24 Best Hotels in Mexico

On the beach in San José del Cabo, this chic, whitewashed property is peaceful from the moment you walk through the 20-foot antique door to a waterfall wall and marble floors that lead to a breathtaking lobby centered by a circular rope structure that drops 1,200 feet from the ceiling. A staircase leads to the main focus, an open-air chapel overlooking the ocean, an obvious favorite for brides; at least two weddings take place here per week. Featuring five pools and three restaurants, this hotel-and-timeshare hybrid, has a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with spacious one- to three-bedroom villas and more than a dozen giant penthouses. The villas are more like sleek apartments with full kitchens, Jacuzzi tubs, and king beds with hypoallergenic sheets and intricately carved headboards. White-and-black decor, spacious balconies, pullout sofas, and top-of-the-line appliances are a nice touch. A salon, pool, fitness center, and full spa facility round out the perks.

Professional and amateur surfers alike claim the prime ocean-view rooms in this small hotel on the cliffs above Playa Costa Azul that has successfully blended surfing and pampering into one property. Tastefully decorated with surfing photographs, rooms have marble floors, huge terraces, minibars, king beds, and pull-out sofas; some have French doors that open to the sea breezes. Guests mingle by the two swimming pools and in the 7 Seas Seafood Grille (which has great fish tacos), and they schedule their day's activities around the daily surf report. A second "quiet pool" makes for a nice resting place after morning yoga. The hotel has a surf school, and surfboard rentals. The small Sea Spa & Salon offers massages developed specifically for surfers' wave-taxed muscles, with many other treatments for nonsurfers, too. Unlike most surf hotels, this property is not pet-friendly and rooms are not for budget travelers. Book early at this popular spot.

The Ungson family had been in Cabo for more than four decades before turning their home across from Plaza San Lucas into the classiest and friendliest inn in the neighborhood. Lush landscaping is threaded with meandering paths leading to the pool, gazebo, and terrace. French colonial furnishings are handcrafted and thoughtfully arranged, such as desks with plenty of books and replicas of works by French impressionist artists. The open showers in the huge tiled bathrooms are stunning—some even have little gardens. Continental breakfast is served poolside.

Through the dramatic entry on the stone facade you'll find this seven-floor, all-suites combination hotel-timeshare has it all. In addition to the standard one-, two-, and three- bedroom suites, there are 13 impressive penthouse suites, which range from 920 to 4,500 square feet. All suites have kitchens, king beds, Jacuzzis, and two terraces. The free Kids' Club, and designated swimming pool and mini lounge chairs for children make this a family-friendly spot. To relax, head to the recently renovated Saltwater Spa, which offers massages and body treatments, as well as salon services. Casa Dorada's 12 Tribes restaurant has creative dishes from just about every corner of the world, and the sushi bar and gelato shop are just steps from the pool. For a peaceful night, request a room away from the neighboring nightclub.

An intimate, graceful boutique hotel, Casa Natalia is in the heart of San José's downtown and opens onto the zócalo. Themed rooms are decorated in regional Mexican motifs and have king-size beds, soft robes, remote-controlled air-conditioning, and private patios screened by bamboo and bougainvillea. Two suites have hot tubs and hammocks on large terraces, and a third suite is available for longer rentals. If traveling on a budget, request one of the Artist Rooms that cost about half price. Running twice per day, a $7 shuttle takes you to a beach club in the Corridor. Natalia's cozy little bar offers hotel guests afternoon happy hour specials, including dos por uno, or two-for-ones. The in-patio restaurant, Mi Cocina, is fabulous. Staffers are helpful and welcoming. This adults-only hotel is the most luxurious option for those who wish to spend time enjoying the culture of this tranquil town. No children under 13.

This casual, unfussy resort is touted as a romantic getaway, but with an average of five weddings a week, it's more a destination for families and wedding parties with guests of all ages in attendance. Guests simply check in at the restaurant or bar of their choice, rather than having to wear the brightly colored wristbands synonymous with all-inclusives. The best restaurant of the six is Bordeaux, however, no children under 18 are permitted. Rooms have poster beds, faux-oak furnishings, a lounge area, and stocked minibar and microwave. The U-shaped building wraps around two huge pools, with one set aside just for families. The spa, tennis courts, and nightly entertainment keep guests happy for days. Roughly a third of the rooms are timeshare properties, so expect to be pitched with an offer to buy. Wedding and honeymoon packages are offered.

In the heart of San José's historic Art District, this gorgeous and comfortable inn has two separate buildings—one looks onto the verdant gardens and pool; the other one, across the street, is in a charming, historic building with a narrow courtyard. A former hacienda, the property was converted into a hotel and the horse stables into rooms. Surrounded by gardens and adorned with climbing vines, all guest quarters are immaculate and impeccably decorated with wood plank headboards and unusually high beds royal-style. This intimate hotel makes for a great wedding property, and the on-site chapel harkens back to the Mexico of years gone by.

One of the most exquisite resorts in Los Cabos, focused on privacy and impeccable service, and home to one of the best spas in the region, Esperanza is true luxury. With 59 casitas and suites, and 96 villas with ocean and garden views, Esperanza provides residential-style accommodations best for families and groups. Accommodations range from 925 to 4,000 square feet and include handcrafted Mexican-style furnishings, Frette linens, and massive bathrooms with dual-head showers and balcony-set Jacuzzis. In-room amenities include flat-screen televisions with Chromecast, all-natural rubber Harmony yoga mats, and Esperanza's signature bath line made with organic ingredients. Villas take the luxe even further, as some have private pools and butler service. Californian and Mexican recipes get a Baja twist in atmospheric Cocina del Mar, and other property restaurants, while guests can be found relaxing at all hours at the chic alfresco "The Lounge" just above the pool. The spa takes treatments to a whole new level, with steam caves, and a waterfall, as well as visiting instructors, and a regular schedule of classes. Framed by a rocky cove, the resort's location makes the beach virtually private since it can't be accessed other than through the property itself.

Small domes and barrel tile roofs top eight buildings at this lovely, hacienda-style resort in the Cabo Del Sol development. Make your way past tiered fountains to the rooms with wrought iron and wood furnishing, Mexican textiles, and terra-cotta floors. The whirlpool tubs and large balconies with ocean views take the hotel beyond chain standards. Standard rooms have either two double beds or one queen, with ocean or garden views. Huge, luxurious pools are surrounded by palms and all the chaise lounges guests need. The 450-yard beach is beautiful, and sometimes the sea in this sheltered cove is calm enough for a swim.

Despite the enormous size of this timeshare-resort hybrid, there are only 222 rooms, meaning guests are treated to 1,400-square-foot hacienda-style suites. The property itself replicates an old Mexican village, with rooms housed in two buildings tiered on a hillside so nearly every suite has an ocean view. Separating the buildings are two pools, one designated for activities and the other for peace and quiet. The five restaurants range from Mexican cuisine to grilled specialties; or guests can use all-inclusive privileges to dine at one of five restaurants on the marina in Cabo San Lucas. A hotel shuttle makes 10 trips a day to sister property Marina Fiesta. The on-site grocery store, pharmacy, and babysitting service make this resort popular with timeshare owners. Be sure to read the list of amenities that are not included in the all-inclusive plan, or you might end up with sticker shock at checkout.

At this boutique hotel with an uberchic vibe, guests can interact with artists-in-residence, musicians, and filmmakers in a creative and luxurious setting. Artists-in-residence display work ranging from murals and photographs to sketches and even a vintage refrigerator mounted in the lobby. Musicians are invited to record in an underground studio where videos are later aired on the hotel’s internal TV channel. Bigger names have included the likes of Ed Sheeran, Damien Rice, and Joshua Radin. Despite the celebrity appeal, the rooms alone are a designer’s dream, with wood-plank walls, cement floors, and glass balconies that overlook the quaint marina and lap pool. A second infinity pool dominates the rooftop deck where parties take place the last Saturday of the month. Guests have access to kayaks, paddleboards, and beach chairs at El Ganzo’s neighboring beach club or can stay local at the spa and gym.

This resort is great for both families and couples looking for a complete getaway, featuring 591 suites, eight restaurants ranging from French to Italian and Spanish to Japanese, seven bars, four pools (including an adults-only option), and a Kids' Club. The massive property's rooms are equipped with Jacuzzi tubs, microsuede couches, onyx lamps, marble countertops, and thick white duvets. An 18,000-square-foot spa offers plenty of pampering, while the 34 swim-up suites are truly exceptional. Other perks include free room service and Wi-Fi, Spanish classes, pool activities, a sports bar, theater shows, and a piano bar. The food is surprisingly good for an all-inclusive.

From the moment your private butler greets you with a foamy margarita and escorts you to the spa for a welcome massage, you know you're in for some serious pampering and a special experience. Despite the high room rates at this ultraprivate, ultraluxe spot, it can be hard to get a reservation. Guests here can unwind in suites that have hot tubs, fireplaces, and telescopes for viewing whales or stars. Newer hotels have attempted to copy Las Ventanas' touches, such as handcrafted lamps and doors, inlaid stone floors, and tequila welcome amenities, but this impeccable original remains the best. Service is sublime, with remarkable attention to detail. Don't be surprised if your butler leaves a monogrammed cleaning cloth on your sunglasses, or creates a customized sewing kit based on the colors of your wardrobe. The four restaurants (including a casual tequila and sushi bar) are outstanding; its signature "El Restaurante" showcases an all-Mexican menu that executes the classics with aplomb. The spa reflects the latest trends and stresses indigenous ingredients and holistic therapies. The 12 oceanfront villas each have a private swimming pool, full kitchen, media room, and glass pocket doors that open onto patios with garden showers, fire pits, and Jacuzzis.

A mosaic sign (crafted by co-owner Ricardo Rode) near the entrance hints at the beauty inside this small stylish inn offering a relaxed atmosphere and boutique feel without the boutique cost. Brilliant purple bougainvillea and orange lipstick vines line the patio, which showcases more of Rode's works by the fountain and small pool. Bóveda-style (arched brick) roofs top the rooms, which have terra-cotta tile floors and handmade Mexican furniture. Five of the rooms have kitchenettes, four have double beds, and a sundeck on the second floor is great for catching rays. Brides on a budget might consider this hotel for a destination wedding, especially since a huge garden area is available for weddings and events.

Though this colonial-style building is not ocean-side, most rooms have a pleasant view of the cloverleaf-shaped pool and the yacht-filled marina. Many rooms in the all-inclusive have a nautical motif in hues of blue and red with anchor-print bedding and miniature replicas of sailboats and lighthouses on display. Standard rooms have two queen beds, and suites have huge patios, Jacuzzi tubs, a living room, and full kitchen. The hotel is on the Golden Zone walkway adjacent to the Puerto Paraíso mall, meaning guests have direct access to the boardwalk through a private gate. Although there is only one buffet-style restaurant within the hotel, the all-inclusive plan includes dining at four restaurants on the marina.

In the middle of Médano's most popular beach is the ME, the Meliá brand's posh offering in Cabos San Lucas with its huge pool areas—including the most popular swim-up bar in Cabo—and hot tubs under the palms is a playground for adults (although children are allowed). At poolside is the fun and friendly Blue Marlin Ibiza Restaurant, serving its culinary blend of Mediterranean dishes, along with chill music, often spun by a DJ. Rooms are chic, ultracomfortable, and have easygoing wood furnishings and breezy, flowing drapes. A wide range of creatively designed suites is on offer, though early reservations are essential here. The loud music and party vibe make this place less than ideal for families or those wanting a quiet, romantic getaway.

Built in 1956 by the son of the then-president of Mexico, the One&Only was the first resort in Los Cabos area, and it retains an old-world atmosphere and elegance, superior attention to detail and service, and its position as one of the most exclusive luxury resorts in the region. This spacious, leafy, distinguished resort is home to renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Seared restaurant, and another more casual, waterfront spot Agua. Adding to the never-ending amenities are a sushi-and-ceviche bar that looks out onto the Pacific, a Jack Nicklaus golf course, and a top spa. Around-the-clock butlers are at your beck and call to unpack your bags or shine your shoes. Two pools seem to flow over low cliffs into the sea, and the two expansive villas have their own infinity pool, fitness center, cinema, and nanny quarters. Hand-painted tiles edge stairways leading to rooms and suites that have Bose sound systems, flat-screen TVs, illy espresso machines, and handcrafted Mexican accents like studded antique doors, wool rugs, and a gorgeous bar stocked to make any cocktail. Some patios and terraces have daybeds and unobstructed sea views. Guests can soak up the sun, paddleboard, or take a surf lesson at Pelican Beach on the northern shore, one of the area’s few swimmable beaches.

This large, multicolor all-suite resort complex on the beach looks a bit Las Vegas, even by Cabo standards, but it's got all kinds of activities and facilities, making it a great family vacation option. The quarters in the 98-suite Ridge wing offer eagle-eye views of both the marina and the Pacific beyond, and the mostly one- and two-bedroom suites are beautifully decorated with tasteful, modern Mexican decor. Calima Restaurant serves an excellent Sunday brunch with mimosas and crêpes. If you're looking for tranquillity, head to the adult pool beside the beach, but keep in mind that chairs and umbrellas go fast for those who want to tan with a view.

Considered a resort within a resort, Pueblo Bonito's gem is The Towers at Pacifica, which makes up the VIP section of the larger property, with a separate lounge bar, premium liquor, and spacious suites with living rooms and modern amenities. Tower rooms are warmly designed in neutral tones with plum accents. Personalized 24-hour butler service adds a touch of class, as does the elegant restaurant, Peninsula. Note that seating is limited, reservations are essential, and extra charges apply for lobster, steak, and lamb. Standard rooms are beautifully appointed with teak and native woods, furnished terraces, and have garden or ocean views. The designers incorporated feng shui elements throughout the resort and grounds, which are absolutely stunning, with patterned cactus gardens designed by the talented Cacti Mundo team from San José del Cabo.

Royal Solaris was the first all-inclusive in Los Cabos, and it runs smoothly like the established property it is, with plenty of entertainment options and sports activities offered. Although it can feel a bit like an amusement park with all the activities, many appreciate the ease of built-in entertainment options. There are four major dinner shows per week in their theater, Teatro Teotihuacan. There's a Mexican night, a Latin Show, and other themed nights as well. A complete Kids' Mini-Club area includes toboggan waterslides, dancing lessons, and kites. Guests can play tennis, basketball, and beach volleyball. There are four categories of rooms, with half facing the ocean and half facing the street.

One of the first hotels built in Cabo, this all-inclusive resort retains a loyal clientele with great service, property upgrades, and a superb location perched on a hill overlooking the marina and the Pacific. The restaurants and bar on the sand are next to the hotel's five giant free-form swimming pools and seven hot tubs. Rooms in the newer building (No. 5) are by far the most luxurious; they are large and have oceanfront balconies—where, from the upper floors, it's not uncommon to spot whales during the winter months. Building No. 1 (near the lobby) has less expensive rooms that evoke the early days of Cabo's popularity. Whale Watchers Bar, which is perched high atop the cliff behind the Finisterra, has one of the best views in town, especially when the wintering whales are passing by. For pasteries and coffee, head to Cupcake Café.

The first of the all-inclusive chains to reach La Playita, this adults-only resort has swim-up rooms, ocean views, seven restaurants, and a 13,000-square-foot spa by Pevonia. With 500 rooms overlooking the ocean and golf course, the property dwarfs neighboring hotels in the area. There’s practically no reason to leave this slice of heaven, with activities like tennis, archery, cooking classes, beach volleyball, tequila tastings, bike tours, and golf. There is even a batting cage and shooting range. The contemporary Mexican decor throughout the rooms, with rich dark woods and colors in burnt-red and gold, are reminiscent of a hacienda. Palapas dot the beach for shade, and the main pool has mini islands with palm trees. Ground-floor rooms have swim-up patios but lack ocean views. The property is enormous, so if excessive walking is an issue, request a room closer to building No. 1 where the lobby is located.

The owners keep a close eye on this four-story hotel—a calm refuge two blocks from the marina—and dispense great insider advice to visitors. The simply furnished rooms have kitchenettes with full-size refrigerators, two queens or king beds on cement platforms, and living rooms with wide padded couches, so if necessary, there's room to sleep quite a crew. Included are free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and coffee and tea in the lobby. Rooms have balconies and there's a sundeck on every floor. If your budget allows, opt for the penthouse suite with an incredible view. Salvatore's Restaurant, an Italian eatery, is situated around a tiny plunge pool; it's widely acclaimed by resident gringos in the know.

If solitude and a reasonable room rate are more important than being in the center of the action, Bungalows is your place. This quaint little inn is situated just above the marina. Rooms are simply decorated with Mexican textiles, lovely quilts, and art, yet they have all the creature comforts like flat screens, microwaves, mini-refrigerators, handmade soaps, and French press coffeemakers. Rates include Wi-Fi, daily coffee and tea, and access to a huge movie library (popcorn included). A cluster of two-story buildings frame a small, heated pool with lush landscaping. The hotel offers a mouthwatering Mexican breakfast served under a poolside palapa that could include anything from banana-walnut pancakes to a stuffed breakfast burrito. The Bungalows Hotel is about 10 blocks from the beach, five blocks from the marina, and a 15-minute walk from downtown Cabo San Lucas. Request the honeymoon suite with a large patio or bungalow No. 3 for the most privacy.