For stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, head to any of the properties along Los Cabos’ famed hotel zone. But for seaside views framed by authentic, hacienda-style architecture, visitors should make their way to a Los Cabos veteran: Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort Los Cabos.
In a destination that is currently in the midst of an aggressive tourism overhaul — 13 new properties are set to open in the area by the end of 2017 — Sheraton Hacienda del Mar’s traditional flair provides a pleasant alternative to the modern design of many of its new neighbors.
The resort, which opened in 1999, features 270 guestrooms. Thirty-one of these are suites with private terraces overlooking the glimmering Sea of Cortez (where, between December and April, clients may just spot a pod of whales on the horizon).
The hotel’s unique architecture and warm tones have their roots in traditional 16th-century Mexico. Bubbling stone fountains are scattered throughout the property, and I found myself peeling my eyes away from the magnificent eye-level views and instead toward the vibrant tile murals at my feet.
“A normal hotel in Los Cabos is a big, giant block, but the architecture here is very different,” said Ricardo Iriarte, a tour and travel sales manager for Sheraton Hacienda del Mar. “You have these amazing, luxurious Mexican haciendas. I think that’s a good way to give it some differentiation.”
My oceanview room had marble sinks, terra-cotta floors, a tiled shower and a private Jacuzzi with an unobstructed view of the sea. The room’s deep browns and cool blues were reflective of the area and seemed to mimic the desert landscape and beautiful sky just beyond my patio window.
On-site dining options offer both American and Mexican classics. For breakfast, guests should head to Tomatoes Restaurant. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Tomatoes serves a lavish buffet spread with everything from create-your-own chilaquiles to freshly made green juice. At breakfast time, I often snagged a table on the outside dining patio, where I could see the sea (and, sometimes, a group of active guests participating in a morning beachside fitness class).
Another option is Las Sirenas Bar, a snack haven that offers tasty small bites. (Tip: Try the ceviche.) Other on-site restaurants include award-winning De Cortez Grill and Restaurant and Pitahayas, which features Pacific Rim delicacies. When it’s time for a nightcap, Bar La Suerte serves up more than 100 varieties of tequila — one of the largest selections in the area.
Although the property has a beautiful beach, guests are asked to refrain from going in the ocean due to the coastal riptides and strong currents. There is no shortage of swimming opportunities on-site, however. I spent a fair amount of time lounging in the ocean-facing infinity pool. For added relaxation, guests have access to Cactus Spa. Additionally, two championship golf courses — the Cabo del Sol Ocean Course and the Cabo del Sol Desert Course — are only a 10-minute drive away.
The Details
Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort Los Caboswww.starwoodhotels.com
