THE STORY_

WHERE THE HOTEL CALIFORNIA MEETS MEXICO

We realize you're not going to Cabo for 36 hours, but we also realize you will probably spend most of your trip basking in the Mexican sun while relaxing at your resort, and we definitely support that.  Although many people choose not venture beyond their resort, (no judgement), but you really, really should, as there's so much to see in the Baja Peninsula.  Cabo stumbled on an opportunity to revamp its reputation of debauchery after the 2014 hurricane did its damage.  You'll find architecturally beautiful beach hotels with innovative design, a sustainable agriculture community, and a laid back vibe. The Cabo area consists of two downtown districts: San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas.  Our guide explores the best of both, as they each provide a different experience. 

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DAY ONE_

MORNING

SEE_ FLORA FARMS FARM TOUR.  About 30-45 mins from any resort in Cabo, you'll find the popular but isolated FLORA FARMS.  Don't be skeptical when the cab driver takes you on a dirt road with no civilization in sight. This artist colony-working vegetable farm has become its own destination with pop up shops, a wine & coffee bar, residences, grocery, butchery, bakery, bar, and restaurant.  Book a FARM TOUR to experience the entire property-- mango tree grove, vegetable farm, and maybe even a tour of the artist colony cottages and residences. 

EAT_ FLORA FARMS FIELD KITCHEN.  A completely self-sustaining restaurant set in the middle of the farm, expect nothing less from the food than to mimic the surroundings: fresh, organic, and clean.  The Bloody Mary is a stand out as well, with a "farm-full" garnish at the top (e.g. pickled beets and raw kale).  The salads, roasted chicken, and pizzas are mouth watering.  It is farm to table at it's best.  Check the calendar beforehand for the cooking class schedule that must be reserved in advance; classes are held in a private area of the farm. 

AFTERNOON

WALK_ SAN JOSE DEL CABO.  Head to San Jose del Cabo and asked to be dropped off by the large cathedral in the town center.  Explore the charming cobblestone streets to the art galleries, Mexican handmade shops, restaurants, and markets.  It is a slower pace, slightly less touristy (and definitely less rowdy) than Cabo San Lucas and will give you a more authentic Mexican experience. 

NITE

DRINK_ THE CAPE HOTEL ROOFTOP BAR.   Before sunset and on your way to Cabo San Lucas for dinner, stop by this hotel if you aren't staying there.  Head up to the rooftop bar to enjoy great views, drinks, a good looking crowd, and a spectacular sunset.

EAT_ EDITH'S.  Head into Cabo San Lucas to EDITH'S for dinner (must make a reservation).  Just a few blocks from the touristy Marina, you'll find a vibrant and fun Mexican bar and restaurant. It feels authentic Baja with palapas, hanging glass-blown ornaments, Mexican blankets, flowers, and fountains. The open kitchen dishes up delicious local fresh fish, lobster, meat, and Mexican specialties. The tableside Caesar salad is the best Caesar we've had (fact: Caesar salad originated in Mexico).  The platters with fresh surf and turf are perfect sharing entrees, and the variety of quesadillas and ceviche win for appetizers. 

DAY TWO_

MORNING

EAT_ THE OFFICE ON THE BEACH.  Not just any breakfast on any beach, this place is special.  On the sand for views of the arch and coastline, the bright tablecloths and white accents are inviting. You can be as healthy as you want, as their menu ranges from eggs over chicken enchiladas and banana bacon pancakes, to fresh juices, omelets, and smoothies.  We recommend going in the morning as it is the most tranquil time of day.  In the afternoon this place becomes the hottest (and loudest) spot in town.

DRIVE_ TODOS  SANTOS or WIRIKUTA  DESERT BOTANITCAL GARDEN.  About 50 minutes up the Peninsula, you'll find the historic sugar cane village turned thriving artist community of Todos Santos.  This sleepy beach town feels like a throwback, but in a good way that will make you feel happy that places like this exist.  

Or if you would rather stay local, head to WIRIKUTA DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN where  hundreds of types of desert cactus and outdoor plants provide a serene environment to browse through meticulous gardens.

*We recommend hiring a private driver or renting a cab for a few hours (about 4-5 hours roundtrip for the entire excursion) to take you roundtrip to Todos Santos. Ask  your hotel for help with this, as they might have arrangements with local transportation companies.   

AFTERNOON

WALK_ TODOS SANTOS and HOTEL CALIFORNIA.  Start your tour in the center of town where the beautifully preserved Mission de Pilar and the old Cinema stand.  Wander through the art galleries, handmade shops, pottery stores, and antique marts, and make your way to HOTEL CALIFORNIA.  The perfectly pink, Hotel California, is the crown jewel of Todos Santos.  This historic hotel is still operating today and is famous not only for the song, but its beautifully bohemian interiors as well. 

EAT_ HOTEL SAN CRISTOBAL PUNTA LOBOS, TODOS SANTOS.  If you've ever dreamed about your Mexican vacation home, we found it-- the 32 room HOTEL SAN CRISTOBAL. The hotel and restaurant are the antithesis of your large fancy resort, but that's just the point of Todos Santos.  The hotel is situated along a most picturesque beach with a large central pool, Mexican tiles, white hacienda architecture and quaintness you won't feel in Cabo.  It's one of those places where no one knows what time it is, and that's a good thing.  

EAT_ ACRE. If you did not trek to Todos, just a few miles up the road from the botanical gardens you'll find the desert oasis, ACRE.  This agriculturally-inspired restaurant, bar, and soon to be tree house hotel, is a heavenly farm-like setting contrasted with sleek, modern design and organic materials.  The food and drinks fit the environment with farm fresh ingredients that are light and locally sourced.

NITE

EAT_ SUNSET DE MONA LISA.  For an early dinner (pre-sunset), head to SUNSET DE MONA LISA. If you're staying at The Cape,  it's within walking distance, perched up on the hill.  The restaurant is built into the cliff and tiered, so that every table and seat has an unobstructed view of the ocean and iconic arch.  You'll feel as if you've been transported to Santorini with white tablecloths, stone walls, and blue pools.  The Italian-influenced menu focuses heavily on seafood.  Save room for tiramisu and a Mexican coffee made tableside.  You'll have the best seat in Cabo to watch the sunset, so much so, they named the restaurant after it. 

EVERYTHING FROM OUR GUIDE (PLUS A FEW OTHERS WE LOVE)

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NITE_

COCKTAILS_

HOTELS_

PLACES_