With its championship golf courses, luxury resorts and yacht-filled marinas, Los Cabos has gained a reputation as a destination for well-heeled travelers. Even so, it is possible, with some planning, to enjoy the destination on a budget. One of the easiest ways to save is to schedule a visit during Los Cabos’ low season — typically May through August — when temperatures climb and prices drop.
Your clients can more easily manage a budget when they chose an all-inclusive resort. Some brands deliver an upscale experience, so it’s important to zero in on mid-range resorts such as Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, Hotel Riu Santa Fe and the new Krystal Grand Los Cabos.
Some familiar, affordable non-all-inclusive brands are also available in Los Cabos. These include Fairfield Inn by Marriott Los Cabos, Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Los Cabos, Holiday Inn Resort Los Cabos All-Inclusive and Holiday Inn Express Cabo San Lucas. Two additional hotels that are appealing for budget travelers are Tesoro Los Cabos and Los Milagros Hotel.
Once your clients have decided on a place to stay, it’s time to think about how they are going to get around. Working out a budget for transportation is a trade-off between time and money. Taxis are convenient, but the cost can add up. Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are separated by a 20-mile tourism corridor served by local bus service, which may save money but can be time consuming. Renting a car is a good option because, while it may cost more upfront, it enables visitors the ultimate mobility. It also provides entertainment, as guests can explore the surrounding countryside and towns farther afield, such as Todos Santos and La Paz.
And speaking of entertainment: One of the most popular attractions in Los Cabos is Wild Canyon Adventures, which can be best described as an adventure-activity theme park. The company features more than a dozen different experiences in one place, including ziplines, camel rides and ATV tours. Budget-conscious visitors should consider purchasing the one-day pass for $335, which provides access to all the activities in a single day.
For clients looking for something a little more mellow, a stroll along the picturesque marina in Cabo San Lucas is a great way to spend an afternoon — and it’s completely free. While there’s a large selection of pricey restaurants along the marina’s boardwalk, advise clients to curb their appetites and head to the row of taco stands a few blocks inland from the marina — they are authentic and delicious.
A pleasant afternoon could be spent sightseeing in the town of San Jose del Cabo, as well. San Jose has a more authentic Mexican ambiance than Cabo San Lucas, and it’s a great place to soak up local color. Begin with the town’s main square, Plaza Mijares, and the Iglesia de San Lucas, a historic mission church that dates back to 1730. For an inexpensive meal, dine like a local in one of the food stalls at the Mercado Municipal, the city’s market. This is also a good spot for your clients to stock up on fresh fruit and other items to bring back to their hotel. For even more value, from November through June, advise your clients to visit San Jose del Cabo on Thursdays. This is when the town hosts its weekly Art Walk, with galleries offering good deals on local crafts, souvenirs, jewelry and fine art.
The Details
Los Cabos Tourism Board
www.visitloscabos.travel
