Sitting at the Southern tip of the 700-mile-long Baja California Peninsula on Mexico’s Pacific coast, lies the region of Los Cabos. An area famed for its dazzling white-sand beaches, mesmerising turquoise waters, and dramatic desert landscapes.
Fifteen years after my first visit, I was lucky enough to return this September to join the Aspire Retreat; a four-day gathering, bringing together 25 handpicked luxury travel designers and 15 esteemed travel partners for one-to-one business meetings and group activities designed to strengthen relationships within the industry.
Whilst the focus was firmly on networking, I still found time to explore many of the area’s finest resorts, to ensure that I can match each client to their perfect Los Cabos escape.
In this post, I’m sharing my insights and impressions from six of my favourites, each offering its own distinct take on luxury.
Every resort featured sits along a captivating stretch of coastline (with one exception) between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo – the two towns that make up Los Cabos. Cabo San Lucas is bold and energetic, known for its modern marina, lively nightlife and adventure-filled atmosphere. In contrast, San José del Cabo exudes charm and calm, with cobbled streets, a picturesque town square, independent boutiques, art galleries and an emerging culinary scene.
Let’s dive in to my favourite resorts…
1. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection
For timeless ‘Auberge’ elegance and dramatic oceanfront dining.
Esperanza by Auberge Collection is the only private beach resort in Los Cabos and it is a true showstopper. Guests will be wowed from the moment they arrive at the dramatic clifftop entrance.
The resort is split into two sides; to the left, the adult only hotel suites, casitas, infinity and swim-up pools, and to the right, the family villas, main family pool and kids club. The resort is designed to suit everyone of any age looking for a standout luxury stay in Cabo. One thing to note – the resort features so many swimming pool because whilst captivating, the sea is too rough for swimming.
What I loved:
- Enjoying a cocktail and canapes reception whilst the sun dipped over the stunning cliff to sea backdrop.
- Dining at the iconic Cocina Del Mar restaurant. The combination of the striking clifftop location, waves crashing upon the rocks, all backlit by hundreds of lanterns, made this a dining experience to remember.
- The sheer number of experiences on offer; from cooking classes to Mezcal tasting sessions, coastal hikes to off-roading UTV adventures, whale watching to golfing alongside the Sea of Cortez – there really is something for everyone.
Montage Los Cabos
For understated sophistication and a swimmable bay.
Set on the tranquil curve of Santa Maria Bay, Montage Los Cabos is an idyllic sanctuary spread across 39 acres of desert to sea vistas. With its freeform pools, beachfront jacuzzis, and golden sand beach (swimmable for confident swimmers), it’s one of the most picturesque beachfront resorts in the region.
Beach and pool cabanas offer privacy and seclusion for couples and families alike. Whilst the spacious accommodations, which range from rooms and suites to private residences and casas, blend natural materials with contemporary design.
What I loved:
- Our fabulous ‘Farewell to Cabo’ brunch at restaurant Marea by Day, which included thoughtful gifts such as a customised Montage Cabo caps and mini spa treatments.
- The stunning Spa Montage Los Cabos — a hidden desert sanctuary perfect for a full day of rest, complete with pools, steam and sauna rooms and indoor-outdoor relaxation areas.
- The cascading series of pools that flow gently down to the beach and rocky outcrop.
Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
For chic social energy and effortless style.
Following in the footsteps of its sister property (Esperanza), Chileno Bay is every bit as impressive. In line with the Auberge ethos, it oozes contemporary charm and effortless style, with beautifully designed sociable spaces, sleek bars, and lively restaurants. Its prime location on one of Los Cabos’ few swimmable beaches adds even more appeal.
The expansive, tiered pool complex features areas for children, families, and adults, all lined with generous sunbeds. A floating cocktail bar drifts by in the afternoons – a playful, signature touch. This is a resort made for social butterflies.
What I loved:
- Stylish, spacious suites that balance comfort and modern design.
- A choice of restaurants and bars, plus a cosy underground nightclub.
- A section of private beach with direct access to the adjacent public beach – where you’ll find the water sports centre.
- Great snorkelling opportunities right from the shore.
Grand Velas Boutique Hotel
For an all-inclusive experience without compromise.
A newer addition to the Grand Velas portfolio, this adults-only, all-inclusive beachfront resort offers an impressive range of facilities shared with its nearby sister property, Grand Velas Los Cabos. It’s perfect for couples or friends seeking a luxurious, seamless, all-inclusive experience.
What I Loved:
- Contemporary, beautifully styled rooms and suites.
- The stunning beachfront pool and glowing sunsets.
- Exceptional dining, including Cocina de Autor, a two-star Michelin restaurant.
Acre Resort
For bohemian luxury and desert serenity.
Acre is the only property on my list not located on the beach – and that’s precisely what makes it so special. Spread across 40 acres of desert, farmland and lush palm groves, it feels like a hidden oasis. The Michelin Green Star restaurant and cocktail bar are destinations in their own right, but staying overnight in one of the rustic treehouses, villas or haciendas truly completes the experience. It’s the ideal setting for a destination wedding, wellness retreat or milestone celebration.
What I Loved:
- Taking a fun cookery class in the palm-shaded outdoor kitchen, learning how to make one of my favourite dishes – ceviche.
- Meeting an adorable litter of puppies at The Acre Animal Rescue — I couldn’t take one home, but hopefully another lucky guest did!
One & Only Pamilla
For heritage, soul, and everyday glamour.
From the moment you arrive, you know you’ve reached somewhere truly special. One&Only Palmilla radiates authentic Mexican charm – it’s filled with artisan-crafted details, inviting courtyards and intimate corners to pause and reflect.
The suites and villas are incredibly spacious and homely, with every imaginable comfort. I stayed in the same Oceanfront Junior Suite as on my last visit which felt like returning home. I particularly loved the Oceanfront Casita Junior Suites with infinity pools overlooking Turtle Beach – ideal for a romantic escape or honeymoon. For larger families, there’s the newly refurbished hilltop villa with a contemporary feel or, the more traditional Villa Cortez located directly on Turtle Beach, both offering four bedrooms.
What I Loved:
- Two of my favourite meals of the trip: Hoshi, a Japanese restaurant serving the best sushi, sashimi, and tempura, and Seared, a sophisticated steakhouse.
- Waking up to breakfast on the private balcony, listening to the thunderous waves of Turtle Beach.
- Spending a whole day at the spa, moving between the indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, pools, steam, and sauna rooms.
In Summary
Each of these resorts showcases a different side of Los Cabos but what unites them all is a strong sense of place and genuine Mexican warmth. Every property offers superb Baja-inspired cuisine and exceptional spa facilities, many incorporating traditional Mayan treatments such as the Temazcal and Cacao ceremonies – perfect for those seeking a deeper sense of wellness and connection during their stay.
I’d be delighted to help you arrange a magical trip to Los Cabos and can help you plan the perfect itinerary combining a stay Mexico City, LA or a US West Coast road trip.
