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Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas

Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Luxury Resorts

  • One&Only Palmilla

    An indulgent, self-contained vacation experience.

  • Grand Velas Los Cabos

    Offers expansive grounds and high levels of service.

  • The Cape, A Thompson Hotel

    World-class spas and fine dining restaurants available.

  • All-Inclusive Options

    Many luxury resorts feature all-inclusive packages and direct beach access.

Boutique & Mid-range Hotels

  • Hotel El Ganzo

    Stylish and unique design aesthetics, near San Jose del Cabo.

  • Hotel California (Todos Santos)

    Offers a more intimate atmosphere compared to large resorts.

  • Pueblo Bonito Rose Resort & Spa

    Comfortable amenities and services without the premium price tag.

  • Fairfield Inn by Marriott Los Cabos

    Near the Marina or downtown, easy access to attractions.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

Cabo is mainly a resort destination, so "unique local" accommodation types in the traditional sense are less common. High-end private villas and condo rentals are a popular alternative to resorts, specifically for groups or families seeking more space, privacy, and often kitchen facilities. These range from beachfront properties to hillside homes with panoramic views.

Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

Airbnb / VRBO
Homestay Limitations
  • Less common in highly developed resort areas
  • Cultural immersion through specific tour operators
  • Venturing into surrounding smaller towns for opportunities
  • Direct homestays are rare within main Cabo

Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

Limited Formal Camping
  • Formal camping grounds are limited in Cabo San Lucas
  • Some RV parks further north in Baja California Sur
  • Not a main accommodation type in the city
  • Travelers opt for glamping experiences
Outdoor Alternatives
  • Eco-resorts outside main cities are an option
  • Glamping experiences outside urban areas
  • No designated camping zones within the main tourist hub
  • Focus is on developed tourist lodging

Helpful Tip

Longer Stays
  • Vacation rentals often present better value
  • More authentic local living experience
  • Self-catering options reduce dining costs
  • Great for extended visits
Hotel vs. Rental
  • Hotels suit shorter, service-oriented trips
  • Rentals ideal for local immersion
  • Consider group size and privacy needs
  • Amenities vary widely across options

Consider Your Travel Style

For Groups & Families

Vacation rentals stand out as a top choice. They offer space, kitchen facilities, and a home-away-from-home feel.

For Budget Travelers

Hostels and guesthouses outside the main tourist hubs save money and provide a more local experience.

Neighborhood Guide

Cabo San Lucas and its surrounding areas feature distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character.

Downtown Cabo San Lucas

  • Character: Energetic, bustling, always active; mix of shops, restaurants, lively bars, and nightclubs.
  • Pros: Central location for easy walking access to Marina, Medano Beach, dining, entertainment.
  • Cons: Can be noisy, constant activity, less tranquil than other areas.
  • Safety: Generally safe, caution with petty theft, aware of surroundings late at night.

Medano Beach Playa El Médano

  • Character: Most popular, lively beach, lined with resorts, beach clubs, water sports vendors. Calm, swimmable waters.
  • Cons: Can be very crowded and noisy during peak season, resort-centric area.
  • Safety: High tourist presence, very safe during day and evening.
  • Proximity: Directly on beach, short walk or taxi to Marina and Downtown.

Additional Neighborhoods

Tourist Corridor
  • Home to luxurious resorts, championship golf courses, private villas.
  • Quieter, more secluded than downtown Cabo.
  • Requires transport for Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo.
  • High-end amenities and beautiful settings.
San Jose del Cabo
  • Cabo's quieter, more traditional sister city.
  • Historically and culturally richer experience, charming colonial downtown.
  • Renowned for its Thursday evening Art Walk (November to June).
  • Approximately 30-45 minutes drive from Cabo San Lucas.

Booking Strategies

Advance Booking

High Season (Nov-May): 3-6 months. Low Season (Jun-Oct): 1-2 months. Secures deals and top choices.

Trusted Platforms

Online Travel Agencies (Booking.com, Agoda), Vacation Rentals (VRBO, TrustedHousesitters, Hostelworld), direct booking, all-inclusive specialists (IHG Hotels).

Policies & Prices

Review cancellation terms. Prices higher in high season, better deals in low season. Walk-in negotiation uncommon for resorts.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are top picks for various traveler types and budgets, a starting point for your search.

Budget & Mid-Range Options

The Oasis Hostel Cabo San Lucas

Dorms and private rooms are available. A social atmosphere is present, communal areas are there, attracting backpackers and solo travelers.

  • Social and communal vibe.
  • Good for solo travelers.
  • Centrally located.
  • Affordable rates.
Pueblo Bonito Rose Resort & Spa Medano Beach

Good amenities, spacious rooms, and family-friendly, located directly on swimmable Medano Beach.

  • Family-friendly amenities.
  • Spacious rooms.
  • Direct beach access.
  • All-inclusive packages.

Luxury Options

The Cape, A Thompson Hotel

This modern design hotel features stunning views of El Arco and a sophisticated, contemporary experience.

  • Modern design and architecture.
  • El Arco views.
  • Sophisticated ambiance.
  • High-end facilities.
Grand Velas Los Cabos

An ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort recognized for exceptional dining, impeccable service, and expansive facilities.

  • Ultra-luxury, all-inclusive.
  • Exceptional dining experiences.
  • Impeccable service.
  • Expansive resort grounds.

Family & Solo Traveler Picks

  • Pueblo Bonito Rose Resort & Spa

    All-inclusive options, multiple pools, and kids' clubs for families.

  • Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

    Another all-inclusive option with large pools and many kid-friendly activities.

  • The Oasis Hostel

    Easy to meet other travelers in a social setting, ideal for solo exploration.

  • Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa

    Central location for tours, activities, and nightlife, convenient for solo exploration.

Long-Stay & Cultural Significance

  • Airbnb/VRBO rentals

    Numerous condos or houses with kitchen facilities, ideal for self-catering and longer stays.

  • Condo-style resorts

    Properties like Club Regina Los Cabos offer units with kitchenettes, suitable for extended periods.

  • Hotel El Ganzo (San Jose del Cabo)

    Supports local art and music, creating a cultural connection, despite its modern design.

  • Hotel California (Todos Santos)

    Historical intrigue and a distinct bohemian atmosphere in nearby Todos Santos.

Planning Your Stay

Booking Considerations

Always review recent guest feedback and match the amenities and location to your personal travel style and priorities for the best experience.

  • Check noise levels and location accuracy.
  • Verify service quality and responsiveness.
  • Compare direct vs. OTA rates.
  • Read cancellation policies carefully.
Value for Longer Stays

For extended visits, vacation rentals often present better value and a more authentic local living experience than traditional hotels, especially with kitchen facilities.

  • Cost savings on dining.
  • More space and privacy.
  • Local neighborhood immersion.
  • Suitable for self-catering.

Affiliate Resources for Accommodation

Global Booking

Booking.com - Global accommodation booking platform with a wide array of options.

Asian & Budget Focus

Agoda - Strong presence in Asia; Hostelworld - Specializes in budget accommodations like hostels.

Hotels & Rentals

IHG Hotels - For various hotel brands; Vrbo - Vacation rental booking; TrustedHousesitters - House/pet sitting exchange.