Visitors to Los Cabos will immediately be captivated by the special atmosphere of this coastal region on the southern tip of the Mexican peninsula on the Pacific Ocean. Magic emerges from an interplay of contrasts: the ruggedness of the sandy desert is complemented by the freshness of the sea and the colourful underwater world. The tranquillity of historic settler villages such as Todos Santos or El Triunfo, which give visitors a glimpse of traditional Mexico, contrasts with the sophisticated lifestyle of the cities of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas: With marinas, luxury hotels, a wide range of dining options and a vibrant arts and culture scene, these locations have a cosmopolitan, modern flair. A 32 km-long coastal road known as the ‘Golden Corridor’ joins the two cities. Driving down it is a vivid experience: past jagged mountain scenery, exclusive golf and beach resorts, and along the edge of the sparkling azure ocean. Time and again we make a short photo-stop to take in the wonderful panorama. We enjoy an aperitif on the terrace of the Sunset Monalisa restaurant, perched high above the cliffs seamlessly into the rocky coastline of Cabo San Lucas, while enjoying the view of the El Arco cliffs and the romantic sunset. Suddenly we hear murmurings and enthusiastic shouts: in the distance a gleaming grey humpback whale emerges from the waves with a bold leap, almost as if it was sharing our joy at this wonderful day. It’s not uncommon to encounter these gentle giants, who can grow up to 13 metres long, here: between December and April, they pass by in groups and are happy for you to admire them from the shore or, better still, on a whale-watching boat trip. The evening is crowned by an exquisite 8-course menu from the Michelin-starred chefs of Cocina de Autor Los Cabos. One of several gourmet restaurants in this region, its top-class Mexican cuisine is legendary – offering farm-to-table concepts as well as international fine dining.
It’s not just whales, dolphins and sea lions that frolic off the coast of Los Cabos; the underwater world also boasts a fascinating diversity of species. The bay of Cabo Pulmo, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 130 km east of San José del Cabo on the Gulf of California, is a paradise for snorkelling and diving. This is where you might see whale sharks swimming, turtles paddling through the water and manta rays dancing. If you prefer to stay on the water, you have a myriad of possibilities: from stand-up paddling to surfing; kayaking and catamaran sailing to deep-sea fishing. And there are plenty of activities to enjoy on land too: hiking in the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve where, above 800 metres, you can enjoy the shade of dense pine and oak forests and idyllic waterfalls cascading into naturally formed stone pools – why not take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters? If you prefer motorised outdoor adventures, then you can wind your way across the sandy tracks and suspension bridges of the mountainous hinterland in an off-road vehicle or on a quad bike – with plenty of adrenaline coursing through your veins. An absolute must in Los Cabos: teeing off on one of the world-class golf courses: the spectacularly designed fairways bear the signature of renowned golf stars such as Tiger Woods and Greg Norman, and offer stunning panoramic views.
Fabulous beaches, crystal-clear ocean, a vibrant culinary scene and a plethora of exciting activities – Los Cabos offers everything your heart desires for a getaway filled with a wealth of experiences. And even more special, because the authentic Mexican way of life is palpable everywhere: when you gaze at the cultural heritage revealed in the colonial architecture at Plaza Mijares, the central square of San José del Cabo; when you stroll along the Art Walk of this coastal town, marvelling at the expressive paintings, sculptures and installations by Mexican artists in the galleries and open-air exhibitions; or when you discover handcrafted masterpieces during a tour of the ateliers and workshops in the charming artists’ town of Todos Santos that will keep the memories of your holiday alive, long after you return home. Music is ever-present of course, whether it be the traditional mariachi folk music you hear being played in the cantinas, restaurants and bars, the stage performances in the music clubs or at one of the numerous cultural events that regularly take place. Our recommendation: At the newly opened restaurant Amara in Cabo San Lucas, Executive Chef Andres Bracamontes invites guests on a sensory journey through the colours and flavours of Baja. ‘Variety’ is the perfect word to describe Los Cabos: in terms of lifestyle, nature and culinary delights. Relax today, explore tomorrow: everything is possible.
