Growing up in Southern California meant that Mexico was always just a few hours away. I didn't actually go to Baja until college, though, and then I got thoroughly hooked. I love the desert, and I LOVE the ocean, so having a place where the two exist in the most beautiful, dynamic juxtaposition is just about as close to perfection as you can get in my book. I spent my college years staying in the "field station" or a house owned by my friend's folks in Bahia de los Angeles. It wasn't until I met G that I discovered Cabo, which now tops the charts as my favorite place in Mexico.
All photos courtesy of Sheraton Hacienda del Mar
We first went to Cabo in December 2013. Thanks to a Costco travel deal (love Costco Travel!), we planned a pre-christmas stop at the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar. The architecture of the property is stunning, with the terracotta colors pairing perfectly with the aqua ocean and green palm trees.
One of my favorite things about this property is the water. There is water everywhere. From our ocean front room (highly recommend you do this upgrade! Worth.Every.Penny) to the numerous pools and water features, you are surrounded by sun and sea at every turn.
My favorite pool is the infinity pool overlooking the ocean at the center of the property. I could lay on those lounge chairs and alternate between the water and my book all day; many days, we did just that!
The other reason I love this property is the restaurants. From the coffee service at Pitahaya (do not miss this!) to the evenings by the fire on the patio at De Cortez, you don't need to leave the property unless you want to. And as wonderful as those two places are, my favorite thing was breakfast at Girasoles. It's an open-air restaurant on the third floor, with views of the ocean and the golf course (oh, did I mention Cabo del Sol golf course is right there? One of the best courses in the world). While the views are wonderful, and the food is delightful, my favorite thing about it is the birds! Beautiful, brightly colored birds come and sing to all the tables, in hopes of snatching a piece of a dropped Mexican sweet bread.
I will always love Europe, but for a relaxing vacation that leaves me at peace and feeling more like myself, I will choose Cabo every time.
