Whether its ritzy Los Cabos, artsy San José del Cabo or laid-back bohemian enclave Todos Santos that appeals, Mexico’s Baja California Sur is the perfect destination for those in search of a quick and easy getaway. The sunshine and spectacular beaches here have attracted travelers for decades; today style-conscious types are drawn to the area thanks to an influx of new lodging options where a stylish aesthetic, intimate ambience and superior service are key. From a modern beachfront masterpiece to an eco-chic jungle oasis, each one striking the perfect balance between essential and understated luxury, these five photogenic and design-forward properties dotted across the peninsula are attracting hipsters and high-fliers alike.
ACRE BAJA
Just 4 miles from San José del Cabo, Acre Baja transports travelers a world away thanks to its lush forest oasis of towering palms, cacti and other assorted flora. The twenty-five-acre farm added a dozen ‘treehouse’ suites in 2017 – made with local materials, each one featuring its own queen-sized bed, ensuite bathroom, alfresco shower, plus thoughtful extras like ice chest minibars and soft cotton robes. Many dishes at the award-winning restaurant are made with produce from the farm, so the food here is exceptional. The cocktails are fresh and inventive, and there are daily mezcal tastings too, which is made in-house. Afternoons can be whiled away around the pool area, or by visiting the menagerie of rescue animals. Look out for resident peacock, Chucky, who’s been known to join guests for coffee and the odd game of table tennis. For those looking to invest in a little slice of paradise, there are limited fractional ownership options on Acre's new sustainably built villas.
MOST SUITED TO: Foodies, fashionistas and animal lovers seeking romantic adventure.
THE CAPE, A THOMPSON HOTEL
Situated on Monument’s Beach, a famed surf spot just outside Cabo San Lucas, the handsome 161-room Cape hotel offers stunning views of the Sea of Cortez and famed El Arco rock formation. Designed by acclaimed Mexico City architect Javier Sanchez, the vibe here is upscale-urban meets mid-century modern. There’s a refined yet intimate feel, thanks to well-placed handmade furnishings and regional artworks, while the spectacular Lobby Bar wouldn’t look out of place in a Bond movie. Helmed by award-winning chef Enrique Olvera, who plays with Peruvian, Japanese and Mexican techniques, dinner reservations at slick signature restaurant Manta are highly recommended. For craft beers and sunsets, head to The Rooftop. The seven-room boutique spa, freshwater infinity pool, and daily yoga classes keep guests happily ensconced at the property for days on end.
MOST SUITED TO: Sun seekers who like to lounge poolside with cocktails and good tunes.
HOTEL SAN CRISTÓBAL
Swoon-worthy design details abound at the photogenic Hotel San Cristóbal – the first international edition to ‘queen of cool’ hotelier Liz Lambert’s Bunkhouse Group roster. Located fifteen minutes south of Todos Santos, both Pacific Ocean sunsets from the pool area and sunrises over the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range, can be enjoyed from the intimate property. There are 32 rooms in total, ranging from sea queens and poolside kings, to a garden view suite – all expertly decorated with 70s style concrete tiles and colorful handwoven bedspreads. Guests can dine at restaurant-bar Benno, which is open for breakfast and dinner only. Dishes here have a Mediterranean-Mexican focus and are proudly made with local produce and seafood. There’s an on-site shop, which sells artisan goodies, and an on-site library too. The convivial poolside happy hour, which features cocktails, ceviche and live music every Friday, is a great place to mix and mingle with fellow guests.
MOST SUITED TO: Surfers and haute hippies searching for perfect for waves and solitude.
DRIFT SAN JOSÉ
In the quiet colonial town of San Jose del Cabo, the hip DRIFT San Jose is tucked a handy two-minute walk away from the trendy arts district. A minimalist’s dream, the smart urban oasis rocks a black and white palette with industrial accents, like custom steel finishes and poured concrete. Split over two stories, the eight guest rooms each have courtyard views – some also include hammocks. There are no TVs, minibars or room service, guests can, however, help themselves to refreshments (beers, water, snacks) from the ‘honor bar’, dine from on-site food carts and enjoy cocktails from the downstairs bar, where there’s also live music every weekend. The palm-filled courtyard features a concrete plunge pool, Acapulco chairs and a fire pit for socializing, reading or just plain old relaxing.
MOST SUITED TO: Indie travelers looking for social vibes and culture over all-inclusive.
HOTEL EL GANZO
Located in the Puerto Los Cabos Marina just outside San José del Cabo, the 70-room Hotel El Ganzo boasts its own underground recording studio, rooftop sushi bar, and infinity pool complete with luxury-sized day beds. There’s also a private beach just a two-minute panga ride away; those that wish to be pampered can enjoy downtime at Spa El Ganzo. All rooms here are waterfront and come with mod cons like iPads and smart TVs, while some of the suites boast private terraces and secret outdoor showers. The adults-only spot has a busy ‘cultural calendar’ of weekly happenings (both in town and at the hotel) including painting classes, and yoga every Saturday morning at the Ganzo de Playa Beach Club. There’s a rotating roster of visiting artists too – part of hotel’s artists in residence program – plus live-concerts and film screenings.
MOST SUITED TO: Culture vultures drawn to buzzy arts events and other hip happenings.
