Here’s the good news: Tourism numbers are up in Mexico. The bad news? There are record numbers of international travelers arriving from every country and continent with one exception: the United States. For those skeptical about safety, they can find a safe haven in Los Cabos.
For those unknowing, Los Cabos has an impeccable reputation. Los Cabos is made up of two cities, cosmopolitan Cabo San Lucas and colonial-style San Jose del Cabo, the Tourist Corridor, a 20-mile stretch of beaches and luxurious resorts that connects them. The sister cities at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula are famous for sun, sand, surf and tequila. Sure, you can explore your wild side in Cabo San Lucas, but you can also retreat to San Jose del Cabo, a beachside oasis with decidedly colonial charm. Best of both worlds right?
Here’s another great thing about Los Cabos: you don’t have to be a millionaire to live like one! There’s plenty of activities for the budget friendly or luxury seeking traveler. Check out our picks to help you plan your next trip!
DO:
Sea & Snorkel Adventure
Snorkel pristine bays, sample fresh local seafood, and enjoy lively entertainment with Sunrider’s snorkel-lunch and sunset dinner cruises. For more information: www.sunridetours.com
Huerta Los Tamarindos
Huerta Los Tamarindos, located just a mile from the Sea of Cortez and San Jose’s estuary, is a property dating back to the 19th Century. The tour and cooking class at Huerta Los Tamarindos is the highlight of any visit to Cabo! Chef Enrique Silva is an amazing chef, teacher and restauraunteur with experience in growing fresh produce. Each class will begin with a tour of the fields under cultivation, and each student will receive a recipe book with a list of ingredients required for the recipes they will learn how to cook in class. Students will also spend approximately 30 minutes in the field gathering their ingredients. Want a hands on “Mexican†experience? This option is for you! For more information: http://www.huertalostamarindos.com
Baja Buggys
Buckle up for high octane off road explorations of picturesque beach and desert terrains. For more information: www.bajabuggys.com.
SWIM:
Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach)
This must visit beach is located on the Sea of Cortes side of the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula; it’s famous for the iconic arch that marks Land’s End.
Playa El Medano
If you’re looking for an afternoon of fun in the sun, Medano Beach is the place to go. Although not the place for those looking for a quiet afternoon with a good book, it’s the place to go for water activities rentals all year.
EAT:
Bar Esquina
To leave Los Cabos without having dined at Bar Esquina is to have not really experienced Los Cabos at all. The Moraccan themed on-site restaurant and bar at the Bahia Hotel boutique resort in the Medano Beach district represents the essence of Cabo — sexy, chic and exotic! For more information: www.baresquina.com.
Cocina del Mar
“Cocina del Mar” is known for its exquisite variety of fresh fish and seafood specialties. It utilizes only the freshest possible ingredients, offering a spectacular and unusual presentation. Inspired by the wide selection of food that the coasts of the American continent offers and the international experience of the “Cocina del Mar” culinary team.
SLEEP:
When it comes to elegant accommodations, Los Cabos is blessed. Choosing the right hotel, however, depends on the visitor.
Esperanza Resort
Esperanza is a secluded, world-class resort in Cabo San Lucas that pampers you with luxurious accommodations, distinctive cuisine and the finest amenities that epitomizes the relaxed spirit of the Baja lifestyle. The resort is a dramatic cliffside retreat in Cabo San Lucas that’s been drawing celebrities for years (most recently — President Barack Obama). You won’t find the tequila drinking, party crew of spring break infamy here, only peace and tranquility among gorgeous pools with unmatched views of the Sea of Cortez. Raspberry margaritas, fresh-caught seafood, an aloe-cucumber facial, private decks with hot tubs and ocean views – this is Mexican living at its best. For more information: http://www.esperanzaresort.com
Hotel El Ganzo
Cabo’s newest property, Hotel El Ganzo Design Boutique, Arts, Live Music, Marina and SPA, is not yet open a year, and the amenities and experiences offered on-site just keep growing. New developments, which range from enhanced culinary offerings and a brand-new, acclaimed chef; wellness programs and an exciting Artist in Residence line-up leading into 2014, are quickly making Hotel El Ganzo a “must-visit” spot for travelers. For more information: http://elganzo.com/