Top 10 Baja Mexico Resorts

What’s in a name? Well, this age-old question has clearly never dealt with searching for the perfect Baja water sports getaway. Lucky for us, what’s in our No. 4 pick’s name is straightforward and just what we were looking for.

Cabo Surf Hotel and Spa specializes in its namesakes, surfing and spa-ing. Located on Playa Acapulquito, one of the top surfing beaches in Los Cabos, with the Mike Doyle Surfing School on site, there’s never been a more ideal or picturesque place to learn how to surf. Watch the little tikes take on their first waves or hop on a board yourself. And the word “corporate” has never had a more pleasant ring to it than when referring to Corporate Surfing and Team Building on the Sea of Cortes. Besides the killer waves, the Sea Spa and Salon is an after-hour surfer’s best friend. Ease away the tension of a good day’s workout with a Progressive Massage. A relaxing massage is followed by a mud jet tub bath and topped off with a Deep Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage. And finally, we suggest closing the day with Tri-colored Shrimp Ravioli and a glass of wine at 7 Seas Seafood Grille.

Related activities

Surfers are not the only ones that enjoy Cabo Surf Hotel and Spa. Spend an afternoon in San Jose del Cabo for shopping, fine dining or just strolling through the plazas.

Getting there

From San Jose del Cabo Airport, access the main highway and travel south toward Cabo San Lucas. Stay on the highway as you go through San Jose del Cabo. You are close to the resort when you see the Costa Azul Beach. After the curve on Lookout Point, make a left turn at the next exit, located in front of Cabo Surf Hotel and Spa’s entrance.

Related Onsite Offerings

Each Cabo Surf Hotel room, suite or villa comes with air conditioning, wireless Internet, satellite TV, marble floors and ocean views for the utmost in comfort and convenience.

Cobblestone paths interrupted by trickling fountains, dinner by candlelight surrounded by stone archways and a wine cellar enclosed by a wrought iron gate. No, you have not traveled back to the turn of the century. You have entered our classically chic No. 6 pick.

The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort and Spa harnesses the spirit of Old-World Mexican haciendas and brings it to life in vibrant color. Discover secluded free form pools among the lush flora of tropical Los Cabos or study the way the infinity-edge pool seems to stretch out into the Sea of Cortez forever. The Sheraton is an inspiring destination for romantic Mexico getaways. A moonlit stroll with your sweetheart will reveal romantic footbridges and plenty of peace and quiet. The Sheraton is also a Baja family vacation spot with bonding activities like ATV tours, horseback riding on the beach and children’s pools. Even though the name is Cactus Spa, there is nothing prickly about this center for well-being. Pamper your skin after being outside with the sand and sun in the Spa’s Vichy Shower. After the Hydro-massage and exfoliation effects, step out of the shower and into a spa treatment room for a hot stone massage.

Highlights

Dine in a skillfully recreated elegant hacienda-style restaurant, Pitahayas. Enjoy live classical music, candlelit tables, delicious Pacific Rim cuisine and excellent selections from the wine cellar.

Related activities

Get in the swing of things at one of five championship golf courses surrounding The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort and Spa. The diverse landscape of desert sand, tropical emerald plants and blue ocean waves make for a dramatic round.

Related Onsite Offerings

All guestrooms are accompanied by an in-room Jacuzzi tub, a private balcony with furniture and views of the ocean, gardens or golf courses, the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and more.

Our No. 8 spot has us hooked for one pure and simple reason: comfort. The Grand Mayan Los Cabos is built with everything luxury in mind. Located on the acclaimed southern tip of Baja, The Grand Mayan takes its paradise surroundings seriously, and then gives them an upgrade.

The Grand Mayan heralds back to the very roots of Mexican history, as seen in touches like the two stone serpent-like heads bordering the outdoor pool. While we find this intriguing and maybe even a little intimidating with the impending 2012 calendar speculation, the guest rooms are anything but intimidating – that is, as long as you don’t shy away from a Jacuzzi tub or personal plunge pool on your spacious balcony, blenders for margaritas in a fully-equipped kitchen and tasteful Mexican desert-influenced décor. If you’re looking for a non-beach related Los Cabos pastime, head down to the resort’s nine-hole, par-35 golf course built into the grand mountain and ocean landscape. Or, wait until the sun goes down and enjoy live music, shows and fruity cocktails!

Highlights

Related activities

After aquatic adventures like jet skiing, snorkeling or SCUBA diving, relax at the world-class Brio Spa.

Getting there

From SJD Airport, exit the airport and choose the toll or regular free highway toward San Jose del Cabo. Both are known as Carretera Transpeninsular, or Highway 1, and travel south. Follow the signs for San Jose del Cabo. When you arrive in the city, turn left on Paseo San Jose. The Grand Mayan is located on your right going east.

Related Onsite Offerings

The Grand Mayan’s luxury rooms also come with a safe, high-speed Internet, a bathrobe, coffee or tea and more.

We’ve heard of receiving the royal treatment before, but never have we been invited to a palace – until now! Our No. 9 spot not only offers rooms fit for a king or queen, it tips the scale when it comes to regal luxe Los Cabos amenities.

A Baja vacation at Barcelo Los Cabos Palace Deluxe would even make the Queen of Sheba jealous. Well, with actual swim-up suites, who wouldn’t be jealous? The suites themselves are decorated with the warm colors of the desert land that enhances the tropical ambiance. The location of its suites is not the only locale worth boasting about. Barcelo is also steps from all of the action of downtown San Jose del Cabo. You don’t have to step outside of the resort for prime entertainment if you don’t want to, though. Onsite is a piano bar in the lobby, not to mention three bars in the pool itself. Still not convinced this is a true Baja luxury kingdom? Well, let your appetite decide at one of five a la carte restaurants, ranging from Spanish and Sea of Cortes-inspired dishes to French and Japanese cuisine.

Related activities

If your little princes and princesses are getting restless, the Rhino Safari is just the thing! Travel to the Carisuva Ranch to play with goats, horses and other farm animals.

Fun facts

The onsite Italian restaurant, Bon Vivant, honors Botticelli with close-ups on the walls of his main chef-d’oeuvres.

Related Onsite Offerings

Pamper your royal self with an outdoor massage from Aztlan Spa or relax in their special bubble beds or steam bath.

Working to seamlessly connect heaven and earth, our No. 10 Baja Mexico resort could not have a more appropriate name to describe its style, accommodations and amenities. Welcome to the one – and the only – One and Only Palmilla.

One and Only Palmilla fuses antique elegance with contemporary taste to produce a strikingly sleek suite. Daybeds and dining furniture on your own terrace are convenient for afternoon naps in the sun or eating al fresco with the sea breeze. But when it comes to relaxation, we’ve got our eye out for the best deals. And our eyes have fallen, as well as the rest of us, head over heels for One and Only Palmilla Spa. Take care of more than just your body with a Spa Journey. Combining a nutritious meal menu, ESPA treatments and fitness activities, you will be inspired to make lifestyle changes for your wellbeing. If you are worried about what to do with the kids, bring them along! That’s right, the spa has a Family Sanctuary with treatments for you and your 12 year old or above. Enjoy an ESPA Facial as your child receives a mini-facial, hand massage and nail art!

Highlights

If you can’t get enough of One and Only, check out their resorts in Dubai, the Bahamas, Cape Town and more.

Related activities

If you can leave the gorgeous One and Only Palmilla, travel into San Jose del Cabo and tour the historic 18th century mission and shops full of handmade crafts, silver and clothing.

Fun facts

One and Only Palmilla was awarded No. 1 resort for service in Mexico in 2009 by Travel + Leisure magazine.

The Spanish conquistadors first came to Los Cabos in search of pearls, silver and gold. Though that might not be on your list of what makes a perfect Mexico vacation, finding valuable and luxurious accommodations is. We found a real Los Cabos treasure and it’s our numero uno.

The Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf Resort is a seaside oasis on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. Reflecting the Mexican culture and surroundings, the Hilton uses vibrant colors, Mediterranean-influenced architecture and a stunning hacienda-style courtyard with a cascading pond. Taking another tip from its surroundings, Hilton Los Cabos is also ideally located near courses like the Jack Nicklaus-designed Cabo Del Sol, Club Campestre in the foothills of the Sierras, Robert Trent Jones II’s diverse Cabo Real and more! We like living on the edge and the edge of Hilton Los Cabos is very appealing. Beyond the stretch of golden beach sand is the edge of the Sea of Cortes. Not only does this sparkling blue water dazzle the eye, it is also the only swimming-allowed beach in Los Cabos – and you have exclusive access to it.

Highlights

Despite the comfort of your Hilton Premier Suite, make sure to visit Spa Oasis. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and feel the tightening and toning effects of the Caviar and Pearl Eye Impact paired with a Volcano Facial!

Getting there

From the San Jose Del Cabo International Airport, simply drive south on Transpeninsular Highway past San Jose Del Cabo to Cabo Real Development.

Related Onsite Offerings

If you’d rather not dip your toes into the Sea of Cortes, take a full body dip in the Infinity pool with a swim-up bar.

The simplistic cactus and palapas-like roof offsets the blindingly white building and looks like a ranch house entrance, but the further you delve into this intriguing place, the clearer it becomes. This is our No. 2 Baja Mexico Resort.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso leads you from the elementary desert views to the captivating paradise vistas. Appropriately named the “Windows to Paradise,” Las Ventanas is host to your Mexico vacation with sun, sand and shore. Stick to the hot and dry on a desert excursion or opt for the cooler, aquatic option of snorkeling and SCUBA diving. If it’s just the two of you, consult the Department of Romance. The Romance menu has plenty of options to keep the sparks flying, including salsa dancing lessons for two, a Sea and Star Massage and an Aphrodisiac Dinner with a romantic message in a bottle that appears on the beach as you are dining. If your feet are itching to get off the sand and into the water, you’re in luck. Las Ventanas is in Los Cabos, perfect for sailing and sea kayaking. Explore undeveloped coastline, coves, inlets, water caves and beaches or just discover a small island to have lunch on.

Related activities

You’re sure to fall in love with a dish or two at one of four Las Ventanas restaurants. To take the culinary magic home with you, take a cooking class on Saturday mornings in the herb garden from the resort’s chefs.

Getting there

Airlines that service the San Jose Del Cabo Airport include American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Mexicana, Continental, America West and Aero Mexico. Las Ventanas al Paraiso is a short flight from several major cities such as Dallas, Pheonix, San Diego and Mexico City.

Related Onsite Offerings

Las Ventanas al Paraiso don’t just come with chic décor and plush furniture, they also come with a unique in-room tequila welcome!

Crystal blue waters framed by rugged brown mountains from your Caribbean-style room with flowing white curtains and a lagoon-style swimming pool beneath your spacious balcony. No, this is not your nightly dream about escaping to a resort, it’s real; Melia Cabo Real, that is.

For our No. 3 resort, we were looking for a true Baja fiesta – and Melia Cabo Real delivered! For the children, Melia Cabo has Club 4 for four months to four year olds and a Mini-Club with a playground for five to 12 year olds. For you, there is the Cabo Real golf course next door, a rock climbing wall on site, two tennis courts, a beach zip-line, oceanfront Jacuzzi for 10 and more. For a family Mexico adventure, go deep-sea fishing in the famed Marlin Alley or spend a day snorkeling, jet skiing and windsurfing. Still not convinced it’s an authentic fiesta? Well, your tongue will tell the truth once it tastes the exquisite dishes at one of the themed nights, like beach party or – not surprisingly – traditional Mexican Fiesta night! The party continues with convenient amenities like an Internet café, bilingual babysitters, a beauty parlor and spa, a fitness center and more.

Highlights

Though it seems impossible, there is a step up from Melia Cabo Real luxury. It’s called the M Experience. As an M Experience guest, you’ll enjoy a King-size bed with extra pillows, a bathrobe and slippers, a hydro-massage showerhead and more.

Related activities

Indulge in a night or two…or four…at Melia Cabo Real’s onsite restaurants. Enjoy the local Mexican Pacific cuisine or indulge in flavors from the other side of the globe at Kujira Asian Bistro.

Related Onsite Offerings

You’ve tied the knot, now slip away to enjoy that blissful alone time with Melia Cabo Real’s Moon and Stars Honeymoon Package. Sip sparkling wine during a romantic Jacuzzi tub night with flower petals and candles, enjoy a private romantic dinner for two and late check-out the next day.

We’ve seen our fair share of luxurious and stately rooms, but our No. 5 pick blew us straight out of those clear azure Mexican waters when we saw the fresh and refined look of not just the rooms, but inside Javier’s Restaurant and the PAZ Spa, as well.

The classic pairing of black and cream is the common thread that runs throughout Cabo Azul Resort to create a timeless experience. The Old-World Spanish influences, like hanging lanterns and floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains, blend with modern comforts like contemporary lighting and seating. Tearing ourselves away from these villas is hard work, but once it’s over, the appetite we worked up could only be satisfied at Javier’s. Using the freshest and finest ingredients, this five-star restaurant delivers gourmet Mexican cuisine in the romantic Sea of Cortes setting. The sophisticated elegance, on and off your plate, is the ideal eatery for an intimate dinner for two. Finally, the PAZ Spa is more than just easy on the eyes. It is easy on the muscles, joints, skin and the list goes on. PAZ translates as “peace” and this spa lives up to its name with treatments such as two pairs of synchronized hands giving a relaxing massage.

Highlights

With more than 12 oceanfront acres, Cabo Azul is in a prime location to see several Los Cabos sights, such as The Arch, which leads to the Cabos beaches, and is only 12 miles from San Jose del Cabo Airport.

Related activities

Get acquainted with the friendly flippers of the sea at an interactive 30-minute Dolphin Discovery program.

Related Onsite Offerings

Instead of stressing over a seating chart, bring a few loved ones and your significant other to be married in the five-story, open-air wedding chapel with candlelit waterfalls at Cabo Azul Resort.

For our No.7 spot we went off the grid – literally! Although it is too far from San Jose del Cabo for taxi travel, doesn’t have phone lines and only has electricity via solar power, Villa del Faro is far from the setting for a Mexican ghost town tale.

Villa del Faro is a place full of tranquility wrapped in the unspoiled and captivating East Cape of Baja Sur scenery. For families or couples wanting a genuine Mexico escape, the seaside casas are havens brimming with character and comfort. Our personal favorite, the Casa Alberca, boasts a canopied king-size bed, a balcony and a living room that opens up to the outdoor mosaic pool. For the solitary travelers, there is the Stone Beach Cottage. Rustic in a tropical sense, the cottage is located on a private stretch of beach with stone fireplace. The outside shower will ensure a most intimate and exotic experience with the desert environment. Rest in the open air Summer House with stone steps that lead up to a furnished ocean view veranda or take advantage of some of the best surfing beach on the East Cape. The most important amenity to enjoy, however, is the secluded serenity.

Related activities

Take an “Awesome” fishing trip – literally – by renting “The Awesome” fishing boat that will pick you up from your house and bring you back at the end of the day.

Getting there

Since Villa del Faro is a distance from the Los Cabos airport, it is best to rent a car at the airport, especially one with four-wheel drive if you are planning on exploring the area.

Fun facts

Since all the houses run on solar power, electricity is used sparingly at night. The Casa Alberca has an inverter that uses energy stored in a battery. For a few hours during the day, a generator is run to power washing machines and other tools.

Find your own slice of paradise at La Isla - Casa del Mar, where the breathtaking scenery outside the home brings a tropical postcard to life.

Peer out to the ocean as the pristine blue waters calmly crash on the shores. Not only can you look but you can touch — Casa del mar has private access to the beach. Just as impressive, the home has its own pool and jacuzzi that you can enjoy privately. On the interior, you’ll find four bedrooms that can sleep up to 14 guests so space shouldn’t be an issue. King beds furnish every bedroom where you’ll sleep comfortably with the bathrooms just steps away. Craft your own meals in the fully-equipped room or explore Bucerías where you can bite into mouth-watering gastronomy like fresh ceviches and other local specialties. The ocean will be your home at Casa del Mar!

Extra Stops

A great beach to visit nearby is Playa la Manzanilla which is great for kids and has lots of shops and places to eat within the area.

Highlights

All bedrooms come equipped with a flatscreen television and a bathroom making it fair for everyone!

Related Onsite Offerings

Feel safe and secure in your home, with 24-hour security keeping you protected.

Offering beautiful condominiums and affordable Vallarta lifestyle casitas, La Isla Vallarta is an ideal vacation spot for a family, couple, or friends on the Pacific Ocean coast of Mexico.

Explore the natural beauty of Nuevo Vallarta with bird watching, hiking, and nature photography. Plan a trip to the famous hidden beach in Islas Marietas National Park or plan a day swimming with the majestic dolphins. Feel safe in your gated surroundings with 24-hour security, as well as amenities like wireless internet, a fully-equipped kitchen, and stunning ocean views. Outside of the rooms, guests also have access to the clubhouse, jacuzzi, pool, and barbecues. Miles of white-sand shoreline are waiting for you to lounge, build sandcastles, or swim in the refreshing ocean waters.

Address

Av. Paseo de los Cocoteros #56 sur Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit 63732 MX

Fun facts

There is more than 549 km² filled with a variety of flora and fauna of the region.

Related Onsite Offerings

Guests will have access to the world-class Golf Course & Sports Center, El Tigre, for an additional fee. It consists of two gyms, a spa area, a pool and more.

Casa Mar y Estralla is a remarkably beautiful home in the prestigious Altillow neighborhood of Puerto Los Cabos that provides top of the line amenities and spectacular views.

You’ll feel right at home when you stay at Casa Mar y Estrealla. The phenomenal indoor-outdoor spaces are the backdrop to a vacation unlike any other. Choose between the two master suites on the main level with ocean views to the master suite on the garden level boasting a covered patio. If outside, take advantage of the patio features including a fireplace and grill as well as a pool and hot tub. Soak up the sun on the warm days of Baja when you take a dip in the infinity-edge pool before heading inside and preparing a meal in the exquisite kitchen. This spectacular home will provide everything you need for the vacation of a lifetime!

Highlights

From December through April over 2,500 humpback whales pass between Grand Turks and Salt Cay islands.

Related activities

At nearby Chalk Sound National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to rent a pontoon, kayak, or paddleboat.

Related Onsite Offerings

Concierge services to ease you into the house and surrounding area include a meet and greet, coordination of chef services, and coordination of in-home massage and spa services.

Casa de la Playa brings the beauty of Baja California right into your living space. Their impeccably furnished accommodation is rich with amenities to make your getaway the vacation of a lifetime.

Situated beside the Sea of Cortez, this lavish destination is perfect for family vacations, a friend’s trip, or a romantic getaway. It sleeps up to 12 and is just footsteps from the secluded white sandy beach where you’ll be able to walk for miles uninterrupted. Feel at ease maneuvering inside where the open concept layout provides ample space between the living area and fully-equipped kitchen. Two master bedrooms, two double queen bedrooms, and a loft can comfortably shelter up to 12. Step outside and you’ll find two fire pits where you can spend your nights staring up at the stars while the waves washing to shore create an epic sense of serenity.

Address

HG69+43 Punta Arena Los Cabos, Baja California Sur 23454

Related activities

At nearby National Marine Park at Cabo Pulmo, you can dive and take in the beauty of the coral reef complete with all of the sea life that lives among it.

Related Onsite Offerings

Also available onsite is a beachfront hot tub, a rooftop deck, and an indoor patio complete with a private pool and loungers.