Costa Palmas offers residences, hotels, golf, a marina, and swimming in the Sea of Cortez.
Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan
Los Cabos, located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, is a favorite destination for travelers seeking warm weather and stunning beaches. Since Hollywood celebrities and fishing enthusiasts began visiting in the 1950s and ’60s, this area has transformed, adding numerous luxurious resorts, golf courses, and spas. Los Cabos comprises two resort cities: San Jose del Cabo, closer to the airport, and Cabo San Lucas; both are filled with hotels, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
On my recent trip, I discovered the East Cape and fell in love with the spectacular Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, set on the Sea of Cortez against the backdrop of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains.
After a two-hour flight from Los Angeles, my husband and I were greeted by the resort’s driver. We took an inland route among cacti and dense shrubbery, passing small towns and roadside fruit stands. After nearly an hour, we turned toward the coast and the East Cape.
Combining the Best of the Desert and Sea
As we entered the 1,000-acre development, neatly landscaped with desert plants, we passed through two security gates before being warmly welcomed in the hotel’s outdoor lobby. Check-in was a pleasant experience accompanied by a refreshing mezcal cocktail, and we were whisked away to our room in one of the golf cart-style vehicles that are plentiful on the property.
Our room offered breathtaking sea views and was just steps away from an infinity pool and hot tub. Featuring a private plunge pool on the spacious patio furnished with a comfortable sofa and chair, we also enjoyed a large outdoor shower. The indoor bathroom boasted a sculptural tub, a spacious shower, user-friendly lighting controls, a Bose Bluetooth speaker, a ceiling fan, and a bar unit equipped with an espresso machine, providing us with all the comforts of home. An iPad is available in each room for easy service requests.
Enjoying Diverse Culinary Experiences
On our first night, we dined at Limón, an outdoor restaurant that offered a charming ambiance reminiscent of a backyard gathering with strings of lights and lanterns in trees. Set amidst a lemon grove, this restaurant emphasizes fresh, farm-to-table ingredients, seafood, and grilled steaks, complemented by an extensive wine selection, including options from Mexican vineyards. We savored a delightful blend of Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc to accompany our simply prepared sea bass and grouper.
The resort’s main culinary attraction is Estiatorio Milos, a fine Mediterranean seafood restaurant led by renowned chef Costas Spiliadis. This restaurant features an elegant curved design, outdoor beachside seating, and a vast selection of seafood on ice, providing a feast for the senses. We enjoyed exquisite raw fish and lovely Greek dishes during our visit.
Additionally, we relished casual lunches at Casa de Brasa and unique experiences at Lucha Libre, a taco shack situated between the seventh and 13th holes of the Costa Palmas Golf Course. The delightful tacos and casual atmosphere made for an enjoyable break before returning to golf, especially with the chefs donning lucha libre masks for our playful photos.
Exciting Activities Await
The golf course captivated us, featuring a blend of desert scenery and stunning sea views. Offering five tee options for various skill levels, it catered to all golfers. With a breakfast cafe and a casual food truck on-site, players enjoyed delicious meals whether or not they were pleased with their scores.
We embarked on an exhilarating ATV tour through the dunes and along the beach, navigating sandy hills and narrow paths. Guided by Lalo, we learned about the diverse plant life’s historical and modern uses, including the seasonal pitaya fruit from cacti.
Next time, we plan to visit Cabo Pulmo, just 45 minutes away, a UNESCO World Heritage Marine Site known for its vibrant marine life and ideal conditions for diving and snorkeling.
As much as we enjoyed our accommodations, dining, and the stunning beach and pools, we especially appreciated the attentive staff at Four Seasons. The friendliness and professionalism of every team member, from the front desk to the restaurants, made our experience truly remarkable.
Expansion of Costa Palmas
In addition to the Four Seasons Resort, which features 114 guest rooms and 27 suites, Costa Palmas is home to various private residences situated on the golf course, beach, and marina. Homeowners can join the Costa Palmas Beach & Yacht Club, which offers a clubhouse with pools, gym, and various recreational facilities. An expanding full-service marina and Aman’s first Mexico property, Amanvari, scheduled to open in 2024, will further enhance this luxurious destination. Baja California’s East Cape development at Costa Palmas stands proudly among the popular vacation spots in Los Cabos, all accessible via nonstop or one-stop flights from various American and Canadian cities.
