Alexander's: Plaza Bonita, Mall on The Marina, 011-52-624-143-20-22. This place had a fun and upbeat staff—bang-for-your-buck kind of dining. Most of the food is prepared by owner/chef Alex Brulhart. They offer many at-the-table meal options. We opted for the Caesar salad for two…Read More

Alexander's: Plaza Bonita, Mall on The Marina, 011-52-624-143-20-22.
This place had a fun and upbeat staff—bang-for-your-buck kind of dining. Most of the food is prepared by owner/chef Alex Brulhart. They offer many at-the-table meal options. We opted for the Caesar salad for two and the bananas foster dessert, both made table-side. For dinner, we had the fettuccini with clams (there were so many clams, I wondered where the pasta was) and the Chateaubriand (also prepared table-side). I think some of the other patrons started to think we were showing off, since almost everything we ordered required someone to prepare it at our table. I think that made it more fun, though. The food was good. They had a full bar with a really nice wine list (a lot of imported bottles). This is in a great location if you’re going to the mall or on a sunset cruise. Their "theme" here is: "You catch it, we'll cook it." That said, we saw many people who had gone fishing during the day and had brought their catch to Alexander's to have it prepared. For $10 per person, their fish was prepared three different ways, and to us, they seemed very pleased. The seating is on the sidewalk, so if that's not the atmosphere you are looking for, then skip the marina altogether. Their staff (just like every other staff there) tries to solicit people off the sidewalk to eat here. We found it entertaining. Come as you are. Recommended.

Margaritaville – Cabo San Luca Marina.
We went here for breakfast before taking a water taxi to Lover's Beach. It was very convenient to the marina and very reasonably priced. They had porch seating which was great because it was covered and overlooked the entire marina. Plus, we weren’t stuck eating on the sidewalk again. The staff was attentive, and the breakfast was tasty. I had French toast (again), which they cover with a layer of brown sugar—mmmmmm. My husband had a traditional Mexican breakfast with eggs, pork, cheese and brown chipotle sauce in a warm tortilla. It looked excessive to me, but he was extremely happy (and full when he was done). They had a huge tea selection (which, for some reason, I found odd but delicious). Our concierge did tell us, though, that it was not a good place for dinner. I don't know about that. I also want to note that after we were done, they found a water taxi for us. I thought that was nice. Recommended. The Office - On the beach, north of the Pueblo Bonito Resort, 52-624-143-3464.
This is a very casual restaurant on the beach (literally) with views of the Arch. Shoes optional. Make a reservation, or don't bother going (although they don't tell you that). This place is always packed, and there are always people waiting. We went for breakfast and dinner on two separate days. The food is fresh and authentic, and the service is fast (because they want you out to reuse the table). I had French toast with fruit for breakfast (awesome), which was covered in brown sugar and fresh cream. For dinner, I had authentic chicken fajitas which came with six tortilla shells (I was able to choose corn or flour) and included so much chicken/peppers/etc. that I didn’t even make a dent in the plate. My husband had another traditional Mexican breakfast of eggs, pork, and cheese with a brown chipotle sauce, which he raved about, and had a combo of fajitas, burritos, and tacos for dinner. We could have rolled out, we ate so much both times. There is a nightly Mexican fiesta show that you watch while you eat. They also offer a small buffet if you prefer that over the al la carte menu. National beers are priced two-for-one all day long. The place is a madhouse—organized confusion, I'd like to call it—but it’s a great place to people watch. In the midst of everything going on, there was a person (employee) walking around making "dirty" balloon hats for people. Some were very graphic, if you can believe it, but all were amusing. And of course, it wouldn't be Mexico if they didn't have vendors on the beach selling blankets, dishes, sterling silver, etc. The vendors were much worse in the morning than during dinner. Also, if you can avoid it, try to be seated away from the speakers—it gets almost unbearable once the show starts. They have a frequent visitor policy: eat five meals there and get a T-shirt or hat free. That said, The Office had a gift shop as well.

We booked this trip through our concierge at the Westin and used Motosol tour company. The cost was $39 for a single and $59 for a double (obviously, it would have been cheaper if we booked a double). Motosol picked us up at…Read More

We booked this trip through our concierge at the Westin and used Motosol tour company. The cost was $39 for a single and $59 for a double (obviously, it would have been cheaper if we booked a double). Motosol picked us up at our hotel and dropped us off—both included in the price.

I should have known how filthy I would end up by the fact that a dust cloud came out of the van-bench when I sat down. The ATV site was 5 minutes down the corridor, across the street from our hotel, which was very convenient. This was a 3-hour, 25-mile tour that was very exciting and a little scary for those that are less adventurous. Before the tour begins, the guide demonstrates how the vehicle works and supplies you with goggles, a helmet, and a scarf (to cover your face from all of the dust) We looked like a pair of bank robbers. We have never ridden ATVs before and found it relatively easy, very exciting, and fun. After receiving your vehicle and equipment, you are given about 15-20 minutes to practice riding in a separate area, just to get a feel for what it’s like before your drive behind someone else. The ATVs are manual, and the gears shift after lifting the pedal—that took some getting used to.

We started the tour with our own vehicles, and midway through, I decided to ride double with Frank. I think it was even more fun that way. He went faster than I would have ever, and we were together for the bumps, hard turns, laughs, and the views. The tour guide made sure the group was always together and stopped occasionally for breaks, pictures, water (which they supplied), etc. The breaks were brief, though—just enough to catch our breath. We took the waterfall tour and were amused when we actually arrived at what was said to be the waterfall. I am convinced that someone was standing with a hose at the top of this hill. The water was dripping down (and from what the tour guy said, it had nothing to do with the fact that it was the dry season). It did not take away from the tour at all, though.

The "journey" included beautiful views of the Sea of Cortez and panoramic views of the canyons and desert. We traversed mountains and narrow canyons, all along well-marked trails. Towards the end of the tour, we went to a private beach/sand dunes area, and that part of the ride was fantastic. In this completely open area, we were allowed to roam free and do our thing for about 30 minutes. At 35-40 miles per hour, you felt like you were flying over those dunes. We saw several different butterfly species, wild turkeys, and a ton of vultures. There was dust everywhere, though, so you leave disgustingly dirty. There are also tons of plants and sticks everywhere, so if you are fooling around or are not dressed properly, it is easy to get hurt. Wear pants—that is a must—and a long-sleeved shirt and sneakers wouldn’t hurt either!! It’s definitely an experience we will never forget. Highly Recommended.

When thinking about renting a car in Mexico, the first problem is whether or not to buy the insurance, which generally doubles the price of the car. After researching thoroughly, I found that Mexican law requires liability insurance to be included in the rate…Read More

When thinking about renting a car in Mexico, the first problem is whether or not to buy the insurance, which generally doubles the price of the car. After researching thoroughly, I found that Mexican law requires liability insurance to be included in the rate for the car rental. Many car rental companies deny this is the case, but it is included--without exception. If they do admit that liability is included, the car rental company will attempt to sell you comprehensive insurance on the vehicle in case of an accident or theft. The insurance which the car rental companies offer has $1000 deductible, so even if you take their insurance, you are certainly not "fully covered." I was very pleased to find that a call to the AVIS international desk resulted in a lower rate per day than I had been able to find on line, despite diligent searching, and a representative who freely admitted that liability insurance was included in the rate. When I asked if my credit card company would cover the comprehensive, he said I should call the company to verify whether it would or not and to find out what the conditions for the credit card company's insurance were. A call to the credit company told me that the credit card company's insurance does become primary comprehensive insurance in Mexico--and the credit card company's insurance has $0.00 deductible, which means you are fully covered PROVIDED you turn down the auto rental company's insurance. If you accept the rental company's insurance, the credit card insurance is no longer primary, and you are liable for the deductible. The result, of course, is that the base rate quoted by AVIS is all you need to pay. I stress AVIS because other companies I called said liability was not included and that I must buy their insurance. AVIS said they had been told that in Mexico the renter is not always told that liability is included and suggested that I download the information from their web site and take the information from the credit card company's site detailing coverage with me as well as phone numbers to call if problems should arise. I am happy to report that I had absolutely no problems in Mexico. At the AVIS desk they could not possibly have cared less whether I took their insurance or not. I declined and we went to look at the car. I pointed out numerous dings and scratches here and there because I had heard from others who have rented in Mexico that it is almost necessary to take a photo of the car so you can prove you didn't damage it. The attendant merely put a checkmark on each side of her diagram and indicated that the car had dings here and there. When we returned the car, they took a prefunctory glance to be sure we had not caved in the side of the vehicle, and drove it away. The whole experience was pleasant and without incident. To sum up, liability insurance is included; your credit card probably provides better insurance than the rental company, and the credit card insurance costs no money. I do recommend AVIS as a rental company in both Cabo and Puerto Vallarta. Close

You don't HAVE to be a lover to go here (that's Virginia, I believe). But it's a great place for being in love with everything in sight. This is the main jewel of Cabo, a million times more worthwhile than the lunatic sideshow…Read More

You don't HAVE to be a lover to go here (that's Virginia, I believe). But it's a great place for being in love with everything in sight. This is the main jewel of Cabo, a million times more worthwhile than the lunatic sideshow that's grown up around it, and one of the absolute finest swimming holes in the world.
It's also the Last California Beach. As the spine of the Californias drops down into the sea, terminating with typical preposterous poetry in a stone arch with sand-floored cave, it leaves one last gap--Lover's Beach--to bridge the Two Seas. The Pacific side is a towering, pounding surf that you'd be nuts to swim in. I've actually seen people pulled into the water, just like in Bugs cartoons. This is literally and no fooling killer surf. But it looks just glorious slamming the rock spires in front of the SolMar. And you see whales here a lot.
The business end of the beach is on the Mar de Cortez side, gentle clear water perfect for lazy swims or for snorkeling. There are lots of parrot fish, Moorish Idols, wrasses, and other cool tropical fish around the offshore rocks. You can swim out to the arch if you're up for it, or back towards town to the white rock--a open air aquarium.
Or just laze in the soft white sand, staring up at the rock walls that protect this unique beach. They've been sandblasted for centuries to produce a tissue-like effect that could have been done by Dali or Max Ernst on a mushroom high.
Most people arrive by water taxi from Medano beach or the dock in front of Plaza Las Glorias, but you can also rent a canoe at the Hacienda beach and paddle over. Or walk through the SolMar bar, hike south on the beach until you hit rocks and follow the trail over them--at high tide this can require some timing and dashes to keep from getting soaked (and/or carried out to sea) but the climb itself over the sand-smoothed rocks is fun.
Forget Squid Roe and the Gagging Marlin and the topless joints--this place is the heart and soul of Cabo and the more time you spend here the better person you will be. Same goes for any lovers you bring along. Close

"May I clean your sunglasses, sir?" My girlfriend Sylvia and I exchanged quizzical looks at the poolside request from the resort employee—we had only arrived that day and had not yet fallen into deep relaxation mode. Soon enough, though, our every care had melted away as…Read More

"May I clean your sunglasses, sir?"

My girlfriend Sylvia and I exchanged quizzical looks at the poolside request from the resort employee—we had only arrived that day and had not yet fallen into deep relaxation mode. Soon enough, though, our every care had melted away as we allowed ourselves to be swallowed up by the sumptuous environment.

Exclusive yet friendly, fun yet sophisticated, stylish yet playful, Las Ventanas may be in danger of being all things to all people. Indeed, it's as close to the perfect vacation experience as many travelers are wont to have.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso (The Windows on Paradise) is a haven of beauty and luxury between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo at the tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. From the moment we stepped through the crowd of taxi touts at the airport and into our waiting luxury car and were handed bottles of cold water and mints for the short 20-minute drive to the resort, we knew that we were in for a treat.

We were invited to have lunch by the poolside Sea Grill while our room was prepared. The ceviche was outstanding, and the main courses were prepared with flair and style. Oh, and they tasted great, too. This was our first exposure to the resort’s legendary attention to service, and though the staff set the bar high to begin with, they consistently surprised us with their friendliness of spirit.

Likewise, our room exceeded our high expectations. The designer clearly had an impeccable eye for detail in the furnishing and finishing touches (like soaps, shampoos, and the aromatherapy candles we selected each evening). The view from our patio, looking out over the pool, beach, and ocean, was outstanding, and on the top level we enjoyed our own private rooftop terrace—perfect for a sundown cocktail or a cold Pacifico. From the top, we considered our favored position: the whitewashed exteriors blended beautifully into the landscape, while the azure waters provided a stark contrast to the parched desert. The staff would even arrange private rooftop dining by request.

In keeping with its reputation as a premier destination resort, Las Ventanas offers a top-shelf dining experience, along with all the other amenities. In short, there is no need to pay for a ridiculously overpriced taxi to head into Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo. Instead, relax and stick around, confident that you’re getting the best that fusion Baja-Mediterranean cuisine has to offer. The service was impeccable, the views outstanding, the live piano and jazz soothing, and the dishes sumptuous. The seafood was fresh, the filet mignon tender and flavorful, the pasta slightly al dente, and the desserts delicious.

Each day we would arise with grand plans to explore more of the area, such as ambling through San Jose del Cabo, going saltwater fishing, or renting a couple of sea kayaks. However, each day we would ultimately ask ourselves, "Why leave?" With only a long weekend to spare, we needed to spend 100% of our time enjoying the best spot in Los Cabos. While Las Ventanas’ proximity to the best of what Baja has to offer (whether it’s the expat fiesta scene, whale-watching in the winter, kayaking in the spring and fall, or year-round fishing) makes it a good choice for the active travel enthusiast who wants to have his cake and eat it too, though a week-long trip makes these options more feasible. As such, the only dilemma was where, exactly, this "best spot" was: reading a book in the in-pool seating area while sipping a margarita, lounging on our roof deck, lying on the beach, or throwing your diet out the window in the restaurant? And I didn’t even mention the numerous spa and massage options. Either way, Las Ventanas is a recipe for a can’t-miss perfect Baja getaway.

Additional Notes

Los Cabos is a short 3-hour flight from the Bay Area, or 2 hours from southern California. We found an affordable fare from Oakland on Allegro Airlines, with a direct flight on a new, clean plane. The same plane continues on to Puerto Vallarta after a short layover in Los Cabos.

Las Ventanas is part of the Rosewood Hotels group, whose properties include a selection of the premier luxury resorts in the world. Rates range from $375 for a Garden-view Junior Suite in summer to $4,300 for a three-bedroom Luxury Suite during the holiday season. Hotel information, including rates, photo galleries, package specials, spa offerings and activities can be found at www.lasventanas.com or by calling (52) 624.144.0300. Managing Director Luis Fernandes and his staff offer warm smiles and welcoming manners to all guests.

Trip report: Los Cabos 9-29-2004 thru 10-6-2004 Los Cabos at the Club Regina, Westin20 minutes from Cabo San Lucas and 10 minutes from San Jose del CaboTrip date: 9/29/2004 thru 10/6/2004Dive Operator: Amigos del Mar CSL1 of 6 dives, Sat Oct. 2ndMy Dive #7 Pelican…Read More

Trip report: Los Cabos 9-29-2004 thru 10-6-2004

Los Cabos at the Club Regina, Westin


20 minutes from Cabo San Lucas and 10 minutes from San Jose del Cabo


Trip date: 9/29/2004 thru 10/6/2004


Dive Operator: Amigos del Mar CSL

1 of 6 dives, Sat Oct. 2nd


My Dive #7 Pelican Rock, near El Arco, Lovers Beach


Depth: 87 ft


Time: 44 min.


Water temp: 80 deg F


Visibility: 60+ ft


Boat: Trimaran


I saw a few reef sharks on the bottom, various fish (not a whole lot), a few lobsters in crevices. It was a relaxing dive and good beginning.

2 of 6 dives, Sat Oct. 2nd


My Dive #8 Neptune’s Finger, near El Arco, Lovers Beach


Depth: 73 ft


Time: 43 min.


Water temp: 80 deg F


Visibility: 60+ ft


Boat: Trimaran


I saw two white tip sharks very close. They were very curious. I saw one large ray.

3 of 6 dives, Mon Oct. 4th


My Dive #9 Blow Hole, near Chileno Beach


Depth: 79 ft


Time: 36 min.


Water temp: 81 deg F


Visibility: 60+ ft


Boat: 6 diver panga


There is very beautiful underwater scenery. I did my first swim through, which was really fun.

4 of 6 dives, Mon Oct. 4th


My Dive #10 Twin Dolphins, near Chileno Beach


Depth: 65 ft


Time: 47 min.


Water temp: 81 deg F


Visibility: 60+ ft


Boat: 6 diver panga


There was very beautiful underwater scenery, with fans corals and sponges. I saw my first lobster walking about in the open - cool!

5 of 6 dives, Tues Oct. 5th


My Dive #11 Gordo Banks, 1 ½ hour boat ride from CSL marina


Depth: 105 ft


Time: 36 min.


Water temp: 77 deg F


Visibility: 80+ ft


Boat: 6 diver panga


Gordo Banks is an underwater mountain with a peak 110 feet below the surface.

We anchored and descended on the line to this depth. We stayed at this depth for 10 minutes, then going to 60 feet for another 10 minutes. There were lots of schooling jack and tuna. It was a very exciting dive, my deepest to date. After surfacing, we had lunch while doing our 1.5-hour SI.

6 of 6 dives, Tues Oct. 5th


My Dive #12 Gordo Banks


Depth: 101 ft


Time: 45 min.


Water temp: 80 deg F


Visibility: 80+ ft


Boat: 6 diver panga


I’m still looking for hammer head sharks or large mantas, but no luck. I saw a sea lion quite surprisingly, as he was 8 miles from the nearest rookery. He was an excellent swimmer, and man, could he hold his breath. There were lots of small jellyfish around, which I avoided. But, after surfacing, I got a pimple-like rash on one shoulder. I think it may be the jellyfish larva, as discussed on another thread.

All and all, it was great diving. The people of Amigos del Mar were very friendly and safe.

The stay at the Westin Club Regina was fabulous. I ccan’t wait to go back, as I didn’t get a chance to dive Cabo Pulma. They were diving there the day we were leaving.

It is the best food we have had the pleasure to experience. It may have just been our good luck. Anyway we can't wait to return to Cabo.…Read More

It is the best food we have had the pleasure to experience. It may have just been our good luck. Anyway we can't wait to return to Cabo.Close

I stayed at the Hotel Finisterra in August 2005, mainly because it was situated on this beautiful beach. None of the information I received beforehand stated that this was a non-swimming beach, but upon check-in they did let me know. Nonetheless, I decided…Read More

I stayed at the Hotel Finisterra in August 2005, mainly because it was situated on this beautiful beach. None of the information I received beforehand stated that this was a non-swimming beach, but upon check-in they did let me know.

Nonetheless, I decided to wade in up to my knees - that couldn't be dangerous, could it? As soon as I turned my back to head back to shore, a very strong wave hit me from behind and came up over my shoulders; then tried to suck me out to sea! It was very strong and took me quite by surprise - I definitely recommend keeping an eye on the waves and don't wade in unless you watch the water the entire time.

Otherwise, it's very beautiful, and a nice place to sit and enjoy the sunset and hunt for small seashells. If you're staying at Hotel Finisterra, they do have a very nice pool area which more or less makes up for the lack of swimming at the beach. After a day or two, I found myself enjoying the pool quite a bit and spent afternoons and evenings there, after I'd had my fill of fun and sun in town and along the marina.

There were two restaurant scams we ran into on our visit. The first occurred at the taco restaurant in Cabo located north of the crafts market by the marina, on the corner on the main drag. We ordered the $5 fish taco special plus two…Read More

There were two restaurant scams we ran into on our visit. The first occurred at the taco restaurant in Cabo located north of the crafts market by the marina, on the corner on the main drag. We ordered the $5 fish taco special plus two lobster tacos, which we were told were $2 each. When they arrived, the tacos had little fish, and the lobster, if that's what it was, was very dry. When the bill came, the tacos were listed as $8 EACH! When we asked the waiter about it, he brought a menu with that price indeed listed and explained he was wrong earlier when he said they were $2 each—they were not even worth that, in our opinion. We argued, but he would not change the bill. So much for the customer getting the benefit of the error. Yes, we paid, but did not tip, fearing the police would be called, as we didn't have concrete evidence to support our claims. ALWAYS get prices in writing in advance.

The other scam is overpriced drinks. It's not uncommon to be hit with $9 margaritas or $11 lemon drops in Cabo. Our all-you-can-eat shrimp by the marina was $15 each, a good deal, but two margaritas each added $18 per person—more than our entree! Nowhere was the price posted. Always ask, but see the above paragraph too.

In Mexico, if there's a way to part the tourist from his or her money, it will be done. Their theory is that it's better to get as much of their money now than be nice and get their money this trip and the next and the next…

Last, beware of the airport in Cabo San Lucas. Our Alaska Airlines flight was forced to wait a half hour off the runway to get to the terminal—and we experienced the same delay when leaving, resulting in a near-miss in Los Angeles on our connection home. Airplane parking spots in the Cabo airport are first-come, first-served, and we hit it last both ways. Arriving and departing were major hassles in other ways—long customs lines, only one x-ray machine for the entire terminal, etc., so bring your patience! And this was a new terminal. By the way, don't go to the stores on the bottom level—prices are much better after the security check at the true duty-free stores.

While it was a nice week overall, we'd never go back again—other Mexican cities are much preferred, as the problems are not as bad as in the two Cabos. Do, however, go to Lover's and Divorce beaches (by water taxi from the beach or from the marina). That was the highlight of the week for us.Close

Seven of us from my company just returned from Cabo last night. We had scheduled a short 3-day trip to the RIU Palace all-inclusive resort as a reward. Upon our arrival, we went to the front desk and and were immediately ushered aside. We were…Read More

Seven of us from my company just returned from Cabo last night. We had scheduled a short 3-day trip to the RIU Palace all-inclusive resort as a reward. Upon our arrival, we went to the front desk and and were immediately ushered aside. We were informed that the hotel was overbooked and that they would not be able to accommodate us. We were given wristbands to use the facilities, restaurants and bars, etc. We spent the next 3 hours on the front desk's phone speaking to Expedia, who booked the trip, trying to get alternate accommodations. There was nothing available. Expedia was terrific, although ultimately they couldn't help us. They did give us a full refund for the hotel, as the reservations were guaranteed. The front-desk staff at the RIU was rude and not willing to help at all. The next flight home was not until the following day, so we had nowhere to go.

We ultimately ended up sleeping on the beach at the hotel and went to the airport the next morning. I can't believe a hotel would overbook and not have another options for its guests.