Extending south from California, the Baja Peninsula is also known as Baja California and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortés. The Transpeninsular Highway (Highway 1) extends all the way south from Tijuana through Baja Norte (known for its vineyards and fishing towns) to the peninsula’s tip at Baja Sur, home of Los Cabos. Los Cabos is the star of Baja, made up of two towns: Cabo San Lucas (packed with tourist shops and theme bars). Twenty miles away is San José del Cabo, a sleepy colonial town that’s fast being transformed into an art hub. A highway between the two towns is lined with high-end resorts and golf courses.
There are direct flights to Los Cabos from most major U.S. cities.
Mexico traces its roots back to Mayan and Aztec civilizations and has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than anywhere in the Americas. Even the country’s traditional cuisine has UNESCO World Heritage status.
Baja is a land of extremes — desert and mountains and a turquoise-blue coast. Whether it’s sport fishing or surfing you’re after, Baja is made for outdoor adventure.
Mexico is one of the world’s top-five most bio-diverse countries, with almost 3,000 native bird and animal species and 30,000 indigenous plant species.
Fishing, surfing, diving, golfing, eating, lounging at a glamorous hotel — whatever you want, you’ll find it in Baja.
On the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos has a laid-back beach vibe for families, combined with plenty of action for teens (surfing, boating). Iconic towering sea stacks and monumental rock formations define the awe-inspiring coast. The superb hotels think of everything. A mix of friendly local life, good shopping, intriguing galleries and great restaurants steers Los Cabos clear of a bland resort experience.
Don’t miss Todos Santos, an oasis in the desert an hour north of Los Cabos. This little town is an official Pueblo Mágico, a select group of villages in Mexico that have been given this designation thanks to their natural beauty, cultural riches or historical relevance. It’s no surprise that the New York Times named Todos Santos one of the top 50 travel destinations in the world: Todos Santos has been colonized by artists and surfers looking for a magical setting. It’s great for a day trip from Los Cabos. Or spend the night: There are a handful of stylish little boutique hotels and chef-driven restaurants.
Foodies and wine lovers gravitate to Ensenada and the nearby Valle de Guadalupe. Located in Baja Norte, 90 minutes south of San Diego, this area has been called the Tuscany of Mexico.
No matter which part of the Baja Peninsula you’re visiting, you’ll want to have a car to get out and explore.
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