Located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is a destination that effortlessly blends natural beauty with upscale sophistication. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious accommodations, Cabo has become a favorite getaway for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Cabo’s top-tier hotels and restaurants promise an unforgettable experience. Here’s your comprehensive Pursuitist guide to the best that Cabo has to offer discerning travelers.
Getting to Cabo San Lucas
Traveling to Cabo San Lucas is relatively straightforward. Most visitors arrive by air at the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), located about 45 minutes northeast of Cabo San Lucas. The airport serves numerous international flights, making it easily accessible from major cities in the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world. Once you arrive, you can choose from various transportation options, including taxis, shuttles, and rental cars. Private transfers are also available for a more luxurious and hassle-free experience.
Luxurious Hotels for a Dreamy Stay
Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the most exquisite hotels in the world, each offering unique experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. Here are some standout options:
The Resort at Pedregal
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Resort at Pedregal offers an unparalleled level of privacy and luxury. Guests can enjoy personal concierge services, private plunge pools, and breathtaking ocean views from every room. The resort’s spa, Luna y Mar, provides holistic treatments inspired by the sea and lunar cycles, ensuring a rejuvenating stay. Dining at The Resort at Pedregal is an experience in itself, with restaurants like Don Manuel’s serving contemporary Mexican cuisine in an elegant setting.
Activities and Amenities: The Resort at Pedregal offers various activities, including cooking classes, tequila tastings, and guided tours of local attractions. The fitness center is well-equipped, and the resort features multiple infinity pools with stunning views.
Special Touches: Upon arrival, guests are treated to a welcome margarita and a personal concierge who ensures all needs are met throughout the stay.
One&Only Palmilla
This iconic resort combines traditional Mexican charm with modern luxury. Set amidst lush gardens and overlooking the Sea of Cortez, One&Only Palmilla boasts elegantly designed rooms, world-class dining options, and a renowned golf course. The resort’s private beach is perfect for those looking to unwind in a serene setting.
Activities and Amenities: Guests can enjoy water sports, such as snorkeling and paddleboarding, as well as land-based activities like tennis and yoga. The spa offers a range of treatments, from massages to beauty therapies.
Special Touches: The resort’s “Floating Bed” experience allows guests to relax on a custom-built bed floating in the pool, providing a unique way to enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
A haven of luxury and exclusivity, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is accessible only through a private tunnel carved through the mountains. Guests are treated to stunning views, private infinity pools, and top-notch service. The resort’s culinary offerings, including the cliffside El Farallon restaurant, are not to be missed.
Activities and Amenities: The resort features a variety of activities, such as beach yoga, culinary classes, and tequila tastings. The spa, with its extensive menu of treatments, offers a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Special Touches: Each guest room comes with a personal plunge pool, and guests are greeted with a bottle of Clase Azul Reposado tequila upon arrival.
Culinary Delights: Cabo’s Finest Restaurants
Cabo San Lucas is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of dining experiences that reflect its rich cultural heritage and coastal location. Here are some must-visit restaurants:
Flora’s Field Kitchen
Located in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, Flora’s Field Kitchen is part of the Flora Farms organic working farm. The restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining, with ingredients sourced directly from its gardens. The menu changes seasonally, offering fresh and flavorful dishes that highlight the best of local produce.
Atmosphere and Setting: The rustic-chic decor and open-air setting create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Diners can enjoy views of the lush farm while savoring their meals.
Signature Dishes: Popular dishes include the wood-fired pizzas, heirloom tomato salad, and the roasted chicken, all prepared with fresh, organic ingredients.
El Farallon
El Farallon, situated within the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, offers a dining experience like no other. Set on a cliffside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the restaurant specializes in seafood, with daily catches displayed for guests to choose from. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks adds to the enchanting ambiance.
Atmosphere and Setting: The oceanfront setting and candlelit tables create a romantic and intimate dining experience. The fresh sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves enhance the sensory delight.
Signature Dishes: Guests can choose from a variety of fresh seafood, including lobster, snapper, and shrimp, all prepared to perfection. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list to complement the meal.
Edith’s Restaurant
A beloved Cabo institution, Edith’s Restaurant blends traditional Mexican cuisine with a touch of Baja flair. The open-air setting, complete with colorful decor and twinkling lights, creates a festive atmosphere. Signature dishes include fresh seafood, handmade tortillas, and an extensive selection of wines and tequilas.
Atmosphere and Setting: The vibrant and lively atmosphere makes Edith’s a favorite for both locals and tourists. The restaurant’s decor, featuring Mexican art and crafts, adds to its charm.
Signature Dishes: Highlights include the tableside Caesar salad, grilled prawns, and the famous “Baja style” fish tacos. The extensive tequila selection offers the perfect accompaniment to the meal.
Activities and Adventures in Cabo
Beyond luxurious hotels and exquisite dining, Cabo San Lucas offers a wealth of activities for every type of traveler. Here are some recommendations to make the most of your Cabo adventure:
Beach Bliss
Cabo’s beaches are legendary, from the bustling Medano Beach to the serene Lover’s Beach accessible only by boat. Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or trying out water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.
Medano Beach: Known for its lively atmosphere, Medano Beach is perfect for those who enjoy socializing and water activities. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, offering plenty of options for refreshments.
Lover’s Beach: Accessible only by boat, Lover’s Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil setting. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
Explore the Arch of Cabo San Lucas
The iconic Arch, or El Arco, is a natural rock formation at the southern tip of Cabo. Take a boat tour to see this stunning landmark up close, and don’t forget to bring your camera for some unforgettable photos.
Boat Tours: Various boat tours are available, ranging from glass-bottom boats to luxury yachts. Many tours also include opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.
Sunset Cruises: For a romantic experience, consider booking a sunset cruise to see the Arch bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun.
Whale Watching
From December to April, Cabo is a prime location for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Baja California, offering spectacular sightings. Book a tour to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Guided Tours: Numerous operators offer whale-watching tours, with experienced guides providing insights into the whales’ behavior and migration patterns.
Best Viewing Spots: While tours provide the best chance to see whales up close, you can also spot them from the shore at vantage points like Land’s End and the beaches along the Pacific coast.
Off-Road Adventures
For thrill-seekers, Cabo offers off-road adventures through its rugged desert landscape. Rent an ATV or join a guided tour to explore the area’s canyons, dunes, and remote villages.
ATV Rentals and Tours: Several companies offer ATV rentals and guided tours, providing all the necessary equipment and safety instructions.
Scenic Routes: Popular routes include the trails through the Baja desert, along the beach, and up to the mountains, offering stunning views and plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Pursuitist Concludes
Cabo San Lucas is a destination that captivates with its natural beauty, exceptional accommodations, and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re lounging by the pool at a five-star resort, savoring a gourmet meal at a cliffside restaurant, or exploring the breathtaking coastline, Cabo promises an experience that will leave you longing to return. Plan your vacation to this Mexican paradise and discover why Cabo San Lucas is the ultimate getaway for luxury and adventure.
