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Foodie Fun: Los Cabos Restaurants to Try
Los Cabos is turning into a foodie destination, with a burst of new restaurants that can be Michelin- star fancy to on-the-beach casual. The Mexico resort destination has everything it takes to be a sought-after destination for travelers all over the world. There are magical beaches, year-round sunshine, water-based activities, a fun nightlife, an abundance of fancy hotels. Adding to that list are Los Cabos restaurants with phenomenal food!
So, whether you’re a curious rambler or an enthusiastic connoisseur seeking new dining experiences in Los Cabos, we’ve got you covered with these six must-try Los Cabos restaurants.
Los Tres Gallos
There’s no way you can be in Los Cabos without stopping by one of the top traditional Mexican restaurants in the area! This charming restaurant is a destination for anyone searching for authentic Mexican flavors and aromas — from sopa de tortilla to quesadillas to every other fantastic Mexican dish you can imagine!
Michel Zermeño (the co-owner, along with his wife) likes to bring his mother to the kitchen every once in a while to make sure the food is being made with love and to maintain that authentic touch.
If the extensive Mexican menu isn’t satisfying enough – although that’s near impossible – Los Tres Gallos gives you a mesmerizing open-air experience: a brick-walled courtyard decorated with string lights, mariachis, and fruit trees. The final tip is to try their mole dishes (a popular Mexican sauce); those will leave you hooked!
Location: Leona Vicario Esquina 20 de Noviembre, Cabo San Lucas. 1.4 miles from El Arco
The Office on the Beach
Enjoying the freshest seafood with the golden sand of Medano Beach between your toes, what else could someone wish for?
The Office On The Beach came into being the ‘70s when few visitors went to the then-isolated, remote peninsula. With a wide array of mouthwatering goodies on their menu, this small kitchen quickly became a firm favorite for locals.
Their dishes are primarily simple and delicious: beef burritos, coconut prawns, and plenty of cuba libres and margaritas. And, what’s more: incredible live musical performances happen on the beach in front of you. Put this on your map for repeat visits. It may become your favorite hangout in Los Cabos.
Location: Playa El Medano S/N, El Medano Ejidal, El Medano, Cabo San Lucas
Los Tamarindos
When it comes to fresh food, Los Tamarindos reigns supreme. Located in a farmhouse that dates back to the 19th Century, this farm-to-table restaurant constantly changes the menu according to the seasonal crops they grow in the surrounding fields.
The food there is as fresh as it can be — locally produced chickens from the restaurant’s own flock of Cornish hens, freshly caught fish by a local fisherman, freshly-cut seasonal crops, and a drinks menu derived from fresh local ingredients. And, since tequila is the star spirit in these parts, you’ll find plenty of it at Los Tamarindos.
If a Mexican menu made with love isn’t yet enough for you, Los Tamarindos offers you a hands-on experience with their cooking classes, which are held in their adjoining kitchen terrace.
Location: C. de Las Animas s/n, Animas Bajas, 23407 San José del Cabo
Nick-San
Sushi fanatics, this is your chance to experience the heavenly fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine with unique Mexican ingredients. Though the idea of cuisine fusion is quite common nowadays, the award-winning restaurant, led by Chef Angel Carbajal, has been among the top restaurants in Los Cabos for more than 26 years.
Find a wide variety of rolls to taste on from their menu — tuna tostada (featuring a Pacific Ocean yellowfin tuna belly on a rice cracker tostada, served with habanero, infused red onion, sliced avocado, and sesame seeds), Home-Made Gyozas (stuffed with shrimp and scallops and finished with serranito soy sauce), and many other mouth-watering options are available.
Plus, there are options for lobster lovers. Sample the fried lobster curry, the clear lobster rolls, and the lobster sambal.
If you want to further your Nick-San experience, they have their own apparel line – Wasabi — with shirts and many other branded clothing options at Nick-San’s two locations.
Locations: The Shoppes at Palmilla, Local 116, Corredor Turístico in San José del Cabo; and Plaza de la Danza, Blvd. Paseo de la Marina, Centro, Cabo San Lucas
Cocina de Autor
Among all restaurants in Los Cabos, only a few are led by a Michelin-star chef. If you want to know what it feels like to have your dinner prepared by two-star Michelin chef Sidney Schutte, Cocina de Autor is precisely where you should head.
What to expect: A sensational, creative, and playful dining experience that can start with a cocktail tour held by the mixologists at the restaurant’s bar. Then, you’re led to your table to sit and enjoy an innovative 8-10 course tasting menu featuring the freshest, finest, locally-produced meats and seafood. To make things even better, the restaurant was designed to be an ode to sophistication, where the exteriors and interiors feature stunning views of the lily pond and gardens.
Location: Grand Velas Los Cabos, Carretera Transpeninsular Km. 17, San José del Cabo, Corredor Turístico
Comal
There are tons of reasons to give Comal a shot, especially with your romantic partner, and at the top of those reasons is enjoying the picturesque views of the Sea of Cortes. This ocean-front restaurant at the Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, is currently one of the hottest restaurants in Los Cabos. The decor is designed by a high-profile designer with a beautiful perch over the sea and mood lighting from a wall lined with flickering candles.
Dishes here are prepared with an taste for the traditional and authentic, but injected with an innovative, adventurous accents. In addition to their tasty traditional dishes, you can find some intriguing fine-dining options on their menu, such as wagyu barbacoa and duck carnitas. Kumamoto Oysters with Aji Amarillo, Chives and Shallot are a straight shot for appetizers.
Location: Carretera Transpeninsular San Jose-San Lucas Km. 15, Playa Chileno Bay, Cabo San Lucas
Los Cabos Restaurants: Foodie Takeaways
Our list of six must-try foodie experiences in Los Cabos barely scratches the surface. You can really have it all in Los Cabos; each place has its own special charm and its own unique dining experience. Whether traditional Mexican cuisine, sushi, fine dining with a deluge of romance, oeuvres by top chefs, farm-to-table sensations, or a relaxing shorefront experience … take your pick. All options are on the table.
Los Cabos Guides
Swim with Whale Sharks in Los Cabos
To swim with whale sharks may sound intimidating. And, indeed, it is worthy of at least a T-shirt at the end of a dive to proclaim a passing a fear hurdle, if not announcing a bragworthy experience. They are, in fact and with the capability of growing to lengths of up to 60 feet, the largest fish in the ocean these days.
So, a day of swimming with a pod of whale sharks will be a day like no other. And travelers need not cross the oceans to Papua New Guinea nor Indonesia or even the Indian Ocean coast of Africa to find them. The shores of the eastern Baja will do the trick with families of Rhincodon Typus inhabiting the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez off La Paz – an easy 90-120 minutes by car from Los Cabos.
For those visiting Los Cabos and willing to leave their cushy villas for a day of adventure, they find whale sharks in these warm waters just about all year. But if you are one of these adventurers in hot pursuit, you will want to go in the coolest months between November and April, when the gathering is of these behemoths is at its highest. And the best part is the safe swimming to be done with these gentle giants. Whale sharks feed on plankton and do not possess sharp and dangerous teeth, although they do have a bunch of tiny teeth for filtering their food. The worse that could happen is perhaps the huge smooshy fish kiss you might get if you pass too close. These are not great white shark with an interest in sensing you and eating you. They are not even like many dolphins or sea lions swimming in the Sea of Cortez with a keen curiosity and an interest in playing. Rather, these sharks could care less about you and are only on the prowl for plankton and krill. Their mouths are bigger than their bite as even though their gaping maws could easily fit a human body, there is nowhere to go as their throats are barely larger than a small fist.
And, in fact, the smells humans bring often repel these precious creatures. The paba and chemicals from SPF lotions, hair products and other coverings actually hurt the whale shark, making their eyes sting causing an elusive behavior as they down to cleaner waters to get away from the scents.
With all the seeming friendliness of this legendary fish, naturally touching or petting a whale shark is ill advised. A powerful tail can whip the curious snorkeler from behind and do serious damage. Your guide will likely advise a safe three-foot distance from the head and a good ten-foot space from the tail, suggesting swimming fast to stay ahead of the massive fish rather than dangling beside or behind it.
In Los Cabos, the whale shark’s swimming pool is the Sea of Cortez. It is often referred to as the Aquarium of the World, as originally described by Jacques Cousteau. It is actually a marginal sea attached to the greater Pacific Ocean with a sizeable coastline running for 2,500 miles and a total surface area of some 62,000 square miles.
Find the Sea of Cortez off the eastern arm of Baja California and touching the Mexican mainland. It is easily one of the premier diving sites on the planet and its protected in its beauty as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other than whale sharks and whales, the calm inland sea is a living museum of marine life as diverse and spectacular as any on Earth, with more than 5,000 species of micro-invertebrates. On the other end of the scale find some of the planet’s largest sea creatures: humpback whales, California gray and blue whales, killer whales, manta rays, leatherback sea turtles, Humboldt squids, bottlenose dolphins and the quickly vanishing vaquita, the world’s smallest porpoise.
The Sea of Cortez also harbors more than 900 islands that mostly serve as nesting spots for all manner of seabirds, with hatching blue-footed boobies making a visitor favorite among the sights. Swimming with curious and playful sea lions may come as a bonus adventure to those on a shark quest.
Swimming with Whale Sharks: Day Tours
Los Cabos offers several tour companies and outfitters ready to take on the cause of ferrying guests from Los Cabos to La Paz and then heading for whale shark swimming territory.
The Los Cabos official website, Visitloscabos.com, lists a few of these. Price per person can be as low as $60 and as high as $260 depending on what’s included in the adventure. For instance, Cabo-Adventures offers an eight-hour day with these lumbering marvels that includes snorkel equipment, wetsuit and towels, bottled water, a light breakfast and full “Baja style” lunch, fresh juices and flavored waters, professional bilingual guides and round trip transportation in an air-conditioned van from Los Cabos to La Paz. Currently, the rate is currently discounted to $174 per person. Private tours are also available.
Amstar offers these tours for $80 person using a catamaran on the sea of Cortez with drinks and music onboard. Wetsuits and snorkel gear are supplied and guests can jump in the water once the whale-sized fish are spotted. The trip includes transportation from Los Cabos to La Paz with a stop in the art town of Todos Santos for breakfast and a stop for independent lunch explorations and shopping in La Paz, plus water, sodas and the help of certified guides.
Once you swim with a whale shark you’ll want to help ensure their survival. The Whale Shark Project in Los Cabos is your answer to that as scientists working to track whale sharks with satellite tags and monitor their safety and protect their habitat.
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Los Cabos Guides
Should You Consider a Luxurious Cabo Villa Vacation?
Cabo villa vacations are in. American vacationers are flocking to Los Cabos in tsunami waves of interest and excitement. Although the U.S. border with Mexico remains closed to non-essential travel as it has been since the start of the pandemic, there is nothing stopping eager vacationers from flying in and heading right to the party. Mexico does not have quarantine restrictions or testing requirements for those entering, although those freedoms do not hold true on return to the U.S.
The U.S. State Department, which recently aligned policy with guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control, currently places Mexico at a Level 3 threat – actually a safer bet against the dozens of countries at the CDC’s level 4 threat that include many European destinations recently re-opened to Americans. And for the Baja, where Los Cabos can be found, the numbers are even better as the resort destination counts the fewest recent Covid cases in Mexico currently, according to a daily update provided by the New York Times.
No matter what the numbers, however, American vacationers remain undaunted. More than 2 million Americans visited Mexico in the first four months of this year and, according to Mexican government statistics, these were only 76 percent of all international visitors – tallied via arrivals by air. Furthermore, data reports show travel to Mexico from the US is up nearly 32 percent in this third quarter of 2021 alone, viewed against the same period in 2019.
While there remains much danger in exposure as Americans head south of the border for end of summer fiestas, and the Delta variant is only adding to this clear and present threat, many of those looking to party safely are bringing their party pods with them and choosing the safety and privacy of a villa vacation as the way to go.
In March, Los Cabos was named the world’s first VERIFIED travel destination through the independent health validation firm Sharecare. To manage this, the region’s hotels had to complete and maintain verification on some 360 global health security standards, including cleaning products and procedures, ventilation, hygiene protocols, and health/safety communication.
Demand for private homes and villas as vacation choices have been ticking up since the lockdown last year. Homes & Villas by Marriott International (HVMI), in fact, saw a 720% increase in just the first quarter of this year. As consumers return to their now normal in germ-ridden offices and contact with unvaccinated co-workers, many are opting for a safer escape option for those things they can control, such as planning a vacation.
A villa vacation in Los Cabos is likely the best solution. Properties in Villas del Mar by the waters of the Sea of Cortez can sleep as many as 20 guests in comfort in large rooms with private terraces, palatial bathrooms and stunning views of the sea. Broken down by guest numbers, nightly rates at Elegant Mexico often come out way ahead of resort costs and with many more amenities thrown in.
The villas here are a short distance (perhaps a 20 minute drive) from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), often managed with luxury chauffeur services on request. Private flyers head down to Cabo San Lucas at the tip of the peninsula.
Each villa is its own design and purpose, whether a mere three-bedroom manse or a ten-bedroom palace, and each is rife with perfect places to socialize, read, think, work, meditate, watch a movie, party, sip, sun, swim and dine. Imagine waking up to a honey stream of sunlight on your bed, calling your butler for coffee, savoring that coffee in quiet on your patio overlooking the sea and then wandering out to the kitchen later to have a veritable breakfast feast prepared for you by the villa’s private chef.
You head out to your private and meandering pool area later to take a dip in the flowing waters and perhaps take in some morning sun reading the New York Times on your iPad. You plan your day with suggestions from the butler and then have the villa concierge put those plans into motion.
You take a morning bath in the soaking tub in your bedroom, decorated with colorful Talevera tiles and flanked with an open wall allowing in wide views of the sea and sky. You enjoy a cocktail and plate of custom enchiladas for lunch, prepared on request by the villa chef, and then you make your way out for a challenging golf game at the One&Only Palmilla next door, or shopping for artsy notions in nearby San Jose del Cabo. By evening, it’s time to party with your pod over pizza and beer in the outside kitchen and patio, followed by a soak in the Jacuzzi and stories told around the fire pit.
These choices, although they sound expensive, often pencil out to much less when considering the size of your party pod, the fact that you are not paying for libations by the cocktail or meals by the plate. Plus, you are getting dedicated service for whatever your needs are. And such considerations do not even touch the safety factor – that you are in private quarters and not interfacing continuously with people you do not know.
The simple pleasures of a villa vacation in Los Cabos are a hidden treasure of the travel field, often offered up by travel agents who have a true knowledge of the landscape, prices and benefits. While villa vacations have been the tried and true playground for top tiers of the once percent crowd, the playing field is ever more democratic with ever burgeoning choices. Elegant Mexico knows this, and knows the way in to this precious secret. Villa vacations in Los Cabos have never been so accessible … until now. Contact us today to learn more or click here to check out some of our favorite rentals – our Del Mar Cabo San Lucas Mansion Rentals!
Los Cabos Guides
Los Cabos: Where Hollywood Celebrities Vacation
There’s a good reason why so many famous Hollywood celebrities can be seen in Los Cabos. With high-end shopping, gorgeous views of nature, and plenty of activities on land and sea, you can often spot celebrities in Los Cabos. You can not only feel like you’re among the stars with a trip to Los Cabos, you can live like one, too, if you book your stay in a private villa!
Where Hollywood Celebrities Go
George Clooney
Famous Hollywood celebrity George Clooney has been a visitor of Los Cabos for more than 30 years. In 2009, Clooney and his friends Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber built two beachfront homes right next to each other and named the compound Casamigos, which means House of Friends. Clooney and Gerber also developed their own brand of tequila, also called Casamigos, while spending time in Mexico.
Jennifer Lopez
J-Lo has spent lots of time in Los Cabos, often having her birthday bashes south of the border. The spa at Las Ventanas is her go-to spa and other celebrities, such as Madonna and Cameron Diaz, are also frequent visitors of this luxurious spa. Known for its innovative Four Elements spa menu, inspired by ancient Aztec healers, it taps the powers of earth, air, fire, and water for ultimate rejuvenation. Recommended: “Spiritual Chilam,” a 90-minute holistic ‘ritual’ that fuses a stone massage with meditation.
Justin and Hailey Bieber
Instagram tells all. Hollywood celebrities like singer Justin Bieber and his wife, model Hailey Bieber, recently posted photos of themselves vacationing in Los Cabos this summer. They were seen boarding a yacht on the bay of Cape San Lucas, taking a tour of the gorgeous waters. This is not the first time the pop star has been spotted vacationing in luxury in Los Cabos. He celebrated his birthday there in 2016! Hailey was also in Los Cabos back in June with supermodel pal Kendall Jenner for a girl’s weekend.
Jennifer Aniston
Count Jennifer Aniston into the Cabo scene for Hollywood celebrities. It is said that she visits so often locals call her the “Queen of Cabo”. Aniston often brings her famous pals including fellow Friends actress Courtney Cox, actors Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. Her favorite place to stay in Los Cabos is San Jose Del Cabo.
The Kardashians
Over the years this famous family has traveled there for vacations, birthdays, romantic surprises, and photoshoots. In early 2020, self-styled Hollywood celebrity phenom Kim Kardashian did a photoshoot for her popular makeup and beauty brand KKW Beauty in Cabo San Lucas. Kourtney Kardashian along with her three children spent quality family time surfing and relaxing by the pool back in 2016.
Best in Los Cabos to See Hollywood Celebrities
Medano Beach
If you ever visit this beautiful beach, there’s no doubt you’ll see a celebrity or two. A diverse group of celebrities has been spotted here: from Paris Hilton to Tommy Lee to Lil Jon. Considered one of the most popular beaches in the area there’s plenty to do with bars and yachts all around and activities like snorkeling and jet-skiing.
Agua
This high-end Mexican-Mediterranean restaurant has served such celebrities as Oprah Winfrey, Adam Sandler, Eva Longoria, and Miles Teller. When dining here, not only do you get a chance to wine and dine alongside Hollywood glitteratti, but you can also enjoy a fantastic view of the Sea of Cortez. This restaurant is dedicated to serving the freshest possible produce, meaning each season the menu changes.
Cabo Wabo Cantina
Started by former Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar, this nightclub and restaurant feature fantastic food, cool drinks, and the best music around. Considered THE nightlife hotspot in Cabo San Lucas, musicians like Kid Rock and Kenny Chesney can be seen rocking out to the live music and drinking their famous margaritas.
Playa del Amor – Lover’s Beach
This beautiful beach can only be reached by boat, stretching across the Land’s End peninsula from the Sea of Cortes to the Pacific Ocean. The secluded location is the perfect romantic destination for a day by the sea. Spend the day with your partner and admire Mexico’s lush and uninhabited Marieta Islands. This hidden gem has become a famous secret romantic spot ever since actor Eddie Cibrian famously surprised singer LeAnn Rimes with a romantic yachting excursion to this exclusive beach on the couple’s honeymoon.
Palomar Restaurant and Bar
Palomar has drawn in celebrities since the Hollywood golden years of Bing Crosby and John Wayne. When dining here be sure to strike up a conversation with one of the employees to hear everything about the celebrities of yore who have visited this popular Cabo restaurant and bar over the years. Don’t forget to enjoy Mexican specialties like garlic octopus, chile rellenos, chicken tostadas, and plenty more.
Nobu Los Cabos
Robert De Niro in Los Cabos at the opening of Nobu
Nobu opened in Los Cabos in 2019, and more than a few notables came to check out the beaches and enjoy quantities of creative sushi combos dreamed up and fashioned by Nobu Matsuhisa. The new Nobu-branded hotel is co-owned by Robert De Niro, who joined the festivities that were also attended by Leo DiCaprio and actress Allison Janney, among others. The 200-room luxury property also offers another hometown fave as a healthy dining alternative to taco chips and Coronas — Malibu Farm. And no doubt you will feel like you are in your own movie as you wander the stark white hotel corridors that pour onto beaches you will have all to yourself.
Allison Janney explores the beaches of Los Cabos with friends
Los Cabos Guides
Things to Do in Los Cabos: Hidden Gems
Live like a local by checking out all these things to do in Los Cabos — special hidden gems on your next trip to Los Cabos. You’ll find everything from historic towns, natural phenomena, and delicious food!
Cabo Pulmo
Located 60 miles north of Los Cabos, Cabo Pulmo stretches five miles from the northernmost tip, Pulmo Point to the southernmost tip, Los Frailes. This National Marine Park is home to the only hard coral reef in the Gulf of California. The reef of Cabo Pulmo is considered the treasure of Los Cabos and has over 800 species of marine life, hence its nickname, ‘’The Aquarium of the World’’. In fact, Cabo Pulmo National Park has the largest increase in biomass observed by scientists in any protected area. As one of the things to do in Los Cabos, put this on your vacation list.
Miraflores
Whether you’re craving seafood, fresh produce, or artisanal plates, San Jose and the East Cape have plenty of options to keep you satisfied. Dining around is one of the favored things to do in Los Cabos as the options range from fast tacos to top gourmet with a panoply of fresh, local and organic produce and seafood. Check out La Lupita if you’re into traditional tacos and an eccentric bar scene. Another great find is Mi Cocina, which features a French-Mexican-Asian menu, located inside of Casa Natalie, a gorgeous boutique hotel. Outside of this historic town is Flora Farms, a 25-acre organic working farm in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, their menu is seasonal and field to table. Cooking classes are also offered, and the grocery store has plenty produce you’ll want to bring back to your villa so you can show off all you’ve learned.
Authentic Eats in San Jose and the East Cape
Whether you’re craving seafood, fresh produce, or artisanal plates, San Jose del Cabo and the East Cape have plenty of options to keep you satisfied. Check out La Lupita if you’re into traditional tacos and an eccentric bar scene. Another great find is Mi Cocina, which features a French-Mexican-Asian menu, located inside of Casa Natalie, a gorgeous boutique hotel. Outside of this historic town is Flora Farms, a 25-acre organic working farm in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, their menu is seasonal and field to table. Cooking classes are also offered, and the grocery store has plenty produce you’ll want to bring back to your villa so you can show off all you’ve learned.
Sea Turtle Release
Only in Los Cabos will you get to witness the miracle of life up close with CaboTrek! Thousands of Olive Ridley and Black Turtles come to shore to lay their load of eggs deep in the sand before returning to the sea. Help raise the survival rate of these baby sea turtles by helping and protecting them on their journey to the sea. Tours run from September 1st till December 15th, being closer to wintertime also means a chance to see the Humpback Whales traveling south!
San Jose Estuary
This lagoon is the only freshwater coastal lagoon in Mexico. Walk or bike the paved path that runs along a portion of this lush, green oasis and enjoy the many exotic plants and animals. Other relaxing activities include kayaking and hiking, specialists are trained for this terrain and offer these activities daily. Bring your camera to take advantage of the incredible photo opportunities. Located at the southern tip of Baja California, it’s a quick trip from Los Cabos, perfect for a day trip!
Tamales Doña Nina and Churromania
One of the best-hidden food gems in all of Los Cabos! Tamales Doña Nina is run by women who know a thing or two about making a perfect tamale, offering an array of meat fillings, vegetarian options, and even sweet fillings. As of 2019, the stand can be found on the north side of Plaza Mijares. Finish off your feast with a freshly made churro or two from Churromania, located right next door!
Chileno Beach
If you’re looking for a beach that the locals love and is free from crowds, Chileno Beach is the perfect spot. This beach has the highly coveted Blue Flag award, which translates to clean water and sand, accessible areas on the beach for the mobility impaired, and spotless bathrooms and changing facilities. Swimming is great all year round as the current and surf are mild.
Underwater Sand Falls
This phenomenon is found in very few locations yet can be found in Los Cabos near El Arco, in the Sea of Cortez. Underwater sand falls are formed by the friction between the tectonic plates of North America and the Pacific, combined with the union of the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. They were first discovered by the famous underwater explorer, Jacques Cousteau and cascade down a vertical wall under the sea. To see the sand cascade, you must dive to a depth of over 30 meters, so be sure to invest in a diver’s certificate before going! Once you’re down there, you’ll be surrounded by impressive marine biodiversity, including fish of all shapes and colors and black corals.
Thursday Art Walk Around San Jose Del Cabo
This historic center is a colorful place that is packed with character and culture galore. This is due to the many local artisans and art galleries that fill the streets, making them alive with color. Every Thursday night, between November and June, galleries and shops stay open late while local artisans show off their craft in Plaza Mijares. At the Cabo Art Walk, you can view everything from hand-painted pottery, Shona African sculptures, blown glass, contemporary oil paintings, and handmade jewelry. There is often live music and plenty to eat and drink, this is the perfect time to befriend the locals!
El Merkado
Can’t pick between one restaurant? El Merkado is the best place for an array of different cuisines. Featuring the best chefs in all of Los Cabos, located in Koral Center between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. This food hall features over 20 vendors whose menus feature everything from traditional Oaxacan tlayudas to Neapolitan wood-fired pizza.
Los Cabos Guides
Quest for the Best Margarita in Cabo
In your quest for the best margarita in cabo, consider this: Mexico without a margarita? You might as well be in Romania or Antarctica. Getting the most out of a Mexico vacation and a Los Cabos villa vacation from Elegant Mexico starts with that important wake-up, cool-down cocktail before you even unpack. That often means enjoying what could become your best margarita experience ever.
At Elegant Mexico, as you enter your magnificent manor by the beach and move slowly to take it all in, ask your butler for a traditional margarita with the brand of blanco tequila that was on your pre-stock list and all rimmed with some lime salt. Relax for a minute on your expansive patio panning the view of the sea with the distant sound of the waves, and intermittent light breezes tickling the abundant bougainvillea. That’s all. You have arrived.
But during your stay you are going to want to contemplate exactly what is the perfect margarita. We have some treasured best margarita recipes to bring to your butler/bartender to make your villa stay just a touch more remarkable. Salud!
Traditional Margarita
Grab some crisp tequila blanco that is 100 percent agave—not cut with corn syrup or sugar; and Cointreau. Then, coat rim of glass with lime wedge then dip in kosher or lavender salt. Next, grab a shaker or a jar, fill with ice, add 1 1⁄2 ounces tequila blanco and 1 ounce Cointreau. (that’s about 2 tablespoons per ounce.) Add 1⁄2 ounce fresh lime juice and shake like crazy for 20 seconds. Strain and pour
Platinum Margarita
Combine 3 ounces of Grand Marnier, Marva Flower Tequila 8 ounces, 4 ounces Fresh Lime Juice, 3-4 Tbsp Sugar, 2 ounces of Liquid Egg White, 12 Ice cubes into an ice-filled shaker. Shake, pour and then decorate with Malva petals and pink salt trim. 4 servings
Mezcal-Tequila Margarita
Prepare to salt glasses in a shallow plate layered of the sal de gusano (worm salt). First, run a lime wedge along the rim then dip the rim into the salt mixture. In a shaker, combine ¾ ounce reposado tequila, ¾ ounce mezcal, ¾ ounce orange liqueur (consider Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao, Cointreau or triple sec), ¾ ounce fresh lime juice, ¼ ounce simple syrup all poured over the container filled with ice. Then, shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Next, add ice to the glass and then strain the margarita mixture into the glass. Add the lime wedge and start the next glass. 1 serving
Hacienda de Lavender
First, mix 2 oz. Tequila Herradura reposado, 1 oz. lime juice, 1 oz. lavender syrup, ¼ oz. orange juice, and a pinch of salt in a shaker. Then, add plenty of ice, shake, and strain over ice into a rocks glass. Finally, garnish with a sprig or two of lavender. 1 serving.
Sparkling Orange Margarita
You will want to combine 2 ounces of El Tesoro blanco with ¾ ounce fresh-squeezed blood orange juice, ½ ounce of fresh-squeezed lime juice, a ½ ounce of Ferrand Dry Curaçao, and a ½ ounce of rosemary simple syrup (this is made by adding 4 to 5 sprigs of fresh rosemary to a cup water that is brought to a boil and then simmered over low heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Then liquid is cooled and a cup sugar is added when the liquid is at room temperature. Stir until dissolved). Next, pour ingredients into ice-filled shaker, shake vigorously and strain into a glass. Top it out with Topo Chico or any other brand of sparkling water and garnish with a blood orange round and fresh rosemary sprig.
Jalapeno, Cilantro and Lime Margarita
Start by muddling 3 sprigs of cilantro and 2 small slices of jalapeño and placing in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice then pour in 1½ ounces blanco tequila, ¾ ounce triple sec, ½ ounce lime juice, and 1 teaspoon simple syrup. Shake energetically and pour into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with lime and another sprig of cilantro. 1 serving.
Watermelon Margarita, Frozen
Puree 1 cup frozen watermelon, 1 ounce triple sec, 2 ounces blanco tequila, and ½ ounce lime juice in a blender until smooth. Pour into a margarita glass salted at the rim with kosher salt and cayenne. Garnish with a wedge of lime. Makes 1 serving. Note: you can use fresh watermelon juice for this as well, after pureeing and straining.
Casamigos Tequila Margarita
Combine 2 ounces of Casamigos Blanco Tequila with 1 ounce of Fresh Lime Juice, a splash of Fresh Orange Juice, an ounce of Agave Nectar and an ounce of Orange Liqueur. Combine all ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Add ice, shake like crazy for 15-20 seconds, and strain into a glass rimmed with salt, sugar and orange zest. Add fresh ice and garnish with lime cut.
Azalea Margarita
Combine 1.5 oz Patrón Silver with a half-ounce of Patrón Citrónge Orange, an ounce of pineapple juice, a half-ounce of lime juice and a half ounce of grenadine in an ice-filled cocktail shake. Shake away to chill and then strain into a rocks glass.
Los Cabos Guides
Flights to Los Cabos Revving Up for Post Pandemic Surge
Flights to Los Cabos are gaining strength and frequency as Americans opt to put Mexico on their 2021 vacation list.
JetBlue now services San José del Cabo’s Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), one of several airlines boosting lift to the vacation capital of the Baja. For Jetblue, the first roundtrip flights between the popular Mexican destination and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) started at the end of June, as did the first flight roundtrip flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Los Cabos. JetBlue’s Los Cabos service from the East and West Coasts now operates daily.
“JetBlue’s new direct routes to Los Cabos are evidence of the destination’s resilience and loyalty from our American travelers, which make up for 80 percent of all international travelers. The LAX and JFK routes will further help Los Cabos to be more competitive in these markets and offer non-stop accommodations to leisure and corporate travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of Los Cabos Tourism Board.
Located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos is actually a place of two destinations: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo – both major tourist spots and among the most popular such locations in Mexico. San Jose del Cabo offers a laid-back vibe and thriving arts scene with boutique shops, while Cabo San Lucas features a more bustling pace with a large number of restaurants and bars and a party scene to match. Los Cabos is home to award-winning resorts, private villas and culinary offerings considered some of the finest available anywhere. A growing list of championship golf courses, rejuvenating spas, world-renowned sport fishing tournaments and a variety of activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding and many more vacation “musts” make Los Cabos much more than a beach destination.
Looking for a rental? Check out our Del Mar Luxury Rentals in Cabo San Lucas – with Chefs!
Meanwhile, Spirit Airlines is now expanding into international service with daily flights between Los Angeles International Airport and Los Cabos International Airport and American Airlines added new Saturday service into Los Cabos from Austin, Texas.
While borders open slowly during this vulnerable time that has people scratching heads as they make plans, Americans can continue to fly to Los Cabos with relative ease. Travelers must carry a passport, and must complete a health declaration form. However, there are no testing or quarantine requirements to hamper travel into Mexico. There will be health screening protocols upon arrival — temperature checks, and some additional health questionnaires at arrival location may be possible if staying in a hotel or resort.
But preceding their return to the United States, a negative COVID-19 will be necessary. The test must be taken within the three calendar days of departure to gain re-entry into the U.S. Many venues are offering convenient on-site COVID-19 testing desks where guests can schedule this protocol upon checking-in to ensure a smooth return.
Because of new variants spreading fast in a variety of spots in the U.S. and Mexico, the CDC advises that indoor mask-wearing and social distancing practices remain in place, even for those who have been fully vaccinated, with a measure of quarantining and self-monitoring for symptoms in the days following a return from a Los Cabos vacation.
Click here to learn more about our Cabo Vacations, as well as the top Cabo Mansions for Rent!
Los Cabos Guides
The Best Blue Flag Beaches of Los Cabos
A vacation to the tropical wonderland of Los Cabos can never be complete without soaking in the sun and inhaling the fresh breeze. However, there’s another very good reason to be on a beach in Cabo. Most of them are certified as a ‘blue flag beach’, which makes them one of the safest and ecologically pristine destinations. Here’s all you need to know about the blue flag beaches of Los Cabos.
What is a blue flag beach
The blue flag program is one of its kind environmental education and safety program launched by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Present in 77 countries, FEE runs pivotal programs to improve the sustainability of ecologically sensitive sites. The blue flag program was launched by FEE to recognize beaches, marinas, and tour operators all over the world, for contributing to the goal of creating a more sustainable, and fulfilling experience.
Approximately 4500 beaches across 47 countries are rated as ‘blue flag’ beach by FEE. The label is one of the most recognized ecological symbols in the world and considered as a hallmark of sustainable, clean, and safe beaches.
Why it’s worth visiting a blue flag beach
In order to receive recognition from FEE, the beach or marina has to pass stringent environmental, educational, and accessibility conditions. Also, these conditions have to be met year after year in order to retain the blue flag status. Due to the scrutiny and challenging requirements to meet the sustainability goals, every certified blue flag beach can be expected to reflect some of the following attributes.
- Promotes a healthy lifestyle
- Conducts safety education and informs steps to mitigate disasters
- Plans activities for social well-being
- Ensures better water quality and sanitation levels
- Contributes to new jobs and local economies
- Recycling-friendly
- Protects the marine life
- Safe for women and promotes gender equality
Ready to explore all the blue flag beaches in Los Cabos? Here’s what you need to know about each one of them.
The old man’s beach – Playa Acapulquito
In startling contrast to its name, this sandy beach is perhaps more of a delight for the thrill-seekers with its vibrant surfing culture. Known as a surfer’s paradise, Acapulquito is great for surfers at all levels. It’s just minutes away from beach resorts like Club 96, and One & Only Palmilla makes this beach a dream destination for a relaxing getaway.
Activities and the best time to visit Acapulquito
The blue flag season for the old man’s beach lasts all year round, making it a safe choice for your family. Other great things to do at Acapulquito include snorkeling and swimming.
Nearest city or town
San Jose Del Cabo
Palmilla, the most famous beach in Los Cabos
Perhaps the most famous beach in Los Cabos, Palmilla has everything you can imagine a beach vacation to be. From luxurious resorts to deep water adventures, this blue flag beach is ideal for a variety of leisure activities. After attaining the blue flag label in 2017, Palmilla has only grown in stature as a versatile and friendly day trip location.
Activities and the best time to visit Palmilla
Palmilla is especially famous for whale watching, as per the blue flag listing. While November to April is great for whale watching, a host of other activities during the rest of the year make Palmilla a must-visit beach on your Mexican vacation.
Nearest city or town
San Jose Del Cabo
Snorkeling spectacle of Santa Maria & El Chileno
Known primarily for pristine waters rich in marine diversity, Santa Maria is also very picturesque with its beautiful horseshoe shape. It’s also easily accessible with a short walk from a large parking lot that makes it one of the most convenient beaches in Cabo San Lucas. As one of the blue flag beaches, Santa Maria has a very friendly vibe, with a visitor’s kiosk, outdoor showers, and bathrooms. These facilities also make it perfect for a long day on the beach. Just a little more than a mile away, Chileno is a great alternative for snorkeling, especially if you are staying longer than a few days, and want to visit both.
Activities and the best time to visit Santa Maria & El Chileno
As one of the smaller beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Santa Maria tends to get crowded on weekends, and during the holiday season. An early morning trip is best for quiet undersea exploration.
Nearest city or town
Cabo San Lucas
Las Viudas, the hidden gem of Cabo
Your private beach dream can come true at Las Viudas. One of the lesser-known beaches of Cabo, Las Viudas is a quiet and serene day trip location. Although plenty of resorts and great places to stay can be found right next to Las Viudas, there aren’t many vendors right on the beach. So if you plan to spend the entire day here, bringing your own drinks and food is highly recommended.
Activities around Las Viudas
Whether you want to try water activities like kayaking, and snorkeling or simply want to stay true to your fitness regime with a refreshing run on the beach, this blue flag beach can be the best choice.
Nearest city or town
Cabo San Lucas
Medano, the panoramic best of Cabo
Often called the lover’s beach, Medano is the hallmark of everything that makes a Los Cabos vacation unique. The first thing that you notice about Medano is that it’s gigantic, stretching for miles, with a panoramic view of the bay on the side. In fact, the Blue flag organization considers smaller parts of Medano as separate beaches, all of which have their own blue flag certification. With the many hotels and resorts lining up against the beach from Riu Palace to Casa Dorada, Medano is one of the busiest beaches in Los Cabos. It’s also one of the most tourist-friendly ones and has been able to consistently retain its blue flag label, most recently in 2018.
Activities around Medano
Due to its easily accessible location, Medano offers some of the best things to do in Los Cabos. Excursions, glass-bottom boat tours, submarine experiences, and even luxury sailboat tours, are just some of the top things to do here. There are more than 300 places to eat near Medano, some of them right next to the beach, with an incredible view of the ocean. Partying at Medano, and bar hopping in Cabo is one of the most sought after experiences that you can have.
Nearest city or town
Cabo San Lucas
Playa El Corsario, the beach where the locals go
Cabo San Lucas and most of Los Cabos can sometimes resemble an overwhelming cultural melt pot, which is always bustling with action. If you find yourself wishing for a break, and a peek into how the locals live, head to El Corsario, or the Cannery beach. This blue flag beach is just a short walk away from the Cabo San Lucas cruise port pier and is a local favorite. The rocky ledge on the far end of Corsario offers the much-needed shade on a hot day and some unique photography opportunities.
Activities around El Corsario
Being so close to Cabo San Lucas pier has its own advantages, namely plenty of dining and shopping options. On the other hand, El Corsario beach can be a remarkably peaceful, and relaxed experience, with inviting crystal clear waters. No wonder that it’s one of the most swimmable beaches of Los Cabos. If you would rather explore immerse yourself in the local art than take a dip in the ocean, the wall adjacent to the entry area of the beach has a delightful marine-themed graffiti that is definitely worth more than a passing glance.
Nearest city or town
Cabo San Lucas
Other Blue Flag destinations near Los Cabos
FEE also rates marinas and aquatic tour operators, and there is no shortage of them in the entire Baja region. If you’re up for a short ride, you can try visiting lesser-known attractions such as the La Ribera beach on the east coast. This blue flag beach close to the town of La Ribera is famous for its fishing opportunities and is easily accessible en route to Cabo Pulmo, a UNESCO world heritage site. You can take the Camino Cabo Este to reach La Ribera in just under an hour.
Away from the hustle-bustle of Cabo, the capital city of La Paz also boasts of two blue flag destinations. The charming Cortez Marina is the only blue flag labeled a marina in Baja and warrants a closer view. A quick ride away from the Marina, El Coromuel is the only blue flag beach of La Paz, and unique for its tranquil view of the sunset, and the water park right next to the beach.
Best places to stay to explore blue flag beaches
The beach can be your constant companion on your vacation to Los Cabos. While you can aim to visit all the blue flag locations, some of the best places to stay in Cabo are right next to at least one of them. Stepping onto a world-class, blue flag beach right from your hotel room is a luxury of another kind, and one of the must-have travel experiences. Start planning your vacation right away by booking the best stay options in Los Cabos.
Los Cabos Villas
Villa Highlight: Casa Fryzer…A Little Slice of Mexican Magnificence!
6 bedrooms, sleeps up to 12 guests
When it comes to high-end vacationing in some of the most exquisite rental homes in the world, Casa Fryzer earns its place as a strong contender for the top pick. Whether it’s family you’re traveling with or a large group of friends, this villa is ideal for sprawling out and enjoying all the unique touches that come along with it! (And there are many!)
Outdoors
Vacation like royalty in a villa that’s been designed with elegance top of mind — as part of the lucrative Villas Del Mar, Casa Fryzer has a lofty ocean-view vantage point, perfect for secluded relaxation and panoramic views around the clock. With so many additional outdoor amenities, leaving this property will be hard! The 2,000 square foot, 90,000 gallon infinity pool with swim-up bar and lounging area is perfect for spending lazy afternoons with friends and family, making a splash and sipping on cold cocktails. When the sun starts to set, star gaze from the outdoor hot tub and share memories around the pit fire — this property is perfect for those who want to indulge in ultimate relaxation during their stay!
Let’s take a look inside
Casa Fryzer’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior. Art lovers will enjoy strolling throughout the property to take in the artfully-placed sculptures and meticulously decorated rooms. Each bedroom boasts its own en-suite bath and two suites even come with their own outdoor spaces with private spas for when you need some time down time!
After a day of enjoying your outdoor al fresco experience, curl up in the home theatre or play a game of pool with your loved ones. Perhaps you’re more about getting active? The ocean views in the fitness room mean staying in shape still feels like a vacation!
The full package
Included with every reservation are the services of housekeepers, security, a manager, and a butler! Your private chef has access to an outdoor barbeque and pizza oven as well as an indoors state-of-the-art kitchen so you can sample all your favorite culinary delights, and if you’re in the mood to be a little more connected, you have access to the neighboring One&Only Palmilla Hotel’s restaurants, as well as the beach club on Palmilla Bay. Perfect for anyone who wants to get away with privacy, Casa Fryzer is an unparalleled piece of paradise located in beautiful Los Cabos, Mexico! Ready to start packing?!
Click here to learn more about our Luxury Los Cabos Short Term Rentals
Los Cabos Guides
Our Top Tips For The Most Memorable Los Cabos Experience!
Ah, Mexico! Cherished by travellers the world over, Mexico is full of beauty, culture, and relaxation everywhere you turn. One particularly beloved destination is Los Cabos, a gem situated at the tip of the Baja California peninsula. Whether you’ve been before, or you’re taking the trip for the first time, there’s a lot to do and see in Los Cabos — and you don’t want to miss any of it! As passionate experts about everything Mexico has to offer, we’ve compiled our top tips for finding all the hidden gems, unforgettable experiences, and memorable views Los Cabos has for you.
Take A Unique Tour
While they may not be the first animal that comes to mind when you think Mexico, seeing the Baja Desert by camel is an experience you don’t want to miss. On the back of a camel led by knowledgeable guides, you can be immersed in the landscape, making for perfect pictures and captivating views. There are a number of camel tour companies in the Los Cabos area, including Cabo Adventures and Wild Canyon, all with their own offerings and tour extras. If you’re a little more motor than camel, an ATV tour across the Los Cabos landscape may be more your style. Speed through the sands and take in breathtaking beaches — while an ATV tour may be more of a thrill ride than a guided learning experience, you don’t want to miss taking in the sights at top speed! Depending on what you want to see, you have a number of different choices for your tour, such as G-Force Adventures or Cactus Tours.
Looking for accommodations? Our Luxury Los Cabos Holiday Rentals may just be what you’re looking for!
Make Wild Friends
If you want secluded and peaceful, visiting the San Jose Estuary for bird watching is sure to deliver. As the only freshwater coastal lagoon in the state, the estuary is home to numerous rare and beautiful bird species. Pack a lunch — the lagoon is a protected reserve with little-to-no amenities available — and settle in for sights and sounds you truly can’t get anywhere else. You can go on your own or hire a guide. Dolphins capture the hearts and minds of people the world over, and Los Cabos offers some truly unique ways to get close to the mystical animals. Swim with dolphins up close and personal in Los Cabos’ perfect waters — you’ll be telling stories about it for years to come. While there are numerous companies offering dolphin encounters, such as Dolphin Discovery, if you’re looking for something you can really write home about, Cabo Adventures offers the chance to truly become a dolphin trainer for a day.
Get A Taste Of Los Cabos
If you love to cook, you can’t miss learning to cook local fare — and the Los Cabos area boasts a number of fine cooking classes! With the variety of classes available, you can get private lessons for just your group, or you can join up with other traveling foodies and make some friends as you learn together. Classes are offered by local experts such as Edith’s or Chef Issi, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg — ask around and you’ll find a world of flavour. Whatsmore, you can also take advantage of private cooking lessons in many Elegant Mexico properties throughout Los Cabos — enjoy the experience of traditional Mexican cuisine from the comfort of your own rental! More about the savouring rather than the preparation? Los Cabos’ waters host a wide array of sunset dinner cruises. The dinner fare ranges from five-star chef offerings to themed fun — with the sheer variety, you could dine on a different cruise each night for a week and not run out of options! Options include the Caborey sunset dinner and show, or the sightseeing Grayline sunset cruise, but like the cooking classes, you can ask around for the best local recommendations no matter where you’re staying.
Check out our Luxury Los Cabos & Cabo San Lucas Weekly Rentals to make your vacation even more memorable!
Appreciate Local Culture
Mexico’s Baja California peninsula has had human habitation for thousands of years — experience all the history with guided tours around historical ruins, European missions, and even prehistoric sites. Whether you want to see how pre-Columbian indigenous peoples lived or spend a week hiking to 5000 year old cave paintings, history buffs have a lot to see. Check out some cultural and rural tours by companies like Birding Los Cabos, or Rancho Tours and take your pick! Los Cabos is an artist’s dream, as well; as an up-and-coming creative district, the area is becoming known for its arts and traditions, but isn’t overcrowded or commercialized. Day or night, there are galleries to visit and local artisans to support. The San Jose del Cabo Art Walk, a weekly event held Thursday nights November to June, is becoming particularly popular, but local markets and artists can point you in the direction of artistics gems to explore on your own as well. Packing your suitcase yet? Browse our Los Cabos Beachfront rentals here!
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