Los Cabos is to Vancouver and California what Cancún is to Toronto — but it’s more than just proximity that sets this side of Mexico apart. The desert climate, jaw-dropping Pacific coastline and iconic rock formations all exude a definite hold-my-beer energy, with each dramatic landscape on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula somehow outdoing the last.
The jagged cliffs and arches evoke Portugal’s Algarve, while the cactus-studded mountains serve as a stark reminder that you’re deep in desert territory. Where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet, you’ll find Los Cabos’ most recognizable landmark — a limestone arch carved by time and tide that locals call “El Arco.”
Getting there
Cabo San Lucas Airport is just under six hours from Toronto, with flights starting at around $600 return. Air Canada offers a direct route during peak season (October to May).
From the airport, it’s a 45-minute drive to the hotels and main tourist area in Cabo San Lucas. Taxis are widely available, so a rental car isn’t necessary, but a hotel that offers airport shuttles is handy.
The confluence of these bodies of water not only delivers a natural attraction and marine activities galore (snorkelling, deep sea fishing), but it’s also home to a stunning food scene where fresh seafood is a highlight, and local and sustainable dining is showcased on your plate at every meal.
Whether you’re looking for adventure on land or tucking into the ocean’s bounty at sunset, Los Cabos promises an escape that’s equal parts luxurious, wild and delicious.
What to do in Los Cabos, Mexico
Ocean Safari with Apex Ocean Divers
Since many beaches in Los Cabos aren’t swimmable, an ocean-based excursion is highly recommended. Alexander Schmidt, founder of Apex Ocean Divers, believes that if people fall in love with the sea, they’ll want to protect it — a mission reflected in his fun and educational tours. The Ocean Safari ticks off the iconic arches, with time to swim, snorkel and spot marine life. Our group sees breaching whales, playful dolphins and seals lounging on the rocks; stingrays are also common. I’m not quite brave enough to dive with a hammerhead shark, but I love watching the GoPro footage our guide captures beneath the surface.
San José del Cabo Food Tour
With a glut of tours in San José del Cabo, finding something truly authentic can be tricky. Ruta D by Diana Gutierrez stands out by blending the town’s rich history with its vibrant culinary scene. Meander through the cobbled streets of the Art District, where galleries brim with local expression, and colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Along the way, you’ll sample award-winning ceviche, chat with friendly vendors at the local market and step inside tucked-away, family-run kitchens. Founded in 1730, San José del Cabo comes alive on this immersive walking tour layered with flavour, culture and heart.
Wild Canyon Adventures
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For those who prefer adrenaline to sun loungers, Wild Canyon Adventures delivers the hit needed to chase down that tequila. The expansive adventure park set in the Baja outback has every high-octane activity imaginable, from ziplining across dramatic desert canyons and ATV tours to a glass-bottom gondola suspended over 300 feet in the air, where you can bungee-jump (you’ve been warned).
If you’re not the daredevil in the group, you can soak in the stunning scenic backdrop while holding bags and getting some epic action shots. Want to beat the heat and enjoy your kicks by candlelight? The Moon Zipping Fire tour lets you explore the magic of the desert in the dark — dinner, s’mores and tequila included.
Where to stay in Los Cabos, Mexico
Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos
This high-end sister property to Grand Velas Los Cabos opened in January 2024, offering travellers an even more intimate, ultra-luxe escape overlooking the Sea of Cortez. While guests have access to the original resort, the 79-room boutique property has plenty to keep you occupied, including private restaurants, pools and an on-site spa.
The beach isn’t swimmable, but the dreamy infinity pool offers a front-row seat to the sea — and sipping piña coladas in its wading waters might be the best way to take in the view. If you can pull yourself away, head to the Agave Tasting Room to explore tequilas, reposados and artisanal mezcals with expert mixologists each day.
loscabosboutique.grandvelas.com
Where to eat in Los Cabos, Mexico
Flora Farms
Flora Farms is more than a meal — it’s a 25-acre organic farm in the lush Sierra de la Laguna foothills and one of Cabo’s most picturesque dining spots. The seasonal menu features ingredients harvested on-site, and ethically raised chicken and pork from their nearby ranch.
Take a farm tour to learn about sustainable practices, roll up your sleeves and make salsa and tortillas, or slip away on a sea of tranquility at the spa nestled among its herb and flower gardens. Sip a carrot-juice Farmarita beneath shaded pergolas at the Farm Bar, then browse the grocery for artisanal bread, house wine and local souvenirs. Flora Farms is an escape from the regular tourist trail that’s delicious and deeply rooted in conservation.
Acre
Acre Resort is a lush Canadian-owned oasis just outside San José del Cabo, where towering palms share the spotlight with more cacti than you can poke a stick at — seriously, watch out. The fresh, flavour-forward menu shines with showstoppers like wood-fired whole fish, smoky grilled octopus and roasted heirloom veggies that even the prickliest locals would approve of.
Guests can sip on expertly crafted cocktails or dive into the open-air mezcal bar, featuring tastings from their very own small-batch mezcal label. Whether you’re soaking up the vibrant desert vibes or dining long into the starry night, Acre turns every meal into an unforgettable fiesta — one you never want to end.
Cocina de Autor
Forget the stale buffet: At Grand Velas, guests can enjoy complimentary access to its Michelin-starred restaurant, Cocina de Autor. Each multicourse meal is a journey through Baja’s bold flavours, featuring local produce and wild pairings that somehow work — chocolate and clam? Why not. Highlights from chef Sidney Schutte include scallop with tom yum and a silky yellow corn velouté, paired with excellent wine (many of them Mexican) and a splash of mezcal — because, when in Mexico. The dining room is beautiful, but arrive early for a cocktail on the oceanfront terrace, where koi splash in the pond and waves lap the shore. It’s magic, from start to finish.
