Looking for the best places to stay in Los Cabos? Whether you want a cozy hotel in Los Cabos, a luxury suite in Cabo San Lucas, or the ease of an all-inclusive resort, picking the right area changes your entire trip. I have explored every corner, from the lively beaches of Cabo San Lucas to the relaxing streets of San José del Cabo, searching for the best hotels and hidden gems for every type of traveler.
Maybe you dream about exploring local culture, enjoying sunset views at a luxury resort, or simply finding the best hotels in Los Cabos for your budget. In this guide, I’ll share my experiences and honest tips, helping you discover not only where to stay in Cabo but also the perfect area for your adventures. Dive in—you’ll want to read all the way to the end before booking your next stay in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Los Cabos:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Royal Solaris Los Cabos All Inclusive
- ✨ 5-Star: Solmar Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Los Patios
- 🛏 3-Star: Estancia Real Los Cabos
- 💸 Cheap: La Posada del Pescador
- 🏢 Apartment: Casa Palo Verde
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Santa Maria y Suites
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Aeropuerto Los Cabos
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Los Cabos 📋
- 🎨 Culture and Relaxation: San José del Cabo Hotels
- 🌴 Luxury Resorts & Access: Los Cabos Corridor Hotels
- 🌊 Swimmable Beaches: Medano Beach Hotels
- 🚤 Water Activities: Marina Cabo San Lucas Hotels
- 🏡 Privacy and Villas: Pedregal Hotels
1. Cabo San Lucas – Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Nightlife and Activities
Nightlife Scene. Cabo San Lucas pulses after dark with an energy that’s infectious. The Rooftop at 1 Homes (open 6pm-2am) offers craft cocktails with panoramic harbor views, while Cabo Wabo Cantina (daily 11am-4am) keeps the party going with live rock bands and their famous house margaritas. I love starting evenings at Sunset Mona Lisa restaurant (open 5pm-11pm) for their sunset happy hour—two-for-one drinks from 5-7pm—before heading to El Squid Roe (9pm-4am) where the staff literally dances on the bar.
Downtown Dining. The Marina Golden Zone stretches along Boulevard Marina, packed with everything from street vendors to upscale eateries. Los Claros (open 8am-10pm) serves the town’s most talked-about fish tacos—I always order extra salsa verde. For something fancier, Edith’s Restaurant (5pm-11pm) has been a local institution since 1975, with their famous Caesar salad prepared tableside. Casa Rafael (6pm-midnight, closed Sundays) offers intimate courtyard dining with authentic mole dishes.
Must-Try Activities:
- Snorkel at Santa Maria Bay and Chileno Bay for colorful fish
- Whale-watching tours along the Sea of Cortez (January-March peak season)
- Golf at championship courses with ocean views
- Kayak to the famous El Arco rock formation
- Browse downtown art galleries and souvenir shops
Adventure Activities. Marina Cabo San Lucas becomes a hub of activity each morning around 7am when fishing charters depart. Half-day sportfishing trips are popular with tourists wanting to catch marlin and tuna. Cabo Adventures organizes snorkel trips to Chileno Bay including equipment and lunch. I recommend booking whale watching tours (January-March) through local operators—their 3-hour trips have a 95% sighting success rate.
Shopping Districts. Luxury Avenue mall (open 10am-10pm) houses international brands, but I prefer wandering the downtown art walk along Calle Hidalgo every Thursday evening (6-9pm) when galleries stay open late and serve complimentary wine. Mercado Mexicano (8am-8pm daily) sells everything from hand-painted ceramics to locally-made leather goods. The Marina Boardwalk features upscale souvenir shops where haggling is expected—I typically offer 60% of the asking price.
Best Hotels in Cabo San Lucas
Luxury Hotels
- Nobu Hotel Los Cabos – A stunning beachfront property with stylish Japanese-Mexican design, ocean-view pools, and direct resort access for those seeking a top-tier Los Cabos hotel getaway.
- Thompson Los Cabos – Modern design hotel with chic rooms, panoramic ocean views, and a signature rooftop pool, perfect for those who want style, comfort, and easy access to the vibrant city scene.
- Colmena Marina Cabos – This modern hotel combines convenience for travelers with a rooftop pool overlooking the marina and easy connections to fly to Los Cabos from the international airport.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Seven Crown Express – A practical Los Cabos hotel in a central location, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying comfortable amenities at moderate rates.
- Estancia Real Los Cabos – This convenient spot offers easy access to the city and excursions, making it great for families or business travelers wanting modern comfort close to the action.
- Capital O Posada Del Pescador – A friendly budget pick, centrally located with relaxed vibes, offering all the basics travelers need for a pleasant stay.
2. San José del Cabo – Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Culture and Relaxation
Historic Art District. The Zona Centro transforms every Thursday evening (6-9pm November through June) during Art Walk, when over 20 galleries open their doors with free wine and live music. Galería de Ida Victoria (Tuesday-Saturday 10am-8pm) showcases contemporary Mexican artists, while Patricia Mendoza Art Gallery (Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm) features stunning Huichol beadwork. I always stop by Copal Tree Gallery (daily 10am-7pm) for their impressive collection of Talavera pottery.
Plaza Mijares & Surroundings. The town’s heart centers around Plaza Mijares, dominated by the twin-towered Misión San José del Cabo built in 1730. The plaza comes alive during Festival Gastronómico (usually March) when local chefs set up booths selling traditional dishes. Casa Paulina (Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm) offers cooking classes featuring local ingredients—their 4-hour sessions include lunch and recipes to take home.
Local Experiences | Best Time to Visit | What to Expect |
---|---|---|
Art Walk galleries | Thursday 6-9pm (Nov-June) | Free wine, live music, local artists |
Plaza Mijares market | Saturday mornings | Fresh produce, handmade crafts |
Mission church tours | Daily 9am-5pm | Historical architecture, peaceful courtyards |
Cooking classes | Monday-Saturday | Hands-on learning, authentic recipes |
Culinary Experiences. Flora’s Field Kitchen (8am-9pm, closed Mondays, 45-minute drive) sits on a working organic farm and serves farm-to-table cuisine—their Sunday brunch (9am-3pm) includes unlimited mimosas. In town, Jazmin’s (6pm-midnight, closed Tuesdays) has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1983; their mole poblano is legendary. For quick bites, the Mercado Municipal (6am-6pm) offers fresh fruit cups with chili powder.
Beach & Estuary. The San José Estuary provides a unique ecosystem perfect for birdwatching—over 200 species have been recorded here. Estuary Trail opens at sunrise and closes at sunset (free entry), with the best wildlife viewing between 6-8am and 5-7pm. Palmilla Beach offers calmer waters than Cabo’s Pacific side, with kayak rentals available from local surf shops.
Best Hotels in San José del Cabo
Luxury Hotels
- El Ganzo – This chic hotel near the marina offers artistic flair and upscale amenities, just a short drive from Los Cabos International Airport.
- Hyatt Place San José del Cabo – Stay close to soft sands and enjoy comfort and convenience, with quick access to Paradisus Los Cabos and urban attractions.
- Colli San José del Cabo – Modern rooms, lovely common spaces, and an easy route to the relaxed ambiance of Resort Los Cabos at Costa.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Posada Real Los Cabos – This beach resort features ocean-view rooms and a relaxed vibe not far from Los Cabos at Costa Palmas.
- Best Western Suites Las Palmas – This modern 3-star hotel offers spacious suites, a refreshing outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast, making it a practical choice for families or business travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the city.
- Casa Ceci Inn – A cozy inn with a peaceful garden, perfect for a restful break and easy trips to the airport or downtown.
Best Hostels
- Aloha Surf Hostel – A social spot for travelers, with surf lessons and community kitchen, just meters from Los Cabos International Airport.
- Desert Heart Hostel – Laid-back hostel living, airy shared spaces, and a quick route to Paradisus Los Cabos and downtown streets.
3. Tourist Corridor – Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Luxury Resorts & Access
Championship Golf. The Corridor houses some of Mexico’s finest golf courses. Cabo del Sol Ocean Course (designed by Jack Nicklaus) features dramatic clifftop holes perfect for experienced golfers. Querencia Golf Club (Tom Fazio design) offers an exclusive desert mountain experience with stunning views. I always book morning tee times (7-9am) for cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings.
Fine Dining Destinations. Nick-San Palmilla (6-11pm daily) serves exceptional Japanese-Mexican fusion with their popular omakase menu. Cocina del Mar at Esperanza Resort (7am-11pm) offers beachfront dining with their famous lobster enchiladas. Market Restaurant + Bar (6:30am-11pm) provides farm-to-table cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.
Top Corridor Attractions:
- Santa Maria Bay – Best snorkeling spot with protected waters
- Chileno Bay – Calm, family-friendly swimming area
- Costa Azul – Prime surfing location (April-October)
- Shoppes at Palmilla – Upscale shopping and dining
- Highway 1 artisan stands – Handcrafted souvenirs and art
Beach Access & Water Sports. Santa Maria Bay offers the Corridor’s best snorkeling with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Chileno Bay features calm, protected waters perfect for families with young children. Costa Azul becomes a surfing hotspot from April to October, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers from around the world.
Adventure Excursions. Wild Canyon Adventures organizes zip-line tours through desert canyons—their 3-hour experience includes transportation from major resort areas. Baja Outback offers ATV desert tours ranging from 2-4 hours through scenic desert landscapes. Horseback riding at Cuadra San Francisco provides both beach and desert options with stunning sunset rides available.
Best Hotels in Tourist Corridor
Luxury Hotels
- Fiesta Americana Grand Los Cabos – This luxury beach resort features panoramic ocean views, multiple pools, and a celebrated golf course, with quick access from Los Cabos International Airport.
- Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa – Offers beachfront suites overlooking the Sea of Cortez, a sprawling lazy river, and spa facilities for those who want the best of both worlds near Paradisus Los Cabos.
- Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos – An adults-only all-inclusive resort with indulgent spa treatments, infinity pools, and fine dining for a premium escape in the Corridor.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Raintree's Club Regina – This property offers spacious suites, ocean views, and friendly service, combining relaxation and value not far from Los Cabos at Costa Palmas.
- Condominios Ballena Casa del Mar Resort – Enjoy home-like amenities with access to resort pools, gardens, and a quiet stretch of coastline just a short drive from Los Cabos International Airport.
- Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort Los Cabos – A stylish choice boasting modern suites, gourmet dining, and a relaxed setting with easy connections to the Corridor and Paradisus Los Cabos.
4. Medano Beach – Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Swimmable Beaches
Beach Activities Central. Medano Beach stretches for nearly 3 kilometers of soft sand and gentle waves, making it Los Cabos’ only truly swimmable beach. Pepe’s Beach Bar (8am-midnight) anchors the scene with cold beers and their famous fish tacos. Billygan’s Island offers jet ski rentals, while banana boat rides provide thrilling 15-minute sessions for adventure seekers.
Waterfront Dining. The Office on the Beach (8am-2am) provides beachfront dining with tables literally in the sand—their coconut shrimp comes highly recommended. Mango Deck (11am-11pm) offers a more party atmosphere with their famous “bucket of beer” specials. For sunset dining, Casa Dorada’s Café (6am-11pm) features an extensive tequila menu with tastings available.
Beach Activities | Operating Hours | Best For |
---|---|---|
Swimming and sunbathing | Dawn to dusk | Families, couples |
Jet ski rentals | 9am-6pm | Thrill seekers |
Parasailing | 10am-4pm | Adventure lovers |
Beach volleyball | All day | Groups, exercise |
Kayak rentals | 8am-sunset | Nature enthusiasts |
Water Sports Hub. Local operators rent kayaks and paddleboards by the hour along the main beach area. Parasailing adventures launch every hour from 10am-4pm, offering spectacular aerial views of the coastline. Hobie Cat sailing lessons provide 2-hour instruction sessions perfect for beginners wanting to learn basic sailing techniques.
Evening Entertainment. Nikki Beach Cabo (11am-2am) transforms from beach club to nightclub after 9pm with international DJs and themed parties. Mambo Café (9pm-4am) offers salsa dancing lessons at 8pm followed by live music performances. The beachfront area features numerous bars with happy hour specials typically running 5-7pm.
Best Hotels in Medano Beach
Luxury Hotels
- Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos Blanco – Elegant suites with ocean views, lush gardens, and a serene pool within walking distance of Medano Beach.
- Villa Del Arco Cabo San Lucas – Spacious villas, large lagoon-style pools, and easy access to the sandy shoreline for relaxing days by the sea.
- 1 Homes Preview Cabo – Contemporary luxury with oceanfront suites, top-notch services, and exclusive amenities in a stunning coastal setting.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Pueblo Bonito Rose – Inviting setting with tropical gardens, a large pool, and bright spacious rooms just steps from the main beach.
- Best Location in Medano Beach – A comfortable apartment with kitchen, ideal for families or friends wanting extra space and a central location.
- Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa – Resort-style rooms, pools, and multiple dining options for convenience and relaxation near Medano Beach.
5. Marina Area – Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Water Activities
Marina Boardwalk. Marina Cabo San Lucas serves as the region’s nautical heartbeat with over 380 boat slips. The marina boardwalk stretches 1.2 kilometers, lined with restaurants, bars, and tour operators. Latitude 22+ (11am-2am) offers harbor-view dining with their famous “Drunken Shrimp” dish. Street performers entertain crowds nightly from 7-10pm, with mariachi bands playing traditional Mexican music.
Sport Fishing Capital. The Marina hosts over 50 fishing charter companies offering deep-sea fishing experiences. Pisces Sportfishing (established 1981) provides half-day and full-day fishing trips including all equipment and fish cleaning services. Marlin season peaks August-November, while tuna fishing is best December-March. Most charters depart between 6:30-7:30am and return by 2-6pm.
Popular Water Activities:
- Deep-sea fishing for marlin, tuna, and dorado
- Sunset cruises with open bar and appetizers
- Yacht charters for private groups
- Jet ski rentals for harbor exploration
- Kayak tours to hidden coves and beaches
Dining Destinations. Solomon’s Landing (11am-11pm) provides dockside dining where you can literally watch boats unload their daily catch—their lobster thermidor is exceptional. Hacienda Cocina y Cantina (5pm-midnight) serves elevated Mexican cuisine with their duck carnitas being a standout dish. Cabo Velas (breakfast 7-11am, dinner 6-11pm) offers the marina’s best breakfast burritos and evening seafood specials.
Nightlife Scene. Cabo Wabo Cantina (11am-4am) remains the marina’s party epicenter with live music Thursday-Sunday and their famous “Waborita” cocktails. The Giggling Marlin (11am-2am) offers mechanical marlin riding entertainment and serves creative “bucket drinks” for groups. Monkey Bar (6pm-2am) provides a more sophisticated atmosphere with craft cocktails and harbor views.
Best Hotels in Marina Area
Luxury Hotels
- ME Cabo by Meliá – Sleek rooms with modern touches, prime pool access, and steps from golden sands—perfect for anyone seeking indulgence close to vibrant city life.
- Sandos Finisterra All Inclusive – Perched between rugged hills and the Pacific, this grand property features dramatic views, spacious terraces, and multiple on-site amenities for a true resort vibe.
- Playa Grande Resort – Enjoy roomy suites with balconies, lively pool areas, and lush gardens in a scenic oceanfront setting.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Siesta Suites – This charming retreat offers comfortable rooms, kitchenettes, and a relaxed atmosphere just a short stroll from the city’s popular shops and restaurants.
- Mayan Monkey Cabo – Modern hostel with a relaxed vibe, offering rooftop spaces, an outdoor pool, and shared work and social areas near local nightlife and city attractions.
- Solmar Resort – A family-friendly pick with multiple pools, spa, and easy proximity to both the city and scenic walks.
6. Pedregal – Where to Stay in Los Cabos for Privacy and Villas
Exclusive Enclave. Pedregal represents Cabo’s most prestigious residential area, accessible only through a tunnel carved through solid rock. This gated community features 24/7 security and houses some of Mexico’s most expensive real estate. The area offers complete privacy while maintaining easy access to downtown Cabo San Lucas and all major attractions.
Exclusive Beach Access. Pedregal Beach remains one of Cabo’s most secluded stretches, accessible only to residents and their guests. The private beach club (members only) offers complimentary towels, umbrellas, and basic refreshments. Beach service includes food and beverage delivery directly to your lounger with simple meals available throughout the day.
Pedregal Amenities | Access Level | Special Features |
---|---|---|
Private beach club | Residents/guests only | Secluded coastline, beach service |
24/7 security | Gated community | Controlled access, safety |
Clifftop dining | Public with reservations | Ocean views, fine dining |
Spa services | Residents/day spa guests | Luxury treatments, ocean views |
Fine Dining Options. El Farallon at Waldorf Astoria (6-10:30pm) offers clifftop dining with their impressive 7-course tasting menu featuring fresh local seafood. Seared (6-11pm) provides contemporary cuisine with unobstructed ocean views and creative cocktail pairings. The area is known for hosting private dining experiences with renowned local chefs creating custom menus.
Transportation & Access. The area provides easy access to Los Cabos airport and downtown attractions through private car services. Daily shuttle services connect residents to main shopping areas, the marina, and popular restaurants. The exclusive location offers the perfect balance of privacy and convenience for those seeking a luxurious Cabo experience.
Best Hotels in Pedregal
Luxury Hotels
- Pedregal Manor Retreat Cabo San Lucas – Grand multi-bedroom villa with sweeping ocean views, private pool, and elegant outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining.
- OYO Casa Bella Boutique Hotel – Intimate boutique option featuring traditional décor, a peaceful courtyard, and genuine hospitality in the heart of the city.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Tesoro Los Cabos – Comfy rooms, a lively pool, and easy access to shopping and attractions for those wanting value and convenience.
- Casa Robyn – Simple and cozy guesthouse, perfect for anyone wanting a private atmosphere with home comforts and walking access to downtown.
FAQs about Visiting Los Cabos
1. What are the best hotels in Los Cabos for couples?
Los Cabos for couples offers exceptional romantic experiences at Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos and Grand Velas Los Cabos, both featuring world-class spas and intimate dining. The best all-inclusive resorts like Nobu Los Cabos provide couples with luxury amenities and stunning Pacific Ocean views perfect for romantic getaways.
2. Which resort in Los Cabos has the best spa?
Spa Montage Los Cabos stands out among resorts in Mexico for its clifftop location and signature treatments overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Four Seasons Resort also offers exceptional spa services with personalized wellness experiences that rank among the best in Baja California.
3. Where can I find swimmable beaches near Cabo San Lucas?
Chileno Bay Resort area offers some of the safest swimmable waters, located miles outside Cabo San Lucas along the scenic coastline. Medano Beach provides calm waters perfect for families, with easy access to the best restaurants and local beach activities.
4. What makes San José del Cabo special for travelers?
San José del Cabo combines authentic Mexican culture with luxury accommodations, featuring art galleries and traditional restaurants in cabo that showcase local ceviche and regional cuisine. The historic downtown area offers a peaceful contrast to the nightlife scene, with charming plazas and the best local markets nearby San José.
5. Which luxury resort offers the best views in Los Cabos?
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal provides unmatched clifftop views of the Pacific Ocean from its exclusive location in the prestigious Pedregal community. The resort’s elevated position offers panoramic vistas that extend from Cabo San Lucas and San José to the dramatic rock formations at Land’s End.
6. Are there good boutique hotels in Cabo San Lucas?
Thompson Hotel stands out as a premier boutique hotel with modern design and rooftop amenities in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Viceroy Los Cabos also offers distinctive architecture and personalized service, representing some of the finest boutique accommodations in the areas of Los Cabos.
7. What’s special about Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos location?
Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos sits strategically between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, offering guests access to championship golf at Lucas at Cabo del Sol. The resort provides the perfect base for exploring Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park and enjoying both the cultural attractions of San Jose and the nightlife of Cabo San Lucas.
8. Which areas of Los Cabos are best for villa rentals?
Pedregal offers exclusive villa rentals with private beach access and 24-hour security, representing the most prestigious residential area in Los Cabos. The Tourist Corridor between San Lucas and San José del Cabo also features luxury villas with golf course access and proximity to the best restaurants.
9. Where can travelers find the best all-inclusive resorts?
Grand Velas Los Cabos and other selected the best hotels offer comprehensive all-inclusive packages with gourmet dining and spa services. The corridor between Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol provides multiple luxury options, including resorts that cater specifically to adults and couples seeking premium experiences.
10. What makes Montage Los Cabos unique among luxury resorts?
Montage Los Cabos offers an exclusive beachfront location with direct access to pristine beaches and world-class golf facilities at nearby courses. The resort combines sophisticated accommodations with authentic Baja California experiences, including access to local attractions like Cabo Pulmo and traditional Mexico City restaurant-style dining venues.