Best Hotel Bets

The Best Budget Inns

• Cabo Inn (Cabo San Lucas; tel. 619/819-2727 in the U.S., or 624/143-0819; www.caboinnhotel.com): This former bordello is the best budget inn in the area. Rooms are small but extra clean and invitingly decorated, amenities are generous, and the owner/managers are friendly and helpful. Ideally located, close to town and near the marina, the inn caters to sportfishers.

• Hotel Mediterrane (La Paz; tel. 612/125-1195; www.hotelmed.com): Mixing Mexican with Mediterranean decor details, the result here is a stylish, economical inn. The location near the malecon means you're close to everything. The on-site Trattoria La Pazta restaurant is one of La Paz's best.

• La Damiana Inn (Loreto; tel. 613/135-0356; www.ladamianainn.com): This charming inn, crafted from a century-old family home, is a cozy, well-appointed hideaway perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. The friendly service can't be topped.

• Hotel Hacienda Mulege (Mulege; tel. 615/153-0021): Right in the heart of Mulege, this former 18th-century hacienda is a comfortable and value-priced place to stay, complete with a small shaded pool and popular bar.

The Best Unique Inns

• Casa Natalia (San Jose del Cabo; tel. 888/277-3814 in the U.S., or 624/142-5100; www.casanatalia.com): This renovated historic home, now a masterfully crafted inn, is an oasis of palms, waterfalls, and flowers set against the desert landscape. Each room and suite is an artful combination of modern architecture and traditional Mexican touches. The restaurant is the hottest in town.

• Hotel California (Todos Santos; tel. 612/145-0525 or 612/145-0522): After undergoing a complete renovation in 2003, the Hotel California has emerged as the hippest place to stay in the area. Jewel-tone rooms and a profusion of candles and eclectic accents make this a study in creative style. Although you can check out anytime you like, chances are you won't want to after being lured in by the inviting pool area and the popular La Coronela Restaurant and Bar.

• La Villa del Valle (Valle de Guadalupe; tel. 649/183-9249; www.lavilladelvalle.com): The six rooms of this charming inn, flanked by lavender fields, make for casual respite in the middle of Ensenada wine country. Plus, a garden teeming with chef-ready produce and fresh herbs ensures every meal is the freshest in the valley.

• Punta Chivato (north of Mulege at Punta Chivato; tel. 615/153-0188; www.posadadelasflores.com): Enjoy the 3 hectares (7 1/2 acres) of desert landscape and tranquil, private beach that come with a stay in the large and beautifully decorated suites and guest rooms here. Meals are included, as are a host of light activities. There's even a private airstrip to make it more accessible.