Destination Discovery: Where to Stay, Spa, & Snack in Los Cabos, Mexico

Who doesn’t love Los Cabos, Mexico (or as we like to call it, Cabo)? This destination found at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula is a traveler’s paradise, as it delivers something for everybody. A 20-mile corridor lined with high-end resorts connects two towns: On one side, Cabo San Lucas projects a lively atmosphere with nightlife options, a marina, and shops; on the other, a quieter environment in San José del Cabo ensues, complete with cobblestone streets, a mission originating in the 1700s, and a main square. Really, what more could you ask for? How about perfect beaches, a paradise backdrop where desert finds sea, prime golf courses, and heavenly spas? Sign us up, ASAP.

Where to Stay
The former Hollywood hideaway of One&Only Palmilla (Bing Crosby and Lucille Ball were fans) officially reopened April 2015 and now features a new One&Only Spa and Fitness Centre; new SEARED steakhouse, in collaboration with Jean-Georges Vongerichten; and refurbished guest accommodations.

Where to Spa
We suggest Luna y Mar Spa at The Resort at Pedregal; located in the heart of the property, Luna y Mar is Spanish for “moon” and “sea.” The name is fitting, as the spa menu not only draws inspiration from the sea and authentic Mexican folk healing traditions, but it reflects the different lunar cycles. This collection of signature rituals—comprising Awakening, Nurturing, Calming, Restoring Moon, Stone Moon, and Damiana Moon—uses 100-percent natural products from The Organic Pharmacy.

Esperanza, An Auberge Resort, welcomes guests back in June 2015 with an updated spa that now features a new outdoor relaxation lounge, a new retail boutique, and a new Integrated Wellness Program, with up to 35 yoga and exercise classes weekly. The Spa at Esperanza is known for its “water passage” that consists of a warm-spring soak pool, steam caves, and cool rinse, as well as its affinity for embracing the healing benefits of lime (utilized in several services such as the Grated Coconut and Lime Body Exfoliation and Cabana Lime Massage).

What to See
A masterpiece of Cabo is Land’s End, i.e., the El Arco rock formation that rises from the sea, marking the point where the Sea of Cortez links to the Pacific Ocean (on a side note, it’s also a supreme spot for a selfie). When you’re not admiring yourself in a snapshot, marvel at the rugged beauty of the graceful arches.

Where to Snack
If you’re traveling with family, El Bucanero at Cabo San Lucas’ Villa del Arco Beach Resort & Spa would be a fun time—its restaurant-meets-pirate-ship setting goes hand-in-hand with casual cuisine like tacos and burgers. Couples or groups may want to try Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, the signature restaurant at Hacienda Beach Club & Residences, also located in Cabo San Lucas. With views of Land’s End, the beachfront venue provides a bevy of seating types, from open-air indoor dining to “tables in the sand.” The culinary scene unfolds with “casero” (homemade) dishes that emphasize Mexico’s various regions and flavors.

Where to Sweat
By land or by sea, you have plenty of opportunities to work up a sweat (or refresh!). Hit the links at one of the several championship golf courses (we suggest teeing off at Puerto Los Cabos, whose 18-hole course showcases designs by two golf greats: Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman), then celebrate your great game with a winning dip in the Sea of Cortez—it’s an aquatic fan’s nirvana. The body of water that’s been called “the world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau is said to host nearly 3,000 types of marine life (not to mention sunken ship wreckage to explore via scuba diving and snorkeling). Fishermen will also appreciate this fact: Cabo is famous for being the “marlin capital of the world” (though you’re apt to catch other fish like snapper and yellowfin tuna).