Set along the Sea of Cortez, East Cape in Baja California Sur, Mexico shares the same natural beauty as well-known locations such as Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. It also has miles of unspoiled beaches, beautiful waters, and friendly locals, however unlike the two other destinations, it is still relatively unspoiled and offers a quieter more tranquil living experience. Many have found themselves so enamored with the location that they have decided to invest here and make themselves a home in this paradise.
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East Cape Los Cabos: An Overview
East Cape Los Cabos has a rich history that can be traced back to the Spanish Colonial Era in the early 1490s and the Mexican-American War in 1846, both of which have contributed greatly to the cultural tapestry of the region.
Today, the area, which stretches eastward from San Jose del Cabo marina in the south to El Pescadero in the north, is a quiet and secluded location that has remained largely untouched by major developers in comparison to Los Cabo. This isolation, coupled with its abundance of amazing vistas and outdoor attractions, makes it the perfect destination for those who want to get away from the loud noises and busy attractions of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas.
East Cape Los Cabos is a playground for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The area’s rugged terrain invites exploration, with hiking trails leading to hidden coves and panoramic viewpoints that offer a glimpse into the untamed beauty of the region. The vibrant marine life in the waters surrounding the East Cape provides an opportunity for thrilling encounters with diverse species, making it a haven for snorkelers and anglers alike. What sets East Cape apart from the other nearby locations is not only the fact that it is less developed; here, the ocean waters are calm and many miles of the beach are swimmable.
Explore The Beaches
The area has a collection of stunning beaches that serve not only as a picturesque setting for relaxation but also as prime spots for water sports such as swimming, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.
One of the must-visit beaches in the East Cape Los Cabos area is Playa del Estero. Located just a short drive away in San José del Cabo, this idyllic beach and nature reserve is renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Covering an area of around 50 hectares, this spot is home to over 200 species of animals, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism. Playa del Estero is perfect for those looking for outdoor adventure, with the area an ideal spot for activities like horseback riding and kayaking.
Another beautiful beach in the East Cape Los Cabos area is Playa Los Frailes. Located about 40 miles from San José, Playa Los Frailes is very popular among campers and yachtsmen, both of whom appreciate its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and gorgeous ocean views. Considered one of the finest beaches on the Baja coast, Playa Los Frailes is an excellent spot for activities such as snorkeling and fishing, thanks to its rich marine biodiversity and abundance of game fish such as marlin, dorado, and tuna.
Cabo Pulmo National Park is another must-visit location for diving enthusiasts. A registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, this marine sanctuary features the only living coral reef on the western side of North America. The vibrant underwater world, coupled with the peaceful beach, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking a more remote and ecologically diverse destination.
Other Outdoor Adventures
Residents and visitors alike can easily book trips to places such as Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve. A UNESCO-designated site, this protected area features diverse ecosystems and is home to unique flora and fauna, making it the perfect destination for those who want to get a glimpse of the area’s endemic species while traversing the many trails that wind through the park’s picturesque landscapes.
Fox Canyon—Cañon de la Zorra to locals—is another must-visit destination in the East Cape Los Cabos area. It is home to a world-famous trail that takes hikers and climbers on a 7-hour hike and while this certainly sounds challenging, the payoff is spectacular with a 30-foot cascade into a natural swimming hole.
Then there’s Rancho Sol de Mayo, a nature preserve and camping area near the town of Santiago. Rancho Sol de Mayo has an abundance of trails where visitors can experience some of the region’s wondrous landscapes, flora, and geology. Not only that but this attraction is also located quite close to the Santa Rita hot springs, another major East Cape attraction.
For something to raise your adrenaline, charter kiteboarding sessions in the small East Cape town of Los Barriles. A well-renowned kiteboarding spot, Los Barriles is best visited between November and March, which is when the El Norte winds start to sweep through the area, making it perfect for those who wish to ride 15 to 30 mph winds out at sea.
Whale watching is another activity you can enjoy in the East Cape Los Cabos area, with gentle giants like humpback whales known to regularly make an appearance in the Sea of Cortez during the winter months, which aligns with their annual migration patterns. What’s even better is that you wouldn’t even need to go on a boat to see them—the whales are quite easy to spot, even from the beach!
On the East Cape, there’s the opportunity to do more than watch the wildlife, you can be part of a program helping in an important mission, the East Cape Turtle Release Program. In 2012 Omar and and Noe Oraiza began the program that monitors and nurses hatchling turtles. They invite the public to help them release these turtles into the sea after a 45-day incubation. This has made a difference in the survival of this native species of turtle and you can take part in this cycle.
Surfing is a popular activity in the East Cape area, especially between April and October. This is particularly true for the remote beaches in Shipwrecks, La Fortuna, and Nine Palms, all of which are noted for their big waves and strong swells. Bear in mind that given the beaches’ remote locations, visitors should bring their own tents and boards to avoid any inconvenience.
If you enjoy a round of golf, there’s the Costa Palmas Golf Club. This 18-hole world-class course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, can be played in a variety of ways including shorter 7 or 14-hole loops. There are 3 movements and two transitions with the course making full use of the local topography. When you or the family need to refill there’s Bouchie, right next to the putting green. Here you can sit back, order delightful drinks and food, and watch the sun set over the horizon. A perfect day.
Taste The Local Cuisine
As mentioned earlier, the East Cape Los Cabos area is quite isolated compared to the tourist area of Cabo San Lucas. That doesn’t mean, however, that the area has nothing to offer when it comes to showcasing local cuisine.
Depending on where you are staying, it is best to check in advance and pre-book your tables to ensure a good dining experience while in the East Cape Los Cabos area.
Try Zac’s Bar and Grill in the tiny community of Zacatitos, Zac’s Bar and Grill is located in what feels like the middle of the desert and boasts an impressive menu featuring a mix of traditional Mexican dishes and international offerings.
Another dining spot in the East Cape Los Cabos area is Zai Sushi Surf Bar in La Fortuna. This establishment offers an impressive range of inventive sushi and sashimi dishes, all of which are made from fish caught daily from the Sea of Cortez. Do note that this place can get crowded pretty fast during the peak season, which means it’s best to book ahead if you can.
Azul Cortes is an East Cape favorite when it comes to both Mediterranean and Mexican fare. White Lodge’s in-house restaurant, Azul Cortés’ menu is inspired by a farm-to-table philosophy, with the restaurant’s dishes all made from fresh, locally sourced, and organically grown ingredients. In addition to their amazing selection of dishes, Azul Cortes also has an open-air setting, which allows their guests to enjoy gorgeous views of the Sea of Cortez.
For another upscale dining experience, pay James Beard Award-winning chef Nancy Silverman’s Mozza Baja a visit. Located in the premier East Cape resort of Costa Palmas, Mozza Baja is known for its wood-fired pizzas, as well as its daily selections which change depending on what’s available in and around the East Cape.
Then there is Milos, which serves classic Greek fare at Costa Palmas. Serving only the freshest fish from the Sea of Cortez, and pairing them with the best Mexican liquor or spirit, this side of Baja California— Milos is a relatively new addition to the East Cape dining scene. There’s a dramatic and glamorous ambiance, thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Sea of Cortez. Don’t be fooled by its glitzy aesthetics—Milos is well known for its warm and accommodating service, even to families with playful children.
If you’re looking for authentic Baja fare simply head over to Tacos and Beer. Located in the eponymous village within Cabo Pulmo National Park, this casual beach haunt has carved a name for itself in the East Cape dining scene, all thanks to its selection of well-priced quesadillas and octopus, shrimp, and marlin tacos.
Discover Local Shopping Options
In contrast to the likes of Cabo San Lucas, which is awash with luxury retail offerings, East Cape is a more rugged location, which means its shopping destinations are fewer and far between.
Despite that, residents and visitors to this beloved Baja California spot still have access to a premier shopping experience at Costa Palmas in the East Cape’s La Ribera neighborhood.
At present, Costa Palmas is home to three luxury shopping destinations, namely East Cape, East Cape Co., and Golf Pro Shop, each one focusing on different merchandise selections and markets.
The Los Angeles-inspired East Cape boutique carries everything needed for a stay on the Baja, such as top-quality clothing, swimwear, jewelry, and shoes.
The East Cape Co. concept store, on the other hand, focuses on a finely curated assortment of classic essentials featuring a unique Baja spin on both Mexican and American products. Some of the available products in this shop include naturally-derived, clean, and plant-based skin, hair care products, makeup, sustainable clothing, handmade textiles, home goods, sandals, bags, perfume, and accessories.
The Golf Pro Shop, as its name suggests, focuses on everything one might need for golf or an outdoor adventure. These include premium activewear, sports gear, and more.
Indulge in Wellness and Spa Retreats
The East Cape has an assortment of wellness destinations for residents and visitors.
Chief among these is the ZENICA Ancestral Spa. Located in the White Lodge boutique rental, ZENICA Ancestral Spa focuses on unique natural treatments and activities, each one tailor-made to help clients feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Aside from their standard selection of treatments, ZENICA Ancestral Spa also holds regular classes and workshops, which are designed to help participants reconnect with their bodies.
Another spa you can visit in the East Cape is The Spa at Costa Palmas. One of Costa Palmas’ crown jewels, The Spa is noted for its selection of luxurious services, such as therapeutic facials, body scrubs and wraps, and healing massages. The Spa also offers guided meditation and breathwork, reiki sessions, and yoga and pilates classes, all of which are designed to promote maximum wellness in their clients.
Experience Local Culture and Art
Aside from its arresting landscapes and stunning ocean views, the East Cape has no shortage of cultural highlights in the form of historic towns and villages.
Chief among these is San José del Cabo, the oldest Spanish colonial town in the area. Founded by the Spanish in 1730 and considered the official seat of the Los Cabos municipality, San José del Cabo has an abundance of well-preserved historic buildings including its town hall, mission church, and town square. In addition to its selection of colonial-era architecture, San José del Cabo is located close to Reserva Ecológica Municipal Esteró de San José del Cabo, a protected estuary and bird sanctuary that’s considered one of the most important—and most threatened—wetlands in northwestern Mexico.
Those planning a cultural road trip in East Cape can drop by Miraflores, a small town located about 30 minutes from La Ribera and situated right by the main road to the airport. The epitome of a small, friendly town, Miraflores is known for its abundance of shops selling locally crafted leather, as well as its artisanal pottery and furniture. Dating back to the 1770s, the town takes great pride in its history, as well as its local industries. Aside from its shops, this little Mexican town has hot springs, as well as its annual dragon fruit festival, both of which draw a steady stream of visitors.
Explore Premium Real Estate Options in East Cape
Los Cabos may be the better-known location, and certainly, it is more developed, however, East Cape Los Cabos is attracting more attention from investors with its growing number of luxury properties.
At The FINN Real Estate Group, we take great pride in having assisted numerous buyers in finding and acquiring stunning homes throughout Los Cabos, including East Cape and its nearby communities. We are known for our work ethic, distinctive marketing viewpoint, thorough understanding of the Los Cabos real estate market, and the customer-focused approach we provide to every client.
Whether you’re looking for a vacation retreat, a retirement haven, or a smart investment opportunity, East Cape Los Cabos real estate presents compelling possibilities.
Give our team a call at 624.124.3533 or send an email here to explore your options.