When Cabo comes to mind, it often conjures images of the classic spring break scene—think Mango Deck and El Squid Roe, the nightclubs you might rather forget from a long-ago college trip. But there’s another side to Cabo, one we hold dear: stunning beaches like Zipper’s Break, luxurious hotels like Esperanza, and unforgettable dining experiences at spots like Acre’s Restaurant & Cocktail Bar. This, my friends, is San José del Cabo.
During her travels, Editor Britney Eschelman connected with residents to uncover hidden gems that go far beyond the typical tourist, resort-only itinerary. Keep reading for our hyper-curated recommendations on where to sleep, eat, drink, and explore in Mexico’s ultimate beach destination.
Where to Stay:
The Cape, a Thompson Hotel
Perched on the Sea of Cortez near town, The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, is a boutique-style, 161-room retreat offering unmatched views of Cabo’s iconic El Arco. Each room boasts private terraces—many with daybeds—overlooking the azure sea and the pools and cabanas below.
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Acre Resort Los Cabos
Have you ever dreamed of staying in a treehouse? Acre brings this to life with 15 boutique treehouses nestled among palm trees. Wake up to sunlight filtering through thatched walls and drift off to the soothing Baja breeze. Cosmopolitan even ranked it the third sexiest hotel in the world—and it’s easy to see why.
Drift San José del Cabo
Touted as one of San José del Cabo’s best-kept secrets, this boutique hotel features 29 thoughtfully designed rooms. With minimalist interiors and locally sourced decor from the Baja peninsula, it offers a serene escape from the vibrant Gallery District’s art exhibits, restaurants, and shops.
Where to Eat:
Sage
Cabo’s farm-to-fork gastronomy shines, and Sage leads the way. Known for its seasonal menu and acclaimed cocktails and wines, standout dishes like the sweet corn-infused triangle ravioli with maize mushroom, tender corn, and roasted chili embody the essence of Baja cuisine—all set in a stunning open-air oasis of towering palms and native trees.
Agave Kitchen
Roost above the historic Art District, this hidden gem marries traditional Mexican flavors with time-honored cooking techniques. Led by Esperanza’s former sommelier, it’s no wonder this rooftop bar has become a local favorite for sunset cocktails and authentic stone-oven dishes.
Flora Farms
Yes, it’s a popular pick, but Flora Farms is a must-visit in Baja California Sur. Tucked in the serene desert-meets-lush foothills, this 25-acre organic farm is continuously recognized as one of the area’s top dining spots.
Ruba’s Bakery & Bistro
Occupying a charming 1940s casita, you’ll want to rise early and head into town for breakfast at Ruba’s Bakery & Bistro. This Michelin Guide café serves freshly baked conchas, croissants, donuts, and coffee. Their standout brunch shines with dishes like chilaquiles and French toast from Friday to Sunday.
Chick’n Doo
Chick’n Doo, a hole-in-the-wall rotisserie spot by Las Ventanas al Paraíso’s former Executive Chef, is a local favorite for flavorful peri-peri chicken with jalapeños, mayo, fresh tortillas, sautéed veggies, and roasted potatoes. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., it’s a prime spot for takeout or delivery.
Where to Drink:
Clandestina
This unassuming speakeasy channels the Prohibition era with its sultry décor, gold accents, and vintage taper candles. Sip old-fashioned cocktails in teacups, savor French appetizers and Spanish tapas, and enjoy live jazz, swing, and vinyl DJs spinning eclectic mixes of African disco and Latino funk.
Crania
For desert-chic parties in Baja California Sur, Crania hosts a mini-Burning Man beach club with guest DJs and major performers like Rufus Du Sol and Black Coffee. It’s the ultimate local hotspot every weekend.
NOROOM Speakeasy
This local spot by Lab Baja transforms from a daytime coffee bar to a nighttime haven with a mezzanine hi-fi vinyl bar where DJs spin vibey tunes. The outdoor area offers sweeping sunset views, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day at the beach with a glass of natural wine.
Where to Visit:
Go to East Cape for the Day
Head to Cabo’s East Cape for a memorable day trip from San José. Book a table at Zai Sushi, and if you over-indulge, camp right on the beach or stay the night at The White Lodge. With donkeys and horses roaming the nearly uninhabited shoreline, it’s the perfect off-the-grid escape.
Join the Thursday Night Art Walk in Downtown San José
Head to downtown’s historic hub for the Thursday Night Art Walk, where galleries and artists display their work amid live music and festive cobblestone streets. Don a locally made Corazón Playero sunhat (visit by appointment) to blend in, and don’t miss Quiero Recordings, a must-visit vinyl shop in San José.
Grab Lunch and Watch the Pro-Surfers at Zipper’s Break
Grab lunch at Pescadito Break for a classic Mexicana meal while watching pro surfers at Zipper’s Surf Break, known for its shortboard waves. New to surfing? Head to Acapulquito Beach, also known as Old Man’s Beach, for lessons. True surf enthusiasts will love staying at Cabo Surf Hotel.
Head Towards Cabo San Lucas, but Stop by The Cape for the Day
Go toward Cabo San Lucas, but stop at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel. Shop at the Glass Box Boutique, then enjoy lunch at the vegan, zero-alcohol Sead. As the sun sets, unwind with cocktails at Sunsets de Mona Lisa.
