Hotel Review: Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos

Those familiar with the Hard Rock Hotel concept know they should expect a musically enhanced experience when they check in. And I was not disappointed when, upon arrival at the new Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, I found a vintage-style record player in my room — accompanied by three vinyl record albums — just waiting to be played.

I was lucky enough to be present for the grand opening party at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos late last year, which meant even more opportunities to indulge in the star-studded, music-infused ambiance that is the brand’s specialty (actor Mario Lopez, rocker Bret Michaels and pop star Enrique Iglesias were among the celebrities present). And now, as Los Cabos kicks back into gear, the property is keeping up the excitement with a full schedule of live entertainment. In addition, the property has upped the ante to welcome back guests with specials such as a “kids stay free” offer through Dec. 18 and basic travel assistance medical insurance now included on nonrefundable room rates.

As the first newbuild Hard Rock property in Mexico, the company had the opportunity to plan the hotel from the ground up, according to Andrea Melotti, vice president of operations, hotels and casinos for Hard Rock.

“It’s allowed us to bring in all of the DNA of the brand,” he said. “Mexico is one of those countries where you can find a combination of great service culture, fantastic food and beautiful landscapes.”

Mexico is one of those countries where you can find a combination of great service culture, fantastic food and beautiful landscapes.

The new property is the latest development in an ongoing partnership between Hard Rock and AIC Hotel Group, which oversees sales and marketing efforts for the all-inclusive properties.

“The reason we chose Los Cabos is because it is a world-class destination, as well as the confidence we have in Mexico,” said Frank Maduro, vice president of marketing for AIC Hotel Group. “In Mexico, it’s easy to deliver a quality experience.” 

The 639-room property, which is located in a quiet area north of Cabo San Lucas, offers what’s called a “limitless all-inclusive experience.” It includes spa services, golf and tours, all for a small service fee, as opposed to the full cost usually charged by most all-inclusive hotels. 

My guestroom featured contemporary furnishings and decor, as well as a large balcony with a soaking tub. Even the smallest rooms are a generous 522 square feet, providing plenty of space to relax. Those looking to indulge can opt for a one- or two-bedroom Rock Suite Platinum Rooftop Terrace, which has a separate living and dining room area, as well as a rooftop terrace. 

Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos is well-designed for families with children. There are five swimming pools, including adults-only pools and kid-friendly waterslides. Children can also make use of the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, which offers a variety of supervised activities and services. The property’s bowling alley is an uncommon and fun feature that works well for all ages.

Guests can also enjoy the Rock Spa, which is billed as the world’s first “music-centric” spa, making use of amplified vibrations and sounds as part of some treatments. Finally, the hotel also has 60,000 square feet of meeting and events space. 

The hotel’s cuisine is enticingly diverse. In just the span of a couple days, I was able to sample tasty Japanese delicacies at Zen, savor fresh Italian cuisine at Ciao and sample Brazilian favorites at Ipanema. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day. 

The music, of course, is a big selling point. It fuels the vibe at the property’s two pool bars, four swim-up bars and three lounges — as well as in the guestrooms (if guests prefer). My in-room musical experience was part of the Sound of Your Stay music program, which includes the free use of a Crosley turntable or a Fender guitar, which can be reserved at the front desk (along with headphones, so clients won’t bother the neighbors).

At Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, it’s always easy to find your beat.

Note: Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos is operating with its parent brand’s global hygiene program, called Hard Rock Safe + Sound. The initiative includes enhanced sanitation, social distancing and modified food and beverage services. Guests have their temperature read by a thermal camera upon arrival, and they will find hand sanitizing stations and health-minded signage throughout the property. 

The Details
Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos 
www.hardrockhotelloscabos.com