Los Cabos, Mexico

Photo credit: Mexico Tourism

The two towns at the tip of the rugged Baja Peninsula are commonly grouped together and referred to as Los Cabos, although they couldn't be more different. San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are separated not just by 33km (21 miles), but also by distinct attitudes and ways of life. Where Cabo San Lucas mirrors a spirited version of Los Angeles lifestyle, San José del Cabo remains a traditional, tranquil Mexican small town, although recent gentrification is turning it into the more sophisticated of the two resorts.

Great sportfishing originally brought attention to Los Cabos, which were once accessible only by water. It remains a lure today, although golf has overtaken it as the principal attraction. As early as the 1940s, the area attracted a hearty community of cruisers, fishermen, divers, and adventurers. By the early 1980s, the Mexican government realized the growth potential of Los Cabos and invested in new highways, airport facilities, golf courses, and modern marine facilities. The increase in air access and the opening of Transpeninsular Highway 1 (in 1973) paved the way for spectacular growth.

The road that connects Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo is the centerpiece of resort growth. Known as "the Corridor," this well-paved four-lane stretch offers cliff-top vistas but still has no nighttime lighting. The area's deluxe resorts and renowned golf courses are here, along with a collection of dramatic beaches and coves. The view is especially outstanding in January and February, when gray whales often spout close to shore.

The Los Cabos area is more expensive than other Mexican resorts, because the boom in new hotel construction has been limited to luxury resorts. Unfortunately, prices have not adjusted downward with the added supply of rooms.

You should consider renting a car, even if only for a day. There are numerous attractions between the two Cabos, and taxis are expensive. If you are at all interested in exploring, a rental car is your most economical option.

Because of the distinctive character and attractions of each of the Cabos and the Corridor, they are treated separately here. It is common to stay in one and make day trips to the other two.

• Acapulco
• Cancun
• Cozumel
• Ixtapa
• Los Cabos
• Mazatlan
• Mexico City
• Playa Del Carmen
• Puerto Vallarta
• Riviera Maya