Los Cabos Magazine Issue #45 Winter 2017

The Sea’s Spell Prepare yourself to fall under the spell of the Sea of Cortés

Cabo’s Best Beaches Locals’ Favorite Spots Surprising Real Estate Finds

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Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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LETTER FROM THE

PUBLISHER

ISSUE NUMBER 45 ­Publisher Joseph A. Tyson Executive Editor Ashley Alvarado Contributing Writers Sandra A. Berry, Carol S. Billups, Beto Haro, Fernando Rodriguez, Chris Sands Proofreader Sandra A. Berry General Manager Lic. Perla Palomino Design Rogelio Pérez Sales Julio Álvarez, Gabriela Carra, Flor Velázquez

In this issue of Los Cabos Magazine, you’ll discover everything you need for the vacation of a lifetime. Spend your days soaking up the sun Los Cabos’ Blue Flag beaches (“Raise the Flag,” page 50), exploring the seas Jacques Cousteau dubbed “the aquarium of the world” (“The Sea’s Spell,” page 44), or trying your hand at any number of adrenaline-spiking activities (“The Directory,” page 54).

Veteran Los Cabos Magazine writer Chris Sands shares an inside look at the Cabo San Lucas he fell in love with in “My Cabo,” on page 26, as well as his tips for eating like a local when it comes to Los Cabos restaurants: “This Is How We Do It” on page 60. Of course, no issue would be complete without our dining guide, page 68, the ultimate collection of Los Cabos restaurants—from Brazilian barbecue to rustic Italian, good old-fashioned Mexican, and French finds.

Find yourself falling in love? Make like writers Chris Sands and Carol S. Billups, and make the permanent move to Los Cabos. In “Outside the Box,” page 34, Billups—a veteran real estate agent and writer—explores some of Los Cabos’ unexpected real estate finds.

Want more info on Los Cabos and the surrounding region? Make sure to follow us on Facebook!

Web Development Ismael Flores, Miguel Keel Photography CaboPictures.com, Francisco Estrada, Andrik Oechler, Oscar Ortíz, Perla Palomino, Rogelio Pérez, Hugo Román, Sergio Rodríguez, Joseph A. Tyson, Brian Ulloa, Miguel Ventura

Edited and distributed by Publicaciones Turísticas Los Cabos S.A. de C.V. Calle Flor de Pitahaya Mza. 7, Lote 29, Fraccionamiento Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS México 23473 Telephone...............011-52 (624) 143-1346 Vonage............................1 (800) 481-3905 Facsimile................011-52 (624) 143-2659 E-mail.............ventas1@loscabosguide.com

WWW.LOSCABOSMAGAZINE.COM USA MAILING ADRESS Los Cabos Magazines, Inc. Tyson Promotions, Inc. 303 Magnolia Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651-1720 Telephone...........................(858) 569-0172 Facsimile............................(858) 333-7000 E-mail...........vouchers@loscabosguide.com Copyright ©2017 Los Cabos Magazines, Inc. Printed in Denver, Colorado, USA

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Francisco Estrada

¡Bienvenidos! Welcome to Los Cabos, our sunshine-filled sliver of paradise at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula. Summer may be long over where you live, but here we continue to enjoy excellent weather tailor-made for adventure.

Administration Gabriela Carra, Carolina Cortez Saade, Rogelio Tinajero

S A F E T Y

Come On

Down!

While there are legitimate concerns about travel to some parts of México, Los Cabos remains a safe and secure destination

By Fernando Rodríguez

The Cabo San Lucas Marina is a favorite destination of tourists and locals.

The State Department advised caution for those traveling to La Paz—the capital city of Baja California Sur—which is roughly two hours north of Cabo 8

San Lucas. This is primarily due to a spike in crime that lasted from late summer 2014 to the fall of 2015. Travel to Los Cabos, however, included no such warning. In fact, the only mention of it was: “Cabo San Lucas and La Paz are major cities/travel destinations in the state of Southern Baja California.”

So, what does this mean? Simply put: Travel to Los Cabos is safe.

And, it’s worth noting, travel to La Paz is now considered safe once again with its crime rates similar to— or better than—those of many major U.S. cities. For more information on La Paz, visit http://en.golapaz.com.

Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

There has been a concerted effort to protect and reassure visitors and travelers. That effort includes an increased presence of federal soldiers, marines, and the navy.

The Zika virus continues to concern people in several countries, but there have—as of press time—been no reported cases of the virus anywhere in the Baja Peninsula or in the states nearest to it.

If you’re reading this article, the chances are you’re probably already in Los Cabos or, at least seriously considering it. Well, you’re in good company. As of 2014, México is once

Cabopictures.com

The U.S. State Department regularly publishes information about travel destinations throughout the world, including advisories, warnings, and restrictions. In its latest post regarding travel to México, the State Department focused much of its attention on the Zika virus that is affecting some parts of the country—not Los Cabos—as well as the cartel-related violence that has dominated headlines despite its affecting only a limited percentage of the nation.

S A F E T Y

The views from Playa el Médano, or Médano Beach, in Cabo San Lucas attract visitors from all over the world each year.

again one of the top-10 tourist destinations in the world.

When it comes to travel from the United States, México has regained its title as the top foreign destination with 25.4 million Americans choosing to pay it a visit. Baja California Sur is home to 10 of the country’s best beaches (for more on that, read “Raise the Flag” on page 50).

Rogelio Pérez

There are coordinated local, state, and federal efforts to keep Los Cabos safe, secure, and fun for travelers and residents. The marines and navy have a constant presence on Médano Beach—the most popular and swimmable beach in Cabo San Lucas proper—as well along the Cabo San Lucas Marina. They’re joined by Los Cabos’ special tourism police, who are fluent in English and focused on protecting visitors’ safety.

the Baja outback, do so with a certified guide. We have a directory of activities on page 54. And when you decide to enjoy the waters that surround the Baja Peninsula, stick to the Sea of Cortés side. The lapping Pacific Ocean looks inviting, but it’s much too dangerous for swimming in most parts, thanks to its strong waves and riptides. And, of course, stay hydrated.

Need even more reassurance? Here are a few words from Los Cabos Secretary of Tourism Miroslava Bautista Sánchez: “México is a big, incredibly diverse country, so drug violence along the border does not have any effect on a vacation in Los Cabos. Thousands of flights, cruise lines, and private yachts choose Los Cabos as their travel destination. Why? Because Los Cabos is a symbol of a peaceful place to visit and to live.”

Travelers can also take measures to ensure their safety while on vacation in Los Cabos—or, really, anywhere.

Exercise good decision-making: Don’t overdo it on sunning, drinking, or partying. If you’re wanting to explore

For an archive of safety-related articles from Los Cabos Magazine, please visit www.loscabosmagazine.com/blogs /safe-travel. Y

LOS CABOS MAGAZINE, revista trimestral, edición número 45, diciembre 2016.

Editado por: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V. Editor Responsable: Joseph Anthony Tyson Carlton. No. de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2005-062017021100-102.

No. de Certificado de Licitud de Título: No. 13247. No. de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: 10820. Domicilio de la Publicación: Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 28, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS, México, 23410. Impresor: Los Cabos Magazines Inc., Tyson Promotions, Inc. 303 Magnolia Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651-1720. Tel. (858)-569-0172. Imprenta: Publication Printers Corp, 2001 S. Platte River Dr. Denver Colorado 80223. Tel. (303)-936-0303. Distribuidor: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V., Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 30, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS México, 23473 Despacho.

LOS CABOS MAGAZINE, published four times per year, issue number 45, December 2016. Published by: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V. Editor Responsible: Joseph Anthony Tyson. Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2005-062017021100102. Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título: No. 13247. Número de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: 10820. Publication Address: Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 30, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS, México, 23410. Printer: Los Cabos Magazines, Inc., 303 Magnolia Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651-1720. Tel. (858)-569-0172. Printed at: Publication Printers Corp, 2001 S. Platte River Dr. Denver Colorado, USA 80223, Tel. (303)-936-0303. Distributor: PUBLICACIONES TURISTICAS LOS CABOS S.A. DE C.V., Office: Calle Flor de Pitaya Mza. 7 Lote 30, Fracc. Jacarandas, Cabo San Lucas, BCS México, 23473.

Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

26 My Cabo

2 0 1 7

Downtown Cabo San Lucas............................24 San José del Cabo..........................................32 Cabo San Lucas...............................................42 Puerto Los Cabos.............................................48 Downtown San José del Cabo.......................58 Tourist Corridor............................................64-65 Overview, La Paz–East Cape–Los Cabos......96

30 Book It These hotels represent the Los Cabos of the future and the region’s simultaneous efforts to celebrate its natural wonders and charm and accommodate a new wave travelers who won’t settle for anything but excellence

Los Cabos Magazine writer Chris Sands reflects on the people and places that inspired him to turn his Cabo vacation into a permanent move

REAL ESTATE

LIFESTYLE

M a p s

W I N T E R

34 Outside the Box

Real estate veteran Carol S. Billups explores some unexpected finds in Los Cabos

By Sandra A. Berry

With its Twin Dolphin master-planned community, Ohana Real Estate Investors aims to honor Los Cabos’ history and explore new levels of luxury

40 Recent

Developments The latest in Los Cabos real estate news

By Carol S. Billups

By Carol S. Billups 12

Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

On the Cover Location: Chileno Bay Model: Annie Hernández Photographer: Francisco Estrada www.photomexico.com lighting assistant: Miguel Ángel Fierros

Francisco Estrada

36 New Again

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 44

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2 0 1 7 OUTDOORS

W I N T E R

44 The Sea’s Spell Famous explorer Jacques Cousteau once said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” Prepare yourself to fall under the spell of the Sea of Cortés

By Beto Haro

50 Raise the Flag 54

Why three Los Cabos beaches are a cut above the rest

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By Chris Sands

54 The Directory Your guide to Los Cabos activities

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D I N I N G

By Beto Haro

60 This Is How We Do It

Los Cabos locals know exactly where to go for the region’s best seafood dishes

By Chris Sands

68 The Dining Guide

By Ashley Alvarado, Sandra A. Berry, Fernando Rodriguez, and Chris Sands 14

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Talk of the Town JW Marriott Gilds the Lily Café des Artistes is the epitome of fine dining and the third such gastronomic eatery by visionary founder, chef Thierry Blouet. Thierry has combined his French heritage with Mexican flair, creating outstanding dishes in a grand environment at the year-old JW Marriott Hotel & Spa located in Puerto Los Cabos. The hotel boasts a 6,500-square-foot spa that offers the works for head-to-toe treatments. A Kid’s Club attracts families; golf packages beckon golfers to play at Cabo’s best signature courses; and meeting rooms for up to 800 are on tap for business travelers. It’s a wrap for anyone seeking the best that Cabo has to offer. Visit www .marriott.com for more information.

Popular demand has moved Blue Fish Seafood from its intimate 10-table eatery at Plaza Península—which it had occupied since 2011—to a hip new patio perch at the Shoppes at Palmilla, an upscale shopping and dining mecca just outside of San José del Cabo.

Longtime fans of the restaurant needn’t worry, however. Chef Ildefonso “Poncho” Avilés is still the standard bearer for traditional Baja California Sur style seafood, from ceviches and sashimis to aguachiles and fresh fish-loaded tacos. Highlights include his special sea bass ceviche featuring fresh mango and a delicious garlic grilled octopus. For more information, call (624) 172-6652 or visit www.bluefishcabo.com.

Preverisk Services Group Now in Los Cabos The well-known and trusted Preverisk Services Group is now available to restaurant and hospitality companies in Los Cabos. The agency provides training to improve quality and hygiene standards at restaurants, hotels, and other types of businesses. It also specializes in auditing and consultation. To learn more about its services, visit www.preverisk.com.

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Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

FROM TOP: hugo Román; Miguel ventura; rogelio pérez

Blue Fish Seafood Now at the Shoppes at Palmilla

Talk of the Town Dolphin Discovery Also Offers Whale Watching Located at the Marina Puerto Los Cabos in San José del Cabo, Dolphin Discovery—which owns and operates parks throughout the United States, México, and the Caribbean—offers visitors the opportunity to swim and play with bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, an ocean cove measuring more than 75,000 square feet.

And, in addition to its collection of dolphin experiences, Dolphin Discovery also offers a whale watching package. The Ocean Riders high-speed boat zips through the Pacific Ocean to offer up-close looks at the magnificent creatures that visit Los Cabos each winter. Learn more at www.dolphindiscovery.com.

One of Southern Baja’s most popular sailing fleets has added a new luxury catamaran to its collection. SunRider Tour’s Sail Rider employs the latest green technology, including solar power. The beautiful sailing catamaran can accommodate up to 60 people and also features dining tables and seating areas, four restrooms, a freshwater shower, a bar, nets with direct access to the water, and more.

To learn more about Sail Rider, and SunRider’s complete fleet of catamarans and extensive activities lineup, visit www.sunridertours.com.

Chin’s Charms Los Cabos With its combination of Cantonese and hot-and-spicy Szechuan cuisine, Chin’s has made an outstanding impression in Los Cabos, especially with those seeking delicious Chinese fare in a simple yet sleek and sophisticated environment. The dining menu has categories that include steamed, grilled, sizzled and noodled. From egg rolls to Beijing-style Peking duck served in a crepe (Chin’s requests 24-hour notice if you’ll be ordering this dish), you will find all the traditional dishes you love. Learn more at www.chinscabo.com.

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Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

FROM TOP: COURTESY Dolphin discovery; courtesy Sunrider; miguel ventura

SunRider Tours Introduces New Luxury Catamaran

Events

www. event slosc a bo s .co m

Legends of the fall As the temps start to cool, the Los Cabos social scene heats up Los Cabos Magazine never misses a party, and we’re giving you a peek at some of the most exciting events in the Los Cabos area during recent months—from fishing tournaments to folkloric dancing.

Known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, Maria Corona, part of the Baja Cantina Group, now presents an exclusive stage show reflecting the traditional dances, music, culture, and costumes of México. Silvia Lozano directs Mexico - Magia y Tradición, and, every Tuesday and Wednesday evening, guests desirous of witnessing the culture of Mexico in a high-spirited performance by professional dancers and musicians can enjoy an authentic Mexican dinner and show in the restaurant’s open courtyard. A six-course tasting menu is served prior to the show. Learn more at www.mari acoronarestaurant.com.

Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar, Holds Fiesta Mexicana The popular Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar, held an extremely successful Fiesta Mexicana on September 15, the day before Mexican Independence Day. Guests had a great time, enjoying traditional appetizers and entrées as well as a festive fair, complete with gifts and prizes.

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FROM TOP: Perla Palomino (3); HUGO ROMáN (3)

Maria Corona Wows with New Folkloric Show

Events

www. event slosc a bo s .co m

Café des Artistes Marks First Anniversary Chef Thierry Blouet’s acclaimed Café des Artistes marked its oneyear anniversary at the JW Marriott Los Cabos at Puerto Los Cabos in San José del Cabo on November 1 with a special menu and live saxophone and piano performances.

Blouet has impressive bona fides.

Born in Puerto Rico to French parents, he was educated in México and France and taught that “haute cuisine is an integral ingredient of the good life,” according to his bio.

Frequent travelers may also know Blouet’s popular Café des Artistes in Puerto Vallarta. To learn more about the restaurant, which fuses Mexican and French influences on menus that change monthly, visit www.marriott .com. And to learn more about the chef, visit his website, www.thierry blouet.com/en.

On November 19, about 120 guests were invited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Romeo & Julieta Ristorante. The red-carpet event featured a six-course dinner prepared by an array of guest chefs. Two colorfully costumed stilt walkers greeted guests, and cocktail tables were topped with gold sequined coverings. A projection screen showed scenes of the restaurant as it looked 30 years ago, as well the changes made through the years, plus photos of longtime staff members. There was also a brief program in English and Spanish. The evening ended with a beautiful display of fireworks. To learn more about the restaurant and its acclaimed executive chef, Matias Forte, visit www .loscabosguide.com/romeoyjulieta or the restaurant’s website, www.restau rantromeoyjulieta.com. Y 22

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from top: HUGO ROMáN (3); francisco estrada (3)

Romeo & Julieta Turns 30

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Š 2017 Joseph A. Tyson All Rights Reserved

L I F E S T Y L E

My Cabo Los Cabos Magazine writer Chris Sands reflects on the people and places that inspired him to turn his Cabo vacation into a permanent move

Now it’s not the sort of impulsive decision I’d recommend to others, particularly if you have kids and a mortgage. But there is an intoxicating sense of freedom that came with it, as I completely changed the trajectory of my life…while simultaneously trying to sip cerveza and not fall out of a hammock.

Six years later, it seems a little surreal. What was I thinking?

What was it about Los Cabos that appealed to me so deeply and so immediately that I’ve been here ever since?

The physical beauty and the unique geographical features of Baja California Sur were certainly major factors. I had never before seen a place where mountains descended to desert, desert became beach, and beach became sea…all in the space of a few short miles.

Where else do two major bodies of water exist in such close proximity, separated only by a narrow half-mile headland of evocatively shaped, 30-million-year-old granite monuments?

Where else can you catch a marlin, go off-road racing, dive a living coral reef, climb a mile-high mountain, see humpback whales breaching, play three of the world’s best golf courses, and swim in hidden hot springs—all on a single tank of gas?

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And it is not just the staggering diversity of awe-inspiring vistas that make Los Cabos so special but also the myriad ways to enjoy them.

I’ll never forget the first time I went sailing in Cabo San Lucas Bay and watched the sun explode in a burst of color beyond Land’s End from the deck of a 125-year-old gaff-rigged schooner. It was a truly magical and life-altering experience.

Sunset tours remain one of my favorite local activities. I’m a big fan of Tropicat’s (624-143-3797) wine and jazz sunset cruises, which provide cool vibes and up-close looks at the granite rock formations at Land’s End, as well as brisk sailing beyond the protected bay; and Caborey (624-143-8260) has been the dinner cruise standard-bearer for decades, following up five-star dinners with lively floor shows featuring Latin American singing and dancing. Turns out tango makes everything better, even already-great filet mignon.

Dining was another significant contributor to my infatuation with Los Cabos. México and Italy are, in my opinion, the best food-friendly destinations in the world. Alcaravea Gourmet (624-143-3730) provides a taste of both, thanks to the Mediterranean mastery of Mexican-born chef Enrique Diaz. But my love for Alcaravea goes beyond the excellent fare. I love the eclectic atmosphere, the wrought-iron entrance garlanded with trained vines, the eclectic paintings,

COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS

Confession: I’m one of those people who came to Cabo on vacation and never left.

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L I F E S T Y L E

Tropicat’s wine and jazz sunset cruises provide cool vibes and up-close looks at Land’s End.

and the gracious staffers who treat even first-time visitors like long-lost regulars. Alcaravea is one of those “only in Cabo” places that so attracted me six years ago. It’s a unique fusion of disparate elements, but somehow they all work.

The same goes for Pitahayas (624-145-8010). At the signature dining establishment at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar, Pitahayas chef Volker Romeike blends diverse Pacific Rim influences from México, Hawaii, Japan, China, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, and beyond. It’s a staggering challenge, but Romeike doesn’t just make it work, he makes it special. The setting, together with the menu, creates a unique experience, with tables flowing outward in concentric circles, bounded by cactus, flashing lights, colorful ornaments, and moonlight glittering on the Sea of Cortés.

On the East Cape, dirt roads and small fishing communities provide a taste of what Los Cabos was like 50 years ago, during the early days of tourism. Los Barriles and Buenavista deliver big-time game and billfishing, Nine Palms and Shipwreck tempt surfers with big summer waves, and Cabo Pulmo is a year-round mecca for dive 28

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COURTESY TROPICAT

Abundant day-tripping options were and are another wow-factor attraction. It’s less than a one-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos, the first and southernmost pueblo mágico on the Baja Peninsula. This Pacific Coast artists’ colony features some of the most remarkable architectural monuments in the region: beautiful old brick buildings that date to the town’s days as a 19th-century sugarcane capital. This coastal jaunt also offers interesting detours, from El Picacho de la Laguna—at nearly 7,000 feet, the highest peak in the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range—to the traditional village of La Candelaria, famed for its mountain potters.

L I F E S T Y L E

From left: Pitahayas is the signature dining establishment at Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar; Balandra is one of nearby La Paz’s most famous beaches.

FRANCISCO ESTRADA (2)

enthusiasts. This picturesque village features one of the oldest and largest living coral reefs in the Western Hemisphere, and, thanks to its status as a protected marine sanctuary, the highest concentration of marine life in the Sea of Cortés.

But despite the region’s astonishing beauty—from Los Cabos to La Paz— it was as much the people as the places that persuaded me to stay. I found the residents and their warm, welcoming hospitality utterly charming when

I arrived six years ago, and I still do today. I suspect you will, too.

In fact, I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if you wanted your vacation to last a lifetime. Sometimes that happens. Y

The essential day trip destination, however, is La Paz, the capital city of Baja California Sur. Not only is La Paz the seat of history and culture in the region but it also boasts the most spectacular beaches this side of Quintana Roo. La Balandra was recently voted the most beautiful beach in México, and neighboring playas like Pichilingue and El Tecolote offer similarly pearl white sands and sparkling turquoise waters. The latter two are actually superior when it comes to regional culinary specialties like chocolatas (chocolate clams) and marlin en escabeche, and El Tecolote provides magnificent views of the uninhabited island of Espíritu Santo. The city itself is like a vintage picture postcard come to life. The three-mile long malecón is gorgeous, an art-studded boardwalk framed by sun, sea, sand, and the terminus of the El Mogote Peninsula. The malecón comes alive in the evening, when local families stroll or bike along the seaside promenade, backlit by one of one of the capital city’s famous sunsets.

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L I F E S T Y L E

Book It

When it comes to major vacation destinations, Los Cabos is but a baby. Flash back 50 years, and Cabo San Lucas was a sleepy fishing village. Now it attracts A-list celebrities and vacationers from around the world with its natural beauty and five-star resorts. It’s that balance of forward-thinking design, luxe accommodations, and commitment to preserve Los Cabos’ natural wonders that most fascinate our visitors.

health and wellness retreat with ancient native rituals.

There’s even championship golf and deep-sea fishing nearby. For culinary adventurers, there are four dining and bar concepts, among them: El Meson’s farm-to-fork eatery and Vela’s sea-to-table menu offer international cuisine comingled with Mexican flavors, such as Oaxacan mole linguini and chile de árbol corn risotto. Both onsite restaurants overlook the dazzling infinity pool under swaying palm trees. And Azul is home to a massive tequi-

Between the two cities that make up Los Cabos—known as the Tourist Corridor—there are numerous choice beach resorts. Hacienda Encantada (www.haciendaencantada .com) is a Four Diamond resort perched high up on a scenic point overlooking the serene blue waters of the Sea of Cortés. With its grand arched entrance, handmade talavera tile murals, Spanish colonial–style fountains, Hacienda Encantada exudes a contemporary style while incorporating beautiful scenery. Ride a golf cart down to cliff-side dining or any of several restaurants overlooking the sea.

The holistic spa with cutting-edge body and facial treatments is the crème de la crème for body wellness.

Beachfront hotels dot the landscape with every convenience one could wish for with the world’s most notable names in hospitality. At Hilton Los Cabos (www.hilton loscabos.com), its signature hospitality beckons as do its swimmable beach, infinity pool, and 7,000-square-foot 30

Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

From top: The Hilton Los Cabos combines its signature service with Los Cabos Luxury; Hacienda Encantada exudes a contemporany style while incorporating beautiful scenery.

FROM TOP: COURTESY HILTON; COURTESY HACIENDA ENCANTADA

These hotels represent the Los Cabos of the future and the region’s simultaneous efforts to celebrate its natural wonders and charm and accommodate a new wave travelers who won’t settle for anything but excellence • By Sandra A. Berry

L I F E S T Y L E

In addition to its celebrated restaurants, the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda Del Mar, offers incredible views.

la and mezcal collection (along with its famous guacamole with mezcal and grasshoppers!).

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

The Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda Del Mar (www.starwood hotels.com) is home to two of Los Cabos’ most famous dining establishments: De Cortez (think fresh produce from local markets, seafood from the Pacific Ocean, and prime cuts of beef grilled over mesquite) and Pitahayas (Asian fusion with European flair). Each restaurant is overseen by a masterclass chef and offers beachfront dining at its best.

Some of the most innovative ideas on the planet have landed on the tip of the Baja Peninsula in the form of Mar Adentro (www.maradentroca bos.com) along the hotel zone in San José del Cabo: Here guest rooms resemble floating houses made of glass cubes. Mar Adentro’s stunning Nido restaurant resembles a magnificent nest and is situated within a large pool of water with a walkway cutting through to access the restaurant.

There are other magnificent structures that visitors call home for a few days at a time, all offering opulence, and excellence in service, food, and ambience. There are five-star hotels such

as the Resort at Pedregal (www.the resortatpedregal.com), where a tunnel carved out of a mountain gets you to the beach resort on the other side.

For those wanting to be in the thick of things, book newly remodeled Tesoro (www.tesororesorts.com)— with its blend of city and marina, plus party-mode Skypool with alfresco pool-side dining that includes a breakfast buffet. This is a favorite of spring breakers and for good reason: It has easy access to everything downtown. For those wanting to experience nightlife offered by such legendary spots as Cabo Wabo, this is the place with all the comforts and conveniences you require. Tesoro’s Aura Spa offers aromatherapy and foot massages for the tired and weary, promising to rejuvenate the body for what’s yet to come.

One of the newest on the Cabo San Lucas Marina is Breathless (www.breath lessresorts.com). There is a reason for its name: The resort will take your breath away with stunning views, swimming pools, spa, and dining facilities.

Whatever your requirements, whatever your budget, Los Cabos has accommodations to satisfy. Make your wish list, then book it. Y Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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© 2017 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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R E A L

E S T A T E

Outside the Box Real estate veteran Carol S. Billups explores some unexpected finds in Los Cabos

All are listed—as of press time—with MLS-BCS, the multiple-listing service that regulates Los Cabos real estate practice and operates the listing database.

The ultra-modern Mar Adentro complex is located on the water in San José del Cabo and features the very latest in technology. The property features a hotel and residences that were designed by architect Miguel Ángel Aragonés.

They were envisioned as a series of floating boxes with walls of windows facing the ocean. The residences are connected to the luxury hotel, and their owners have access to all of the amenities found there. Each individual residence features Samsung electronic systems indoors as well as outdoors, in addition to Miele appliances, a personal lighting program, Ferrari technology blinds, and Control4 capacity to run everything from a tablet. Each unit is furnished by Poliform, and even the Nespresso facility offers a “capsule menu.” The developer is promising that this project will deliver state-of-the-art technology with every detail. Since this is a new project, there are several opportunities for full ownership. At press time, a third-floor one-bedroom condominium was being offered for $630,500 U.S. 34

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It is said that the very first fideícomiso (the trust that allows foreigners to own property in the country’s coastal and border areas) in México was issued in Los Cabos for a property in the gated community of Cabo Bello. One of the original master-planned communities, Cabo Bello is a collection of 359 homes, lots, and condominiums located several miles outside of Cabo San Lucas, adjacent to a secluded swimming cove on the Sea of Cortés. It is a delightful neighborhood, well maintained and pristine. But, some of the homes there could use a little updating. In fact, the neighborhood is becoming gentrified, with many older homes undergoing astonishing face-lifts. For this article, we selected a home that, while not that old, is described by the listing agent as being in need of some TLC. The two-bedroom, two-bath house with gorgeous stone work in the living room has an asking price of only $249,000 U.S., well under the median asking price of $457,000 U.S. in Cabo Bello.

Many Americans and Canadians shy away from fixer-upper properties because they over-estimate the cost and hassle involved with such a project. In this case, I asked Azul Property Management and Home Repair to take a look and give me a ballpark estimate for redoing the kitchen and master bath. “The kitchen isn’t bad, just boring,” was the conclusion. The recommendation was to change the cabinetry, countertops, and lighting for an approximate cost of $6,000 U.S. For about $5,000 U.S. more, the master bath would get new counters, fixtures, lighting, and nice tile. As for fur-

COURTESY MAR ADENTRO

Loyal Los Cabos readers know there’s great diversity among the region’s real estate listings. But this abundance of options goes beyond golf or beach views, one story or two.

Here we highlight three exciting options: a high-tech smart house, a fixer-upper, and an unplugged oasis.

and the Pacific Ocean coast north of Cabo San Lucas. Those farther back from the beach may still have excellent water views but prices starting as low as $200,000 U.S. Although offthe-grid, many of these homes do offer connectivity via satellite if you’re not quite ready for a total escape.

Villa Guaycura at Cabo Bello

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niture, there are two options for the budget-conscious remodeler: One is to contract with one of the local designers for the whole house. For such a large contract, most will offer merchandise at cost plus a very nominal profit. Another popular option is to fly to Guadalajara, México’s furniture capital on the mainland. Flights start at $1,000 one way (about $55 U.S.).

For about the same cost, you can also get a guide to take you directly to factories, where you will get ridiculously affordable prices. Add a little landscaping and you’ll have a great a home in no time.

ly one acre—the home is just over 3,000 square feet, including patios.

With glorious views from every room, this just might be the serene destination you’ve been craving. It’s priced at $1.89 million U.S. But, that is oceanfront. Other similar off-grid homes are located both on the East Cape

These are just three examples of the many options available—whether you’re retiring here, thinking of a vacation home, or looking for an investment property. When we went to press, the MLS system had more than 2,700 condominiums, houses, and lots from which to choose. Your MLS-BCS real estate agent can set up a free personal account for you to explore and find the property that fits your dream exactly. Y Carol Billups is broker-owner of Cabo Realty Pros, a full-service boutique real estate agency in Cabo San Lucas. Reach her at (624) 1477541, carolbillups@hotmail.com, or through her website, www.caborealtypros.com.

If you dream of getting away from it all with your own secluded hideaway, Los Cabos has options for that, too.

And as long as we’re dreaming, let’s look at Casa Cruz del Sur, a beachfront home on the East Cape. This two-bedroom home has a private staircase from the patio directly to the sandy beach below. Entirely off the grid, the home is powered by a solar plant and water is trucked in when needed to fill the large cistern.

Located on a dirt road eight miles east of San José del Cabo, Casa Cruz del Sur has a palapa roof and rustic features while also offering all the features you would expect in a luxury home. That includes stainless steel appliances and granite counters in the gourmet kitchen. With 38 meters of ocean frontage—the lot itself is nearLos Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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New Again With its Twin Dolphin master-planned community, Ohana Real Estate Investors aims to honor Los Cabos’ history and explore new levels of luxury

By Carol S. Billups

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Ohana Real Estate Investors looked to the iconic Hotel Twin Dolphin for inspiration in naming its ultra-luxe 1,400-acre master-planned community in Los Cabos. The project is already under way on both sides of the Transpeninsular Highway at Santa María Bay, between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo.

Located on the site previously occupied by the original Hotel Twin Dolphin, Ohana’s master-planned community is the epitome of family-friendly luxury. It will serve as the home of the new Montage Los Cabos Resort and Montage Residences Los Cabos, as well as the already operational Maravilla Los Cabos private residential community.

These high-end properties will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including a brand-new 19-hole Fred Couples Signature Golf Course.

The course, set to open in 2018, will be available to Montage guests and offer views of the Sea of Cortés.

Maravilla and Montage homeowners will also be eligible for membership at the private Twin Dolphin Golf Club.

The progress being made on the master-planned community is evident from the Transpeninsular Highway and its newly remodeled on- and off-ramps, which provide access to the projects as well as the public Santa María and Las Viudas beaches. The landscape design as well as the hidden-from-sight infrastructure have been carefully engineered so as to be as sensitive as possible to the natural surroundings.

“Honoring the natural environment has been important to us every step of the way,” says Ohana Real Estate Investors Executive Vice President of Development Alex Hill.

“We have made thoughtful choices at each turn, such as native land-

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At Maravilla (its name means “wonder” in English), children are treated like little princes and princesses. This community, which is already operational, covers 260 oceanfront acres and includes villas, townhomes, custom homes, and half-acre homesites. The children’s activity center features indoor and outdoor game areas, an arts and crafts center, a television area, and a quiet room. But Mom and Dad aren’t forgotten. They can dine at two restaurants in the private 60,000-square-foot clubhouse and enjoy amenities including but not limited to the three-level infinity pool with waterslide, lap pool, hot and cold plunge pools, hot tub, full-service spa, indoor and outdoor fitness centers, two-story climbing wall, lawn sports courts, outdoor amphitheater, indoor theater, and more.

Located right on the beach at Santa María, the Santa Maria Beach Club offers cabanas, a bar, Har-Tru tennis courts, pickle ball, sand volleyball courts, and typical beach activities such as snorkel, stand-up paddle, and kayaking. In the community park, you’ll find a splash pad, basketball, a putting course (18 holes!), a children’s playground, and hiking and biking trails.

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Even with so many activities within Maravilla to fill their free time, families will also have the option to enjoy additional amenities at Montage Los Cabos via a social membership.

The architectural style guidelines call for a contemporary coastal design. Villas are available in two parcels: Las Playas and Las Colinas. Both were designed to provide maximum views and enhanced privacy within the villa. The villas have been designed to showcase ocean views and take advantage of natural light through the use of vanishing walls. Large breezeways and courtyards also help to bring the outdoor and indoor living spaces together.

The two-story Las Vistas townhomes are located in the heart of the community and are designed to emphasize indoor-outdoor living. Thanks to a number of strategically designed alliances, the villas, townhomes, and even the custom homesites can be completely turnkey with the services of architects, construction teams and interior designers already in place. Owners can also elect to work with their own designers. The homeowner’s dues cover key services including a property management association and concierge service. Culinary services and health and wellness services are also already in place for those who inquire.

“Maravilla has exceeded our vision and has become a serene and family-oriented community with experiences for each generation to enjoy separately and together,”

THIS PAGE AND PREVIOUS SPREAD: COURTESY OHANA REAL ESTATE INVESTORSESTATE INVESTORS

scaping that includes saving and replanting over 40,000 plants, a state-of-the-art reverse osmosis desalination plant, building design that conserves energy and highlights indoor-outdoor experiences, and plans for developing an eco-friendly golf course.”

residence has a private garage. Residents will enjoy a dedicated management team offering full property management and concierge service.

Owners here will have the option to participate in a rental program managed by the resort. Work on Montage Los Cabos began in early 2016 and is anticipated to be completed in early 2018. At press time, the anticipated pre-sale prices for Montage residences started at $2.7 million U.S. for a two-bedroom.

says Ohana Real Estate Investors Director for Residential Real Estate Neil Johnson. “Our owners’ feedback is our measure of success, and we see and hear how they are creating memorable experiences with their families at Maravilla.”

COURTESY OHANA REAL ESTATE INVESTORS

Maravilla prices run from about $3 million U.S. to $10 million U.S.

dences feature a lock-off suite and all have individual private terraces with fire pits. While the owners here have access to all of the Montage amenities, there will be a separate pool dedicated for their use.

A lawn sports area, game room, and play area will also be exclusively available to residence owners. Each

Although details were not being released at press time, the Twin Dolphin master plan calls for a large shopping and restaurant center on the inland side of the Transpeninsular Highway, adjacent to the Fred Couples Signature Golf Course.

Further residential development may also come on this portion of the overall property. Your MLS-BCS real estate agent can help you explore the possibilities at Twin Dolphin and can arrange a visit to view the offerings at Maravilla. As the landscape of Los Cabos continues to evolve, the Twin Dolphin property stands out as a leading new luxury destination resort. Y

Located next to Maravilla, the Montage Los Cabos and private residences will occupy 39 acres on the beach of Santa María Bay. Once completed, it will offer 122 guestrooms and 52 private full-ownership residences. In keeping with the Montage brand, the resort will offer luxury amenities including Spa Montage. There will be two pools, one a 20,000-square-foot main pool. Guests will have multiple dining options, access to a fitness center, tennis courts, and the Montage’s signature Paintbox children’s program. Pre-construction sales are already under way for the two- and three- bedroom furnished residences that will feature views of Santa María Bay and the Sea of Cortés.

As with the neighboring Maravilla development, the design highlights indoor-outdoor living. These resiLos Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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R E A L

E S T A T E

Recent Developments The latest in Los Cabos real estate news

By Carol S. Billups

Chileno Bay Resort & Residences

Three- and four-bedroom units are currently being offered in presale.

The luxury condominium project previously known as VieVage Los Cabos has a new name: Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Los Cabos by Auberge Resorts Collection. According to the developer, the change will better reflect its location. The development is located at Chileno Bay, about halfway between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The branding will identify the residential product as being affiliated with Auberge, whose reputation for extremely high-end boutique luxury resorts is recognized internationally. Chileno Bay has long been one of Los Cabos’ best loved beaches for swimming and snorkeling. The development will include an Auberge hotel, the newly renamed residences, a Tom Fazio–designed golf course, restaurants, and a full array of amenities.

The Four Seasons Comes to the East Cape

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East Cape town La Ribera is home to Costa Palmas, a still-under-construction project that will feature a new Four Seasons Resort. Surrounding the resort will also be its eponymous residences and private villas. As part of the Costa Palmas master-planned community, owners will have access to the private marina, a Trent-Jones designed golf course, and the Costa Palmas Beach & Yacht club. Built by L.A.-based Irongate developers, the residences and villas will offer concierge services and property management by Four Seasons. The developer has indicated the properties will be available for sale in approximately two years, although there are some prelim-

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inary buildings in place. Costa Palmas is a 1,000-acre development set on two miles of beachfront property.

Cabo Del Mar Hosts First Tennis Open Los Cabos hosted Abierto Los Cabos, its first-ever professional tennis open, in August. The tournament was held in the new tennis center at Cabo del Mar Ocean and Ecopark Village, which is under development by the Portus Group. Cabo del Mar is the newest development by the Portus, which also created the very popular Ventanas communities near Cabo San Lucas and the ocean-front Soleado Residences on the surf break in San José del Cabo.

Portus designed Cabo del Mar to be an eco-friendly development in a park setting that also offers all the amenities for which Ventanas is known. There’s a clubhouse, as well as pools, restau-

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Chileno Bay Development Gets New Name

Montage Residences Los Cabos

rants, shops, gym, and, of course, a full-service spa; there is also now a competition-ready tennis venue. The tennis stadium has seating capacity for more than 3,000 spectators and will serve for many events. All of the houses in Cabo del Mar directly access park land and are equipped with on-grid solar power systems. In keeping with the family-friendly theme, a bilingual private school is also on the grounds, and the Kid’s Land play center. Cabo del Mar features both condominiums and single-family homes with prices starting at about $200,000 U.S. with developer financing available.

Excitement Builds Around Twin Dolphin Development It’s hard to miss the construction on the four-lane highway near Cabo San Lucas, at the site of the new 1,400-acre Twin Dolphin master-planned community from Ohana Real Estate Investors. On completion, the resort development will encompass the Maravilla Los Cabos private residential community, the Montage Los Cabos hotel, and the Montage Residences Los Cabos, plus a 19-hole Fred Couples signature golf course and Twin Dolphin Golf Club, dining options, retail shops, and more. The developers have saved and will replant more than 40,000 plants and use desalinated sea water to service the course. Maravilla is already functioning, and it has released some golf course villas and home sites for presale. Development began in early 2016 and is slated to be completed in early 2018.

COURTESY OHANA REAL ESTATE INVESTORS

Did You Know?

Because we have so many high-profile, high-end properties, many people believe everything in the area is out of reach for the average middle-class family. It is true Los Cabos real estate is generally more costly than in many other parts of México, but there really is something for everyone if you know where to look. In particular, the San José del Cabo end of the Tourist Corridor (the highway separating the two cities) is the high-rent district. A two-bedroom condominium here sells for an average price of $472,000 U.S., and a three-bedroom single-family home goes for an average price of $549,000 U.S. Closer to Cabo San Lucas, the average two-bedroom condo costs less than half of that, with an average “sold” price of $215,000 U.S. The average price of a single-family home in this area is $307,000 U.S. But, as with every area in Los Cabos, there is a great deal of variety in product—from affordable homes to luxury mansions, and much more in between. Y Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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© 2017JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

The Sea’s Spell Famous explorer Jacques Cousteau once said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” Prepare yourself to fall under the spell of the Sea of Cortés

By Beto Haro

The Sea of Cortés—or the Gulf of California, as some people know it—is an amazing body of water that spans 68,000 square miles and borders the Mexican states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora, and Sinaloa. It is home to some 900 islands and islets, which have been called a natural laboratory for the investigation of speciation.

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As one of the world’s newest seas, the Sea of Cortés is also one of its richest. Experts estimate it is home to more than 800 species of fish and some 2,000 types of invertebrates in addition to the whales, sea turtles, sea lions, and dolphins that attract millions of visitors each year. This sea life is supported by more than a quarter million hectares of mangroves

O U T D O O R S

OPPOSITE PAGE: COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS. THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT: COURTESY SUNRIDER; COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS

The 2,500 miles of Sea of Cortés coastline have proved to be an amazing place for people to snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, paddleboard, fish, and explore. Pictured, from left: SunRider clients swimming with a whale shark; diving at Cabo Pulmo with Cabo Expeditions guides, who are happy to share their expertise.

and some 600,000 hectares of wetlands. In fact, the sea is so rich that this is where you’ll find 70 percent of the country’s fisheries.

The 2,500 miles of Sea of Cortés coastline have proved to be an amazing place for people to snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, paddleboard, fish, and explore. For divers and marine naturalists, the sea has reached the rank of legendary. John Steinbeck wrote a book about his 1940 voyage as part of a marine specimen-collecting boat expedition—The Log from the Sea of Cortez is a must-read any adventurer or would-be adventurer—and marine explorer Jacques Cousteau famously called it “the world’s aquarium.”

Cousteau’s much-repeated quote was inspired by the incredible biodiversity he would see during every dive, saying it made him feel as though he were in an aquarium tank. Still other biologists refer to the Sea of Cortés as the “Galapagos of North America.”

of sunshine a day, allowing for strong production of phytoplankton, the starting point of the food chain for fish that range from teeny, tiny to extraordinarily large (the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, feeds on plankton as well as krill, fish eggs, and other small creatures).

And, in addition to attracting countless snowbirds each year, the Sea of Cortés welcomes many migratory species, including but not limited to humpback whales, gray whales, orcas (commonly known as killer whales), giant manta rays, leatherback sea turtles, and the world’s largest mammal,

What makes this particular sea so hospitable? You could say the marine life is attracted to some of the same features that entice millions of travelers from across the world.

First, there’s the mingling of cold water currents coming down from California and the warm water from México’s Pacific Ocean. The region typically receives more than 12 hours Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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From left: Whales are one of Los Cabos’ biggest attractions, especially mid-December through mid-April; Espíritu Santo is known as “the pearl of the Sea of Cortés” and is located just a short boat trip from La Paz.

Reading all of this, is it any wonder

the Sea of Cortés has become one of the world’s premier playgrounds for adventure-seeking tourists? And Los Cabos is an excellent starting point for anyone wanting to explore the Sea of Cortés and its wonders.

Here you’ll see five of our favorite things to see each fall and winter in Los Cabos. For a complete list of activities and activity providers, visit “The Directory” on page 54.

Whale sharks: The Sea of Cortés is by far one of the best places in the world to see and swim with these gentle giants. Two of the top spots are Bahía de Los Ángeles and La Paz; the latter only a 95-minute drive from Cabo San Lucas. Tours can easily be arranged from Los Cabos, and the season for swimming with whale sharks lasts roughly from October through May. Cabo Pulmo: While reefs across the world continue to experience dramatic losses of life, Cabo Pulmo has enjoyed a 460 percent increase in the total amount of fish there since it became a protected site in 1995.

The two-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas there can get a bit bumpy, but believe us when we say it’s worth it.

There are excellent sea views along the way, and once you get there, the diving and snorkeling views are even more spectacular. This is one of only three coral reefs on North America’s west coast and the northernmost coral reef in the eastern Pacific Ocean. In The Log from the Sea of Cortez, Steinbeck

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FROM LEFT: COURTESY ECO CAT; COURTESY CABO EXPEDITIONS

the blue whale. It’s notable that fin whales, sperm whales, and the critically endangered vaquita porpoise reside year-round.

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Los Cabos is known as a premier place to fish black and blue marlin and is home to excellent tournaments.

wrote: “The complexity of the life pattern on Pulmo Reef was even greater than at Cabo San Lucas. Clinging to the coral, growing on it, burrowing into it, was a teeming fauna. Every piece of the soft material broken off, skittered and pulsed with life, little crabs and worms and snails. One small piece of coral might conceal 30 or 40 species, and the colors on the reef were electric.”

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Whale watching: Baby moons have become quite a trend among expectant parents in recent years, but whales have been escaping to Los Cabos ahead of giving birth for centuries. Eagle-eyed observers may catch glimpses of fin whales, orcas, or sperm whales throughout the year, but winter is when gray whales and humpbacks arrive from the north to mate, enjoy Baja’s warmer temps, and give birth.

The humpbacks are a particularly bodacious bunch as they wow with their acrobatic moves. Expect to see them from mid-December through early April.

Espíritu Santo: The Sea of Cortés is dotted with islands, each one a gem in its own right. But only one is known as “the pearl of the Sea of Cortés.” Espíritu Santo is actually an archipelago that UNESCO designated a biosphere reserve in 1995. A short boat trip from La Paz, Espíritu Santo is the world’s only known habitat for the black jackrabbit. It also boasts a ridiculously friendly sea lion colony (prepare for playful nibbles on your snorkeling fins), excellent diving and snorkeling conditions, and Ensenada Grande, which Travel Magazine declared the most beautiful beach in México back in 2011 (it also ranked among the world’s top 12).

Sportfishing: Los Cabos is known as one of the premier places to fish black and blue marlin, and each fall it hosts tournaments with some of the biggest purses in the world. Y Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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Raise the Flag

Why three Los Cabos beaches are a cut above the rest

By Chris Sands • Photos by Joseph A. Tyson

Los Cabos is paradise for beach lovers, with dozens of gorgeous, golden-sand-covered shoreline stretches featuring spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortés, as well as world-class conditions for water-based activities like swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.

consists of more than 60 member countries around the world. The list of Blue Flag beaches is updated each year, with prospective playas required to meet and maintain stringent environmental standards for cleanliness, water quality, safety, services, and sustainability.

Only three of these beautiful beaches, however, are permitted to fly a blue flag.

There are now 26 Blue Flag beaches in México, but only four on the Baja California Peninsula: the recently certified El Coromuel in La Paz; and Chileno, Palmilla, and Santa María beaches in the 20-mile Tourist Corridor that connects cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The three Los Cabos beaches share several con-

The Blue Flag program was the brainchild of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a nonprofit organization that began in Europe in the 1980s but now 50

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O U T D O O R S venient and Blue Flag–mandated features, including palapa-shaded beach areas, paved parking lots, public toilets, recycling containers, handicap access, informative signs, and—a rarity in México—lifeguards.

But a checklist of Blue Flag amenities only hints at the experience of visiting one of these elite seaside destinations. Here’s a brief overview of the highlights at all three.

Playa Santa María (Santa María Beach) Where: km 12.5 on the Tourist Corridor Why: FEE has no aesthetic guidelines, but visitors to any of the local Blue Flag beaches will encounter scenes of breathtaking natural beauty. That’s certainly true at Playa Santa María, a horseshoe-shaped stunner bounded by elevated out-

Chileno (opposite page) and Santa María (right) bays earned Blue Flag status.

croppings that protect the enclosed bay (in reality, little more than a cove). The crystalline waters within are home to a marine sanctuary teeming with colorful tropical fish, and Bahia Santa María is a popular anchor-dropping destination for local snorkel tours. A construction project is currently in progress on the Cabo San Lucas side of the bay, and a 39-acre property called Montage Los Cabos is expected to open in 2018.

Bahía Chileno (Chileno Bay) Where: km 14.5 on the Tourist Corridor Why: Chileno has always been a favorite of locals, as much for its enormous expanse of immaculate golden sand as its picturesque bay, in which small clustered rock formations provide a vivid visual counterpoint to a dozen shades of dazzling blue water. Large crowds bask en masse every weekend, but Chileno also gets busy during weekday

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The water conditions at Playa Palmilla are absolutely perfect.

afternoons, when families drop by after work. As at neighboring Santa María, swimming and snorkeling are extremely safe (this, too, is a favorite of tour boats), although beachgoers will need to bring their own masks and fins. Construction is also under way at Playa Chileno, with the new Chileno Bay Resort and Residences development scheduled to be completed by the end of 2016.

Playa Palmilla (Palmilla Beach) Where: km 27.5 (at the Palmilla exit) on the Tourist Corridor Why: There’s a reason the 2.4-mile swim portion of the annual Ironman Los Cabos triathlon is held in the waters off Playa Palmilla. The water conditions are absolutely perfect.

That’s why local fishermen still launch here, and why in the old days, area ranchers would load their cattle from Punta Palmilla, swimming them out tied to pangas to hoist on to transport ships lying just offshore. The scenery is magnificent: sea and sky seeming to merge beyond the rocky point in a vast canvas composed of every hue and tint of blue imaginable.

Palmilla Beach is open to the public (as all Mexican beaches are by law), but is most conveniently accessible for guests at One&Only Palmilla, long considered one of the region’s benchmark ultra-luxury resorts.

It should be noted that the safety and service standards required of Blue Flag beaches necessarily translates to rather numerous regulations: no camping, no bonfires, and no pets except guide dogs, to name but a few. There are also no boisterous seaside restaurants and cantinas, although those seeking buckets of icecold cervezas and dog-friendly frisbee spots can always head to Mango Deck (www.mangodeckcabo.com) and the “anything goes” atmosphere of Médano Beach in Cabo San Lucas. Y 52

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O U T D O O R S

JOSEPH A. TYSON

p r e v e r i s k

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The Directory

Your guide to

Los Cabos activities

By Beto Haro

Pez Gato (left) and SunRider (right) are two of the most popular activities options in Los Cabos. Both offer several activities, including whale watching.

Vitamin Sea Nothing’s better for the soul than time on—or in—the water. Here we highlight some of our favorite wet and wild activities.

Big Mike Sea Adventures: A recent addition to the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Big Mike Sea Adventure offers snorkeling and sunset tours on its impressive trimaran. You can also opt for the VIP experience with exclusive, private outings that include the cuisine of your choice. Dock G, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 168-0418, www.bigmikeseadventures.com. Major credit cards accepted. V $$–$$$ 54

Buccaneer Queen: You’ll feel like pirate royalty atop this perennial favorite, a grand galleon that only recently joined the Wild Cabo fleet. In addition to incredible views of the Cabo San Lucas Bay and all its beauty, the gregarious crew will treat you to all you can eat and drink (release your inner glutton).

The Buccaneer Queen offers snorkeling, whale watching, and sunset tours.

Dock 1, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4217, www.buc caneerloscabos.com. MasterCard and Visa accepted. V $–$$ Cabo Escape: There’s never a dull moment on Wild Cabo’s sleek double-decker Cabo Escape catamaran, which is home to the original floating nightclub Thursday–Saturday nights. Daytime and sunset tours also offer incredible experiences, ranging from snorkeling to whale watching and endless fajitas.

Cabo San Lucas Marina, (624) 1050177, www.wildcabotours.com. Major credit cards accepted. V $$–$$$ Cabo Expeditions: The region’s premier ecotourism company offers a huge lineup of activities, and the vast majority are water-centric. Swim with whale sharks. Dive at Cabo Pulmo. Explore the

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UNESCO World Heritage site Espíritu Santo. Or treat the kids to a magical adventure atop of the Cabo Submarine.

Cabo San Lucas Marina, (624) 1432700, www.caboexpeditions.com.mx.

MasterCard and Visa accepted. V $–$$$ Cabo Legend: The Cabo San Lucas seas are, in fact, big enough to support not one but two stellar pirate ship experiences. And now that Buccaneer Queen and Cabo Legend are part of the same Wild Cabo fleet, guests can expect an even more exciting experience—when the two ships unite for an epic show.

Cabo Legend is a mighty 100-foot-long twin-masted brig that can accommodate groups big and small. And, if you’ve ever wondered what pirates get up to after dark, you can find out during the Los Cabos Pirate Night Party. Cabo San Lucas Marina, (624) 105-0177, www .wildcabotours.com. Major credit cards accepted. V $$–$$$ Cabo Mar: This floating fiesta sets sail nightly from the Cabo San Lucas Marina. Trust us when we say you don’t want to miss out. You’ll fall in love with Cabo Mar’s good-natured crew and appreciate their fun-loving yet attentive service.

The drinks flow freely throughout the

FROM LEFT: COURTESY PEZ GATO; COURTESY SUNRIDER

While our neighbors to the north are sipping pumpkin spice lattes and slowly slipping into food comas, we in Los Cabos are still enjoying summerlike temperatures, long days at the beach, and a smorgasbord of activities at our fingertips. Sail the high seas, swim with whale sharks, or shop to your heart’s content. Whatever your age or interests, you’re sure to find an activity that suits your fancy here in “The Directory,” Los Cabos Magazine’s regular guide to adventure.

night, and the crew is always happy to suggest pairings for its restaurant-quality dinner buffet. Camino del Cerro 215, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3797, www .cabo-mar.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $–$$ Cabo Flyboard: Fly like a superhero over the Cabo San Lucas Bay with professional Flyboard, Hoverboard, and Jetpack lessons. If you are looking for a cool and unique experience, then you have to try this. Cabo Flyboard pioneered hydro flight in Los Cabos, and it offers lessons for kids 8 and up. Behind Casa Dorada Hotel and Mango Deck at Médano Beach, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1430146, www.caboflyboard.com. MasterCard, Visa, AmEx, PayPal accepted. $$$–$$$$ Caborey: Known as the king of Cabo, this enormous catamaran has been charming guests for more than 50 years.

Enjoy five-star cuisine and a fire-y floor show that draws inspiration in equal parts from Las Vegas and Latin America.

Depending on the season, Caborey also offers snorkeling and whale watching tours. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-8260, www.cabo rey.com. $$–$$$

Dolphin Discovery: Thrill the kids— and the child in all of us—with a trip to Dolphin Discovery in San José del Cabo. The state-of-the-art facility includes 75,347-square-foot ocean cove so that families can swim with dolphins in their natural habitat. And folks can rest assured knowing these dolphins have been trained using only positive-reinforcement training. Marina San José del Cabo, San José del Cabo, (866) 393-5158, www.dolphindiscovery.com /los-cabos-san-lucas. Major credit cards accepted. V $$$–$$$$ Pez Gato: Whale watching is an absolute must with Pez Gato, but we also suggest the midday snorkeling adventure with the company. The twice-daily tour takes you to beautiful Santa Maria Bay, where you can swim in tropical waters with abundant sea life. The sunset cruise is a great choice for those who prefer to stay dry. It comes complete with endless drinks and delicious eats. Dock 4, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3797, www.pezgato.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $–$$$$

Cabo Sailing: This impressive fleet is used not only for private charters but also adventures ranging from snorkeling to sunset tours and whale watching. Take advantage of Cabo Sailing’s more unique offerings, including overnight charters on a luxurious sailing yacht and sailing lessons. Dock H, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-8485, www .cabosailing.com. AmEx, MasterCard, Visa, and PayPal accepted. V $$$$ Cabo Sails: Let your imagination run wild; the fantastic crew at Cabo Sails is eager to help your sailing dreams come true with its incredible lineup of public and private charter options. Opt for a snorkeling or sunset cruise or design an experience exclusively for you and your guests. Private charters can accommodate groups 2–20 and of all ages. Bonus: Children 9 and younger sail free. Cabo San Lucas Marina, 624-355-6386, www .cabosails.com. Major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$$ Los Cabos Magazine | winter 2017

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Whether it’s by water or land, you’ll find adventure in Los Cabos. Pictured, from left: Dolphin Discovery, Camel Quest at Wild Canyon.

Sea Cabo Activities: Grab a pen.

We’re about to check some items off your bucket list. At Sea Cabo Activities, guests can make like the Rocketeer and fly with an X-JetPack, surf the sky with JetBlade, ride the air on an easy-to-use FlyBike, or tame the waves with a powerful wave runner. Sea Cabo has a professional photographer there for every outing, so you can rest assured you’ll end the day with an awesome new profile pic. Médano Beach in front of Pueblo Bonito, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 159-8517, www.sea caboactivities.com. Major credit cards accepted. V $$–$$$

Silverados Sportfishing: There’s no bad time of year to fish the waters off of Los Cabos, but this just might be our favorite time. And you can rely on the expert crew at Silverados Sportfishing, which has helped many new and experienced anglers bag impressive catches. Look to them for helpful tips, fantastic prices, and an exceptionally good time. Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4903, www.silveradosport fishing.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $$$$ SunRider Tours: With outposts in Los Cabos and La Paz, SunRider is

known for its sleek eco-friendly entertainment boats, which offer a variety of exciting activities: Swim with whale sharks now through the spring.

Snorkel alongside brightly colored sea life. Or charter a boat to celebrate your big day. Ask about whale watching options. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-2252, www.sunridertours.com. MasterCard and Visa accepted. V $–$$$$ Tropicat: It’s smooth jazz and smooth sailing aboard Tropicat, the third member of the well-known fleet that also includes Cabo Mar and Pez Gato.

The catamaran is known for its popular sunset cruises that feature wine and jazz, as well as hors d’oeuvres and sensational views. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3797, www.tropicatcabo.com. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. V $–$$

Explore Baja’s outback with these exciting activities.

Camel Quest: No need to check the map. Yes, you’re still in Cabo. And, yes, those are real camels. Wild Canyon’s Camel Quest is home to eight camels, four of which have been trained especially for children to ride.

All of them are endlessly charming, as you discover during Camel Quest’s action-packed camel ride through the El Tule oasis with local guides. El Tule Bridge, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1444433, www.wildcanyon.com.mx. All major credits cards accepted. V $–$$ Off-Road Runners: OK, city slickers: Here’s your chance to take your 56

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FROM LEFT: COURTESY DOLPHIN DISCOVERY; COURTESY WILD CANYON

Adventureland

O U T D O O R S that swings precariously over a yawning chasm, and a large gondola is suspended high above the canyon, allowing wouldbe bungee jumpers to stare hundreds of feet down through a glass floor before committing to the ultimate leap of faith. El Tule Bridge, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4433, www.wildcan yon.com.mx. All major credits cards accepted. V $–$$$ Explore the Baja outback with Off Road Runners.

Retail Therapy

foot off the brake and hit the accelerator! With Off-Road Runners, you get to explore Wild Canyon’s 100-acre biosphere atop powerful Honda 450 quad-runners. The threehour tour includes round-trip transportation, professional guides, and some serious excitement. El Tule Bridge, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4433, www.wildcanyon.com.mx. All major credits cards accepted. V $$–$$$$

These are not your standard souvenir shops.

Indira Gems: Jewelry making has played an integral role in the history and development of México, and it’s a tradition that is continued with great finesse at Indira Gems. Here, Isidro Sánchez Icaza crafts unique pieces that are at once stunning, surreal, and magical. Hidalgo No. 1, San José del Cabo, (624) 146-9228, www.jewelrydesignerscabo.com.

Major credit cards accepted. $$$$

COURTESY WILD CANYON

Wild Canyon: We’re huge fans of Wild Canyon, the Baja Peninsula’s premier theme park. In addition to its Camel Quest and Off-Road Runners attractions, the expansive eco-park boasts an adrenaline-spiking array of activities in a scenic canyon location between Playa El Tule and the Sierra de La Laguna.

At first glance, it seems the sort of place where Indiana Jones would keep in shape between adventures: Zipliners fly rapidly from peak to peak, ATVs race across a hanging wooden bridge

Cobalto: Whether you’re outfitting your new Los Cabos dream home or looking for the perfect memento to remember your vacation, it’s worth checking out Cobalto. Here you’ll find hand-painted pottery that is 100 percent lead free and dishwasher safe. www.facebook.com/MexicanPottery LosCabos. $$–$$$

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© 2017 JOSEPH A. TYSON ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

This Is How We Do It Los Cabos locals know exactly where to go for the region’s best seafood dishes

By Chris Sands

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D I N I N G There is a very old and respected axiom in travel circles: If you want to find the best food, follow the locals. Who knows more about the best places to eat in a given area, after all, than the people who live there? With that in mind, here’s a local’s guide to the top seafood stops in Los Cabos.

Cabo San Lucas Marina Any overview of the best seafood restaurants in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo is, in reality, a look at the best restaurants in general; freshly caught local seafood is a staple at virtually every eatery in the region, and it is the defining feature of the local dining scene.

OPPOSITE PAGE: RAYNNIER GALLEGOS. THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: COURTESY BAJA CANTINA; COURTESY NICK-SAN

Local Tip No. 1: The closer you are to the water, the better the seafood.

Locals know that the top restaurants are near the Cabo San Lucas Marina, where the fishing fleet is located, feature the freshest of fresh daily catches.

Solomon’s Landing (www.solomon slandingcabo.com) has long been a favorite haunt of expats, thanks to the congenial waterfront atmosphere and seafood expertise of New Orle-

ans–trained chef Brian Solomon. You can’t go wrong with anything on the enormous menu, but the real stars are the seafood combo platter and the fresh catch of the day prepared in any of a half-dozen styles, from grilled and blackened to crispy coconut and mojo de ajo.

Local Tip No. 2: Follow the fishermen.

How beloved is Baja Cantina (www .bajacantinamarina.com) for its seafood? So much so that it has been the headquarters for the world’s richest fishing tournament, Bisbee’s Black and

Blue, since 1991. And if the guys who are catching all the fish are also customers, you know you’re doing something right. Locals are particularly partial to the ceviche—the fresh catch of the day marinated in tomato, onion, cilantro, serrano pepper, avocado, and lime juice, and served in a coconut shell—as well as grilled fish tacos served with all the traditional fixings.

Médano Beach Local Tip No. 3: When in doubt, order the catch of the day.

Mango Deck (www.mangodeckcabo .com) has a well-earned reputation as the premier party-hearty cantina on Médano Beach, but it also serves excellent seafood a few yards from the source. Baja specialties like chocolate clams (named for the color of their shell rather than their flavor) are always recommended, as are shrimp aguachile (a notable hangover cure), sambal shrimp, sushi options like rainbow rolls, and, of course, the fresh catch of the day.

Mainland

Seafood comes in many forms and price points in Los Cabos. Opposite page: sushi at Solomon’s Landing. This page, from top: ceviche at Baja Cantina Marina; sushi at Nick-San.

Speaking of sushi, chefs Angel Carbajal and Masayuki Nikura pioneered fusion cuisine in Los Cabos when they opened their first Nick-San (www .nicksan.com) in 1994. There are now two Los Cabos locations—the original at Plaza de la Danza and at the upscale

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D I N I N G

That Sunset Mona Lisa, like Nick-San, has its own fishing boats is a good indicator of its commitment to freshness and quality. For a meal as memorable as the views, try the octopus with porcini mushrooms and black truffles or the roasted Sea of Cortés tuna with caramelized endive and essence of Campari. Italian-style pastas are also favored by local foodies.

Shoppes at Palmilla—both of which pair time-honored sushi preparations with regional Mexican ingredients and have proved extremely popular with locals. Signature seafood dishes include a sublime lobster sambal marinated in sake, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, and lathered in sweet-and-sour chile sauces.

Local Tip No. 5: If a restaurant has its own fishing boats, that’s a good sign.

Mexican cuisine and seafood are not mutually exclusive, and in fact some of the most satisfying local dishes utilize traditional seafood preparations.

Grupo Mi Casa (www.micasagroup

cabo.com) provides proof aplenty at its signature Mi Casa restaurants in downtown Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo’s historic Distrito del Arte. Both locations offer a wealth of delicious seafood fare, from baby octopus sautéed in garlic butter to Acapulco-style shrimp cocktail and lobster a la Ensenada. And if you tire of fish (perish the thought!), there are always traditional crowd pleasers like mole poblano, chile en nogada, and cochinita pibil.

Local Tip No. 6: If a restaurant has been open for more than 20 years, it’s because locals have supported it.

Neapolitan-themed eatery Pan di Bacco (www.pandibacco.com) is less than a block from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, so it comes as no surprise that its Boot-style seafood is salty fresh.

Need proof? Try the fettucine gamberoni with Baja shrimp and lemon sauce, or the black squid focaccia with shrimp, calamari, and cherry tomato.

Each exceeds expectations.

Local Tip No. 7: Don’t be afraid to ask your server…or random locals… for recommendations. Y

Daikoku (www.daikoku.com.mx) is a more recent arrival, at least in Los Cabos (Daikoku restaurants have been fixtures of the México City dining scene for decades), but it immediately won over locals with a charming mix of traditional Japanese-style appointments and culinary offerings. Care to relax amid Zen-inducing atmospheric elements like a water wheel and koi pond while working your way through an enormous selection of seafood rolls? This is the place.

Local Tip No. 4: Nearly every area restaurant offers “you hook it, we cook it” specials.

Seafood restaurants run the gamut in Los Cabos, from barefoot beachfront dining spots and nautical-themed waterfront dives to fine dining desti62

From top: Mi Casa is known for traditional Mexican flavors like this shrimp cocktail; the fettucine gamberoni at Pan di Bacco features Baja shrimp and lemon sauce.

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FROM TOP: HUGO ROMÁN; COURTESY PAN DI BACCO

nations and romantic seaside aeries.

Sunset Mona Lisa (www.sunsetmon alisa.com) falls so thoroughly into the latter category that it is annually ranked as one of the most romantic restaurants on Earth. Try watching the sun set over Land’s End and the Cabo San Lucas Bay from its Taittinger Terrace Oyster & Champagne Bar without proposing to your dinner date. It’s almost impossible.

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D I N I N G

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The Dining Guide

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

By Ashley Alvarado, Sandra A. Berry, Fernando Rodriguez, and Chris Sands

It’s a white winter with the white chocolate cake at Alcaravea.

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Alcaravea Gourmet Owner and chef Enrique Diaz Gerard is a master of marsala—a sauce made from a fortified Sicilian wine of the same name—and his restaurant, Alcaravea Gourmet, is a mecca for those who seek fine Mediterranean cuisine in Cabo San Lucas. The menu is chockablock with European (primarily Italian) specialty dishes that often include olive oil- and balsamic-drizzled veggies, fresh seafood, rich pastas, and tender steaks; and white linen–topped tables that would not be out of place in a Neapolitan bistro. The Mar y Tierra carpaccio is an excellent starter: it’s a nontraditional salad that features exquisitely thin strips of salmon, beef, and the catch of the day, which are then topped with Greek dressing and thick shavings of fresh Parmesan. Italian-style entrées include a delicious Roman saltimbocca: veal scallops cooked in a white wine sauce, and complemented with prosciutto, sage, and parsley.

Beef lovers may also want to try the generously cut 14-ounce rib eye steak, grilled with a touch of garlic and served in a marsala and white wine sauce with a side of pasta. The carbonara goes wonderfully with the rib eye, thanks to a creamy sauce whose ingredients include egg, bacon, and Parmesan. More conventional pairings can be found on the wine list, which offers by-the-glass and bottle selections from around the globe, including the Baja California Peninsula’s wine country, Valle de Guadalupe.

Calle Ignacio Zaragoza and 16 de Septiembre, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3730. Mon.–Sat. noon–11 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ C.S.

Arre Mango The youngest member of the Mango family of restaurants, Arre Mango has made a name for itself as the hottest karaoke bar in Los Cabos. It brings with it the high-octane fun that has become a signature of sister spots Mango Deck and Mango Cantina, as well as a monster lineup of karaoke songs—in English and Spanish.

Never one to rest on its laurels, Arre Mango continues to up its game. There’s a massive dance floor, where guests can enjoy rocking live performances. Rock night on Wednesdays is a favorite. And every Thursday the downtown restaurant and bar opens early so people can enjoy pozole served in a variety of ways. Other nights, dinner starts around 6 p.m., and you can keep the party going till 5 a.m.! Menu offerings range from typical pub favorites to Mexican must-haves like tacos and fajitas. Check out Arre Mango’s Facebook for event updates: www.face book.com/arremangocabo. Boulevard Lázaro Cárdenas, Cabo San Lucas (624) 144-4300, www.arremango.com.

MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. Tues.–Wed., Fri.–Sun. 6 p.m.–5 a.m.; Thurs. 2 p.m.–5 a.m. $–$$$ A.A.

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The coconut shrimp at Baja Cantina Marina gets an artful presentation (left); chefs at Baja Lobster Co. give octopus an Acapulco spin.

Baja Cantina Marina Known for its consistent flavorful food and affable atmosphere, Baja Cantina Marina is not resting on its laurels. Patrons returning to this Cheers like gathering place on the Cabo San Lucas waterfront will be pleased to see the addition of a sushi bar. Housed in the former bar area, it’s complete with all the accoutrements associated with that fabulous Asian fare.

The addition is in response to the popularity of sushi on the menu. Try the Curricanes: Thinly sliced fish wrapped around cucumber, crab, avocado, and orange and sesame sauce is one of the must-have dishes. Perhaps you prefer an Asian-style bowl of stir-fried chicken with noodles. Ever-popular mar-

garitas include the Cadillac (made with Grand Marnier), the Pink (made with pomegranates), and one made with cactus.

Seafood favorites include coconut shrimp, ceviche, tuna tartar, and fish of the day. The Fisherman’s Platter includes shrimp in garlic butter, grilled octopus cooked to perfection, and the fish of the day served with saffron rice and veggies. Soups include Boston-style clam chowder, while pastas, pizzas, and Mexican dishes are high on the list of must-try items. Also popular are veggie dishes such as mushroom and spinach enchiladas and veggie quesadillas. For meat lovers, you can’t beat the filet mignon with au gratin potatoes. Desserts may include delicious rounds of chocolate, tres leches, or carrot cake. Ladies can drink free 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. when Baja Cantina Marina hosts ladies night each Friday evening. Sports fans can be found here all day on Sundays watching their favorite games.

Cabo San Lucas Marina, next to Tesoro Resort, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1111, www.bajacantinamarina.com. Mon.– Thurs. 7 a.m.–11p.m., Fri. 7 a.m.–2 a.m., Sat. 7 a.m.–1 a.m.

AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Lobster, the king of all seafood, gets its due at this scenic seaside eatery. The butter-drizzled crustaceans are served up under an elegant white canopy on the boardwalk promenade that rings the Cabo San Lucas Marina. During dinner hours, one can watch the fishing boats bringing back the day’s catch or enjoy the sun setting over the luxury villas that dot the hillside as a guitarist strums romantic ballads. Grilled lobster with truffle mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables and a surf and turf platter with lobster tail and filet mignon are the house specialties. But there are no bad options. Sample the superb aguachile de callo, a San Carlos-style mix of fresh scallops with vegetables and spices. Or savor traditional pleasures like oysters on the half shell or oysters Rockefeller. The most decadent move, however, is to go crustacean crazy: an appetizer of lobster tacos followed by lobster salad and lobster tail.

Pairing options are available by the glass or bottle from the generous, internationally representative wine list. Tip: Pair the lobster tail with the house chardonnay, the filet mignon with the excellent Malbec–cabernet sauvignon blend from Baja California’s Valle de Guadalupe. Don’t panic if you see flames.

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FROM LEFT: COURTESY BAJA CANTINA; FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Baja Lobster Co.

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From left: Discover authentic Baja flavors at Blue Fish Cabo Seafood; the Cabo Wabo kitchen is a revelation.

Blue Fish Cabo Seafood Longtime visitors will love this mariscos mecca at the Shoppes at Palmilla, which features fresh local seafood served in time-honored Baja California Sur–style preparations. Chef Ildefonso “Poncho” Avilés hails from a family with deep roots in San José del Cabo, and Blue Fish Seafood is one of the rare local restaurants that eschews regionally representative dishes from across the country in favor of traditional local favorites. The original incarnation of Blue Fish was an intimate 10-table eatery that opened at San José del Cabo’s Plaza Península in 2011.

The restaurant moved to its present location in January 2016, and the new digs are a big improvement, not only in terms of seating capacity but overall charm. A spacious patio adds alfresco ambience to an already exceptional dining experience. The service, meanwhile, remains unchanged: unfailingly warm and welcoming. Specialties range from ceviches and sashimis to 72

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aguachiles and tortilla-wrapped seafood tacos. The chef’s most beloved dish is a sea bass ceviche with fresh mango.

The Shoppes at Palmilla, km 27.5 on the tourist corridor, San José del Cabo, (624) 172-6652, www.bluefishcabo .com. Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $–$$ C.S.

Cabo Wabo The emergence of Cabo San Lucas as a world-class travel destination is closely tied to the opening of Cabo Wabo— Sammy Hagar’s iconic nightclub and restaurant—in 1990. Back then, as the Cabo Wabo website points out, “Cabo San Lucas was pretty small for such an elaborate nightclub. Later, when this town at the tip of Baja California grew into the prominent vacation destination that it is today, it seemed as if [Hagar] had looked into a crystal ball.

The truth is that the concept was evolutionary and the reality of what it has become is based on small steps, a lot of mistakes, a few good people and tons of luck.” That success is also due a winning menu and a variety of options for visitors to enjoy. The open patio bar serves beverages and snacks, while the upper terrace features dishes for lunch such as the famous lobster tacos or the Waburrito, a huge burrito stuffed with chicken, tomatoes, and cheese. Dinner appetizers include pan-seared sea scallops with Cabo Wabo tequila reposado

FROM LEFT: MIGUEL VENTURA; EDDIE GUZMÁN

That’s simply your server putting the finishing touches on your bananas and strawberry flambé. Marina Golden Zone, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-6011, www.gol denzonecabo.com. Daily noon–11 p.m. (Kitchen closes at 10:30 p.m.)

All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$ C.S.

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COURTESY HILTON LOS CABOS BEACH & GOLF RESORT

D I N I N G butter. Button mushrooms stuffed with cream cheese and dried chiles is another favorite appetizer. The signature entrée is Sammy’s tequila shrimp sautéed with serrano chile and deglazed with lime. Then there’s the pan-seared 8-ounce beef fillet with mashed potatoes and crispy onions. For dessert, opt for the lemon or chocolate and caramel tart or banana bread pudding.

Vincente Guerrero and Lázaro Cárdenas, Cabo San Lucas, (624 143-1188, www.cabowabocantina.com. Restaurant: Daily 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Patio bar: Daily 8 a.m.–1 a.m. Club: Nightly 8 p.m.–1 a.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

Chef Thierry Blouet’s Café des Artistes features a design of understated elegance.

The long corridors and stairwells in the new and quite grand JW Marriott Resort all lead to Café des Artistes, the elegant yet understated signature restaurant from award-winning chef

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Thierry Blouet. The restaurant—Blouet’s third in México—faces the Sea of Cortés, and diners are treated to his culinary creations, which fuse Mexican flavors and ingredients with his French heritage. Seafood and fresh fish are

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favorites. Guests are greeted with an eye-popping display of all things seaworthy—like a large octopus splayed over a mound of ice at the entrance.

Every dish is a work of art, perfectly executed by second-in-command Mario Rodriguez, who has worked with Blouet for 16 years. Signature dishes include pumpkin cream soup with prawns served from a fresh carved pumpkin, an item that has been on Blouet menus for more than 25 years. A tasting menu is available to explore enticing food options like softshell crab, suckling pig, foie gras al’orange (Grandma’s recipe), a duo of short ribs and medallion of beef, and the Flower Pot dessert made with three varieties of mousse. Extraordinary breads, pastries and desserts are all made on-site. On your visit, start by experiencing a signature cocktail from the handsome suede-and-leather book of drinks; we enjoyed the refreshing Mezcalini made with “moonshine” cactus created by two mixologists during the restaurant’s cocktail contest in 2016. More seasonal cocktails and contests to come, promises Ivan Tapia, sommelier of the wine cava with more than 300 varieties. Enjoy piano music nightly. JW Marriott Resort, Puerto Los Cabos, San José del Cabo, (624) 1637600, www.cafedesartistescabos.com.

Tues.–Sun. 6 p.m.–11 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$$–$$$$ S.A.B.

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Café des Artistes

MIGUEL VENTURA (2)

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D I N I N G Campestre Restaurant Bar The old adage is true. If you want to eat well, eat where the locals do. In Los Cabos, there’s one favorite local haunt that immediately comes to mind: Campestre Restaurant Bar. Although the restaurant is a bit removed from Cabo San Lucas’s main drag, it’s well worth the time it will take for you to find it. (Any concierge or taxi driver could also give you directions.) Locals and longtime expats flock to Campestre for its home-style cooking, generous portions, and excellent customer service. This is a spot where you’re just as likely to see a young family enjoying a meal together or overhear an important business meeting. The breakfasts here are famous: The green chilaquiles topped with steak are hearty and delicious. Come dinnertime, you can start with a steaming tortilla soup, one of the best in Los Cabos. Then comes the

There’s nothing so comforting as a steaming bowl of tortilla soup at Campestre Restaurant Bar.

decision of what to order. Favorites include jumbo coconut shrimp, Imperial jumbo shrimp wrapped in bacon, devil-style shrimp, garlic fish, lobster, and surf and turf—all served with rice and garden vegetables. Traditional Mexi-

can food is prepared to perfection and includes all the typical favorites: fajitas, enchiladas, chile relleno, carne asada, and the list goes on. Dessert can be a simple, beautifully decorated flan with strawberries, or go for the show with flamed bananas or strawberries over ice cream or Mexican coffee. Salvatierra, at corner of López Mateos and Camino al Faro, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-8830, www.restaurantcampestreloscabos .com (Spanish); www.loscabosguide .com/campestre (English). Mon.–Fri. 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Sun. 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$ S.A.B.

The local fish population will bite on almost anything. Anglers, however, are a bit pickier. They bite at Captain Tony’s.

Not only is the palapa-topped dockside restaurant a virtual museum of sportfishing in Cabo San Lucas–the walls are lined with photos of enormous catches dating back several decades–but this is where anglers take on ballast before departing each morning. The aptly named Fisherman breakfast is a popular choice: two pancakes, two scrambled eggs, bacon or ham, and a side of fresh fruit.

Pair that or a signature Captain Tony’s omelet (ham, mushrooms, avocado, and sour cream) with strong coffee and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, 76

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MIGUEL VENTURA

Captain Tony’s

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D I N I N G and you’re ready for a day in the fighting chair, muscling tuna, dorado, or giant billfish into the boat. Afterward, bring back the catch for Captain Tony’s “you hook it, we cook it” special, with the fish prepared one of four ways, served up with sides, salad, and focaccia bread for only $7 U.S. Upgrades–did someone say sushi?–are available for a few dollars more. Don’t fish? Don’t worry. The wood-fired pizzas are delicious. Try the Texan with beef, onion, tomato, and jalapeño; the house pie with mushrooms, tomatoes, black olives, basil, and pesto; or the Captain Tony topped with shrimp and bacon. Mexican specialty items can also be found in abundance, from tacos and enchiladas to flank steak and fajitas. Cabo San Lucas Marina (behind Tesoro Los Cabos Resort), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-6797, www.piscesgroupcabo.com. Daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m.

MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$ C.S.

With its combination of Cantonese and hot-and-spicy Szechuan cuisine, Chin’s has made an outstanding impression in Los Cabos, especially with those seeking delicious Chinese fare in a simple yet sleek and sophisticated environment. Chef Paul Zamudio uses mild seasonings so that each finished dish is well balanced and the flavors are not overwhelmed. Various levels of heat can always be added. The result is a stunning feast for the eyes as well as for the palate, and each dish is worthy of a photo. The dining menu has categories that include steamed, grilled, sizzled and noodled. From egg rolls to Beijing-style Peking duck served in a crepe (Chin’s requests 24-hour notice if you’ll be ordering this dish), you will find all the traditional dishes you love. These include such dishes as mu shu pork, orange chicken in a red chile orange sauce, house-made chow mein noodles with barbecued pork, and steamed crab wontons, plus new innovations such as sweet-and-sour fried octopus or walnut shrimp in a special house sauce. Each selection is cooked to order with incredibly fresh ingredients. A beverage menu features an extensive wine and sake selection, plus specialty martinis and mai tais. The house margarita is made with passion fruit and a bit of chile for just the right bite.

Sumptuous desserts include a warm chocolate cake with ice cream or five-spice panna cotta. Enjoy indoor service or alfresco dining overlooking the Sea of Cortés. Be sure to rub Buddha’s tummy on the way out for wishes to come true. Shoppes at Palmilla, km 27.5 on the tourist corridor, San José del Cabo, (624) 144-6060, www.chinscabo.com. Daily 1:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

Daikoku From top: Captain Tony’s is a favorite of anglers, locals, and inthe-know visitors; Chin’s brings the flavors of China to Los Cabos; Daikoku’s menu features a variety of Japanese dishes; enjoy fresh-caught fish at Eco Bar.

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Discover the richness of Japanese cuisine in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. While Daikoku has deep roots in Japan—its menu and decor celebrate the Land of the Rising Sun—this is a restaurant that quickly earned accolades and won over hearts (and stomachs) in Los Cabos. The ambience is sure to win you

FROM TOP: FRANCISCO ESTRADA; MIGUEL VENTURA; COURTESY DAIKOKU; RAYNNIER GALLEGOS

Chin’s

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El Coral endures because of a flavor-first menu featuring dishes like this seared tuna.

over, too, starting with a serene koi pond. A bougainvillea tree has been shaped into a bonsai dwarf sprouting blossoms of peach and white, likened to a cherry blossom. A wooden paddle wheel gives a soothing whooshing sound of water. Take advantage of cooler fall and winter temps and dine in Daikoku’s delightful Japanese garden. (On a warm summer night, you may want to opt for the air-conditioned dining room with a glass floor showcasing a Zen garden below.) We’re never able to pass up the sake when here, but there are other choices including wine, Japanese beer, and the usual cocktails. On our last visit, I chose a cool sparkling wine that went well with our teppanyaki grilled items, like rib eye and shrimp with vegetables (another popular choice is a mixture of shrimp, fish, beef, salmon, and chicken). Sides include fried rice, asparagus, mushrooms, and other delicacies. Our chef showed off acrobatic skills with knives and spatulas, shaping the fried rice just so, stacking the sliced onions into a pyramid and then filling the hole with oil and setting it on fire, a delight to us as well as other diners nearby. On other occasions, the chef’s recommendations have included a listing of nine rolls including a lettuce roll with avocado, cucumber, shrimp with Japanese horseradish, and a mixture of Japanese spices. Plaza Nautica, Blvd. Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-4038, (624) 1434267. Daily noon–11:30 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

The Eco Cat catamaran is a Cabo San Lucas mainstay, and its owners’ Eco Bar on the Cabo San Lucas Marina is quickly becoming a favorite of tourists and locals, too. The palapa-style restaurant and sports bar has seven flat-screen televisions for viewing NFL, NBA, NHL, boxing, and college games, and its hearty menu has plenty of options to keep you nourished through a day and night of sports viewing. Budget-friendly entrées include beef, chicken, and shrimp quesadillas; vegetarian burritos; hot wings; fish and chips; ceviche; and a kid’s menu featuring hot dogs and fries, chicken fingers, and spaghetti with meatballs. Returning from a day of fishing the abundant seas that surround Cabo San Lucas? For just $9 U.S., the capable kitchen crew will prepare your catch either blackened, grilled, fried, or in a tasty fresh seafood-sashimi style. The Eco Bar’s friendly bilingual staff is another enjoyable feature.

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Eco Bar

The menu and decor at Invita Bistro charms (pictured: saltimbocca).

During the winter months, Eco Bar offers a lobster-filet mignon dinner special priced at just $19.95 U.S. It also provides guests with one hour validated parking at the nearby Tesoro Los Cabos resort. And we haven’t even mentioned the dishes available aboard its hugely popular Eco Cat catamaran charters. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1574685, www.cabotours.com. MasterCard and Visa accepted.

Daily 7:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m. $–$$$ F.R.

El Coral Before resorts dotted Cabo’s beaches. Before A-listers flew in from across the world to vacation. Before there was Cabo Wabo, there was El Coral. Now, more than four decades in, this iconic Cabo San Lucas restaurant is better than ever. Located at the intersection of Marina Boulevard and Miguel Hidalgo (directly across the street from Tesoro Los Cabos Hotel), the family-owned restaurant recently underwent a remodel. On your next visit, you can expect a more spacious, light-filled experience and all the wonderful service you’ve come to love. You’ll also have your choice of signature dishes like carnitas, burritos, chiles rellenos, enchiladas, fajitas, and quesadillas as well as seafood dishes like ceviche, scallops, calamari, jumbo shrimp, red snapper, lobster tails, and a tasty bacon-wrapped shrimp with cheese sprinkled on top. Spent the day on the water? Drop your catch, and the chefs will fire it up in all different types of ways: grilled in the open fire mesquite grill, fried, Veracruz, garlic, ceviche, and blackened. Boulevard Marina and Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-0150. Daily 8 a.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ F.R.

FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Girasoles de la Hacienda Satisfy your craving for Mexican food at this lovely rooftop restaurant at the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda Del Mar resort. Mexican food is loved by many because of its unique and delicious flavors, so when the craving hits, you’ve just got to have it. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this is the place.

Take the glass elevator to the alfresco rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy your morning coffee with a beautiful sunrise, or a mango margarita when the sun goes down. Stop at the bar for cocktails and appetizers, then head upstairs for dinner specials that are offered nightly. These may include a molcajete made with Los Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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The menu at Jack’s Bar & Grill continues to evolve with increasingly elevated fare.

beer and dried chiles, or it just might be surf and turf, or quesadillas in a variety of options, barbecue, or special tacos prepared in an upscale manner. Whether you’re hankering for fish, fowl or beef, a variety of preparations await you. Start with fried cheese with not-too-hot salsa or sautéed corn with bay scallops in a chipotle cream. For beef lovers, the short ribs melt in your mouth while seafood aficionados may want to opt for the seafood medley. There is nothing like ending a satisfying meal with a flamed dessert such as banana crepes or Mexican coffee.

For chocolate lovers, a mousse served with ice cream cannot be beat. Km 10 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 1458000, extension 4254. Daily 7:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., noon–10:30 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

Invita Bistro

Jack’s Bar & Grill Painted across the ceiling is a map of México as it was during the days when Spanish galleons journeyed yearly from Manila to Acapulco, and English and Dutch pirates waited behind 82

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With Invita Bistro, Italian-born chef Antonello Lauri lovingly invites guests to enjoy the sights and flavors of his homeland.

The charming restaurant, which is located just across from the town square in Cabo San Lucas, features not only impressive scenes of the square’s gazebo but also views of the colorfully painted villas that cling to a Pedregal hillside and an enormous wine-themed painting from local artist Yandi Monardo.

Of course, the menu is the real star here. Lauri has collected an extraordinary highlight reel of sorts, with dishes made from his own family’s recipes. Salads come in two sizes, chica or grande; the small portion is sufficient for two, especially if followed by a tasting of the variety of dishes such as a soufflé de primavera made with veggies, béchamel, and Parmesan, or perhaps the restaurant’s signature dish: eggplant parmigiana. If you haven’t yet tried saltimbocca, this Roman specialty may become your favorite. Finely sliced beef is sprinkled with sage and topped with a thin slice of prosciutto, sautéed in butter, then braised in white wine. Dessert is a must: tiramisu, crème brûlée, or cannoli. Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1386, www.invitabistro.com. Nightly 5 p.m.–11 p.m.

MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$ S.A.B.

Hungry? Order the Doña María at La Casa de Don Juan. The breakfast features three enchiladas, nopales, and refried beans.

Land’s End to waylay them. Mexican and American comfort food specialties are the focus at the pirate-themed Jack’s Bar & Grill. One might think the food and drink almost an afterthought, but there’s no denying Jack’s serves tasty, generously portioned fare like nachos, burgers, and baby back ribs at affordable prices. The Jack’s Burger is a perennially popular option—topped with bacon, blue cheese, portobello, and an onion ring, and served with a side of French fries. We also love the arrachera (flank steak), rib-eye, New York, and filet mignon. All entrées include a choice of sides—nopales (cactus salad), baby carrots, grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, and baked potatoes, to name but a few. Kids love pirates, so there are also plenty of lunch and dinner offerings geared toward the little ones. Marina Golden Zone, Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas. (624) 145-6011, www.goldenzon ecabo.com. Daily noon to 11 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$ C.S.

La Casa de Don Juan

MIGUEL VENTURA

Due to popular demand, La Casa de Don Juan—a breakfast favorite since it opened in 2014—has expanded its menu and hours. And while you can’t come to Cabo without stopping in for breakfast—try the eggs with steak or mole or omelets— you’ll also want to try out such traditional Mexican dishes as menudo (tripe with white or red sauce with cilantro, onion, oregano, and lime) and chicharrones (fried pork skin) served in a red sauce. Come lunchtime, opt for prix fixe meal with the soup of the day or green salad; two choices of sides such as baked potato, vegetables, pasta, Mexican rice, or beans; and an entrée (the selection includes the fish of the day either grilled or batter fried, shrimp fixed in a similar manner but with a spicy Diablo sauce, chicken breast stuffed with spinach, chicken or fish fingers with French fries, chiles rellenos, taquitos, a popular pork dish called cochinita pibil, and two beef dishes) for less than $15 U.S. Transpeninsular service road just past City Express Hotel, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 105-9339. Tues.–Sun. 7 a.m.–5 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$ S.A.B.

La Dolce Ristorante One reason for La Dolce’s popularity is its simplicity. There’s nothing complicated about the menu; it’s strictly Northern Los Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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From left: La Dolce serves traditional Northern Italian fare like this shrimp pasta; La Panga Antigua fuses flavors with this shrimp spring role with citrus tamarind sauce.

authentic Italian eatery since it debuted in 1998. Make reservations; the place fills up. Cabo San Lucas: Miguel Hidalgo and Zapatas, (624) 143-4122, www.restauranteladolce.com.

Nightly 5 p.m.–midnight. San José del Cabo: Miguel Hidalgo and Zaragosa, (624) 142-6621. Tues.–Sun. 1 p.m.–11 p.m.

MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

La Panga Antigua Restaurant & Bar The Mi Casa family of restaurants serve as a sort of connective tissue for the Los Cabos restaurant scene. In addition to Mi Casa restaurants in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, there are Peacock’s in Cabo San Lucas and La Panga Antigua in San José del Cabo. Each celebrates México’s rich culinary heritage while also embracing local vendors and flavors and constantly striving to surpass expectations when it comes to menu creation and execution and unparalleled customer service. La Panga Antigua is a particular charming spot in the heart of San José del Cabo. The decor is decidedly Old World while the chef’s execution of the market-driven menu is modernity defined. Whether it’s grilled lamb chops with mustard and mint sauce or jumbo shrimp with a black-and-white mole duet, your dinner is guaranteed to be incredible, an epicurean memory you’ll treasure. We are living in a golden age for foodies in Los Cabos, and La Panga is a leader. Zaragoza No. 20, San José del Cabo, (624) 142-4041. Daily noon–10:30 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $–$$$ A.A.

Los Barriles Restaurant Bar The Cabo San Lucas restaurant scene is full of unexpected finds, and you can count Los Barriles chief among them. The downtown spot is known for its eclectic Asian menu—with everything from ancestral recipes to forward-thinking fusion– but you can also enjoy budget-friendly breakfasts and many Mexican favorites. Appetizers include a show-stopping molcajete filled with melted Oaxacan cheese and chorizo then flamed with tequila as well as the signature Barriles Sevichimi: thin slices of tuna seasoned with soy sauce, lemon, and sesame oil and served with julienned onion, coriander leaves, garlic aioli, and guacamole. The house specialty is a Korean barbecue 84

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FROM LEFT: ANDRIK OECHLER; MIGUEL VENTURA

Italian fare in a trattoria-style ambience. Co-owner Stefano Miotto brings to Los Cabos his heritage of the northern region of Italy, which is known for using less tomato and instead using wine or broth for liquid and for relying heavier on butter instead of olive oil. Seafood and fish are big here; think mussels in wine sauce. An appetizer of sautéed mushrooms with garlic, red pepper, and white wine is served with a basket of bruschetta. The primo course may just be the house-made egg noodles with zucchini and. Spaghetti al Cartoccio is a seafood dish chockfull of clams, shrimp, and calamari and served in a white wine sauce. Locals and visitors have been drawn to this

The mushroom sauce is the perfect complement to a filet mignon at Los Barriles.

prepared for two people; it features shrimp, scallops, filet mignon, lobster, and chicken served with an assortment of sauces, grilled veggies, and salads. Many entrées are prepared at your table; those include the catch of the day, which might be sea bass, tuna, or red snapper. Lobster and shrimp are featured in a variety of ways; you can choose the style of preparation and sauce. Miguel Hidalgo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1619, www.los-barriles-cabo.com/en. Daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Madeira Bistro

CABOPICTURES.COM

This downtown favorite reopened in October after a renovation that spruced up the restaurant but left owner Rodrigo Aensa’s fabulous dinner menu just the way patrons love it. The most popular option here remains the $28 U.S. allyou-can-eat rodízio-style barbecue served with a highly recommended Argentina wine. The meal includes basil-flavored mashed potatoes, sweet and tasty cabbage coleslaw, two small chicken wings, and three sweet potato slices. The dizzying array of sliced meats, served round after round, by chef Misael LeGaria include arrachera, rib eye, spicy Mexican chorizo hot links, top sirloin, turkey wrapped in bacon, brochette, barbecued ribs, and lamb. The mesquite-fire-cooked Brazilian-style meats are simply delicious. The bilingual staff members at Madeira Bistro are charming and exceedingly knowledgeable in all aspects of the menu and pairings. The accompanying slices of delectable pineapple covered in sweet cinnamon and their enzymes is another nice fit for such an unforgettable meal. Vicente Guerrero Street and Francisco I. Madero, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 150-5089 and (624) 175-3593, madeira bistro@gmail.com. Tues.–Sun. 4 p.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ F.R.

Mango Cantina This Cabo San Lucas Marina mainstay might as well be called Sports Central because it’s the spot sports fans flock to in Los Cabos for all things NFL, NBA, MLB, UFC, NCAA, NHL, and NASCAR, not to mention college sports, boxing, and international sports. Grab a seat and a cerveza (did we mention twoLos Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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for-one happy hour lasts all day?) as you take in your favorite team on one of its 16 HD screens. The food is terrific, too.

For a taste of everything, try the Mexican sampler: a choice of cheese or shrimp chile relleno, Angus flank steak, a side of rice and beans, one shrimp or chicken enchiladas, corn or flour tortillas, fresh guacamole, and two slices of cheese quesadilla—all priced at a modest $16 U.S. We’re fans of the flavor-packed tortilla soup (the traditional recipe hits all the right notes), and you can never—ever—go wrong with Mango Cantina’s fish tacos. Cabo San Lucas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3012, info@mangocantina.com, www.mangocantina.com. Daily 8 a.m.–midnight. MasterCard, Visa, American Express $–$$$ F.R.

Mango Deck There’s no more exciting spot on Médano Beach—or perhaps in all of Cabo—than the iconic restaurant, bar, and beach club Mango Deck. This is a place that has earned its reputation as a must-visit spring break destination, what with its epic, all-day happy hour, unbeatable beach views, and non-stop vacation vibe. But don’t you dare dismiss Mango Deck as simply a party spot. The menu is stellar, from start to finish. Come early for breakfast: The American-style Two-Two-Two-Two is a must, as are the spicy green chilaquiles. Stick around for lunch: We’re partial to the aguachile, as well as other traditional Mexican dishes like fajitas or molcajetes. Don’t leave yet. Dinner features many of the same favorites, as well as rocking live music performances. Want more reasons to visit? The epic New Year’s Eve party is something you simply can’t miss! And before then, you can join Mango Deck on Wednesday mornings, when the team takes food to children in need. Médano Beach, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 144-4919, www.mangodeck.com. Daily 8 a.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$$. A.A.

María Corona There is always something exciting happening at this award-winning restaurant, part of the Baja Cantina family of restaurants. It has long been touted as one of the best spots in Los Cabos for authentic Mexican cuisine, and now María 86

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Corona presents a live folklórico show every Tuesday and Wednesday evening, complete with professional dancers and a full-course dinner. María Corona also offers brunch every Sunday (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) with 20 Mexican dishes, and you don’t want to pass up the opportunity to learn from the best with one of its cooking classes. On any given evening, you can enjoy talented mariachi musicians, a live band, or even a strolling magician performing slight-of-hand tricks. Margaritas are served in various delicious flavors, such as mango or pomegranate (not too sweet), and jalapeño (not too spicy).

A delicious starter is sautéed mushroom caps with chile guajillo and garlic butter. The guacamole and queso fundido (melted cheese)—both made table side—are two of the most popular options at María Corona, as is the pork shank, which is cooked for eight hours and served with adobo sauce. The meat falls off the bone and melts in your mouth. Mole recipes come straight from the collection of the owner’s grandmother and dating to the early 1900s; try one of the many dishes made with this ancient sauce. Veracruz-style huachinango (red snapper) and the grilled filet of beef served with panela cheese and grilled onions are two other must-try dishes. Top off dinner with a dessert of house-made flan. Valet parking.

16 de Septiembre (between Morelos and Leona Vicario), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1111, www.mariacoronarestau rant.com. Mon.–Sat. noon – 11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–11 p.m.

MasterCard, Visa and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Mi Casa Speak to a regular visitor to Cabo San Lucas, and you’re likely to hear something like this: “We come every year, and every year we make sure to visit Mi Casa!” Why such loyalty?

The charming and expansive downtown spot—part of the Mi Casa family of restaurants that also includes La Panga Antigua and Peacock’s—is a celebration of traditional Mexican cuisine, art, and culture. The colorfully appointed Mi Casa invites guests to dine, explore, and linger—and shop; the gift shop is mesmerizing. The walls—inside and out—feature art and other traditional decor, and clowns, musicians, and fortunetelling birds meander. Not interested? Just wave them off

FROM LEFT: FRANCISCO ESTRADA; MIGUEL VENTURA

From left: María Corona specializes in traditional Mexican flavors, and its Mayan-style cochinita pibil is an especially delicious find; María Corona is famous for its traditional Mexican dishes and lively atmosphere (pictured: shrimp tacos).

D I N I N G and turn your focus to the menu, which includes chicken in mole, a mountainous shrimp cocktail, and perfectly cooked carnitas. Whatever you get, you will want to pair it with fresh, handmade tortillas and a jalapeño margarita.

Avenida Cabo San Lucas S/N (across from Plaza Amelia Wilkes), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1933, www.micasa restaurant.com.mx. Mon.–Sun. 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m., 5:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.; Sun. 5:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $–$$$ F.R.

Nick-San Cabo San Lucas You have to try Nick-San more than once. This is not only the best sushi and sake that Los Cabos has to offer, but you get to enjoy it in a beautiful setting right here in México. This is your chance to taste and explore the vastness and richness of Japanese cuisine and to appreciate the uniqueness of what Nick-San brings to Japanese food—Mexican ingredients and innovative twists. For more than two decades, Nick-San has introduced people to just these flavors. Guests are invited to discover Nick-San’s delicious recipes and be surprised by its extensive menu.

The best known culinary contribution from Japan is, of course, sushi. But you may be surprised to know that NickSan does not take its cues from what’s trending but rather in the ancient traditions. Here you’ll find dishes that are fried, boiled, and boiling over. Some are marinated. Some are raw. There are a variety of seafoods—mackerel, sierra, wahoo, snapper, tuna, lobster—as well as chicken and steak; and the food is expertly executed with great technique under the guidance of experienced chef and Nick-San founder Angel Carbajal.

Nick-San owners invite you to taste its menu not just once but many times.

The surprises here never end, with dishes’ flavors, textures, and presentations.

Celebrate your special occasions here.

There’s a reason so many visitors come back time and again. Japanese cuisine is more than sushi, and the Nick-San exLos Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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DINING perience can’t be relegated to just one visit. Boulevard Marina L10–L2, Plaza de la Danza, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-2491, www.nicksan.com. Daily 11:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. (One hour of free parking available at adjacent Tesoro resort). Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$

Nick-San Palmilla On our last trip to Nick-San Palmilla, we started with a Champagne cocktail from the Champagne Bar at the Garden to get ourselves into the ambience. The chef sent an amuse bouche of whitefish sashimi served with truffle oil. And we continued with a jicama tartar made of seabass, jicama, chasoba, and a refreshing citrus dressing. Try this dish with the house sauvignon blanc so you will be able to appreciate even more the fruity sides of the wine and of the dressing as well. We then continued with the Negi Roll, made with whitefish,

The flavors and presentation at Nick-San always leave a lasting impression.

crab, shrimp, thin caramelized onions, and a touch of truffle oil. One of our favorite dishes was the crab ravioli, a special dish currently available exclusively at the Palmilla location and consisting of delicious ravioli stuffed with softshell crab and shitake and served

with a creamy yuzu sauce. This visit to Nick-San Palmilla was totally different from previous trips; the restaurant was completely remodeled by French architect Jacqueline Perrot, and there is now also a lovely Zen vibe in the Garden Lounge Bar as well as in the terrace facing the sea. Come for a visit and enjoy great service, unbelievable dishes, and a unique ambience, whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or for a special occasion.

Nick-San Palmilla also offers its Beyond catering service. Pair the most exclusive setting in Los Cabos with incredible flavors and service. Area privativa Ap-15, Shoppes at Palmilla, San José del Cabo, Phone (624) 144-6264, www.nicksan .com. Daily 2 p.m.–11 p.m. Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$

Fresh, local seafood abounds in Los Cabos, but for shellfish aficionados, the lunchtime choice is clear: The Oyster Bar. The afternoon iteration of the popular Baja Lobster Co. restaurant offers a congenial open-air atmosphere overlooking the Cabo San Lucas Marina, as well as the area’s best selection of seafood classics like oysters on the half shell, Acapulco-style shrimp cocktail, chocolate clams (named for color, not flavor), oysters Rockefeller, and a Mexican variation of a traditional country 88

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The Oyster Bar

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FROM LEFT: FRANCISCO ESTRADA; MIGUEL VENTURA

club favorite, lobster tacos in Thermidor sauce. There’s no pressure to be traditional, however. Simply order up a dozen or so oysters, shrimp, mussels or clams—the El Patrón platter conveniently features a dozen of each—or try the catch of the day cooked any way you like it. Ice-cold cervezas and wines by the glass or bottle provide abundant pairing alternatives, and an air-conditioned indoor dining space provides solace when outdoor temperatures rise. For dessert, dig into decadent treats like cheesecake, caramel flan, and bananas and strawberry flambé. Marina Golden Zone, Cabo San Lu-

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cas Marina, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-6011, www.golden zonecabo.com. Daily noon–6 p.m. All major credit cards and vouchers accepted. $$ C.S.

Pan di Bacco The wafting aromas of espresso and freshly baked bread have beckoned countless patrons to Pan di Bacco, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Cabo San Lucas. And now fans of the Neapolitan-themed bakery, café, and restaurant

FROM LEFT: BRIAN ULLOA; FRANCISCO ESTRADA

Enjoy the flavors of spring in winter at Pan di Bacco (left); the chamorro at Pancho’s Restaurant is full of tradition and flavor.

DINING can enjoy its signature service and flavors in not one but two locations. This fall, Pan di Bacco opened a San José del Cabo outpost, which serves the same quiche, croquettes, pizza, brioche, and baba soft rum cake people have fallen in love with.

Visitors to the bakery can also pop in for baguettes of ciabatta, tartine or cheese grissini, or settle in for savory servings of leek and bacon quiche, potato frittatas, organic chicken croquettes, or antipasti and veggie panini. The menu blends a host of hearty breakfast delicacies with the more sophisticated fare one would expect during a lengthy, Italian-style lunch. There’s a trio of daily wine pairing options as a multicourse meal upgrade. Heart healthy salads and fruit salads can be custom made at the onsite salad bar, and the café offers heart-starting espressos from rich Italian Illy coffees. Of course, the incredible service and cuisine should come as no surprise; Pan di Bacco is part of the same family of restaurants that includes Sunset Mona Lisa and Sunset Point. Cabo San Lucas: Marina Boulevard and Lázaro Cárdenas, (624) 143-3508, www.pandibac co.com. San José del Cabo: km 7.55 on the tourist corridor, (624) 108-1748 Daily 7 a.m.–midnight. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ C.S.

Pancho’s Restaurant The spirit of Old México is alive and well at Pancho’s, a restaurant named for one of the country’s most famous men and dedicated to preserving its legacy of good food, good drinks, and good times. And, for those worried about the recent transition of ownership, fear not: Pancho’s is as good as ever, if not better. The sprawling restaurant is alive with bright and cheery colors: Just picture the multicolored Mexican table linens with fresh flowers and candles and papel picado (paper cutouts) hanging from the ceiling. Pancho’s can accommodate up to 150 people at a time—thanks to a multi-room setup—and each guest is treated to views of one-of-a-kind murals. Here you’ll find more than 60 items on the menu—try the chile relleno!—and the bar houses more than 500 types of tequila.

Some diners come annually from as far away as New York for their tamale fix; others drool for coconut shrimp in a special mango sauce made with tequila. Outstanding seafood includes whole grilled red snapper, lobster, and fresh fish. A special may include chicken stuffed with cuitlacoche topped with poblano and panela cheese sauce. For an enjoyable experience, sign up for one of three tequila tastings in their tequila room and receive a “Master of Tequilas” certificate. Reservations suggested.

Hidalgo and Zapata, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-2891, www .panchos.com. Daily 8 a.m.–11 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ S.A.B.

Peacock’s Restaurant Though named for one of the most flamboyant of pheasants, Peacock’s in downtown Cabo San Lucas is decidedly underLos Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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DINING

From left: Pitahayas puts a fun twist on carne asada; Romeo & Julieta serves traditional, ingredient-driven Italian.

stated. Don’t get me wrong: The restaurant’s layout is divine, and you can dine indoors, outdoors, or around a fire pit.

But the team behind Peacock’s—the same that helms Mi Casa and La Panga Antigua—has chosen to eschew flash in favor of flavor. Its menu is flawless: compact, market driven, and whimsical.

And the restaurant is so dedicated to fresh, responsibly raised produce that it sprouts its own greens on-site. Several other produce items are grown at Pea-

cock’s own farm in nearby Pescadero, and local fishermen catch almost all of its seafood. The menu changes regularly, but recent highlights include scallop carpaccio, shrimp with a ricotta-spinach stuffing and squash blossom sauce, and steak in mole sauce. Paseo del Pescador, near the entrance to ME Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-1858, www .peacocksrestaurant.com. Nightly 5 p.m.–11:30 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa accepted. $$–$$$$ A.A.

In a world that is rapidly changing, there’s comfort in the constant. And Pitahayas—chef Volker Remeike’s popular seaside restaurant within the stunning Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda Del Mar resort—constantly leaves us in awe. Romeike has proved a pioneer in the way he masterfully fuses flavors, pushing beyond borders to create an iconic menu that many try—and fail—to imitate. Give yourself over to the chef’s eclectic yet unerringly delicious combinations: Filipino-style lumpia spring rolls with Mexican pork carnitas and Southeast Asian Kaffir lime, for example, or jalapeño-and-honey-glazed pork belly plated with sweet potato plantain mash, Hawaiian barbecue sauce, and Asian ratatouille.

These are the perfect accompaniments to views of the moon and the sea. Appetizers include char sui shrimp taquitos wrapped in jicama, as well as pork carnitas with a pineapple marmalade sauce.

Try the shiitake mushroom salad with spicy bacon, soy, and two cheeses. The best is yet to come with many choices of wok specialties or meats and seafood from the Pacific grill such as roasted sea bass and—what turned out to be a real favorite of my dining experience— the aforementioned jalapeño-honey-glazed pork belly with its mash, Hawaiian barbecue sauce, and Asian ratatouille accompaniment. A beautiful ending to an excellent dining experience is a dessert of a chocolate coconut–shaped shell filled with sorbet. The elegant wine cellar, La Cava de Santiago, is perfect for parties and intimate dining; it houses a collection of more than 400 wines. A variety of music is offered nightly. Km 10 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-8010. Nightly 5 p.m.–11 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, and Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$ S.A.B.

Romeo & Julieta The restaurant industry is notoriously brutal, but somehow Romeo & Julieta 92

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Pitahayas

DINING has not only survived but thrived. Its recipe for success is no secret: This is a restaurant that never wavers in its commitment to high standards—with its ingredients, with its waitstaff, with its flavors. Leading the way, Italian-born chef Matias Forte has proved himself a formidable ambassador of the restaurant and food (and wine) of his home country. As chef of the downtown Italian eatery, he has become—in many ways—the face of Italian dining. And, with dishes like bucattini al ragu and papardelle al funghi, he does his homeland proud. Meat lovers will enjoy Forte’s grilled baby lamb chops, and pork belly cooked for 36 hours served with beer gravy. Two new salads are offered along with the favorite Caesar salad prepared at table.

Tortellini stuffed with king crab is a new item served in a light seafood sauce, and pizza lovers will be pleased to see a new variety with smoked salmon. He’s also trying to win over Los Cabos residents and visitors when it comes to other aspects of Italian life. He’s created a new wine list, with more Italian wines and more choices at the best prices. With a choice of dining rooms and a beautiful patio open to the stars, it is not difficult to find a romantic spot to celebrate occasions big and small. Boulevard Marina and Camino del Cerro, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-0225, www.restaurantromeoyjulieta.com. Daily 8 a.m.–11 p.m. AmEx, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$ S.A.B.

Enjoy the catch of the day served three ways at Solomon’s Landing.

rina (behind Tesoro resort), Cabo San Lucas, (624) 143-3050, www.solomonslandingcabo.com. Daily 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Discover, MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $–$$$ C.S.

Sunset Mona Lisa The superlative Sunset Mona Lisa is in a class all its own. And only executive chef Paolo della Corte could author a menu worthy of the vistas guests enjoy at this landmark Cabo San Lucas restaurant—a spot so magical that staffers estimate there’s at least one wedding proposal per night. Stop at the Taittinger Terrace—the on-site oyster and Champagne bar—

ROGELIO PÉREZ

Solomon’s Landing It’s hard to believe that Solomon’s Landing turns 20 this year, but it’s easy to see what has allowed for such success. Visits to Solomon’s Landing often stretch out, from noon through the dinner hours. And why not? This is a prime people-watching perch on the Cabo San Lucas Marina, a surfeit of surf, turf, and cocktail options, and gorgeous maritime views of colorful sailboats, luxury yachts, and the occasional sea lion begging for snacks from the back of a returning fishing vessel. The restaurant has long distinguished itself with quality and quantity—offering an enormous array of culinary treasures from bar, breakfast, lunch, kids, sushi, dinner, and dessert menus— and the lunch menu offers a suitably eclectic introduction to the restaurant’s voluminous charms. Dozens of terrific sandwich and hamburger options are crafted daily, including the delectable fresh tuna medallion cooked rare or medium and topped with arugula and tasty, delicate cilantro sauce. Margaritas, mojitos, and frosty cold ones are the perfect accompaniments to the nomadic groups of charro-clad mariachis singing songs of love and revolution in the Mexican afternoon.

They also tend to get along nicely with the restaurant’s killer ceviche and organic salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, fresh mango, tangerine wedges, hearts of palms, fresh mozzarella, feta cheese, and Solomon’s signature passion fruit dressing.

Looking for something a little more traditionally Mexican?

Specialty items like burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas offer delicious entries into Baja cuisine. Cabo San Lucas MaLos Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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The iconic views from Sunset Mona Lisa complement an incredible menu with dishes like this Alaskan salmon.

first and ask for a glass of bubbly. Gaze out at Land’s End as you soak up every second of jewel-toned sunset as you feast on creations like the oven-baked oyster in its shell with porcini mushrooms, black truffle, and mozzarella cheese. Move on for dinner and try a taste of tuna tartare in chipotle and soy, or salmon tartare in lemon mousseline served with French bread that is made black by squid ink. A seafood soup scented with lemon grass is perfect when you don’t want to go overboard.

If you are game, the octopus and porcini mushroom dish is worthy of a photo, along with risotto foie gras with Barolo wine reduction and glazed quail. A prix fixe three-course dinner includes antipasti; a pasta, fish, or meat dish; and a dessert. Go for the works with six courses that are designed around seasonal ingredients (wine pairing extra). Desserts are just as decadent with a palate cleanser of beet sorbet served in an upside-down cone and followed by several indulgent choices. If you’re like me, opt for two: a chocolate sphere and a chocolate soufflé with anise foam. Valet parking. Km 6.5 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas, (624) 145-8160, www .sunsetmonalisa.com. Nightly 4 p.m.–10:30 p.m. MasterCard and Visa accepted. $$–$$$$ S.A.B.

A hip destination that features a nearly 180-degree vista of the Sea of Cortés and the iconic Land’s End rock formation.

This is the perfect spot to see the sun go down and the moon come up, all the while enjoying a glass of wine and perhaps a light snack before dinner. Of course, you can have a fullcourse dinner here as well. This is also the ideal place for an after-dinner rendezvous with dessert cocktails. Appetizers include a selection of mozzarella specials such as Pettole (a prosciutto roll served with arugula and cherry tomatoes) as well as other favorites like tuna tartar, meatballs with a mushroom sauce, or fried calamari. Pizzas are king here; they come straight from a wood-burning oven with a nice variety of toppings from which to choose. If something more substantial is in order, classic lasagna or lasagna verde fit the bill, followed 94

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Sunset Point

Always save room for dessert when visiting Vela. Pictured: dark chocolate cake with raspberry gelato and roasted apricot syrup.

by a special dessert. The mini magnum—a trio of three desserts—is perfect for those who have trouble deciding. Dessert drinks available include prosecco and port wine. Km 5.5 on the tourist corridor, Cabo San Lucas (624) 145-8160, www .sunsetmonalisa.com. Nightly 5 p.m.–10 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and vouchers accepted. $$–$$$$ S.A.B.

COURTESY VELA

Vela So romantic is the atmosphere at Vela that even the most confirmed bachelors and bachelorettes will find themselves falling in love. Tropical breezes are like a caress at the outdoor patio dining area, which looks out over an expansive infinity pool toward the seemingly infinite Sea of Cortés. Small candlelit lanterns bathe each table in a muted glow, servers glide to and fro, and music wafts from the grand piano, or from a siren-like violinist at water’s edge. The food is every bit as alluring as the atmosphere, thanks to chef Elihu Sepúlveda’s mastery of an Italian-themed menu made unique via a few regional Mexican twists. The fresh local seafood, for example, is spectacular, particularly in offerings like the yellowfin tuna carpaccio and the pan-seared totoaba. The pastas are terrific, as one would expect at an Italianesque eatery. Delicious Italian dishes abound, including traditional specialties like lasagna and spaguetti alla carbonara. More adventurous types, however, will want to sample house fusions like the black mole linguini with poached fennel lobster and eggplant ragout, or the White & Black pappardelle with giant shrimp and jalapeños.

And meat lovers will appreciate the roasted lamb rack made with mint and rosemary gremolata, or the 45-day-aged rib eye for two. For dessert, try the Deconstructed Chocolate Tartufo, a Valrhona cake with chocolate mousse and apricot ganache served with toffee ice cream and crème anglaise. This decadent meal capper pairs perfectly with 1921 Tequila Cream, México’s answer to Bailey’s Irish Cream. Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort, km.19.5 on the Tourist Corridor, (624) 145-6500, www.hiltonloscabos.com. Nightly 6 p.m.–10:30 p.m. All major credit cards accepted. $$–$$$ C.S. Y Los Cabos Magazine | Winter 2017

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