Summary
The destination of Los Cabos consists of two towns: Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, along with the twenty-mile corridor between them. Cabo San Lucas provides a modern and tourist-friendly vibe, boasting a variety of contemporary resorts, eateries, and nightlife, whereas San Jose del Cabo offers a serene atmosphere steeped in history that dates back to the 1700s.
Travelers seeking a genuine Mexican experience may prefer the charm of San Jose, whereas those desiring an all-inclusive resort environment, vibrant nightlife, and bustling social scene should consider Cabo San Lucas.
San Jose del Cabo Town Hall
Located at the intersection of Boulevard Mijares and Doblado Street, the San Jose del Cabo town hall stands as a significant historical landmark. This structure serves as the governmental hub, housing the Mayor’s office. Its construction commenced in 1888, with its inauguration in 1927, followed by the completion of the clock tower in 1930. Renovations took place in the 1980s. Inside the entrance, visitors can admire murals that celebrate the region’s history.
Jose Antonio Mijares: Cabeños Ilustres
In a prominent corner of the town square, you will find a semi-circular monument behind a fountain, inscribed with the words: “Jardin de los Cabeños Ilustres,” meaning Garden of Illustrious Cabeños. The monument showcases seven busts, including Lieutenant Jose Antonio Mijares, surrounded by five other men and one woman.
Mijares is unique among those honored here, as he was not originally from the area. Born in Santander, Spain in 1819, he migrated to Mexico City to become a citizen. Notably, he fought valiantly in the Mexican-American War and distinguished himself at San Jose del Cabo in 1847 by leading an assault against U.S. forces. He ultimately captured their artillery but was gravely injured and passed away the next day. Today, he is celebrated as a Mexican hero, with a street in San Jose del Cabo named in his honor.
San Jose del Cabo Church and Mission
The parish church of San Jose del Cabo is conveniently located to the west of the main square, at the corners of Hidalgo and Zaragoza streets. It was the southernmost of the Jesuit missions established during the colonial era in the Baja Californias. The Mission of San Jose del Cabo Anuiti, founded by Father Nicolas Tamaral in 1730, aimed to provide a sanctuary for ships making the long journey to Asia. However, early missionaries faced significant challenges due to conflicts with local indigenous communities, leading to Tamaral’s death during an uprising in 1734.
The original mission’s location differed from today’s parish church site, initially situated near the estuary (the current site of Plaza la Mision) before being moved inland to Santa Rosa. The church stands in its present form since 1840, having been reconstructed after a hurricane in 1918, while still maintaining some of its original structure. Above the main entrance, a mosaic depicts the uprising that led to Tamaral’s demise. By 1768, the missionaries had overcome the indigenous challenges, but their numbers had drastically diminished. After the Jesuits’ expulsion in the late 18th century, the mission transitioned to the Dominican order.
San Jose del Cabo Church Interior
The interior of the mission is simple yet beautiful, making it a favored spot for destination weddings. To the left of the main altar, visitors will find an image of Saint Charbel Makhluf, along with a rack adorned with colorful ribbons. Individuals write petitions on colored ribbons, and to express gratitude, they inscribe messages on white ribbons attached to the rack.
Regular services occur at 7 pm Monday to Friday, with Saturday services at 7:30 pm, and multiple Sunday services at 7 am, 10 am, noon, 6 pm, and 7:30 pm. English Mass is available on Sundays at noon, making it accessible for visitors.
La Panga Antigua Restaurant
Located at Zaragoza #20, La Panga Antigua restaurant occupies a prime spot adjacent to the San Jose del Cabo church. Named after a fishing boat, this restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, though its menu also includes steaks, chicken with mole, and various salads. The outdoor courtyard, enhanced with abundant greenery and an old panga against the wall, creates a peaceful and romantic dining space.
Art District
The art district is one of the primary attractions in San Jose del Cabo, featuring numerous art galleries in a delightful area ideal for leisurely strolls. For those planning their visit, attending the San Jose Art Walk, held weekly on Thursday nights from November to June, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the galleries while enjoying complimentary wine and snacks. Participating galleries remain open until 9 pm, often with artists present to engage with guests.
Handicrafts Shops
In addition to art galleries, San Jose del Cabo boasts numerous handicraft shops showcasing a diverse assortment of crafts from across Mexico. If you’re in search of unique items, visit Plaza Artesanos on Boulevard Mijares, located between Valerio Gonzales and Paseo Misiones, where vendors offer various crafts like ceramics, rugs, hand-stitched dresses, and silver items. The plaza welcomes visitors daily from 9 am to 6 pm.
Mi Casa Restaurant
Established over 20 years ago, the first Mi Casa restaurant became a Cabo San Lucas favorite, with the San Jose del Cabo location opening its doors in 2010. Nestled at Obregon #19 in the Art District, both Mi Casa restaurants exude a hacienda-style charm, featuring spacious open patios adorned with traditional Mexican decor, colorful tables, and chairs. The delightful ambiance is further enhanced by the serenading of wandering mariachis, making it an excellent venue for savoring authentic Mexican cuisine.
Transit of Venus
In 1769, French astronomer Jean-Baptiste Chappe d’Auteroche set up an observatory in Los Cabos at the San Jose del Cabo Anuiti mission to observe the transit of Venus. Although he successfully fulfilled his mission, he succumbed to an epidemic before returning to France. The transit of Venus occurred again in June 2012, prompting the La Herradura astronomy club to erect a monument commemorating the event.
Casa de la Cultura
The Casa de la Cultura, located on Alvaro Obregón north of the main square, is a cultural arts center rich in history. It played a significant role during the 1847 battle where Jose Antonio Mijares distinguished himself during the Mexican-American War. Year-round, cultural events take place here, typically with free admission, while the walls are adorned with colorful murals created by local artists, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.
