two picturesque bluffs, cascade down a gentle hill providing dramatic ocean views from every room. The perfectly styled guest rooms, restaurants, pools, spa, and public spaces exude barefoot elegance while channeling Cabo’s coastal setting..
Zadun, a Ritz- Carlton Reserve
Great For: Romance, Ultra-Luxury, Nature Lovers
Remote locations handpicked for their lush, unspoiled landscapes. Each of the 115 rooms, suites and villas blurs the line between indoors and out, features views of the sparkling sea and art, textiles and finishes crafted by Mexican artisans. Genuinely personal experiences led by genuine human connection. A bounty of the world’s greatest luxury: time. These are marks of Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Nobu
Great For: Couples, Foodies, Design Lovers
Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos
Great For: Groups, Families, Couples, Privacy
Nestled along 3 miles of pristine beachfront, Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas is located on Baja’s exclusive East Cape’s undiscovered shores, quite close to UNESCO-listed marine preserve Cabo Pulmo. Just 45 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and a world away from the Cabo crowds, the all-new ultra-luxury resort features 141 guest rooms, including 23 suites, all with views of the Sea of Cortez and unique indoor/outdoor event spaces.
Fine Dining in Los Cabos
El Farallon
Location: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
Chef: Miriam Jimenez
Tucked into the cliffs of Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, El Farallon is one of the best restaurant in Cabo San Lucas. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, listen to the waves crash below while making your selection from the ocean-to-table menu featuring the daily bounty from local fishermen. Executive Chef Gustavo Pinet offers only the best selection of the local catch on shaved ice. Our culinary experts will guide your selection with an old fashioned scale that weighs each choice and assist with side dish pairings.
Nobu Restaurant Los Cabos
Location: Nobu Los Cabos
Chef: Nobu Matsuhisa
Nestled close to the ocean’s shore, Nobu Los Cabos creates an immersive atmosphere with glass interiors that form a connection to the enticing waves and salt air, accentuating the elegant cuisine. Enjoy Nobu’s signature dishes such as rock shrimp tempura, miso black cod, and yellowtail sashimi with thinly sliced jalapeño peppers. Chef Nobu continues to bring the latest trends in Japanese-fusion cuisine to life with an extensive menu of inventive dishes and bold cocktails.
Manta Restaurant
Location: The Cape, a Thompson Hotel
Chef: Enrique Olvera
Inspired by the simplicity and elegance of the desert Chef Enrique Olvera conceived Manta with an intriguing double meaning: The manta ray symbolizes the kitchen’s focus on seafood, while manta, the Spanish word for canvas, conveys the idea of freedom in artist expression. Manta celebrates Pacific coasts cultures; taking inspiration from Mexico, Peru, Japan and beyond. Chef de cuisine Abisai Sanchez´s commitment is to source local and sustainable ingredients from Baja, while maintaining a casual spirit.
Cocina Del Mar
Location: Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection
Chef: Alexis Palacios
Cocina del Mar restaurant, bar and lounge is perched atop striking cliffs overlooking Esperanza’s two private beaches and will take you on a culinary journey through the Sea of Cortez and Cabo’s verdant farms. Enter a buzzing lantern-lit bar and lounge that invites you to linger over hand-crafted cocktails before sauntering down to dinner above a cascade of oceanfront terraces kissed by white-capped waves. An outdoor exhibition kitchen is alive with energy, a perfect spot to engage with chefs and explore bites of coastal Baja cuisine and regionally inspired cocktails beside a glowing wood-fired oven
Mezcal
Location: Montage
Chef: Odin Rocha
Mezcal is a modern Mexican kitchen featuring reimagined interpretations of ancestral culinary traditions. Experience a gastronomic journey through a menu that is creative, fresh and authentic. Indulge yourself in a lively and sophisticated space that pays homage to Mexico’s history
Comal
Location: Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resort Collection
Chef: Yvan Mucharraz
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Luca
Location: Grand Velas Los Cabos
Chef: La Monica
Lucca’s gourmet menu features fresh Italian and Mediterranean cuisine using the finest local and imported
ingredients. Complementing the authentic cuisine is the region’s largest wine selection, with 2,500 bottles from 1,500 different producers, including the best of Baja California.
Cocina De Autor
Location: Grand Velas Los Cabos
Chef: Sidney Schutte
More than a restaurant, Cocina de autor is a concept with the Grand Velas seal that fuses the sensations that
gastronomy evokes, with the elegance of a world-class restaurant by chef Sidney Schutte -Two Michelin Stars- who brings from Holland its unique touch and reinterpretation of contemporary cuisine.
Piaf
Location: Grand Velas Los Cabos
Chef: Omar Serralta
At Piaf, we celebrate the flavors of sophisticated French cuisine with unique dishes that explore the country’s culinary traditions and gourmet legacy. The restaurant’s ambiance is an artful play on textures in every direction, with undulating crystal lighting, deep rust-colored patterned marble flooring and an impressive center column.
Arbol
Location: Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort
Chef: Anand Singh
Pulsating with high-octane elegance, the resort’s newest evening dining destination is a feast for the senses. Set
above the Oasis, Arbol opens to a shimmering pool and breathtaking views perfect to enjoy the stunning Cabo
sunset. Inside, lantern-laden sculpted trees strike a primeval pose—a flight of fancy perfectly at home in this magical setting. Vibrant colors and an eclectic soundtrack add to the chic atmosphere, transporting guests from both the resort and Los Cabos on an unforgettable journey.
Seared
Location: One&Only Palmilla
Chef: Jean-Georges
A gourmet Los Caboos Steakhouse with extensive cuts of premium beef on offer, from certified Kobe beef and Wagyu A5 available by the ounce, to succulent, à la carte rib eyes and tenderloins, SEARED at One&Only Palmilla is a steakhouse to savour.
Agua
Location: : One&Only Palmilla
Chef: Jean-Georges
A Mexican cuisine alongside Mediterranean specialties and seafood selections in a spectacular ocean-side setting at One&Only Palmilla. Agua´s outdoors-indoors setting and spacious terrace offer a breathtaking views for your family breakfast, lunch, or romantic dinner.
Suviche
Location: One&Only Palmilla
Chef: Jean-Georges
Dramatic views and theatrical dining take centre-stage in Chef Jean-Georges’ stunning Asian restaurant at
One&Only Palmilla. With a lively ambiance and an inspired menu, Suviche offers a refreshing take on fine dining for a memorable night out. Named after its two signature dishes – ceviche and sushi – prepare to be intrigued by Suviche’s Japanese cuisine with a Mexican twist.
Flora’s Field Kitchen
Chef: Guillermo Tellez
From Our Field to Your Table. Flora’s Field kitchen is about handmade food using our farm-fresh ingredients. Our goal is to create a healthy family meal with a sense of place.
Acre Baja
Chef: Larbi Dahrouch
Acre is both convivial and cosmopolitan, relaxed and refined – a vibrant dining experience in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains.
Humo
Location: Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Chef: Lucas Acuña
Fire, a presence in kitchens for centuries, is a source of renewal, the element to draw flavors from the depths of
ingredients. At Humo, homage is paid to the Latin American grilling techniques with dishes, including chorizo and oysters, prepared over open flames and presented in a rustic, yet refined restaurant setting.
Los Tamarindos
Chef: Enrique Silva
Los Tamarindos is located in a farmhouse dating back to the 19th Century, and due to its fertile soil quickly became one of the region’s most important organic farms and Restaurant.
Toro
Chef: Richard Sandoval
The Toro concept comes from acclaimed chef and restaurateur Richard Sandoval, recognized as the “Father of modern Mexican cuisine,” who has an international collection of 40 Latin American-inspired restaurants worldwide. At Toro, he masterfully blends Pan Latin cuisine with South American, Japanese and Chinese influences.
Nicksan
Chef: Angel Carbajal
Indulge in a truly special dinner at “Angel’s Table” or sit at the sushi bar; where visitors enjoy watching how expert chefs prepare Chef Ángel Carbajal’s creations.
Sunset Monalisa
Chef: Jacob Ramos
With its spectacular views and unique environment, Sunset Monalisa is designed to tantalize the senses and engage your emotions, thereby making your time with them a cherished and valuable memory.
Ready to Visit Los Cabos?
Traveling to Los Cabos for the first time? Or one of your favorite destinations to return to? Whether your first or fiftieth trip, our River Oaks Travel concierge team can help you make your next trip unforgettable! Contact us today and use our personal experience and industry connections to help you maximize your experience.