What to Eat, Where to Stay and What to do in San Jose del Cabo

Beaches

Many of the beaches in Los Cabos aren't very swimmable. If you want a beach with shallower water and calm waves, head to Palmilla Beach or Costa Azul.

Thursday Night Art Walk

Every San Jose del Cabo travel blog or Google search will tell you this is a can't-miss event and I agree. The art walk is held on Thursday evenings from November to June and the town absolutely comes alive. The shops stay open late, the restaurants and bars are packed with live bands, and the town square is lined with local artists selling their work. This is by far my favorite thing to do in San Jose del Cabo.

Go Whale Watching

Whales migrate to Los Cabos from December through April, but the best time to see whales is January through March. Pro tip: If you want to avoid getting seasick, opt for a morning boat ride!

Day Trip to Santiago

It's easy to forget that Los Cabos is in the middle of the desert when you're lying by the ocean all day long. But, if you're looking to break up your pool days with a little activity, check out Santiago. It has incredible hiking trails and is known for the swimmable Sol de Mayo waterfall and Santiago Hot Springs.

Day Trip to Todos Santos

Todos Santos makes a great day trip or an overnight trip (send me a message for help booking the stunning Paradero Todos Santos hotel - there's truly nothing like it). The town is no longer a well-kept secret with its laid-back surfer vibe. It's a bit like San Jose del Cabo in that it's got more of an art scene and has cobblestone streets lined with shops and restaurants.

Head out to Cabo San Lucas

It goes without saying, but Cabo San Lucas is known for its nightlife. If you're hoping to shake things up one night, catch a 30-minute taxi or Uber ride up to Cabo San Lucas.

Hang by the Pool

This is a given in Mexico, of course. The weather is perfect almost year-round, and what could be better than poolside margaritas and tacos?

Food

Organic Market ($): There's an organic market open on Saturdays with food (and arts and crafts for sale!). Be sure to bring cash!

Taqueria El Paisa ($): This list wouldn't be complete without a taqueria. The menu features taco classics like succulent carne asada, flavorful al pastor, and tender carnitas, all served in warm, handmade tortillas.

Tamales Dona Nina ($): Check out the Dona Nina food cart at the Thursday night art walk for the best Tomales you'll ever have and at the lowest price. I paid $6 for dinner (including drinks) and tried multiple Tamales which were all delicious.

Flora Farms ($$): Flora Farms is a Los Cabos staple - every Google search will tell you to go there and once again, they're not wrong. There are multiple farm-to-table restaurants, and in my experience, you can't go wrong with any of them. I told my family about this place for years before they finally committed to going and they haven't stopped recommending it since. Word to the wise - the ride to get there is a bit bumpy and takes a few minutes through the hills, but I promise you're heading the right direction!

Jazmin's ($$): A safe bet for delicious mexican food in the center of town. They've got a killer brunch menu and a delicious dinner menu with all the classics; Enchiladas, fresh seafood, ceviche and tacos.

Jardin Secreto ($$): Jardin Secreto lives up to its name. You enter through a lush pathway to a hidden courtyard and terrace. Savor creative dishes like tequila-infused shrimp ceviche, mole-inspired creations that pay homage to Mexico's culinary heritage or succulent slow-cooked meats.

Lumbre ($$): Talk about a vibe - Lumbre boasts a captivating blend of rustic elegance and modern design, with earthy tones and natural textures that evoke the region's natural beauty. Soft candlelight sets a warm and intimate mood, making it the ideal setting for a romantic dinner, a special celebration or a relaxed evening with friends. The dishes showcase the freshest seafood and vibrant produce sourced from nearby farms.

Acre ($$$): I visited Acre as much for the vibe as I did for the food. The restaurant is nestled in the middle of the Acre Treehouse - resort (feel free to reach out if you'd like help booking!). The menu showcases produce harvested from Acre's own organic farm and each dish is a work of art. Much like Flora Farms, the ride to get there is a bit bumpy and takes a few minutes, but have faith in your driver!

Drinks

Baja Brewing Co. ($): Baja Brewing Co. has got multiple locations, but I'm partial to the one in San Jose del Cabo. It's in the center of town and they've frequently got live music to keep things interesting.

Dalton Gin Bar ($$): This rooftop bar is dark and moody and the perfect spot for a nightcap. The cocktails are delicious and photo-worthy.

NoRoom ($$): NoRoom hosts everything from dance parties to listening sessions in their outdoor natural wine lounge. Check their Instagram for the weekly events and djs!

Nomada ($$): Also just in the center of town, Nomada is a small but popular spot. They've frequently got DJs, their lemon drops are delicious and the staff is super friendly. Couldn't ask for more!

Jardin Secreto ($$): Even if you don't visit Jardin Secreto for a meal, they're worth visiting for a cocktail.