A babymoon can be the perfect getaway for a pregnant woman and her significant other before the hectic schedule of late night feedings and diaper-changing begins. But finding the perfect place that caters to an expectant mom's unique needs while still making Dad happy can be tricky. Mom is oftentimes limited by dietary and activity restrictions, while he can travel as he normally does (sorry, ladies, we know it’s not fair!).
The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico offers the perfect babymoon experience in an authentic, luxurious setting resembling Old Mexico, which will keep both parties relaxed and happy. With its winding cobblestone paths, Hacienda-inspired architecture, personalized service and many dining options, there is plenty to do as a couple, solo or together on the resort and within the surrounding area. Here are three day-to-day itineraries that encompass restful days, adventure and plenty of fun in paradise (no tequila required!). As always, make sure you double check with your doctor before engaging in any activity or spa treatments.
Day 1: Sailing, Spas and Sunsets
Together: Connect with TerraMar Destinations, one of the most trusted excursion and transportation providers in Cabo, and schedule a sailing and snorkeling cruise around the area’s most famous natural site, El Arco de Cabo San Lucas. This four-hour excursion offers picturesque views and plenty of options for sun lover wanting to lounge on a suspended net toward the front of the boat, or for less UV exposure, there is a shady sitting area toward the back of the boat to sit back and relax. The area comes complete with homemade guacamole, salsa, tortilla chips and virgin margaritas for mom, while dad has his choice of drinks from the bar.
Depending on the strength of the currents that day, pregnant women may not want to venture too far from the boat, but an attached ladder makes taking a quick dip easy while Dad slaps on a snorkel and fin and explores the reef around Pelican Rock. Upon your return to the resort, head to Cactus Spa for the royal treatment, but go your separate ways once inside.
For her: The sauna and steam room aren’t safe for pregnant women, but go early to sit in the relaxation lounge and sip herbal tea, then duck into a private room for the 50- or 80-minute pregnancy massage, which helps relieve aching muscles and legs from pregnancy.
For him: Go early to relax in the sauna and/or steam room before heading into a private room for a sport massage designed to heal muscle pain and help with flexibility. Allow time afterward to sit in the outdoor hot tub while listening to the tranquil rushing of waterfalls.
Together: For one of the most romantic sunset dinners in the area, make a reservation and dine at Sunset da Mona Lisa, which is only a short five-minute car ride from the hotel. Arrive early and enjoy cocktails (and mocktails) in the restaurant’s outdoor lounge area on chic white couches, while enjoying the view of Cabo and El Arco. Pregnant women should wear flats to safely navigate the winding cliffside paths that lead to the individual tables. Once seated, the menu offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, meats, pastas and veggies. Servers and the chef go out of their way to cater to any dietary restrictions. Once the sun goes down, the sunset ceremony, performed by the staff, complete with gongs and conch shells, is an unforgettable theatrical treat.
Day 2: Pool, Shopping and San Jose del Cabo
Together: Lounge by one of the resort’s five gorgeous pools with choices like the oceanfront Pitahayas pool or the Infinity Pool that makes guests feel like they are floating on the Sea of Cortez. Order lunch and drinks from any of the friendly poolside servers and enjoy virgin piña coladas without even leaving your lounge chair. Afterwards, shower up and head to the quaint town of San Jose del Cabo for an afternoon stroll on its streets, filled with shops and historical sites.
For her: Before dinner, give tired feet the royal treatment and stop into Fish Therapy San Jose del Cabo for the Fish pedicure. “Garra rufa,” or hundreds of small freshwater fish also known as “Doctor Fish,” nibble at your toes, exfoliating dead skin while promoting circulation and healthy skin.
For him: Rock & Brews, just next door, has a wide selection of craft beers on tap, live music daily, and was co-founded by KISS frontman Gene Simmons, so it’s the perfect place to pop in and hang out for an hour or two.
Together: La Galeria, on the same block, is the perfect spot for dinner. Serving up a blend of Mexican, Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, this place offers warm, personalized service in a kitschy atmosphere. Sit outside for ultimate people-watching and pink and purple skies, or opt to sit indoors to take in the ornate, shabby-chic décor.
Day 3: Day at the Resort
For him: Hit the links at the nearby Cabo del Sol, and make sure you go on the earlier side of the day before it gets too hot to play. Choose from either the Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course with ocean views or the Desert Course. Both courses offer 18 holes, as well as clinics and lessons from PGA professionals for all levels. Meet your significant other afterwards at one of the pools and cool off by taking a dip. Later in the day, partake in a game of tequila volleyball. Check the activities schedule to plan accordingly.
For her: Water aerobics is generally offered every morning at the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar, but be sure to check with the concierge in advance. It’s a great low-intensity workout for pregnant women, using the water as resistance, and instructors can tweak classes to accommodate expectant moms. The beach walk is a great activity in the early morning to explore the beautiful shoreline of Cabo. Bingo in the afternoon is another fun way to spend some time in the midst of soaking up the rays and reading a good book.
Together: Plan your farewell dinner at De Cortez Grill and Restaurant, located on the property and featuring breathtaking ocean views as well as cuisine ranging from seafood to meats and poultry, and artistically-designed desserts. Head over to the fire pit afterwards for an after-dinner drink and live music.
