Baja's star attractions are, of course, the twin towns at its tip, San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas — but visitors shouldn't miss what lies beyond. This itinerary summarizes the best of Baja Sur's well-traveled and out-of-the-way destinations, and it is tailored to fit Southern Baja's most popular missions: partying, surfing, and soaking up the sun.
Day 1: Cabo San Lucas
Fly in to Los Cabos International for the best range of flights. For a night of luxurious relaxation, book yourself into the top-rated Esperanza resort. For a night on the town, opt for a hotel in Cabo itself, then hustle to get yourself a seat for Cabo's famous sunsets, on Playa El Médano or on a sunset cruise. Get into the Mexican spirit with dinner at La Fonda, and then go out in Cabo, knocking back a few margaritas at Cabo Wabo Cantina and hoping for a Sammy Hagar sighting.
Days 2 & 3: West Cape & Todos Santos
After some of Mama's famous pancakes, pick up Hwy. 19 and drive up along the crashing Pacific coastline to Cerritos. Turn off the highway here and follow the dirt road to the surfing beach, where you can take a lesson or just take a chair and watch how the pros do it. Rancho Pescadero, 8km (5 miles) south in Pescadero, is the perfect place to dig in, at the private beach or too-cool pool. Napoli Pizzeria is a terrific roadside pizza place on the main road for dinner. The next morning, head up the road to Todos Santos, browsing the art galleries and colonial buildings of the historic district, and picking up some beach reading at Tecolote Books. While away your afternoon snacking in a cafe, or bird-watching on the lagoon at Posada la Poza. Schedule time to dine at Tre Galline for some of the best Italian food outside of Italy.
Day 4: La Paz
Drive an hour up the highway from Todos Santos, and you're in Southern Baja's only real city, a small and vibrant portside capital with excellent restaurants in town and beautiful beaches about a half-hour out. Stroll the malecón in the morning, then head out to Playa Tecolote for a lobster lunch and a swim in the Sea of Cortez. When evening falls, you're in for a treat: It's hard to get a bad meal in La Paz.
Days 5 & 6: Cabo Pulmo
It's a gorgeous drive from La Paz, 3 hours south to Cabo Pulmo, with plenty of optional stops for refreshments along the way. But to make the most of it, drive straight through: One day is not enough in this out-of-the-way paradise. Grab a mask and snorkel and swim out from the shore to explore the coral reef. Just before dusk, pull into Playa Los Arbolitos and take the cliff-side coastal hike to Playa La Iguana, where the setting sun adds a warm glow to one of the most beautiful — and private — coves in all of Baja. Sleep tight in one of Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort's bungalows and rise early to hike, bike, or jog the desert trails before spending a day on — or in — the water of this protected marine park.
Day 7: San José del Cabo
Back in civilization, alas. But as civilization goes, San José is pretty nice. Poke around the arts district for souvenirs, then cruise down to Zipper's beach for a spin on the waves and a burger. As evening falls, take a stroll around the square, and then treat yourself to dinner at Tequila Restaurant or El Chilar. You've, um, earned it?
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
