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2022 Los Cabos Fishing Tournament Season Gets Off to an Amazing Start

June 14, 2022 by Leave a Comment

Los Cabos fishing tournament season got off to a roaring start last week, and if the results from the opening event, the Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing, signify anything, it’s that the 2022 season is going to be both lucrative and a whole lot of fun.

For starters, to say the fish were biting is a bit of an understatement. The winning team, Stella June, caught and released a whopping 38 marlin in just two days of fishing. The second place team, Cloud Nine, was right behind them with 36. These two teams also took the lion’s share of the prize money, naturally, with Stella June earning $153,336 dollars for a weekend of incredible fishing, and Cloud Nine cashing an oversized check for $136,760 dollars.

The total teams entered were down this year from last – 37 rather than the 50 in 2021 – but the money was up and so were the catch tallies. Both Stella June and Cloud Nine earned more money that last year’s winner, Laguna Madre ($131,000), and the tournament as a whole saw close to 500,000 in prize money distributed, the total boosted by the new $72,500 across-the-board jackpot entry fees. Even more impressive, perhaps, were the 304 marlin caught in just two days by the 37 teams, including a few that topped 500 pounds.

The Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing is about more than just marlin, however, with impressive checks also handed out to winners in the tuna, dorado and wahoo divisions. Team Let’s Go took the top tuna prize – $52,868 dollars – for a 226 pounder, while Pisces won upwards of 20 grand ($20,668, to be exact)  for a 56.3 pound dorado (aka mahi mahi), and Captiva earned $27,468 for a 42.9 pound wahoo.

Next up on the summer fishing tournament calendar:

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 22 – 26

During the 20+ years of its existence, the annual Stars and Stripes’ golf and fishing tournament has raised over 40 million dollars for youth focused charities. But it’s not simply a tournament or a charity benefit…more like a complete lifestyle experience. Participants stay at the luxurious Hilton Los Cabos; go big-game sport fishing for dorado, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, swordfish, and black, blue and striped marlin; play golf at some of the world’s best golf courses; and enjoy spectacular live entertainment nightly. There’s no word as yet on this year’s headliner. Expect a big name, though. Sammy Hagar and other rock star royalty have performed in recent years.

East Cape Dorado Shootout – July 16

This is one of the largest fishing tournaments in Southern Baja, with an average turnout of 130 teams each year. What makes it so popular? The opportunity to win a brand new, fully-loaded 2022 Volkswagen 4×4 Amarok pickup truck, of course. The rules are simple, catch the biggest dorado on July 16th and you win the truck. There will also be great prizes for 2nd and 3rd place, as well as for the largest tuna and largest wahoo caught that day. The beauty of this one-day tournament format is that anyone can win. After the tournament, Palmas De Cortez in Los Barriles will host the award ceremony, which is unlike any in Baja, with dinner, music, a raffle, and more. The combined cash and prizes here are expected to top $200,000 in 2022.

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament at Palmas de Cortez – July 20 – 24

The name doesn’t lie. Only lady anglers are eligible to participate (in teams of up to four) in this two-day fishing tournament hosted by Palmas de Cortez…although captains and deckhands can be men. The first version of this tournament was held in 2019 – and was a rousing success, as was the second iteration in 2021. The entry fee is $200 per team, with points awarded according to the species of fish reeled in. Billfish (200 pts.) and roosterfish (100 pts.) are catch and release, with photo verification. Tuna, wahoo, dorado, amberjack and jack crevalle are all worth 100 points, assuming they meet minimum weight standards. The winning team nets a return trip for the entire team, including a four nights accommodation package at Palmas de Cortez, with two days of standard cruiser fishing. Prizes for the runner-up teams (2nd and 3rd place) will be announced at the awards ceremony.

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – August 2 – 6

The East Cape Offshore is always first, and kicks off Bisbee’s 2022 series starting August 2nd. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three qualifiers in marlin, tuna and dorado categories, with the awards celebration taking place afterwards at the Hotel Buena Vista. In 2021, a record 97 teams competed for $1,582,975. The 97 teams beat the previous year’s record of 72 by 25, while the ECO topped the previous year’s record payout by nearly half a million dollars. Base entry for the event is $1,500 per team, with additional fees for daily jackpots ($32,000 “across the board”). Prize money is based on entry fees received, with 60% going to the billfish winners, and 20% each to top tuna and dorado anglers. For first-timers, each tournament in the Bisbee’s series has an Early Bird Drawing. The winner of the drawing gets a free entry to the following year’s tournament. To be eligible the paid entry (base entry only) must be received by the Early Bird Deadline (June 30th, 2022 for the ECO).

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit: Pelagic Gear

Upcoming Events Calendar

June

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing – Jun. 2 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jun. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Todos Santos + Pescadero Culinary Experiences – June 3 – 5

Gay Pride Parade – June 19

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 22 – 26

July

East Cape Dorado Shoot Out  – Jul. 16

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament – Jul. 20 – 24

August

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – Aug. 1 – 6

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 2 – 6

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot – Aug. 20

September

Mexican Independence Day –  Sep. 16

October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 16 – 20

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore – Oct. 20 – 23

Bisbee’s Black & Blue – Oct. 25 – 29

November

Day of the Dead – Nov. 2

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 2 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24

Todos Santos Film Festival – Nov. 3 – 8

IRONMAN Los Cabos  70.3 – Nov. 6

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Virgin of Guadalupe Day – Dec. 12

Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

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Second Jack Nicklaus Course Coming to Quivira and Other 2022 Golf News in Los Cabos

January 26, 2022 by Leave a Comment

As soon as fishing tournament season cools down in Los Cabos, golf tournament season heats up.

This old adage is bearing out once again in 2022, but it’s not just tournaments that have destination golfers excited, as a highly anticipated new course development has just been announced: seven years after his landmark course at Quivira was first unveiled, legendary champion and course designer Jack Nicklaus is returning to craft a new 18-hole layout for Quivira.

Nicklaus, of course, is the king of golf in Los Cabos, having designed no less than six local courses, including acclaimed layouts at Cabo del Sol, Palmilla, and Quivira. This new course, when complete, will bring his total to seven, and the total number of golf courses in Los Cabos to 19.

The 18 currently open are all in high demand presently as it is high tourist season in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. But despite the busy season, tee times are available at most courses, as are deals and discounts for savvy visitors.

So for this first golf update of 2022, we’ll bring you up-to-date on golf tournament season in Los Cabos, share all the details on the new Nicklaus announcement, and also offer some tips on finding the best deals during high tourist season.

New Jack Nicklaus Course Underway at Quivira

 The Golden Bear’s first course at Quivira was a revelation when it opened in 2014, and remains so to today, with its 7,085 yards winding magnificently along sheer cliffs, and through desert foothills and windswept dunes.

Groundbreaking for the second Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Quivira is expected to take place by the fourth quarter of 2022. The new layout will expand the resort and residential community’s golf offering to accommodate the increased demand, resulting from the growth of the development, including ultra-exclusive, recently launched projects such as the St. Regis Resort and Residences.

“The first golf course at Quivira is a spectacular layout playing across a remarkable piece of property,” Nicklaus said. “Now, I am excited that design is well underway on the second course at Quivira, which should be stunning and equally as spectacular. I hope golfers who play the second course will enjoy the views, the quality of golf, and the challenge.”

While the routing plan for Quivira’s second course is in its final stages, it is anticipated that Nicklaus and his design team will create another world-class layout on this exceptional piece of land. Situated in the northwest area of the 1,850-acre development, several of the holes on the new course will meander through rolling desert foothills and expansive valleys, interlaced by winding arroyos.

Quivira’s second Jack Nicklaus Signature Course will provide a different challenge but one that should mirror the high quality associated with the existing golf experience. The southern portion of the new layout will feature panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the westernmost point of the Sea of Cortez.  On the interior side, tall distant peaks will serve as dramatic backdrops for several holes.

Golf Tournament Season in Full-Swing in Los Cabos

The Los Cabos Pro-Am just completed another fun and successful tournament last week, with play taking place at Tom Weiskopf’s Cabo del Sol Desert Course and the Fred Couples’ designed Twin Dolphin.

Two more golf tournaments still loom on the horizon during 2022, however. The first is the Cabo Collegiate, which brings top golf teams from 15 U.S. universities to compete across three rounds at Jack Nicklaus’ first great course in Los Cabos, the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol. After last year’s tournament took place in the U.S. due to travel issues during the pandemic, this year the Cabo Collegiate is home again, and scheduled to take place Feb. 27th through March 1st.

Although destination golfers aren’t eligible for the Cabo Collegiate, everyone can play the upcoming Premier Golf Pro-Am, which features five glorious days of golf in May – May 15th to 21st – with participants competing for prizes while playing an incredible array of courses, which include Quivira, Puerto Los Cabos, Cabo Real, and the Cabo del Sol Desert Course.

Deals and Discounted Greens Fees Await Destination Golfers in 2022

Winter and spring are the busiest seasons for golf in Los Cabos, but those looking to play some of the region’s best courses can occasionally also find a few deals and discounts.

The best deal being offered right now is by Questro Golf, which manages three courses in Los Cabos: the Jack Nicklaus designed Club Campestre; the 27-holes at Puerto Los Cabos, of which 18 were designed by Nicklaus and 9 by Greg Norman; and Robert Trent Jones Jr.’ s course at Cabo Real, which effectively put Los Cabos on the golf map when TV cameras captured whales breaching near a seaside green during a 1996 PGA Senior Slam event.

Questro’s “Triple Crown” promo allows visitors to play one round at each of these three great courses for only $510 U.S., a combined savings of over $200 from the regular greens fees. Two, three and five round passes are also available, allowing golfers to pick and choose which of these courses they want to play…and when.

Although passes expire after 14 days, that covers the duration of most vacations. Questro’s courses are located in and around San Jose del Cabo, so another savvy move is to choose a villa or vacation rental convenient to all three courses.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Jim Mandeville/Nicklaus Companies

Los Cabos, Club Campestre,

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Twin Dolphin and Cabo del Sol – Jan. 9 – 13

Tropic of Cancer Music Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 12 – 16

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 30 – Feb. 5; Feb. 7 – 11

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 30 – Feb. 5; Feb. 7 – 11

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25

Todos Santos Open Studio Tour – Feb. 4 – 6

Valentine’s Day– Feb. 14

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 26 – Mar. 1

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament at Querencia – Feb. 27 – Mar. 1

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament at Querencia – Feb. 27 – Mar. 1

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 20

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Semana Santa – Apr. 10 – 17

End of Whale Watching Season – Apr. 15

May

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 5, 12, 19, 26

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – May 6, 13, 20, 27

Dia de la Madre – May 10

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – May 15 – 18

Premier Golf Pro-Am Tournament – May 15 – 21

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jun. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Jun. 3, 10, 17, 24

 July

East Cape Dorado Shoot Out  – Jul. 16

August

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – Aug. 1 – 6

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 2 – 6

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot – Aug. 20

 September

Mexican Independence Day –  Sep. 16

 October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 16 – 20

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore – Oct. 20 – 23

Bisbee’s Black & Blue – Oct. 25 – 29

 November

Day of the Dead – Nov. 2

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

 

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Los Cabos Destination Golf Spotlight: Dunes Course at Diamante Once Again Named to GOLFMagazine’s ‘Top 100 Courses in the World’ List

December 21, 2021 by Leave a Comment

It’s official. Los Cabos is once again garnering plaudits for its world-class golf courses.

In this case, the honoree is The Dunes Course at Diamante, which GOLF Magazine has selected for inclusion on its prestigious ‘Top 100 Courses in the World’ list for 2021 – 2022, as featured in the publication’s most recent issue.

Chosen from a ballot of nearly 500 golf courses worldwide, the Dunes Course at Diamante, which landed on GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 list shortly after its debut in 2010, now stands at No. 98, an indication of how competitive the international category has become.

 Designed by PGA Tour star and former Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III, with assistance from his brother Mark Love and architect Paul Cowley, Diamante (Dunes) is unlike any other venue in Los Cabos. Located 15 minutes north of downtown Cabo San Lucas on the Baja Peninsula’s Pacific coast, the 7,022-yard, par-71 Dunes Course, centerpiece of a 1,500-acre private resort community, is a windswept, lay-of-the-land creation that rambles through 50-foot-high sand hills and skirts huge blowout bunkers on its journey to and from the sea. Fairways, tees and greens are carved into huge Sahara-like dunes set above the sea, where breaching whales are a common sight during the winter months. Five sets of tees, three of them rated for women, provide admirable versatility on the Dunes Course, which is surfaced from tee to green in sustainable, salt-tolerant paspalum grass.

“Diamante’s free-form architecture rests gently on the land, and the absence of any hard lines let the golfer’s eye soak in the delightful contrast between the dazzling Pacific Ocean, the dunescape and the emerald playing surfaces,” the magazine reported. “The Dunes’ random green contours are noteworthy as is the construction technique that left micro-undulations in the fairways. Spectacular ocean views sometimes come with the price of cold and damp playing conditions but not here.” A breezy, links-style layout, the Dunes Course resembles golf in Ireland–only 30 degrees warmer.

Refinements and routing alterations have greatly improved the club’s golf experience. For example, two seaside holes, the current 12th and 13th, each sculpted from vast rolling dunes within earshot of the surf, were built to replace inland predecessors. The mammoth 590-yard par-5 18th, previously the 17th, offers multiple landing areas and calls for a lofted approach to a shelf-like green perched 50 feet above the fairway. It provides a memorable finish to the round.

According to Ran Morrissett, the magazine’s architecture editor, “GOLF’s 107 raters spread across the globe, dealt with Covid restrictions to deliver a comprehensive review of the game’s elite venues. The result is what we feel is the smartest vote on architecture among the myriad media outlets that also rate courses…if you look closely at the list, you’ll notice that what was once considered ‘great’ architecture is taking on a decidedly broader definition.”

Specifically, the panel, whose members include major championship winners, architects, journalists and well-traveled golf aficionados, now places a higher value on “width, strategy, playing angles, enjoyment (and) creativity stemming from ‘bouncy-bounce’ golf.” Built entirely on sand, Diamante (Dunes) has firm, fast-running conditions plus exceptional risk-reward variety.

It’s often said it takes great land to yield a great course. Diamante (Dunes) is the only venue in Mexico on GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Courses in the World list, a tribute to the topographical uniqueness of the desert-meets-ocean environment in Los Cabos.

Certainly, it’s a must-play challenge for Los Cabos bound destination golfers, along with several other local layouts that have also been lauded on “best of lists”: such as Quivira, Palmilla, Cabo del Sol, and Rancho San Lucas at Grand Solmar, a quartet which claimed half of the Editor’s Choice selections for Golf Digest’s “Best Golf Resorts in Mexico and Central America”.

And since the weather is warm year-round in Los Cabos, even in the midst of winter, there’s no reason you can’t make a tee time right now. It should be noted, of course, that although many of the courses listed above are private, all are playable with some limitations or restrictions (access is quite often restricted to owners, renters and resort guests at the development which hosts the course).

Which means it isn’t just choosing the right golf courses that matters, but also choosing the right villa or vacation rental.

For more information about golf and villa and vacation rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Diamante Cabo San Lucas

Upcoming Events Calendar

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Sabor a Cabo Rural – Dec. 5

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Dec. 9 – 10

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season in Los Cabos – Dec. 15

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Taco Fest 2021 at Casa Dorada – Dec. 17

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

January 2022

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Twin Dolphin and Cabo del Sol – Jan. 9 – 13

Tropic of Cancer Music Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 12 – 16

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 30 – Feb. 5; Feb. 7 – 11

February 2022

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 30 – Feb. 5; Feb. 7 – 11

Todos Santos Open Studio Tour – Feb. 4 – 6

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 26 – Mar. 1

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament at Querencia – Feb. 27 – Mar. 1

March 2022

Fiestas Tradicionales in San Jose del Cabo – Dates Not Yet Announced

April 2022

Semana Santa – Apr. 10 – 17

May 2022

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

Dia de la Madre – May 10

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – May 15 – 18

Premier Golf Pro-Am Tournament – May 15 – 21

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The Big Show is Back! Whale Watching Season Officially Starts in Los Cabos

December 14, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Tomorrow, December 15th, is one of the most important dates on the Los Cabos calendar, marking as it does the official arrival of the region’s biggest and most highly anticipated seasonal visitors.

Yes, tomorrow is the official start of whale watching season in Los Cabos. Unofficially, whales begin making their way down from summer feeding grounds in Arctic waters to winter breeding grounds around Baja California Sur as early as November, but December 15th is the first day activities operators are legally allowed to offer dedicated whale watching tours, opening up a 120-day window (whale watching season ends on April 15th) for what amounts to a bucket list opportunity: the chance to get up-close with leviathans whose size and power almost defies description.

Each year, an estimated 5,000 or so whales migrate to Los Cabos; or more accurately, transit through Los Cabos waters on their way to winter breeding grounds in coves and inlets around Baja California Sur.

Each species has their own breeding grounds of choice. Ojo de Liebre and Magadalena Bay on the Pacific Coast of Baja California Sur, for instance, are the favored breeding grounds for gray whales, while humpbacks continue on into the Sea of Cortez. Both species are commonly sighted in Los Cabos each winter, although humpbacks are more often seen; and because of their spectacular breaching behavior – in which they lift nearly their entire bodies out of the water (all 60,000 pounds or so) – much more of a focus of local whale watching tours.

During whale watching season, virtually every local boat offers tours, from small sailboats to luxury yachts. But by far the best way to see them, and to get as close as possible – Mexico has legal limits to protect whales from overzealous tour operators – is by embarking on Zodiac boats tours. These high-speed inflatables have enough power to allow their captains to spot whale spume and anticipate where the next breach will occur. Some local adventure companies even offer hydrophones, so that in addition to the sight of these magnificent creatures, guests can also listen to their incredible “songs,” a form of language so complex scientists are still working to achieve a basic understanding.

But complex language is only one of many fascinating things about these majestic creatures. With that in mind, here are a few of our favorite whale related fun facts in honor of the season.

 Fun Facts About Whales and Whale Watching Season in Los Cabos

  • Everything about whale watching season in Los Cabos is larger than life. Even the migration is out-sized. In fact, the longest migration in recorded history involves a gray whale – dubbed Varvara by scientists – who in 2015 completed a 14,000-mile round-trip journey from Russia to Cabo San Lucas. Not bad for a nine-year-old.
  • No whales breach more spectacularly than humpbacks, and as luck would have it humpbacks are by far the most commonly sighted species in Los Cabos. But they’re not the only species by any means. Orcas are sometimes sighted, as are sperm and even blue whales, the latter being the largest creature ever to existed on Earth.
  • Blue whales can grow up to 100 feet in length and reach 380,000 pounds in weight.
  • The average life expectancy of a humpback whale is 45 to 50 years, and they are enormously intelligent, possessing a “spindle” neuron in their cerebral cortex that exists only in whales, dolphins, humans and great apes. The smartest whales, however, are sperm whales, who have brains five times the size of humans.
  • Gray whales, the second most commonly sighted whale species in local waters, live an average of 70 years. So if Varvara’s trip from Russia to Cabo San Lucas is her normal migration and she does it every year of her life, she will have traveled approximately 980,000 miles.
  • Whales can communicate over vast distances. A humpback singing in Los Cabos can be heard by other humpbacks thousands of miles away.
  • Each whale species not only has their own language, but like humans, communicates in different dialects based on region. A study of Pacific sperm whales discovered five separate clans, each one of which had their own unique dialect.
  • In a 2012 study, it was shown that beluga whales can actually mimic the human voice. So perhaps one day we can communicate with one another.
  • Although all life on earth comes from water, whales – like other cetaceans such as dolphins – lived on land as recently as 50 million years ago, before evolving back into the sea.

 For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Elegant Mexico

Upcoming Events Calendar

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Sabor a Cabo Rural – Dec. 5

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Dec. 9 – 10

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season in Los Cabos – Dec. 15

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Taco Fest 2021 at Casa Dorada – Dec. 17

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

January 2022

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Twin Dolphin and Cabo del Sol – Jan. 9 – 13

Tropic of Cancer Music Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 12 – 16

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 30 – Feb. 5; Feb. 7 – 11

February 2022

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Jan. 30 – Feb. 5; Feb. 7 – 11

Todos Santos Open Studio Tour – Feb. 4 – 6

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 26 – Mar. 1

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament at Querencia – Feb. 27 – Mar. 1

March 2022

Fiestas Tradicionales in San Jose del Cabo – Dates Not Yet Announced

April 2022

Semana Santa – Apr. 10 – 17

May 2022

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

Dia de la Madre – May 10

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – May 15 – 18

Premier Golf Pro-Am Tournament – May 15 – 21

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Los Cabos by the Numbers:  Tourism Statistics and Projections for 2021 – 2022 Continue Positive Upsurge

November 23, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Statistics don’t always reveal a complete picture, but when you put enough of them together over a larger sample size they do tell a compelling story.

In this case, the story of a destination: Los Cabos.

Based on the latest statistics, for example, it is now quite clear that Los Cabos has achieved a nearly complete recovery of pre-pandemic tourism, in some cases even surpassing numbers from 2019. This despite the fact that tourism numbers for Mexico have been down overall.

And the best part is…there’s still a lot of room to grow. While U.S. tourists have returned to sunny Los Cabos in droves, Canadian tourists have been largely absent since early 2020 due to stricter travel regulations and reduced or suspended flights. However, that’s now changing as flights resume and regulations relax. Flights from Edmonton and Toronto to Los Cabos over the next six months are both expected to exceed 2019 levels.

Cruise ships have also been absent…at least until recently. After a lengthy suspension of service following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, cruise ships have now resumed visits to Los Cabos, opening up (or, if you prefer, reopening) another important tourism sector for the destination moving forward.

With this in mind, here are some of the most recent (and most interesting) statistics released by the Los Cabos Tourism Board…

National Travel Numbers for Mexico

  • In Aug. 2021, 2.77 million international tourists arrived in the country (18% fewer than in Aug. 2019). 52% were inbound tourists.
  • In Aug. 2021, the total number of inbound tourists decreased by 29% compared to the previous month.
  • There is an 18% decrease in the total number of inbound tourists compared to Aug. 2019.
  • 85% arrived by air, and 15% did so by land

Travel Numbers for Los Cabos

  • In Aug. 2021, Los Cabos International Airport recorded the arrival of 136,654 international tourists, up 16.2% compared to Aug. 2019. American tourists represent 99.4% of the total.

Passenger Arrivals in Los Cabos

  • In Sep. 2021, Los Cabos International Airport recorded a 30.3% (+47.3 thousand) increase in the total number of passengers arriving at the destination compared to Sep. 2019.
  • Passengers on domestic flights (85.7 thousand) represent 42.1% of total arrivals. These increased by 19.4% (+13.9 thousand vs. Sep. 2019).
  • Passengers on international flights (117.75 thousand) represent 57.9% of total arrivals. These increased by 39.6% (+33.4 thousand vs. Sep. 2019).

Domestic Air Connectivity to Los Cabos

  • There are 721.6 thousand seats scheduled for the next 6 months, 42.6% more compared to the same period in 2019.
  • However, when comparing the seats scheduled for the next 6 months against the 2020 schedule (pandemic), the volume of programmed seats is 47.6% higher.
  • There are 31.7% more available seats expected for Oct. 2021 than those scheduled for Oct. 2019.
  • Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Tijuana are the most relevant issuing markets, having 48%, 13%, and 20% of total available seats (for the next 6 months), followed by Monterrey (9%), Culiacan (7%), Leon (2%), and Hermosillo (1%).
  • Seats from Mexico City, Monterrey, and Tijuana increased by 43%, 9.9%, and 176.5%, respectively (when compared against 2019).
  • For the next 6 months, 51% of the available seats will be provided by Volaris, followed by Viva Aerobus with 33% and Aeromexico with 16%. Interjet has dropped to 0%.

International Air Connectivity to Los Cabos

  • For the U.S., there are 1.37 million seats scheduled to Los Cabos in the next six months, which is 39.1% more seats compared to the same period in 2019.
  • For Oct. 2021, the United States expects 55% more available seats than those scheduled for 2019.
  • Los Angeles (+69.4%), Phoenix (+46%), Houston (+19.4%), Dallas-Fort Worth (+32.6%), Denver (+81.2%), and Seattle (+28.3%) had the most significant increase vs. 2019.
  • However, when comparing the seats scheduled for the next 6 months against the 2020 schedule (pandemic), the volume of programmed seats is 40.5% higher.
  • Los Angeles is the main issuing market in the U.S. (20% of the market), followed by Dallas-Fort Worth (11%), Houston (10%), and Phoenix (9%).
  • American, Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines are the most relevant (91% as a whole).
  • When comparing the seats scheduled for the next 6 months against the 2020 schedule (pandemic), the volume of programmed seats is 15.6% higher.

Yacht Activity in Los Cabos

  • 42 yachts arrived at the Port of Cabo San Lucas in Sep. 2021. This represents an increase of 31.3% over the same period in 2019 but a 6.7% decrease compared to 2020.
  • 71% were medium-sized vessels that measured between 50 and 80 feet in length. This vessel size proportion is the highest recorded since 2019.

Cruise Ship Activity in Los Cabos

  • In Aug. 2021, cruises resumed operations in the port of Cabo San Lucas, which recorded the arrival of 1 vessel (Carnival Panorama) with 2,780 passengers.
  • Since then, several major cruise ships have resumed regular service to Los Cabos, including Carnival Miracle and Carnival Panorama; Ruby Princess, Grand Princess and Majestic Princess (Princess Cruise Lines); Norwegian Bliss (Norwegian Cruise Lines); Viking Orion (Viking Cruises); Navigator of the Seas (Royal Caribbean); and MS Koningsdam (Holland America Line).
  • Over the 38 days remaining in 2021, there are 16 cruise ship visits scheduled in Los Cabos.

Tourist Surveys for Los Cabos Visitors

  • In Sep. 2021, 64% of tourists rated their experience in Los Cabos as better than expected.
  • The number of tourists who visited restaurants increased by 77%.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Mexico Daily Post

Upcoming Events Calendar

November

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 1 – 13

Day of the Dead – Nov. 1, 2

WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 3 – 6

Life Luxe Los Cabos Jazz Festival – Nov. 4 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 10 – 17

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Nov. 26 – 27

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Sabor a Cabo Rural – Dec. 5

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Dec. 9 – 10

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season in Los Cabos – Dec. 15

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Taco Fest 2021 at Casa Dorada – Dec. 17

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

January 2022

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Twin Dolphin and Cabo del Sol – Jan. 9 – 13

Tropic of Cancer Music Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 12 – 16

February 2022

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 26 – Mar. 1

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament at Querencia – Feb. 27 – Mar. 1

March 2022

Fiestas Tradicionales in San Jose del Cabo – Dates Not Yet Announced

April 2022

Semana Santa – Apr. 10 – 17

May 2022

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

Dia de la Madre – May 10

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – May 15 – 18

Premier Golf Pro-Am Tournament – May 15 – 21

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Los Cabos by the Numbers: Destination Achieves Full Tourism Recovery with Positive Projections Ahead

October 26, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Fueled by the destination’s strong vaccination program and strict safety protocols, Los Cabos forecasts to close the year surpassing pre-pandemic tourism levels. It’s an incredibly positive development given the circumstances, as Los Cabos’ business leaders – from the Tourism Board on down – have helped to drive the destination to a complete recovery of travel and tourism activity. In fact, the latest numbers show a 20% growth in tourism arrivals in the last quarter from Jul. – Sep. 2021 when compared to the same period in 2019.

In September 2021, Los Cabos recorded nearly 118,000 international arrivals, making it the most successful September on record, with a 40% increase in international arrivals compared to 2019. To date, Los Cabos is Mexico’s leading destination in tourism recovery, nearly 20 percentage points higher in visitation recovery in September 2021 compared to Mexico’s other top tourism destinations.

As a result of this recovery, the destination has been able to recuperate all of its formal hospitality jobs, which are critical to the tourism sector of Los Cabos. The destination’s commitment to efforts that support the well-being of the community and visitors have been foundational to its successful recovery and capability to offer a safer travel environment. This includes strong COVID-19 health and safety protocols, and community adoption of the destination’s vaccination program, which has led to close to 90% of the population ages 18 and over having received at least one dose to date.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for travel destinations across the world and we are energized to see Los Cabos achieve a full recovery since tourism is at the heart of what we do,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. “We will hold tight to the health and safety efforts that got us here. As we head into the holiday season of higher travel activity, it’s our goal to continue to offer the same safer travel environment.”

Looking ahead, there is a 45% increase in scheduled seats from the U.S. to the Los Cabos International Airport over the next six months – November 2021 to April 2022 – when compared to the same timeframe in 2019 – 2020. Forecasted bookings for the final winter months of 2021 are estimated to boost the destination so that it not only reaches but surpasses pre-pandemic levels – an approximate 2.8 million annual visitors. Los Cabos is continuing to see the trend of short booking windows with reservations being made only one month out.

In 2021, Los Cabos travelers have been most interested in a mix of outdoor adventure, luxury and personalized experiences that are environmentally safe and give back to the local community. Going into 2022, the destination expects to continue to see an increase in conscious travelers looking for sustainable and environmentally friendly experiences. This includes activities such as farm-to-table dining and sea turtle preservation programs. Also, all tourists and the local community are encouraged to help maintain, respect and conserve Los Cabos’ 22 Blue Flag-certified beaches – renowned for their superior cleanliness, water quality and security.

Through the year and a half of the pandemic, Los Cabos’ business model – which combines the efforts of the private and public sectors – has proven to be a successful strategy to drive tourism recovery. The collaborative approach between state authorities and tourism partners has allowed the destination to not only quickly respond to the ongoing crisis, but also to identify new streams of business opportunities and niche markets to accommodate the evolving habits of travelers around the world.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Inspirato

Upcoming Events Calendar

October

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 10 – 14

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 14 – 17

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Oct. 15 – 16

Bisbee’s Black and Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 19 – 23

November

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 1 – 13

Day of the Dead – Nov. 1, 2

WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 3 – 6

Life Luxe Los Cabos Jazz Festival – Nov. 4 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 10 – 17

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Nov. 26 – 27

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Dec. 9 – 10

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season in Los Cabos – Dec. 15

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

January 2022

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Twin Dolphin and Cabo del Sol – Jan. 9 – 13

Tropic of Cancer Music Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 12 – 16

February 2022

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 26 – Mar. 1

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament at Querencia – Feb. 27 – Mar. 1

March 2022

Fiestas Tradicionales in San Jose del Cabo – Dates Not Yet Announced

April 2022

Semana Santa – Apr. 10 – 17

 May 2022

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

Dia de la Madre – May 10

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – May 15 – 18

Premier Golf Pro-Am Tournament – May 15 – 21

 

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Art, Culture & Cabo: Previewing the 2021-2022 Art Walk Season in San Jose del Cabo

September 28, 2021 by Leave a Comment

There’s not a lot of seasonal variation when it comes to weather in Los Cabos. The sun shines year-round and just about every day is a great day to go to the beach. But the gorgeous beaches are far from the only attractions, and when it comes to some of the other best things to do in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, timing and seasonal variation do come into play.

If you’ve long dreamed of going whale watching in Los Cabos, for example, there is a very specific time of year (mid-December through mid-March) when your chance of seeing, and even getting quite close, to these leviathans is at its peak. There’s also a peak surfing season, a peak diving season, a peak fishing season (ever wonder why all the big marlin fishing tournaments are held August through October?), and so on. Heck, there’s even a peak season for culture in Los Cabos, although luckily for art lovers, it spans nearly half of every year.

Yes, we’re talking about Art Walk Season in San Jose del Cabo, the region’s most enduring and anticipated cultural celebration, held every Thursday night, 5 pm to 9pm, during high tourist season, November through June, in the heart of the city’s historic Gallery District. A sidelong glance at the calendar cues us that this beloved event is close to returning, and in fact will return for a new season in a little more than a month.

But truthfully, one doesn’t need to circle any dates on the calendar to remember the return of Art Walk, as its return is always linked with that of another great Mexican event, Dia de Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

Mexico observes many holidays, but none quite so visually distinctive and emotionally resonant as El Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead). This holiday to honor deceased family and friends dates back to the time of the Aztecs–who dedicated a festival to Mictecacihuatl, queen of the underworld, each August–but now takes place contemporaneously with the Catholic observance of Allhallowtide.

Traditionally, it is thought that the souls of children return on November 1st, and the souls of adults on November 2nd. Families will often build ofrendas (altars) in their homes, welcoming back the spirits of the departed with some of their favorite food and drinks, as well as special holiday themed items like cempasuchil flowers (Aztec marigolds), calaveras de azucar (candy skulls), and a sweet bread called pan de muerto.

Because the return of Art Walk is also contemporaneous with Day of the Dead, and because the striking visual component of the holiday dovetails with the aesthetic sensibilities of the artists and gallery owners in San Jose del Cabo’s Gallery District, these two events have always been linked in the minds of Cabeños (Los Cabos residents). In fact, many of the city’s gallery owners traditionally exhibit their own public ofrendas as artworks in conjunction with the holiday and the return of Art Walk.

Ironically, given the timing, downtown San Jose del Cabo is never livelier nor more beautiful than during Art Walk. Perhaps this is because Art Walk is, at heart, a celebration of San Jose del Cabo itself. The city comes alive in a new way on Thursdays during Art Walk season, with wandering musicians and mariachi bands among those walking the cobblestone streets of the historic Gallery District, while the entire downtown area is decorated in a festive whirl of lights.

The Gallery District, home to dozens of art galleries and studios, is the center of Art Walk, and remains the primary focus, as gallery owners and artists stay open late to interact with visitors. But the entire downtown area of the city is aglow. Plaza Mijares becomes an outdoor gallery for street artists and crafts people, with their wares laid out for all to see. The magnificent old Catholic church, Parroquia San Jose, is open for those who want to visit a more traditional altar than the Day of the Dead ofrendas at local galleries. City Hall, with its colorful courtyard murals depicting great moments in local and national history, also beckons those on an informal walking tour of the heart of the city.

For this reason and others, Art Walk is among the most popular romantic activities for visiting couples, blending art and music, fine food and wine. This is an evening for walking and holding hands, for sharing new sights and sounds, each unique and each singularly emblematic of the magic of San Jose del Cabo.

Naturally, the Art District and city center are also home to some of the finest drinking and dining establishments in Los Cabos. One must stop for first-time visitors to Art Walk is at Los Tres Gallos, a long-time favorite in Cabo San Lucas that just recently opened a second location in the heart of the Gallery District. The San Jose restaurant is built around three entwined huanacaxtle trees, a design element so astounding and delightful that it fits perfectly with the artistic sensibilities of Thursday night Art Walks.

Nearby Baja Brewing Company, meanwhile, has grown so much over the past decade that its beers are now available in nearly a dozen U.S. states. But the original Gallery District location remains the best place to try the sudsy treasures from Baja California Sur’s first brewery…and still its best.

These are only two of the most popular stops, of course. There are many more, just as there are a wide array of galleries, arts and crafts boutiques and jewelry stores; from those showcasing traditional Mata Ortiz pottery and Huichol animal figures to paintings and sculptures from some of the best contemporary artists.

There is a lot of great art here, as well as arts and crafts, and custom jewelry. But mostly, there’s just a lot of life; which is why it’s always exciting to see this cultural celebration return, even though the return happens contemporaneously with a signature celebration of all those loved ones who have passed, Day of the Dead.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Gallery District San Jose del Cabo

Upcoming Events Calendar

September

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Sep. 3, 10, 17, 24

Mexico Independence Day – Sep. 16

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Sep. 17 – 18

October

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 10 – 14

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 14 – 17

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Oct. 15 – 16

Bisbee’s Black and Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 19 – 23

November

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 1 – 13

Day of the Dead – Nov. 1, 2

WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 3 – 6

Life Luxe Los Cabos Jazz Festival – Nov. 4 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 10 – 17

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Nov. 26 – 27

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Top Chef Taco Series at Paradero – Dec. 9 – 10

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party at Casa Dorada – Dec. 31

January 2022

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Twin Dolphin and Cabo del Sol – Jan. 9 – 13

May 2022

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – May 15 – 18

 

 

 

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Bisbee’s Starts 2021 Fishing Tournament Season with a Bang as East Cape Offshore Breaks More Records

August 11, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Last year, Bisbee’s trio of big-game fishing tournaments in Los Cabos smashed records for participations and payouts, with the East Cape Offshore, Los Cabos Offshore, and Black and Blue tournaments combining to offer an astounding prize pool of over 7.2 million dollars.

So successful was the 2020 fishing season for Bisbee’s that expectations have been “off the charts” high for 2021. Could Bisbee’s break its records all over again?

If last weekend’s East Cape Offshore is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes!

The ECO tournament annually kicks off the season for Bisbee’s in early August, setting the tone for the two October events to follow. Last year, a record 72 teams competed for a record 1.1 million dollars, the first time the tournament had ever crossed the million-dollar threshold.

This year, 96 teams competed in the event, which is hosted by the Hotel Buena Vista Beach Resort in the Los Cabos municipality’s gorgeous East Cape region. To say that smashed the year-old record is an understatement. It obliterated it, just as this year’s payout of $1,582,975 obliterated the previous mark…topping it by nearly half a million dollars.

Another way to look at it…the 2021 payouts increased by over 42% in a single year!

“The top two 2021 winning teams received more money than the total amount received by all the winners in the 2020 event,” said Tournament Director Wayne Bisbee. Last year’s ECO payouts, as mentioned, totaled 1,1 million. This year’s largest two payouts were $790,712 for first place, and $431,800 for a roll-over jackpot, for a total of $1.22 million.

No, no one topped last year’s ECO record 704 lb. blue marlin, but the fishing certainly contributed to the excitement surrounding the event. And to be fair, Team Tiger Spirit came close. Their 597 lb. black marlin garnered first place, and was the second largest qualifying fish caught in the 22-year history of the event!

The upshot? If you haven’t entered this year’s Los Cabos Offshore or Black and Blue tournaments yet, what are you waiting for?

Here’s what to expect from the remaining two Bisbee’s events in 2021, including info on entry fees and previous payouts.

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore – October 14th to 17th

Commonly known as “Little Bisbee’s,” to differentiate it from the “Big Bisbee’s” Black & Blue marlin fishing tournament that also takes place each October in Los Cabos, the Los Cabos Offshore dates back to 2002, and is considered a more laid-back, charity focused endeavor than the Black & Blue.

Cash prizes are awarded to the teams with the three biggest qualifying fish in the game and billfish categories at the LCO, and large amounts of fish/meals are always donated to local families in need.

Base entry for teams is $1,500 U.S., with $22,500 necessary for “across the board” entry in all jackpots and challenges. In 2020, the Los Cabos Offshore topped the million-dollar mark for the second year in a row, with prize pools and jackpots totaling $1,457,000 for the 128 participating teams.

Bisbee’s Black & Blue – October 19th to 23rd

Oft billed as “The World’s Richest Fishing Tournament,” thanks to its million dollar payouts, this marlin fishing tournament originally premiered in 1981, and remains to this day the highest profile annual event in Los Cabos. Base entry for this millionaire maker is $5,000 U.S. per team, and requires a $71,500 U.S. outlay across all categories, jackpots and challenges. Prizes are awarded for the top five catches of black and blue marlin, assuming they meet the minimum standards (300 lbs.).

A robust 127 teams comprising 883 fishermen and women competed in the Black and Blue in 2020, as the B&B smashed its own record with $4,649,350 in total prize money. That bested the former mark, set in 2006, of $4,165,960; which for well over a decade had been the largest payout in sport fishing history.

But as we just saw with the 2021 ECO, history is now being made every time Bisbee’s holds a tournament.

Which is why, of course, Cabo San Lucas is the place to be this October. Where else can you get paid this much to go fishing and party?

For more information about upcoming events, activities and attractions, and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Gary Graham/Bisbee’s Offshore Fishing Tournaments

Upcoming Events Calendar

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 3 – 7

La Vendimia Wine Festival at Esperanza – Aug. 20

Wahoo Gold Cup Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 21

September

Mexico Independence Day – Sep. 16

October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 10 – 14

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 14 – 17

Bisbee’s Black and Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 19 – 23

November

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 1 – 13

Day of the Dead – Nov. 1, 2

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 3 – 6

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 10 – 17

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

 

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Summer Activities and Events Roundup – Things to Do in Los Cabos in August

July 27, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Summer may be hot in Los Cabos, but there’s never any shortage of things to do.

That is certainly true this August, which not only sees the return of two of the region’s most iconic fishing tournaments, but also sees peak conditions for several of the region’s most popular outdoor activities, including surfing and scuba diving.

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore is the spotlight event this August, marking the start of 2021 season for Bisbee’s trio of Los Cabos based fishing tournaments, and setting the stage for the even more high-profile competitions – specifically, Bisbee’s Black and Blue and Los Cabos Offshore tournaments – that take place in October.

Los Cabos’ gorgeous East Cape will also be the setting for the East Cape Golf Cup Wahoo Jackpot, one of two annual local tournaments where the winner drives off in a brand new vehicle.

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – August 3rd to 7th

The East Cape Offshore kicks off Bisbee’s 2021 series starting August 3rd. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three qualifiers in marlin, tuna and dorado categories, with the awards celebration taking place afterwards at the Hotel Buena Vista Beach Resort. Base entry for the event is $1500 per team, with additional fees for daily jackpots ($32,000 “across the board”). Prize money is based on entry fees received, with 60% going to the billfish winners, and 20% each to top tuna and dorado anglers. If last year is any indication, this tournament should not be missed. The 2020 version bested virtually every record in the history of the event, from the largest fish every caught – a 704 lb. blue marlin – to the largest prize purse, which topped the million-dollar mark for the first time. Expect more records this year.

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Tournament – August 21

Similar to the East Cape Dorado Shootout with its drive-away first prize, the biggest wahoo caught on August 21st will earn one lucky fisherman a showroom fresh 2021 Volkswagen Golf and a Suzuki 140 horsepower four-stroke outboard engine. In total, over $100,000 in cash and prizes are expected to be up for grabs, including great raffle prizes, return trips, fishing outings, and much more. The entry fee is only $500 per team and includes dinner at the awards ceremony. Where else in Los Cabos can you catch a fish and then drive off in a new car?

Sea of Cortés Surf Season – June through August

Surfers will find great waves in Baja California Sur on a year-round basis, although the scene shifts according to the season. During the winter months, for example, the best top breaks are found on the Pacific Coast, most notably off beaches like Cerritos, San Pedrito and La Pastora. The Sea of Cortés takes center stage during the summer months, when seasonal weather fronts and storms called chubascos send perfect southeast swells towards Los Cabos and its beautiful East Cape. Los Cabos sites like Monuments reach their zenith during the summer, as do East Cape meccas Nine Palms and Shipwrecks. The most famous summer break, however, is Zippers at Playa Costa Azul in San José del Cabo. Zippers’ middle break and nearby Acapulquito are popular spots for beginners, and lessons are available.

Sea Turtle Season – August through December

Five of the world’s seven endangered sea turtle species come to Baja California to lay their eggs–the green turtle, hawksbill, loggerhead, olive riddle and leatherback (the largest sea turtle and the world’s fastest aquatic reptile)–with local conservation agencies and some area resorts offering opportunities to assist in the hatchling process. Although mature sea turtles are long-lived and have few predators, they are in great danger during their initial journey away from the nest, extremely vulnerable to predators on both land and sea.  In Los Cabos, sea turtle season stretches from late August until early December.

Peak Diving Season – August and September

Los Cabos boasts spectacular year-round diving, with a half-dozen great sites at Land’s End alone, plus easy access to the living coral reef at Cabo Pulmo – one of the oldest and largest in the Western Hemisphere–and dedicated shipwreck dive sites in both Los Cabos and La Paz. One local boat, the Solmar V, even offers week-long trips to the Revillagigedo Archipelago, some 250 miles south of Cabo San Lucas, for unbelievable underwater encounters with deep sea creatures like manta rays, dolphins and great white sharks. The best times to visit in terms of water temperatures and visibility are during the late summer and early autumn months – especially in August and September – when water temperatures typically range from about 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

For more information about upcoming events, activities and attractions, and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit     www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Gary Graham/Bisbee’s Offshore Fishing Tournaments

Upcoming Events Calendar

July

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 17

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – Jul. 19 – 24

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament at Palmas de Cortez – Jul. 22 – 26

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 3 – 7

Wahoo Gold Cup Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 21

September

Mexico Independence Day – Sep. 16

October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 10 – 14

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 14 – 17

Bisbee’s Black and Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 19 – 23

November

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 1 – 13

Day of the Dead – Nov. 1, 2

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 3 – 6

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

 

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Summer Golf Spotlight: Top Courses in Cabo San Lucas

July 20, 2021 by Leave a Comment

We’ve said it before. We’ll say it again. Los Cabos is one of the most remarkable golf destinations on Earth.

As of 2021, the local portfolio numbers 18 beautiful courses – from Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo and their connective Tourist Corridor to the East Cape and beyond – almost all of them world-class, and all built within the last 35 years. Most boast powerhouse pedigrees, with designs from legendary names like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Greg Norman. All showcase a spectacular blend of ocean, desert and mountain vistas.

Summer is traditionally golf season, and although such seasonal distinctions make little difference in always sunny Los Cabos, now is the time when many golfers turn their thoughts to destination golf trips.

So with that in mind, we’ll be previewing all of the local courses this summer, including the latest updates on specials and discounts.

Our first installment covered San Jose del Cabo. For our second, we’ll be looking at the stunning collection of courses in sister city Cabo San Lucas.

Golf in Cabo San Lucas

Five of the 18 golf courses in Los Cabos can be found in Cabo San Lucas, all of which are found on the Pacific Coast near the northern outskirts of the city…and nearly all of which are breathtakingly beautiful.

During the 1990s, when the golf boom in Los Cabos began, all the great courses were built along the 20-mile tourist corridor which connects Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Since Davis Love III’s Diamante Dunes course premiered in 2009, Cabo San Lucas has been ground zero for the region’s best new courses.

Note: These five courses are all part of resort and residential developments, with restricted tee time access for guests, owners and renters. To find out more about vacation rentals and how to play these courses, email us at info@loscabosvillas.com.

The Dunes Course at Diamante

In Los Cabos, only Nicklaus landmark Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol (now the Cove Club) has achieved the same sort of acclaim as Davis Love III’s Dunes Course at Diamante; and even that falls short when it comes to the opinion of the sport’s premier tastemakers. Voted top new international course in 2010, Golf Magazine declared the Dunes Course the 52nd best course in the world in 2013, the highest ranking ever achieved by a Los Cabos golf course at that point. It rose even higher on the same list in 2016, ascending to 36th. This lavish praise has elevated the 7,300-yard Dunes Course to “must-play” status for destination golfers, and the links style coastal layout does not disappoint.

El Cardonal at Diamante

“The site is incredible,” Tiger Woods said of his first ever completed golf course design, noting: “I set up the golf strategy to make golfers think and make choices. Regardless of your handicap, there are going to be different ways to play every hole. Angles of approach are going to be very important and will dictate the type of shots you should consider. I love this kind of golf.” So too have the many destination golfers to play El Cardonal since the course opened at Diamante in 2014. Envisioned by its creator as the kind of “Old California” layout he grew up playing as a kid, El Cardonal is long (7,363 yards) but fair, with plenty of gorgeous views.

The Oasis Short Course at Diamante

Tiger Woods returned to Los Cabos in 2016 to sculpt this modest but picturesque par-3 layout at Diamante. Only 12 holes in length, Oasis is a bit like an amuse bouche – a bite-sized hors d’ouevre – for Diamante visitors, who can hone their games before tackling the more difficult Dunes or El Cardonal courses. Although short in terms of length (1,124 yards), the course weaves through lush landscaping that includes an 8-acre lake and over 400 palm trees.

Quivira Golf Club

Jack Nicklaus triumphed again with this magnificent coastal layout at Quivira, a resort and residential development from Pueblo Bonito brand founder Ernesto Coppel Kelly. The 7,139-yard tour de force was voted the world’s best new international course in 2015 by Golf Magazine, and has since earned additional acclaim, including being named one of the W0rld’s 100 Best by Golf Digest. All 18 holes offer ocean views, and seven holes hug the coast, including the remarkable par-4 fifth, which is perched on the edge of sheer cliffside and offers opportunities to try to drive the green (or send your ball straight to Davey Jones’ locker). The 19th hole here also happens to be the best steakhouse in town.

Rancho San Lucas

The most recent addition to the Los Cabos golf landscape, the 7,210-yard Greg Norman designed Rancho San Lucas golf course premiered in February 2020 as the centerpiece of an 834-acre resort and residential development spearheaded by the Solmar Group, the only Los Cabos based resort brand, with seven local hotels and resorts. Norman’s second local layout is challenging but playable for golfers of all skill levels, with wide fairways and memorable touches like British Isles style bunkering. The most memorable feature, however, is the par-3 17th hole, which showcases an island green reminiscent of TPC Sawgrass, but with better views; including a surrounding lake as well as Pacific Ocean backdrops. As at nearby Quivira, ocean views are visible from all 18 holes.

For more information about upcoming events, activities and attractions, and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit                                                                                                                  www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Quivira Golf Club

Upcoming Events Calendar

July

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 17

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – Jul. 19 – 24

Ladies Only Fishing Tournament at Palmas de Cortez – Jul. 22 – 26

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 3 – 7

Wahoo Gold Cup Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 21

September

Mexico Independence Day – Sep. 16

October

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 10 – 14

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 14 – 17

Bisbee’s Black and Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 19 – 23

November

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 1 – 13

Day of the Dead – Nov. 1, 2

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 3 – 6

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 15 – 20

Revolution Day – Nov. 20

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Las Posadas – Dec. 16 – 24

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

 

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