This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our small business.
Where you stay in San Jose del Cabo comes down to three choices: an oceanfront resort in the Zona Hotelera, a boutique inn in the historic center, or a marina side property at Puerto Los Cabos. All inclusives dominate the beach, while the center offers smaller, more personal places within walking distance of the galleries and restaurants. Here are the areas and specific hotels worth booking, with what each one is best for.
Where to Stay in San Jose del Cabo: Zona Hotelera
The Zona Hotelera runs along Playa Hotelera, the main swimmable beach south of the center, and is the place for all inclusive convenience. You step from your room onto the sand, and most resorts package meals, drinks, and activities into one rate. It suits families and first time visitors who want a simple beach holiday. The strip is a 10 minute drive or a 15 minute walk from the historic center, and rooms range from about US$150 to US$600 per night. For water and swimming conditions through the year, see our San Jose del Cabo weather by month guide.
Suggested Hotels in Zona Hotelera
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is an all inclusive resort set on a wide stretch of Playa Hotelera with a lagoon style pool complex, a kids club, and eight restaurants including Japanese, Italian, and a French adults only dining room. Best for families and all inclusive travelers who want everything handled in one price. Check rates and availability
Royal Solaris Los Cabos
Royal Solaris Los Cabos is a midrange all inclusive on the beach with two pools, a swim up bar, and nightly entertainment, located 20km from the airport. Best for families and value seekers who want the all inclusive experience without the luxury price tag. Check rates and availability
Posada Real Los Cabos
Posada Real Los Cabos is a budget friendly beachfront hotel with 133 meters of private beach, a pool, and an excellent location on the Zona Hotelera boardwalk. Best for budget travelers and couples who want beach access without paying resort prices. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in San Jose del Cabo: Downtown and Gallery District
Staying downtown puts you inside the colonial center, a few blocks from Plaza Mijares, the mission, and the Gallery District. It is the best base for culture focused trips and for anyone who wants to eat at local restaurants rather than resort dining. Rooms are mostly small boutique inns and B&Bs from US$90 to US$200 per night. The beach is a 10 minute drive or taxi ride away, and parking is the main headache, so many guests skip the rental car. For what to see while you are here, browse our things to do in San Jose del Cabo guide, and check the best time to visit San Jose del Cabo guide to pick your dates.
Suggested Hotels in Downtown and Gallery District
Casa Natalia Boutique Hotel
Casa Natalia is an adults only boutique hotel in the historic district with a heated pool, in room spa services, and a well regarded restaurant on a palm shaded courtyard. Best for couples who want a quiet, romantic base in walking distance of the galleries. Check rates and availability
El Encanto Inn & Suites
El Encanto Inn is a hacienda style boutique property in the heart of the Gallery District, with garden courtyards, a pool, and individually decorated rooms. Best for art lovers and couples who want to stay steps from the Thursday Art Walk. Check rates and availability
Hotel Colli
Hotel Colli is a clean, well rated budget hotel about 2km from Playa Hotelera with family rooms, a garden, free bikes, and free WiFi. Best for budget travelers and families who want a simple, dependable base near town. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in San Jose del Cabo: Puerto Los Cabos and The Corridor
Puerto Los Cabos and the corridor to the south hold the region’s highest end resorts, most of them set on or near golf courses with private beach clubs. This is where you stay for a honeymoon, a golf trip, or a splurge, with rooms from US$250 into the thousands. The area is quiet and spread out, so expect to drive or take shuttles everywhere. The airport is just 15 minutes away, which makes it the easiest area for short trips. The marina also hosts film festival events each November, part of the San Jose del Cabo events and festivals calendar.
Suggested Hotels in Puerto Los Cabos and The Corridor
JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa sits at Puerto Los Cabos near La Playita beach with multiple pools, a luxury spa, and direct access to the marina. Best for couples and families who want a full service luxury resort with a swimmable beach. Check rates and availability
Hotel El Ganzo
Hotel El Ganzo is an adults only, design led boutique hotel and beach club at Puerto Los Cabos with 69 rooms, live music, and a focus on art and local culture. Best for couples and creative travelers who want a stylish, social stay away from the big resorts. Check rates and availability
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Grand Velas Los Cabos is a luxury all inclusive with three infinity pools, a private beach area, and a top rated wellness spa on the corridor near Boca del Tule. Best for couples and travelers who want all inclusive service at a five star level. Check rates and availability
For a full breakdown of the areas and how to get between them, see our best neighborhoods in San Jose del Cabo and San Jose del Cabo travel tips guides.
