Escape To: San Jose Del Cabo
What most people imagine when they hear ‘Cabo’ is the loud party scene of Cabo San Lucas, but ‘Cabo’ is much more than just that. ‘Los Cabos’ actually refers to two towns - Cabo San Lucas and the more quaint, artsy San José del Cabo. If you are looking for a slower pace, with a more traditional Mexico vibe, San José is the place to be.
Things To Do
San José del Cabo offers a laid-back atmosphere blending historic charm with artistic flair. Wandering the streets of ‘el centro’ (the city center), you’ll find yourself surrounded by art galleries, boutiques, cafes and history.
Art Walk - Every Thursday evening, San José del Cabo’s Plaza Mijares comes alive. My favorite way to experience Art Walk is to grab a hibiscus margarita to-go from Los Tres Gallos, located about a block and half off the main square, and wander the rows and rows of vendors show casing their locally made crafts and wide variety of fine art - ranging from photography to impressive sculptures. Cap off the evening with a bite from the street food vendors - my favorites are the tamales from Doña Nina and fresh churros.
Shopping - The Art Walk isn’t the only opportunity to see and find beautiful art in San Jose. Whether you’re looking for a piece to take home or just window shopping, take a stroll through the Art District to discover a variety of galleries and boutiques. Some of my favorites include:
TWH Art Gallery, featuring incredible glass work
Shima Shima is a boho vibe boutique featuring goods all made in Mexico
Be sure to explore into the walled gardens as well - tucked away you can find hidden gems such as a cigar shop offering freshly hand-rolled options at Maestro Torcdor and a sculpture garden at Sotomayor Metal Sculpture Gallery.
History - Mission San José del Cabo is the heart of San José’s historic colonial center. Founded by the Jesuits in 1730, this mission is the southern-most mission on the west coast. You don’t have to attend mass (though you are welcome to!) to visit this landmark that represents the blending of Spanish colonialism with indigenous culture.
Beaches - A short drive from the city center, there are well-known beaches including:
Palmilla Beach - this beach offer calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling
Costa Azul - a popular beach known for its surf break
In season, typically December-April, you may also catch a glimpse of humpback and grey whales breaching off-shore.
Where to Eat
San José del Cabo offers a wide range of options for every budget. Visitors can enjoy tamales, churros and elote from street vendors or a fine dining farm to table experience - or both! Life is all about balance, right?
Doña Nina - This street cart can be found on the Main Square in San Jose del Cabo serving savory and sweet tamales. My favorites are the Pollo Verde (chicken with green sauce) and Piña (pineapple). You can also find fresh churros, elote and walking tacos at other carts in this area.
Address: Plaza Antonio Mijarez, San Jose del Cabo 23400 Mexico
Los Guacamayas - Like many restaurants in Los Cabos, Los Guacamayas has locations in both San Jose and Cabo San Lucas. We’ve tried both and prefer the location in San Jose. Try the al Pastor tacos.
Address: C. P.º de los Marinos s/n, Mauricio Castro, 23401 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
La Lupita Taco & Mezcal - If you’re looking for traditional tacos, this is not where I would send you - but if you’re looking for a unique spin and fusion flavors, La Lupitas is delicious. Reservations are recommended for Thursday evenings during the art walk. Try the Cheese Crust Pastor, Pibil Suckling Pig, or El Takeshi tacos.
Address: Jose Maria Morelos s/n, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Los Tres Gallos - This instagram-worthy spot is great for margaritas (try the hibiscus!) and has locations in both San Jose and Cabo San Lucas.
Address: Alvaro Obregon 15, Gallery District, Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Flora Farms - Flora Farms has a boho, laid back vibe. Plan your visit to coincide with one of their daily farm tours to learn about their farm to table philosophy. While the menu rotates based on seasonal items, the pork chops are always on and live up to the hype.
Address: Carretera Transpeninsular San José del Cabo Km. 30 Las Ánimas Bajas, 23407 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Acre - Acre is a chic farm to table restaurant - you may recognize it from a dinner scene on the Real Housewives of the OC cast trip. Their commitment to sustainably and sourcing locally, including from their own 60-acre farm earned them a Michelin Green Star in 2024.
Address: C. Rincón de las Animas S/N, Animas Bajas, 23407 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Tips for Exploring
Local Transportation - Most visitors to Los Cabos stay in the Tourist Corridor, the stretch of highway between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Uber is the best way to get to & from your resort if you don’t plan to rent a car. Either way, keep in mind that rush hour traffic is a thing in Mexico too and plan accordingly!
Airport Transfers - we always utilize Cabo Airport Shuttle for our transfers to and from SJD. They offer private or shared shuttle service. For private shuttles, there is also an option to add a 30 minute grocery store stop on the way.
Best Times To Visit - The best time to visit Los Cabos is December to April. During this time, you’ll find pleasant temps in the mid-70’s to low 80’s and also happens to fall during the peak season for seeing whales.
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