The Best Resorts in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Wondering if an all-inclusive package is really worth booking? It’s a resounding yes at this place. The food and bar experiences at Grand Solmar are exceptional, not just in terms of the menu, but also the setting and service. There are poolside grills, swim-up bars and signature restaurants committed to sustainably sourced ingredients – openly supportive of local fisherman and women. La Roca, an al fresco beachfront diner, showcases Baja cuisine. There’s an Asian restaurant, a sports bar and even the option of a chef coming to your suite to rustle up a private dining experience.

With rooms, suites and casitas of rich wood panels and pale louvre doors, this exclusive hotel is a favorite among Hollywood greats, set on a rocky outcrop, hugged on all sides by the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez. There is very little need to leave your life in the lap of luxury. Enticing restaurants and bars, most with breathtaking sea views, keep the most discerning palates satisfied; Seared, the signature upmarket steakhouse, is designed around glass display cabinets of artistically hung joints of Wagyu beef. A rare treat indeed.

Close to the postcard-popular El Arco (the arch) – a rocky landmark on the tip of the Baja California peninsula – this popular resort is perfect for all of the local main attractions. It’s also beside Playa El Medano – considered by many to be the best of the safe swimming stretches in the area. It’s a family- (and pet-) friendly resort with conspicuously large suites that come with kitchenettes, balconies and plenty of living space. The two large pools are serviced by dedicated concierges who’ll even polish your sunglasses for you. Just say yes.

It’s big, it’s busy, and it’s just a few minutes’ walk from the party action in central Cabo San Lucas. Not that you’ll necessarily ever want to step beyond the lobby of Playa Grande Resort and Spa. You can expect a packed schedule of activities and poolside shows that’ll please all ages, as well as theme nights if you’re feeling like showing a leg. On a calmer note, the spa has as its speciality pre-Hispanic rituals that harness the healing powers of fire, earth, water and air. Yes, you’ll be in your element by the time they’re finished.

The big Spanish hotel brand Melia is behind the Paradisus Resorts label, so you know you’re in good hands, and they offer competitive prices too. The place is a new-fangled oasis of palms centering on an impressive lagoon-style pool. Since you’ll be mainly snoozing on the Bali-style beds when you’re not doggy-paddling to the swim-up bar, your batteries will be effortlessly recharged by the time you check out. Push it further with a poolside massage in the YHI spa, overlooking the desert gardens. Children are well catered for too, with their own pillow menu, bedtime milk and cookie service, and selection in the mini-bar.

Pampering and pleasure are the operative words at this resort, something of a legend for its pools, all distinct in design and atmosphere, all eminently Instagrammable. The swim-up bar next to the sea grill is relaxation central – just add white wine. There are infinity pools and others that come to life in the moonlight. For us, the key USP is the dual menu offered at dinner: one for your food, the other for the type of bath you want prepared and ready after you’ve eaten. Choose from a “sensual and romantic,” “aromatic indulgence” or “sensual delight” bath experience. Also on the bath menu are lists of champagne, premium tequila and Cuban cigars for additional bath-time indulgence.

Here’s an elegant family resort of subtly decorated, spacious suites and massive balconies with lounging cushions and hammocks – the epitome of R&R. The turn-down service even includes lighted candles for an extra-mellow yellow touch. Esperanza takes pride in the culture of this region, which explains the activities offered to guests, including Mexican craft and cooking classes for children, off-road driving in the desert, and snorkeling with local fishermen for “chocolata clams” – a local delicacy that’s then cooked for you on the beach. Film nights are held poolside – the fun element for all the family being that you watch from the water.

Welcome to a resort that could seriously tempt you to relocate and rethink your life. (In fact, here are remote-working packages on offer, alongside remote-learning options for children too.) The suites are homes away from home, except probably better – with private plunge pools along with large terraces, fully fitted kitchens and laundry areas. Chances are you won’t get much work done here, though, once you’ve pitched camp for the day by the desert-side communal pool. Hire a cabana and summon a healing body and mind massage, along with drinks, snacks and plenty of much-needed professional care and attention.