Famed for its champion golf courses, uncommon aquatic life and a dizzying array of ocean activities, it’s no wonder San Jose del Cabo has become the destination of choice for the jet set. But this promontory of postcard-worthy coastlines makes for a welcome respite for winter weary Canadians too. Here’s what I got up to on my last visit and what you need to know.
Where to Stay
If you’re looking to step back into the glamour of old Mexico, check into The One & Only Palmilla, consistently ranked the top resort in Mexico by Condé Nast Traveller . Each room faces either the Pacific Ocean or Sea of Cortez from a private patio or balcony.
For more of a funky, boutique feel, try The Cabo Surf Hotel. Reminiscent of a laid-back California beach house, it’s located on one of the top surfing beaches with board rentals available through their surf school.
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Probably the world’s hippest hotel just opened last year and rates remain low until 2014. Check out my thoughts on Hotel El Ganzo here.
Where to Eat
At 7 Seas Seafood Grille, you’ll sit underneath under romantic thatched palm palpas and feast upon seared tuna, smoky chipolte salsa and blue-crab tostado’s with a cilantro-avocado drizzle in addition to the ocean views.
One of the best beach bars can be found at Zipper’s, in front of the surf break of the same name. Spend an afternoon kicking back with icy-cold Pacificos and fish tacos, while spotting surfers amongst the waves.
Craving more traditional tastes? Be sure to stop by Habanero’s for savoury chilli relenos and carne asada.
For a hands on experience, take part in a cooking class at Los Tamarindos, an organic farm and restaurant.
Where to Shop
San Jose’s historic art district is full of Spanish Colonial character, not to mention quaint shops and galleries featuring the works of Mexico’s leading artists. Expats live for the weekly art tours on Thursday nights. And with pricing 20 per cent lower here on works by Mexico’s most famous artists than in the US or Canada who wouldn’t? For contemporary paintings and sculpture, head to Corsica Gallery for the works of Diego Rivera’s god son, Augustin Castro Lopez and Manuel Feiguerez, Mexico’s most famous abstract painter.
Shopaholics shouldn’t miss locals’ favourite Artesano’s, located between San Jose and Cabo San Lucas. Here, you’ll find low prices on stemware, pewter and unique souvenir items.
Travel Tip: Christened “the world’s aquarium,” by Jacques Cousteau, there’s no shortage of marine life at this tip of the Baja region. View the graceful migration of grey whales from January to April. Or, help hatchlings make their way to sea when two of the world’s eight turtle species nest from June to February.
Have you ever been to San Jose del Cabo? Where are your favourite places to visit there?
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