Viva La Plaza! Art and Culture on Display Weekly in Cabo San Lucas

Those who have spent any time at all in San Jose del Cabo are undoubtedly familiar with Art Walk. The weekly (and seasonal) Thursday night event is, after all, a cultural touchstone, welcoming visitors into the boutiques and art galleries of the historic Art District, but also shining a spotlight on downtown bars and restaurants, and the local street scene, from street painters to wandering musicians.

What casual or first-time visitors to Los Cabos may not realize, however, is that Cabo San Lucas has its own version of Art Walk. The name is different (Viva La Plaza) and so is the night (Friday rather than Thursday), but the essence is the same: to showcase not only regional arts and culture, but also the heart and soul of the downtown area.

Viva La Paza is set in and around Plaza Amelia Wilkes, the plaza principal/town square of Cabo San Lucas. Named for a local schoolteacher and the first woman to hold political office in Baja California Sur, the plaza is home to the natural history museum, and thanks to a recent renovation project, has never looked better or more beautiful. The picturesque central gazebo is sporting a new coat of paint, and festive papeles picados are strung across its flawlessly sculpted expanse, framing the broad walkways and wrought iron benches.

On Friday nights, bars and restaurants surrounding the square are lit up, the streets blocked off to all but pedestrian traffic, and local artists and crafts people display their wares. Cabo San Lucas may not have the gallery space for walk-in art viewing for Viva La Plaza as San Jose’s Art District offers for Art Walk, but the streets themselves become makeshift galleries, spotlighting everything from vibrant contemporary painting to traditional bead art from peyote inspired Huichol Indians.

This being 2021, masks are encouraged and antibacterial hand gel is found at stations situated throughout the plaza. But the streets are not crowded enough to make social distancing an issue. The event is a loose, rambling, open-air kind of party, with couples strolling by exhibits, skateboarders and roller blade wearers weaving in and around them, and families with kids standing in discrete groups in front of the dedicated dance stage.

Speaking of which…the highlight of every Viva La Plaza is undoubtedly the folkloric dancing, which takes place in a slightly elevated area – transformed into an impromptu theater – in front of the Museo de Historia Natural. Every state and region of Mexico has its unique costumes and dances, of course, and since Los Cabos is a melting pot, visitors to Viva La Plaza can enjoy performances representing a diverse and delightful sampling of the country’s rich cultural legacy.

When the stage show is over, couples, families and friends sit and chat on the many benches, or adjourn to nearby restaurants which bound the square, offering cultural treasures of their own. Mi Casa offers regional Mexican fare, for example, while Invita Bistro offers Italian specialties and a front picture window that looks out across the square towards the lovely luxury villas that hug the nearby hillsides of Pedregal. And then there is the Cabo Coffee Company, where Viva La Plaza promenaders can duck in for an energy-boosting espresso or latte…or simply to cool off in the air-conditioning during warmer months.

Despite the obvious comparisons in frequency and focus with Art Walk, there is no competition between Los Cabos’ weekly arts and culture celebrations. Both are special in their own ways, and both have carved out their own space on the local events calendar.

Thursday nights may belong to San Jose del Cabo. But Friday nights belongs to Cabo San Lucas…at least between 6 and 10 p.m. in the Land’s End city’s historic heart.

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: Viva La Plaza

Upcoming Events Calendar

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 18 – 21

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – Apr. 23 – 26

NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally Road Race – Apr. 23 – 30

May

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

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

June

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Jun. 3 -7

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 23 – 27

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

WON Tuna Jackpot Fishing Tournament – 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

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

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

An Introduction to Vacation Rentals in Los Cabos: 3 Reasons Resorts Can’t Compete with the Region’s Unmatched Collection of Ocean View Getaways

Year after year, more people begin to see the value of vacation rentals in Los Cabos over resorts, not only in terms of potential savings, but as an important (perhaps the most important) ingredient in a better, more enjoyable, and more memorable overall vacation experience.

The pandemic conditions of the past year have only highlighted some of the biggest attractions of the vacation rental experience – namely, privacy and safety, which these days go hand in hand – but there are many reasons if you love Los Cabos as a destination and always stayed in resorts, you may want to rethink your vacation getaway strategy.

Here are three of the most compelling…

Bigger is Better, Especially When Bigger May Also Be More Affordable

The size of the average hotel/resort room is about 400 square feet. The size of the average vacation rental is 2,000 square feet. Even if you’ve upgraded to a suite or even a penthouse, chances are your hotel or resort accommodations are going to be significantly smaller than that of a modestly sized rental property…not to mention the size of the average luxury villa. For a single night stay, this sort of vacation upgrade may not make sense financially. But over the course of a week or more, the rates are apt to be very similar, if not more affordable in favor of the larger property.

That being the case, why wouldn’t you choose vacation rentals in Los Cabos?

Better Fit, Better Location

Whether you’re traveling with that special someone, with your kids, with extended family, or with a group of friends for a destination golf or fishing trip, vacation rentals in Los Cabos offer far more options than resorts in terms of finding the right fit. For a couple, perhaps an ocean view penthouse condo is the perfect choice. For a family or larger groups, perhaps a beachfront home is preferred, or a luxury villa with commanding Land’s End views. With vacation rentals, it’s not just the size that’s optional, but the amenities and the location…which can be tailored to your personal vacation plans. With resorts, your only real option is more rooms.

For instance, say you’re on a fishing or golfing themed outing with another couple. Not only can you find a property proximate to your daily activity of choice (say, fishing boats in the Cabo San Lucas Marina, for example, or Cabo del Sol’s excellent golf courses), you can find one with complementary amenities. For instance, a large kitchen where your private chef can prepare the daily catch to order; or a jacuzzi to soothe back and shoulders after 18 holes of golf.

The options are nearly endless.

More Privacy Equals More Safety

It probably goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: the world has changed in the past 12 months. Even as vaccination numbers surge and life gets safer, the lessons we’ve learned are likely to be with us for some time to come. Namely, that as much as possible, you should practice social distancing.

Certainly in the short term, this is a smart strategy to protect yourself and people you love. That said, “vacation rentals in Los Cabos” become the obvious choice, because even the most intimate boutique hotel or exclusive luxury resort is going to bring you into contact with many people you don’t know. It’s inevitable.

This is not to promote fear. Los Cabos was the first destination on the Pacific Coast to qualify for the Travel Safety Stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council, and the destination as a whole is committed to the safety of visitors…from airport arrivals to protocols at shops, restaurants, bars and beaches.

But just as a private jet is preferable to a commercial airliner, there’s no question that vacation rentals in Los Cabos offer an extra level of privacy, and therefore, an extra level of safety and security.

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: Villa La Roca

Upcoming Events Calendar

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 18 – 21

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – Apr. 23 – 26

NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally Road Race – Apr. 23 – 30

May

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

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

June

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Jun. 3 -7

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 23 – 27

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

WON Tuna Jackpot Fishing Tournament – 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

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

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

Bisbee’s Looks to Break More Records with 2021 Fishing Tournaments

There’s one record from Bisbee’s Black and Blue tournament that may never be broken. That’s the 993 lb. blue marlin caught by Team Picante in 1994. Not only is it the biggest ever caught during the 40 year history of the “world’s richest fishing tournament”, it’s one of the largest ever caught in Cabo San Lucas.

All the other records, though? They’re almost certain to be broken. In fact, many were broken during the 2020 season, when Bisbee’s trio of big money tournaments were held safely in the middle of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.

The first, Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore, broke records for attendance and the largest purse in the history of the tournament, as well as the largest fish ever caught. A record 72 teams competed for the record 1.1 million dollar purse – the first time the tournament had ever cracked the million dollar mark – with the added bonus of a 704 lb. blue marlin being reeled in. That too, of course, was the largest in the history of the event.

The records kept falling in October, with both the Los Cabos Offshore and Black and Blue tournaments besting their best ever marks for attendance and prize money. The Los Cabos Offshore topped the million dollar mark for the second year in succession, with prize pools and jackpots totaling $1,457,000 for the 128 participating teams.

The Black and Blue had one less team – a mere 127 comprising 883 anglers! – but 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 sportfishing history.

When all was said and done, prize money for the three tournaments combined totaled $7,206,350…and you guessed it! That too was a record.

But the most remarkable fact may be that of the ten fishing tournaments worldwide with prize payouts of over a million dollars, Bisbee’s has three of them! And all are held annually in beautiful Los Cabos.

This year, Bisbee’s is looking to break those records all over again. It won’t be easy, but if all of them were broken in the midst of a pandemic, imagine what will happen if the season takes place during a time of relative normality?

The 2021 season starts, as is traditional, with the East Cape Offshore. This year’s three-day tournament is scheduled for August 3rd to 7th. 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. 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, 2021 for the ECO).

The Los Cabos Offshore comes next, taking place October 14th to 17th. Commonly known as “Little Bisbee’s,” to differentiate it from the “Big Bisbee’s” Black and Blue, 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. The Early Bird Deadline for the LCO this year is August 31st.

And of course the “Super Bowl of Sportfishing”, Bisbee’s Black and Blue, serves as the season finale, from October 19th to 23rd. 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.). Early Bird Deadline this year, as for the LCO, is August 31st.

Could this be the year the prize payout exceeds five million? Don’t bet against it!

Bisbee’s tournaments of late are proof positive that records are made to be broken.

So if you’re a fisherman (or fisherwoman), don’t you want an opportunity to make history? In 40 years, Bisbee’s Black and Blue has paid out close to 100 million dollars, including 16 individual team checks for over one million dollars, five checks over two million, and two checks for over three million.

Is this the year a check tops four million? Are you the one cashing it? There’s only one way to find out.

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: Picante Sportfishing

Upcoming Events Calendar

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop (Virtual Session) – Jan. 31 – Feb. 6

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

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

Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) – Feb. 5

Valentine’s Day – Feb. 14

Día de la Bandera Mexicana (Flag Day) –  Feb. 24

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 18 – 21

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – Apr. 23 – 26

NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally Road Race – Apr. 23 – 30

May

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

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

June

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Jun. 3 -7

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 23 – 27

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

WON Tuna Jackpot Fishing Tournament – 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

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

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

Leisure Plus Luxury: 3 Tips for Planning the Perfect Los Cabos Golf Vacation

Over the course of a little more than 30 years, Los Cabos has become one of the world’s greatest golf destinations, boasting no less than 18 first-class courses from a who’s who of legendary players and designers, including Jack Nicklaus, who has designed six of them, and Tiger Woods, who is currently working on his third.

It’s not just the designers who are remarkable, however, but the settings. Nearly every course features spectacular ocean views, and many layouts wind through desert or dunes, and offer backdrops of rugged mountains, before the inevitable jaw-dropping crescendo of crashing waves (Pacific Ocean side), or idyllic palm-framed greens against a serene sea (Sea of Cortez side), with the postcard perfection of each only magnified by passing pleasure yachts and seasonally breaching whales.

It’s a place, in other words, that every destination golfer must visit at least once.

That said, it’s not the kind of golf destination where you just grab your clubs and head for the nearest airport or private jet FBO.

A little planning is in order if you want to optimize and maximize your time – on and off the course – in this sun-kissed paradise along the southernmost rim of the Baja California peninsula.

With that in mind, here are three simple tips for planning the perfect Los Cabos golf vacation.

Pick Out the Courses You Want to Play Beforehand

The 18 currently operating courses in Los Cabos (yes, more are on the way!) fall into three broad categories: public, private, and playable with some restrictions.

In the first category are the courses at Cabo Real, Cabo San Lucas Country Club, Campestre, Palmilla, Puerto Los Cabos, and Vidanta at Grand Mayan. All are open to the public and playable without any restrictions.

In the second category are Querencia and El Dorado. If you are not a property owner at one of these developments, or friends with one, these course are inaccessible.

The largest category by far, however, is the third: courses playable with some restrictions. This group includes Diamante’s Dunes Course, ranked among the world’s 100 best, as well as Tiger Woods’ El Cardonal and Oasis Short Course. It also includes Quivira Golf Club, Jack Nicklaus’ latest local masterpiece, Tom Fazio’s Chileno Bay Golf Club, the Greg Norman designed Rancho San Lucas, Fred Couples’ Twin Dolphin, the Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf designed courses at Cabo del Sol, and the Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed Costa Palmas Golf Club.

By restrictions, what we mean is that tee times are reserved for those at select resorts, residential and rental properties. But trust us: if you really want to play any of these superb courses, you most definitely can.

We should also add, this being 2021, that Los Cabos as a destination has been committed to maximum safety since the start of the pandemic last year, a commitment also shared by local golf courses. Golf as a pastime is perfect for the age of social distancing, but even so, courses have gone the extra distance to ensure players feel safe, and are safe at all times.

Find a Luxury Villa or Home Rental Close to Your Favorite Courses

Once you’ve picked out a course or two (or three) where you want to play most often during your Los Cabos vacation, the smart move is to find a villa or home rental that is conveniently close.

Luxury villas and beach or course adjacent rentals are, of course, the preferred option for destination golfers, especially when traveling in groups.

There are several reasons for this, of course; one being privacy, two being safety, three being luxury. As long as you’re paying to play some of the world’s best courses, after all, why not stay at one of the region’s most remarkable properties?

We might also add a fourth, since for small groups and those planning extended stays home rentals are not only more luxurious than local luxury resorts, but quite often more affordable as well.

Luckily, there is no shortage of jaw-dropping rentals available, from villas hugging the hillside cliffs in the exclusive Cabo San Lucas enclave of Pedregal to beachfront homes all along the coast, each filled with a unique mix of luxe amenities.

And of course top rentals offer round-the-clock concierge service, with easy access to everything from private chefs and sommeliers to mobile massage and spa services.

Blend in the Perfect Mix of Wining, Dining & Pampering Amenities

Play golf by day, but at night? Just play. That’s the motto of destination golfers everywhere, and naturally Los Cabos offers plenty of tempting options along these lines, from restaurants featuring top chefs and extensive wine lists to pampering spas where couples can relax together in total comfort and privacy.

And of course, as you may have heard, Los Cabos also has more than a few beautiful beaches.

Need more details? All you have to do is ask.

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: Quivira Golf Club

Upcoming Events Calendar

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop (Virtual Session) – Jan. 31 – Feb. 6

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

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

Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) – Feb. 5

Valentine’s Day – Feb. 14

Día de la Bandera Mexicana (Flag Day) –  Feb. 24

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 18 – 21

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 21

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – Apr. 23 – 26

NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally Road Race – Apr. 23 – 30

May

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

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

June

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Jun. 3 -7

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 23 – 27

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

WON Tuna Jackpot Fishing Tournament – 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

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

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

Off-Road Nirvana: The Happiest Race on Earth Returns!

The trinity of Los Cabos sports is golf, fishing and off-road racing, and by no means in that order. For decades fishing and off-road racing led the way in terms of high profile events, and even now, the premier events in those sports draw more local interest than any other.

Luckily, with their built-in social distancing component, all three sports have not only survived but thrived despite the pandemic of the past year. Fishing tournaments across the board saw not only record participation, but record payouts in 2020. Golf tournaments have consistently teed off on-time and on-schedule into 2021. And of the two biggest off-road races on the Baja California peninsula, the SCORE Baja 1000 had another successful running in November 2020, and the NORRA Mexican 1000 is primed to return this spring, April 23 – 30, 2021.

If the latter two events sound similar to those unfamiliar with the region’s vibrant off-road racing scene, that’s because their histories are forever intertwined.

When the now legendary off-road endurance race premiered in 1967–as a race from Tijuana to La Paz–it was under the auspices of the National Off-Road Racing Association, formed the year before by a group of racing enthusiasts led by Ed Pearlman and Don Francisco. It was Francisco, a veteran of the Carrera Panamericana, that flew all around Baja to chart a viable course for the first race, Pearlman who handled press and promotion. That was the beginning of the Baja 1000.

NORRA backed out of the race following the OPEC Oil Crisis in 1973, and there was no race at all in 1974. In 1975, eager to continue the tradition, Baja California governor Milton Castellanos convinced promoter Mickey Thompson and his SCORE (Southern California Off-Road Enterprises) organization to take over the race, which they did in 1975. The Baja 1000 has been run under the SCORE banner ever since.

But it was the first few years under NORRA that set the standard for modern Baja style off-road racing, and drew famous contestants like Indy 500 winner Parnelli Jones, as well as Hollywood movie stars like James Garner and Steve McQueen.

In order to honor that heritage, NORRA restarted the Mexican 1000 in 2010 as a fun, vintage-style rally race. Dubbed “The Happiest Race on Earth,” the current version of the Mexican 1000 features a mix of restored motorcycles, cars and trucks from the glory era of the Baja 1000, as well as modern desert rally cars. Classes are divided by eras to keep it fun and competitive for all, with high-speed off-road stages linked by controlled-speed highway portions.

Best of all for lovers of Los Cabos, the race course stays the same each year, starting in Ensenada and finishing with an awards ceremony and finish line fiesta beachside in San Jose del Cabo. Contrast that with the Baja 1000, which changes its course from year to year and has finished in Los Cabos only twice, and it’s clear which event offers the most potential for not only racing thrills, but Los Cabos style fun and sun after the race is over.

How’s this for a sporting recipe? Spend the better part of a week racing the rugged, picturesque length of the Baja California peninsula, then as many days as you like relaxing and enjoying Los Cabos’ unmatched brand of laid-back luxury.

No wonder they call it “The Happiest Race on Earth.”

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:  NORRA Mexican 1000

Upcoming Events Calendar

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop (Virtual Session) – Jan. 31 – Feb. 6

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

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

Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) – Feb. 5

Valentine’s Day – Feb. 14

Día de la Bandera Mexicana (Flag Day) –  Feb. 24

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 18 – 21

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 21

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – Apr. 23 – 26

NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally Road Race – Apr. 23 – 30

May

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

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

June

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Jun. 3 -7

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 23 – 27

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

WON Tuna Jackpot Fishing Tournament – 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

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

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

Food, Art, Music and Romance:  February Events in Los Cabos

As we reported last week, Los Cabos as a tourist destination has weathered the ongoing Covid-19 crisis quite well, recovering 80% of expected travel activity by the end of 2020, with an even rosier outlook for 2021. The outlook is also brighter this year for events.

Yes, fishing tournaments saw record turnouts and payouts last year, but for the most part the event calendar in 2020 was characterized by cancellations. That trend will continue to some extent in 2021, especially for events that have traditionally seen large crowds gathered in close proximity. But for the most part area event organizers have learned from the destination’s strict approach to temperature testing, sanitization and distancing protocols, and are now working diligently to factor in those protocols so that events can proceed safely and on schedule.

Some big events, alas, will still be cancelled this year. Carnaval, a huge annual event in La Paz, has been postponed until 2o22; as has San Jose del Cabo’s Jazz Weekend, a great downtown music fest that has been a Valentine’s Day weekend favorite for years. But romantic Valentine’s Day dinners will remain a Los Cabos specialty this year, as will memorable cultural festivals, and plenty of outdoor sporting competitions, led by high-profile fishing and golf tournaments.

With that in mind, here are the February event highlights in cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

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

The historic Distrito del Arte in San Jose del Cabo takes center stage each Thursday evening during high tourist season–November through June–when residents and visitors alike are invited to stroll its cobblestone streets and peruse the many eclectic fine arts galleries. Art Walk hours are 5 to 9 p.m., when the neighborhood comes alive with wine, cheese and guided tours, as well as colorful street artists and strolling mariachis. This being 2020, social distancing and other safety protocols are in effect.

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

Art Walk may be the premier weekly cultural event in San Jose del Cabo, but Viva La Plaza holds that distinction in Cabo San Lucas. Held each Friday evening from 6 to 10 p.m. in the Land’s End city’s principal plaza – Plaza Amelia Wilkes – this weekly showcase lures visitors with regional paintings and handicrafts, artfully arrayed around the recently renovated square’s charming central gazebo. Live music and traditional Mexican dance are also big draws, as are food stalls featuring tasty Mexican favorites.

Valentine’s Day Dinners in Los Cabos – Feb. 14

Romance is ever present in Los Cabos, from pampering couples-focused spa treatments to Champagne amenities and sunset dinners for two. As the name suggests, the latter is a signature highlight at Sunset Monalisa. This year, as always, the fine dining favorite is going all out for Valentine’s Day, pairing a seven course tasting menu from Chef Jacob Ramos with live music, surprise amenities, and of course the restaurant’s trademark spectacular views of Land’s End as the sun goes down. Reservations are essential for the tasting menu, priced at $200 per person, but those who miss out on preferred seating needn’t worry. Romantic seaside restaurants abound in the cape cities; of special note, Waldorf Astoria Pedregal Los Cabos’ stunning El Farallon, with its dramatic setting of tables and Champagne Terrace perched above crashing Pacific Ocean waves.

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

Arizona State won the 2020 Cabo Collegiate by 8 strokes, besting Texas A&M on the spectacular Tom Fazio designed course at Querencia, one of the most exclusive private courses in Los Cabos. Oklahoma State won the previous three Cabo Collegiate Tournaments. Who’ll win this year? Too early to guess, but over 15 top teams from U.S. universities will compete in the three round event, including Cal and Stanford, Alabama and LSU, Ole Miss and Florida State, as well as former tournament champions Arizona State and Oklahoma State.

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:  Sunset Monalisa

Upcoming Events Calendar

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop (Virtual Session) – Jan. 31 – Feb. 6

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

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

Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) – Feb. 5

Valentine’s Day – Feb. 14

Día de la Bandera Mexicana (Flag Day) –  Feb. 24

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 18 – 21

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 21

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – Apr. 23 – 26

NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally Road Race – Apr. 23 – 30

May

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

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

June

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Jun. 3 -7

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – Jun. 23 – 27

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

WON Tuna Jackpot Fishing Tournament – 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

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

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena – Dec. 24

Navidad – Dec. 25

Nochevieja – Dec. 31

 

 

New Direct Flights From New York and Other Destinations, Plus Focus on Safety Propel Strong Tourism Recovery in Los Cabos

Los Cabos brought 2020 to a close with nearly 80% recovery of all travel activity due to the destination’s strong and swift response to control the spread of COVID-19. 2021 is expected to continue this trend, as vaccinations increased and the destination benefits from strong safety protocols and new direct flights from large East Coast markets in the U.S.

What a difference a year makes. In March 2020, Los Cabos closed the destination for over two months to focus on the creation and implementation of health and safety measures that would allow a safe reopening for international travel. With support from local authorities and tourism partners, Los Cabos Tourism Board implemented a successful phased approach to reopen the destination and created the Los Cabos with Care – A Safer Way to Get Away system, which comprises safety guidelines and health protocols to ensure the wellbeing of all travelers when visiting Los Cabos.

Since its reopening on June 15, 2020, Los Cabos has seen a strong recovery in international arrivals and closed the year with 1.4 million international visitors. In November, Los Cabos welcomed 103,000 international visitors, which is 64.3% of the visitation received during the same month in 2019.

“This remarkable recovery underscores the resilience of our travel industry and vote of confidence from our visitors who continue selecting Los Cabos as their preferred luxury travel destination in Mexico,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of Los Cabos Tourism Board. “Our top priority is the health and wellbeing of our community and all visitors. Tourism is the heartbeat of Los Cabos and it’s important that as we continue navigating this challenging time, we maintain our careful approach and strict protocols to protect our community while we continue our path to recovery.”

Los Cabos’ momentum is projected to continue throughout 2021 with an estimated 40.6% growth in seats during the first half of this year. As of now, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines are offering new direct flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark International Airport, marking a big milestone for Los Cabos with added direct connectivity to the East Coast of the United States. American is also launching flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and Sacramento International Airport. As of November 2020, the destination had successfully recovered 75% on international air connectivity and Los Cabos’ private airport had also seen a significant 137% growth in arrivals of private airplanes since the destination’s reopening.

In recent months, Los Cabos has also strengthened the destination’s health and safety protocols system created in partnership with Intertek Cristal in order to guarantee the highest standard of the travel industry. Additionally, the airport has implemented several changes, including expanding its operational headcount to provide a more personalized service, operating transportation buses at a 35-person capacity limit representing a 50% operational level, and increasing immigration officers’ hours of service to facilitate arrival of all international travelers and avoid waiting times while at the airport.

In each step along the way to recovery and beyond, Los Cabos is committed to a successful implementation of its health and safety system addressing the airport, transportation, accommodations, restaurants and bars, tour activities, the beach and the local community overall. Visitors interested in learning more about Los Cabos’ health and safety efforts can go to visitloscabos.travel/industry/los-cabos-with-care.

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:  American Airlines

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

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

Día de los Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

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

Twin Dolphin ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 9 – 12

Cabo del Sol ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 10 – 14

February

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

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

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

May

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

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

June

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

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

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

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

November

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

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

 

 

 

How to Vacation in Cabo Like a Celebrity: 3 Tips for Living Large in Los Cabos

For as long as tourists have been coming to Los Cabos, celebrities have been foremost among those touting the region’s charms. In the early days, it was Hollywood stars like John Wayne and Bing Crosby, who flew down for the big-game sportfishing and white-winged dove hunting. Today, it’s celebrities of all stripes. Cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo continue to be favored weekend getaways for movie stars, of course – thanks to the short flight down the coast – but also draw popstars, rock stars, superstar athletes, and many of the world’s richest people.

The attractions of the area are the same for celebrities as they are for the millions of other people of who vacation in Los Cabos on an annual basis: gorgeous beaches, year-round sunshine, great food and drinks, world-class outdoor activities, and a laid-back lifestyle.

But let’s be honest. Celebrities as a group don’t vacation like most people who visit Los Cabos. Celebrities tend to think big and live large, which is why so many people remain fascinated by their vacation habits.

In reality, you don’t to be a millionaire or celebrity to live like one…at least in the short term. But a certain larger-than-life travel approach is required. With that in mind, here are three tips for vacationing like a celebrity in Los Cabos.

Charter a Yacht for a Day

If you follow professional sports leagues in the U.S. like the NBA or NFL, you know Los Cabos, and Cabo San Lucas in particular, is a favored haunt of athletes and team owners. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was in Cabo on vacation when he first heard the team was for sale back in the late 1980s, and the team’s superstar running back Ezekiel Elliott continued his “training regimen” in Cabo during a recent holdout.

Renting a yacht is one of favored moves of visiting athletes. During the last 12 months, two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson, have shared Instagram posts of themselves and their significant others lounging on the deck of yachts in Cabo San Lucas Bay.

Why not? It’s a classic way to signal that you do things “big”, and incidentally, a great way to spend a day in paradise.

Jerry Jones may bring his own megayacht with him on vacation, but most celebrities simply charter a yacht – by the day or week – an option that on a half-day basis is often much more affordable than one might think (depending on the size of the boat, of course!).

An afternoon or sunset cruise aboard a private yacht is a great way to upgrade a vacation visit from memorable to unforgettable, and it shows a celebrity-like propensity for thinking big.

Stay in a Luxury Villa

The ultimate celebrity move, however, isn’t renting a yacht, but eschewing local luxury resorts for a private luxury villa.

George Clooney, Sammy Hagar, Michael Jordan and others have owned or continue to maintain their own luxury homes in the area, but there’s no need for such extravagances when you consider the region’s incredibly collection of luxury villas and rental properties. Luxury villas spread like flowers across the hillsides of Pedregal, the most exclusive neighborhood in Cabo San Lucas, but also dot the coastline from the tourist corridor which connect the cape cities to the East Cape and beyond.

Spectacular Pacific Ocean or Sea of Cortez views are a given, but so too are lavish comforts and over-the-top amenities, from expansive terrace set pools and jacuzzis to home movie theaters.

Again, this is often a more affordable option than one might think. Renting a luxury villa for a week often ends up being comparable in price to nightly rates at upscale area resorts, especially if you’re with friends or family and can share the cost.

It’s a question of thinking big, and assuming you deserve the best things in life, from infinity pool views of Land’s End to dinner menus customized with your private chef.

Eat at All the Right Places

Popstar and Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine chose a rustic restaurant as the setting when he married Victoria’s Secret model Behati Prinsloo. That restaurant was Flora’s Field Kitchen at Flora Farms in San Jose del Cabo.

The rustic farm-to-table eatery has been a celebrity favorite for years, so much so that free dinners there were included in the gift bag given to attendees at a recent Academy Awards gala.

Celebrities are never caught dining at unfashionable restaurants, so those who wish to emulate them must familiarize themselves with the trendiest eateries in Los Cabos. Right now that list includes Flora Farms and Acre in San Jose del Cabo, as well as Nobu at Nobu Los Cabos and El Farallon at the Waldorf Astoria in Cabo San Lucas. Casa de Brasa at the Four Seasons on Los Cabos’ picturesque East Cape is also a de rigeur dining spot for the smart set.

So, to conclude: eat well, live well, yacht well. Follow those three tips and not only will you have unlocked the celebrity’s vacation formula, you will in essence have become one.

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:  Deshaun Watson/Instagram

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

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

Día de los Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

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

Twin Dolphin ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 9 – 12

Cabo del Sol ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 10 – 14

February

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

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

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

May

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

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

June

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

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

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

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

November

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

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

 

The Remote Work Revolution: Why There Has Never Been a Better Time to Live in Los Cabos, Either Seasonally or Full-Time

The pandemic world in which we now live may soon be coming to an end as vaccination numbers increase, but some of the cultural and social side effects will be with us for a long time to come. A few of them are even positive. The remote work revolution, for instance.

The idea of working online from any location is not a new one. As soon as the internet became a reality in the mid-1990s a few lucky souls were able to cut the metaphorical cord connecting them to an office or defined workplace. The pandemic, however, with its focus on safety and social distancing, has shed a light on how many of today’s tech and other computer related jobs really can be done remotely; in other words, from home.

And with that realization comes another epiphany: home can be anywhere you choose. When all you really need is a laptop to make a living, it matters little whether you live in a densely populated city or in a palm tree lined beachfront paradise.

Given the option of living anywhere in the world, wouldn’t you choose the beachfront paradise?

With this idea in mind, here are three reasons Los Cabos is among the world’s best remote work living destinations…either seasonally or full-time.

The Perfect Mix of Near Yet Far

If you can live anywhere and still work, why not choose a beachfront paradise like Tahiti or Bali? Well, you could, but flying back to the U.S. to see family or attend the rare business meeting would involve very long flights and be very, very expensive. The beauty of Los Cabos is that it has the gorgeous beaches and year-round sunshine, but also an almost perfect mix of near yet far.

What does that mean? Cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are nearly 1000 miles by car from the U.S. border, on the southernmost rim of the Baja California peninsula. So there’s definitely a feeling of being “far from the madding crowd”, with all the privacy and seclusion one could possibly want. But the cape cities are also only two hours by plane from California, and three to four hours from most American cities. If you want to see friends or family members from the U.S., it’s still close enough to be convenient and affordable.

There’s also the fact that the U.S. and Mexico are neighbors, and thus it is easy to acquire visas for extended stays, or even to become a permanent resident of Mexico after a period of four years has elapsed. Dual citizenship is also a long-term option, and an attractive one for parents who’d like their children to have a bilingual education. The lack of Spanish for adults seeking a remote work location isn’t an obstacle either, since Los Cabos is a tourist destination with a work force that largely speaks English. There’s also an expat population of over 15,000 U.S. and Canadian citizens, so it’s not hard to make new friends with common interests.

The Los Cabos Lifestyle

We’re talking about remote work, but obviously the ideal location is one in which there are plenty of things to do when you’re not working.

From a lifestyle perspective, Los Cabos has it all. Everybody knows about the beautiful beaches and year-round sunshine, but the area is also home to 18 great golf courses from design names like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, dozens of world-class pampering spas, and for water sports…it’s heaven on Earth. The fishing, surfing and diving are amazing here, but there are also ideal conditions from everything from hiking and mountain biking to sailing and stand-up paddle boarding.

Plus, because Los Cabos is an international tourist destination, there are a wealth of great wining and dining options.

Great Rentals and Real Estate

The Los Cabos real estate market has been booming in recent years, and why not? Who doesn’t like ocean view homes that list well below similar properties in the U.S., and a destination that features lower property taxes and a lower cost of living?

That’s a pretty great combination, and if you decide you want to live full-time in Los Cabos (or even if you don’t), buying a home here is an excellent investment. But for many in the remote work space, the idea of being able to pick up and travel, or to move seasonally, is also part of the attraction.

In this case, Los Cabos also offers a fine selection of rental homes and condos. Traditionally, most seasonal residents have spent the winter in Los Cabos. It’s pretty nice, after all, to have 75 degree days in January. But the good thing about year-round sunshine is there are no bad days, or seasons either.

That’s probably something you couldn’t say about the last place you worked.

For more information about home rentals or real estate 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:  Villa del Palmar

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

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

Día de los Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

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

Twin Dolphin ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 9 – 12

Cabo del Sol ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 10 – 14

 February

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

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

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

May

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

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

June

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

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

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

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

November

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

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

 

 

 

What’s On Deck: An Early Look at the 2021 Fishing Tournament Calendar in Los Cabos

Despite the pandemic, 2020 proved to be a banner year for Los Cabos fishing tournaments, with huge turnouts and record-breaking prize money.

Destination anglers can expect more of the same in 2021.

Almost all of the dates for the major regional tournaments have now been released, so we’ll catch you up on that, as well as providing the latest info on registration and early bird discounts.

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament/Cabo Summer Slam – June 10th to 12th

Bisbee’s isn’t the only organizer of big money fishing tournaments in Los Cabos. Water sports apparel maker non pareil Pelagic returns to host its 8th annual Summer Slam this June. The 2020 tournament was cancelled because of quarantine conditions in Los Cabos, and only dates have been releases so far for the 2021 event. But based on previous editions of the tournament, expect a shotgun start in front of Land’s End, with teams competing to haul in trophy size marlin, sailfish, tuna, dorado and wahoo during the multi-day tournament. Last time the tournament was held, base entry was $3,500 per team, with $19,500 acr0ss-the-board for all jackpots and challenges. We’d expect prize money to easily exceed $300,000 overall.

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 23rd to 27th

During the 20+ years of its existence, the annual Stars and Stripes’ golf and fishing tournament has raised over 36 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 sportfishing 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. Last year’s tournament was cancelled, and only the dates have been released for 2021: meaning there’s no word as yet on this year’s headliner. Expect a big name, though. Sammy Hagar and Cheap Trick have performed in recent years.

East Cape Dorado Shootout – July 17th

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 2021 Volkswagen 4×4 Amarok pickup truck, of course. The rules are simple, catch the biggest dorado on July 17th 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 jackpot prizes here typically average $130,000.

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. 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. 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, 2021 for the ECO). The earlier you enter the more chances you have to win, as for each month prior to the deadline that you enter, you will receive an additional chip in the drawing. For example, if you enter 6 months prior you will receive six chips in the drawing. The free entry is good for the following year only and is non-transferable.

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Tournament – August 21st

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.

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. The Early Bird Deadline for the LCO this year is August 31st.

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.). Early Bird Deadline this year, as for the LCO, is August 31st.

WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot Tournament – Nov. 3rd to 6th

The Western Outdoor News has a long history with Los Cabos, dating back to the 1950s, when Baja columnist Ray Cannon’s rave fishing reviews helped put the area on the destination travel map. The WON Tuna Jackpot is one of the larger fishing tournaments in Cabo San Lucas, a fixture of the autumn sporting calendar that follows hard on the heels of the Los Cabos Billfish and Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore and Black & Blue Tournaments. 149 teams made it to Cabo San Lucas for the 22nd annual event in 2020, competing for record cash payouts of over one million dollars ($1,035,700 to be exact). Entry forms ($1000 base entry) are already out on their website for the 2021 tournament.

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:  WON Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

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

Día de los Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

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

Twin Dolphin ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 9 – 12

Cabo del Sol ProAm Golf Tournament – Jan. 10 – 14

February

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

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

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. 28 – Mar. 2

March

Cabo Collegiate Golf Tournament – Feb. – Mar. 2

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

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

Semana Santa – Mar. 28. – Apr. 3

April

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

Viva La Plaza in Cabo San Lucas – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23

May

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

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

June

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

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

Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament– Jun. 10 – 12

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

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

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

November

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

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