I’ll be the first to admit that I have a pretty solid love affair with Cabo San Lucas. From San Diego, it’s a quick two-hour plane ride away, making it the perfect four-day weekend getaway destination. With its year-round sunny weather; modern and chic luxury hotels around every corner; and street tacos paired with fresh margaritas—could you ask for anything more?
During my most recent visit, I checked into the all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Montecristo Estates within a private residential development in the city. Located on the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, the all-villa resort is made up of three bedroom residences, each with private infinity pools, Jacuzzis, butler service and 2,800 square feet of space.
From the lobby, guests are escorted via van to their private villa and greeted by their butler for the week. Before even heading inside, you know you’re in for a treat. Inside, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open up onto a patio with Jacuzzi, all overlooking the ocean. On the bottom floor, the doors open up to your infinity pool. Dressed in rich reds, deep blues and wood accents, the villas are filled with luxurious details around every corner.
Upstairs is the master bedroom with its own patio and opens up into the living room, kitchen and dining area. (Tip: If you’re celebrating anything, let the hotel know ahead of time and you may find a few fun treats waiting in your room during your stay.) The full kitchen also makes it easy to enjoy nights in with a home-cooked meal (food and beverages can be stoked upon request) Or, since you are on vacation, take advantage of the all-day in-room dining options which include fresh cocktails being sent right to your door. Should you prefer an in-villa chef prepare a meal one evening, let your butler know and they can arrange a special affair for you.
Downstairs, guests are treated to two more bedrooms divided by a living room and the pool outside. This divide is a great feature for families and groups who want a little extra privacy between rooms. Whether you send the children downstairs and stay upstairs or have three couples in the villa, the space is big enough to put distance between each room so you don’t hear your roommates. Outside, you’ll find lounge chairs, a spacious patio and views of the ocean. This will most likely be your favorite spot throughout your visit.
As an all-inclusive guest, you’re given access to Monte Cristo’s sister properties as well. Transportation between hotels is as easy as calling a buggy from your room—though the resort is extensive and you’ll be joining others headed to the same place—so leave enough time to get from point A to point B.
Located at the Pueblo Bonito Rose Resort & Spa in downtown Los Cabos is Fellini's Ristorante, an award-winning restaurant worth checking out and features Italian fare, seafood, pastas and pizzas, all in a fine dining atmosphere. Although there is both indoor and outdoor seating, opt for outside and sit beneath the stars while enjoying warm Cabo breezes and the sounds of the ocean, it’s the perfect dinner atmosphere. Dress code is resort elegant so be sure to throw on your chicest attire before heading over.
Because there are so many restaurants to choose from on the all-inclusive restaurant, it’s easy to miss some of the non-included offerings within the resorts. One dining venue that you should definitely consider is the Peninsula Restaurant at Pueblo Bonita Pacifica, an adults-only resort. Before your reservation, spend some time enjoying craft cocktails along the beach at the outdoor Peninsula Bar and Beach Bar next to the restaurant—preferably around sunset for an extra special treat.
Inside the Peninsula, white linens and white leather chairs decorate the space while low hanging chandeliers set the mood for the evening. The restaurant features traditional Baja favorites with a modern twist and offers everything from roasted sea bass to olive-crusted local tuna, rack of lamb and lobster tail. If you’re a seafood lover, the “La Playita” Sea Bass is a standout dish that comes with avocado, cucumber, bell peppers, chives, pickled onions and chili curry.
When it comes to relaxing poolside, if you decide to venture away from your villa, Sky Pool at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach hotel is great for good views and adult beverages. Sitting on an elevated point, the area includes a two-tier infinity pool, swim-up bar, lounge chairs and a food service. Other amenities around the property include a spa, fitness center, babysitting services, access to the nearby Jack Nicklaus Signature course at Quivira Golf Club and daily activities at the various resorts such as live music and kid’s events.
Having visited plenty of the area’s best resorts over the years, it’s easy to add Pueblo Bonito Montecristo Estates to our list of favorite Cabo hotels. From the moment you arrive, everything feels chic and welcoming—with the property’s staff being ready and eager to assist with any questions or needs you may have.
Although all-inclusive resorts can get a bad rap, Pueblo Bonito’s hotels all offer the same level of high-end amenities, fine-dining options and exclusive activities as you would get at other luxury hotels. To them, all-inclusive means giving you the option to fully relax while on vacation. You’re still getting the same five-star experience, but without having to worry about planning anything other than what your next cocktail will be…as you lounge by your private infinity pool. Skinny margarita, rocks.
