Perched on the sandy shores of the Sea of Cortés, the elegant colonial town of San José del Cabo is a brilliant destination for art lovers, foodies and wildlife enthusiasts keen to kick back at the beach and explore Baja California Sur. Accommodation options range from intimate hideaways to cutting-edge luxury resorts, catering to a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whilst some of the area’s top spots are appealingly family-friendly, the town is a particular favourite with couples — some of the best places to stay in San José del Cabo are adults-only havens, perfect for a honeymoon or romantic escape.
Once a popular stop for Spanish trading ships seeking fresh water at the mouth of the Rio San José, San José del Cabo was officially founded in the early 18th century by Jesuit missionaries. A fort was built to defend the settlement from pirates, and the town evolved around the striking Plaza Mijares, dominated by the Mission San José del Cabo. At the heart of the historic district, this is a great place to delve into the town’s complex past, peruse bustling markets, listen to live music and pop into fascinating museums and art galleries. The area is at its best during the annual Art Walk, when you can expect wine tastings, creative exhibitions and street musicians aplenty. The region’s food is also a particular highlight: feast on fresh, seasonal fare and superb seafood both in town and at your hotel.
Nature-lovers can venture east to the palm-lined lagoons of the San José Estuary and Bird Sanctuary to spot hummingbirds, ibis and herons. The Cabo Pulmo Marine Park is fantastic for kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling amongst coral reefs and shipwrecks teeming with marine life. San José del Cabo is also close to several annual whale migration routes: speak you your hosts about catching a glimpse of these marvellous creatures. Don’t miss the craggy rock formations of Land’s End, either, where sea lions bask in the sunshine. Round off busy days of discovery with time spent sunbathing or surfing near the Playa Palmilla or the more secluded Playa Santa Maria.
Whether you’re here for the beautiful beaches, the wonderful wildlife or the intriguing layers of history, the best places to stay in San José del Cabo offer a gorgeous place to unwind after big days of adventure.