Destination: Vintage Cabo
Cabo San Lucas’ sister city, San Jose del Cabo, is the historical, cultural and political capital of Los Cabos. A reprieve from the bustle of Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo transports visitors back to a more simple time. Cobblestone alleys, quaint restaurants, and unique art galleries fill the streets that all lead to the center point of San Jose: the Mission of San José del Cabo. Originally founded in 1730 by Father Nicholas Tamaral, the beautiful present-day church was rebuilt in 1932 and continues regular services to this day.
Art and Culture
Art lovers will not want to miss the amazing San Jose Art Walk every Thursday, 5 – 9 p.m., from November to June. The Art Walk puts the best of San Jose on display and is the perfect opportunity to find a unique souvenir or piece of art to commemorate your Cabo vacation.
In addition to the Art Walk, San Jose’s Gallery District is the perfect spot to find unique pieces from local artists. Art galleries line downtown’s San Jose’s street and include paintings, sculptures, photography, and even interactive art. Jewelry lovers we certainly want to peruse the boutiques of San Jose del Cabo. Local jewelers craft unique pieces that reflect the history, culture and style of Baja/Los Cabos.
Dining
Stop for an espresso at a small cafe, enjoy a sweet treat from the popsicle shop, or sit down for a fine dining experience. One of San Jose’s amazing restaurants, Dvur Casa Don Rodrigo, became a quick favorite of La Estancia Vacations. We were honored to get a personal tour of the wine cellar and private dining room from the owner himself. The popular Mi Cocina is adding a seasonal Oyster Bar, while Mi Casa, has also opened a location in the San Jose Gallery District.
Other popular restaurants include La Dolce, Tequila, Habaneros, La Osteria, The View, La Panga Antigua and La Gabacha. As you wander San Jose’s Centro Historico, take notice of what is missing. There are no chain restaurants found in most other popular cities.
The Water
While Cabo San Lucas’ beaches get most of the attention, San Jose’s beautiful turquoise waters and white sand beaches will not disappoint. Costa Azul is easily the most popular stretch of San Jose coastline and is home to one of the most popular surf spots in Los Cabos. Not for new surfers, Zippers lives up to its name with a fast, exciting break. Whether you’re refueling after a surf session or are just watching the action, don’t miss a great meal and even better view from the beachfront Zipper’s Bar and Grill. Zippers are also the location for the women’s Los Cabos Open of Surf.
In addition to Costa Azul, the San Jose Estuary is a beautiful, peaceful place to walk, relax and bird watch. The estuary was damaged during the 2014 hurricane, but repairs to pathways are well underway.
Centro Historico
Many of San Jose del Cabo’s most popular sights are located in the city’s Centro Historico. Currently, the organization behind Centro Historico is working to preserve the area’s history with some exciting new initiatives. Learn more at sanjosedelcabo.org.
Annual Events
San Jose del Cabo hosts a number of great annual events including the Festival de San Jose, Los Cabos Half Marathon, San Jose Jazz Weekend, Los Cabos Ironman, Los Cabos Open of Surf, Los Cabos International Film Festival, and Sabor a Cabo.
Fresh Farms
Farm-to-table is catching on. In addition to the restaurant/bar, Flora Farms continues to expand with new stores (check out local artist Eduardo Sanchez) and a spa. Los Tamarindos is also a very popular farm restaurant that offers cooking lessons.