The Best Resorts to Book in Baja California

Welcome to Mexican wine country. Set on 71 acres (29ha) of rolling Baja California vineyards, El Cielo Winery and Resort offers an innovative and unforgettable wine experience in the heart of the Valle de Guadalupe vino region. Tasting the local tipple is a must, of course, and sommelier-led tours will satisfy the most experienced oenophiles. Meanwhile, the hotel itself is an absolute treat – combining Old World traditions and new architecture.

Everything at Las Rocas Resort and Spa is designed to ensure guests have peace and privacy. Thanks to its stunning oceanfront settings, all rooms and suites have sweeping sea views. Add 11,000sqft (1,022sqm) of gardens and this is a place where stress melts away as soon as you put your bags down. Surfers are also in luck – Las Rocas is located at surf spot K38 in Rosarito Beach, 15 minutes south of Tijuana and 40 minutes south of Downtown San Diego.

Given that it’s located adjacent to a vineyard, it’s no surprise that Ojo Azul is a popular stop for those doing a Valle de Guadalupe wine tasting adventure. Yes, the tipple here is good, but the cuisine it’s paired with is worth the trip alone. Specializing in dishes prepared on a wood-fired grill, the Alma Tierra restaurant dishes up world-class farm-to-table grub inspired by the Baja region.

Pack your mirrored shades – the Hard Rock brings glitz and glam to the shores of Cabo San Lucas. You don’t need to be a paparazzi darling to get the rock star treatment; its contemporary rooms come with ocean views and a hydro spa tub on the balcony as standard. Its five pools have swim-up bars, water slides, and shaded swings. Plus the all-inclusive package means you’ll want for nothing and includes an extensive selection of restaurants, head to Los Gallos for pan-Mexican cuisine served with panoramic ocean views.

Sitting on the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Nobu blends Japanese minimalism with the easy-going vibe of Cabo San Lucas. Its Zen-like rooms, many of which have ocean views, are complemented by an array of pleasing extras: deep soaking tubs, terry robes, and Natura Bissé bath amenities. The 13,500sqft (1,254sqm) spa operates on Asian-inspired traditions and includes a hydrotherapy garden, water circuit, and experiential shower. This being the work of renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the food is exemplary. Head to Nobu Restaurant to try his signature dishes such as rock shrimp tempura and miso black cod.

Dreaming of a sandy-soled getaway? Playa Grande sits on a private beach with the Pacific Ocean just a few steps from the resort. Overlooking the sands is a cascading pool complex, grab one of the many sun-loungers to bask in the Baja sun. Its suites are true to the Mexican beach vibe with vibrant hues playing to the tropical theme. For a truly relaxing break, indulge with the optional all-inclusive package.

Sitting on the beach of the exclusive Quivira Los Cabos community, Pueblo Bonito is a sophisticated adults-only bolthole, ideal for loved-up couples. Its 201 contemporary guest rooms and suites enjoy dreamy Pacific or garden views. Added luxury comes with a stay in The Towers – “a resort within a resort” – where 47 guest rooms come with butler service and upgraded amenities. This self-contained enclave – with a luxurious spa, multiple restaurants, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature course – means you’ll never need to leave.

The cavernous arched lobby is your first clue that the five-star Marquis is something special. Its bent for the spectacular runs throughout the hotel and into the 235 suites, each of which has a private balcony overlooking the Sea of Cortez. The all-inclusive ticket includes access to the resort’s five restaurants – visit Canto del Mar for a four-course meal designed by acclaimed chef Thierry DuFour. During your stay, take the time to scout out the collection of artwork by Latin American designers scattered throughout the resort.

It’s all in the name. A stay at this beach boutique resort is all about hitting the waves, which lap practically at the feet of the hotel. When you’re not tackling the surf (lessons are available for newbies) enjoy fresh seafood under the thatched-roof palapa restaurant, 7 Seas. Alternatively, drive 10 minutes to central San José del Cabo, the calmer of the Los Cabos twins, with its charming boutiques and Jesuit church, Parroquia San José.

Just moments from El Arco, this luxury resort occupies prime real estate. It’s within walking distance of downtown Cabo San Lucas, but it’s the secluded beach that really appeals to most. Spend your days gazing out to the sea from the beachside pools – swim-up bars will keep you refreshed. Then take advantage of the gastronomic delights. Head to signature eatery La Roca for field-to-fork dining inspired by Baja-American flavors.

The work of Mexican architect Javier Sanchez, this luxury boutique is a design marvel sitting within view of El Arco. Each of its contemporary suites looks over that iconic landmark and includes a private balcony, hanging daybed, and a sumptuous copper tub. If you can tear yourself away from the room, the luxury touches continue through the resort from the outdoor infinity and saltwater pools to the selection of fine-dining restaurants. On that note, be sure to visit Manta, a fresh seafood eatery from one of Mexico’s most celebrated chefs, Enrique Olvera.