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Born and raised in Southern California, I can’t remember how many times I’ve been to Cabo. It’s only a 2.5-hour flight from LAX, so it’s been an easy and reliable way to escape for years. From wholesome family vacations to raucous girls’ trips to quiet romantic getaways, I’ve stayed in just about every accommodation in the city. But one spot I haven’t visited yet is the Instagram-famous Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, located at the far southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula.
As an LA girl, I’m very familiar with the Nobu brand. I have frequented the Malibu restaurant and nearby hotels, which are frequented by celebrities. But Cabo’s properties, which boast Japanese design despite being in the desert, are gems among gems. This pet-friendly resort features modern whitewashed décor, including a large Zen garden adjacent to the entrance and enchantingly manicured cactus gardens around every corner. There are also four pools and an empty beach, but swimming in the sea is not recommended. And yes, you guessed it, the food is a 10 out of 10.
Opened in 2019, this five-star hotel is the latest venture from celebrity chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa and business partner Robert De Niro. I recently visited this property to experience the new residences introduced in July 2023. Think of all the amenities of a luxury hotel. However, more spacious apartment-style accommodations (a first for the hospitality brand). Top-of-the-line appliances and washers and dryers.
Average rates for residences start at approximately $1,600 per night and are aimed at travelers looking to extend their stay in Mexico. The original hotel structure has 200 ocean-adjacent guest rooms, but only 60 one- to four-bedroom residence suites for a more upscale experience.
In terms of views, the residence overlooks the expansive Diamante El Cardonal Golf Course. Interestingly, it was designed by golf legend Tiger Woods. I don’t know anything about golf, but the view is both relaxing and breathtaking. In fact, my first order of business upon arriving at the suite was to order a freshly made poke bowl and margarita. We enjoyed it on the patio watching golfers fly around the course. After relaxing in our room (Simmons’ bed was incredibly luxurious), we headed out for an outdoor group dinner at Pacific Restaurant, one of four fine dining restaurants on site. There we enjoyed a 5 course meal and mezcal tasting. The next morning we woke up bright and early to what was probably the coolest day we’ve had in a while. This is a practical sushi making class taught by Nobu Chef himself.
The next morning we woke up bright and early to what was probably the coolest day we’ve had in a while. This is a practical sushi making class taught by Nobu Chef himself. The rest of the afternoon was spent leisurely enjoying Mexican wine tastings, followed by some well-deserved downtime swimming in one of the resort’s four swimming pools, including my personal favorite, the beachfront infinity pool. Ta.
As far as I’m concerned, no trip is complete without a trip to the spa. The hotel has an Esencia Spa, but I was lucky enough to visit the residence’s Japanese hot spring spa (open to hotel guests only). The treatment room is a very private space. Mine included a jacuzzi, cold plunge, dry sauna, and large massage area. I always choose deep tissue because I’m bored and this did not disappoint.
Our last night consisted of the most amazing dinner at the resort’s namesake Nobu Restaurant. Like the Malibu outpost, it overlooked the ocean and the atmosphere was perfect. There was also a live performance by fire dancers and acrobats to round out the dessert hour. After a luxurious but carefree evening, I was full and staggered back to my room. However, I called my personal concierge who introduced me to a nice hot bath in my suite’s teak hot tub. I’ll definitely miss that bathroom. The bathroom had a separate room with a generous rain shower, twin sinks, a luxurious Japanese-style toilet with an electric bidet, and of course a heated toilet seat. Full size Natura Bissé products (my personal favorite) were also on display.
On my final morning, I slept until 11am (again, the bed was super comfortable), then headed to Muna, a chic rooftop spot with Mediterranean flair, for my last meal of the trip. I reluctantly said goodbye to my new friends, loaded my bags into the resort’s shuttle, and headed back to the airport.
Whether you’re the jet-setter type or a regular in Cabo looking to upgrade your stay, take comfort in knowing this may be the most luxurious resort on the block.
