Hearing Cabo and spring break in the same sentence is as common as spotting flip-flops on the beach. But beyond the party scene, Cabo offers a rich artistic and cultural side for discerning travelers. Swapping tequila-fueled pool parties for mezcal tastings, San José del Cabo is the place to be. We tapped Sara Wilcox (@sarawilcoxtravel) from Fora Travels to curate a grown-up weekend getaway.
Stay at Drift San Jose, a minimalist 29-room stay with Baja-sourced decor, perfect for travelers craving a mix of culture and art. “The beach is just a 15-minute walk, with cafes and galleries right at your doorstep,” says Wilcox.
Farm-to-table restaurants are the name of the game here. Head to Acre Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, where the dishes transform produce from Acre’s own farm into contemporary Mexican cuisine with international flair. After dinner, Wilcox suggests heading upstairs to Colibri for a mezcal tasting guided by in-house experts.
For a vibrant flair, check out Lumbre. Housed in a renovated 1960s warehouse, the open kitchen puts the chefs in the spotlight. Dark, moody interiors contrast with the fiery energy of the kitchen. Top tip from our Fora advisor: it is the perfect dinner spot before the Art Walk, but be sure to book in advance!
Skip the Tiki bars for the people who have yet to rent a car. La Botica at Las Ventanas, a favorite of Sara’s, is a speakeasy piano bar, meaning the music can only be spectacular. With the vintage apothecary ambiance and Prohibition-era classics, everything points towards a swanky night.
Cabo isn’t known for swimmable beaches, but it is not impossible. Ganzo de Playa at Hotel El Ganzo is a rare gem. Get a day pass and enjoy a variety of fresh seafood with a margarita in hand. And for the music lovers, there’s a beach vinyl session every Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.
For the adventurer, Wilcox suggests an ATV tour with Wild Canyon Adventures out in the desert to satiate the speed field. Feel the surge of adrenaline as you dominate sandy dunes, beautiful beaches, and rugged trails.
From November to June, the San José del Cabo Art Walk takes place every Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. Wilcox recommends En Blanco, where you’ll be greeted with colorful paintings against stark white walls, making each piece more eye-catching.
So to anyone who thinks Cabo is only for spring breakers and head-pounding hangovers, think again. Head to San Jose del Cabo for a weekend filled with sun, adventure, culture, and quality mezcal.
