Best Beach Hotels in The Corridor, Los Cabos

One of the smaller luxury properties in Los Cabos, Esperanza Resort packs plenty of luxury punch. With a dramatic cliffside setting, stunning ocean views are available almost everywhere, and the many terraces at the hotel's gourmet restaurant jutting out into the ocean. The 123 casitas and villas are rustic, bright, and refined, with romantic extras like bathrooms with side-by-side showers and separate soaking tubs. Balconies include plunge pools or hammocks, and pampering services include in-room check-in and personal concierges. The hotel has an elegant spa and large fitness center, and the main infinity pool is a stunner, though the beaches aren't swimmable. This is one of the more reasonably priced luxury properties in Los Cabos, and while the Resort at Pedregal is closer to San Lucas, rates will be higher.

The 526-room, three-pearl Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos is trying. Eight restaurants and all-inclusive rates are appealing, and the well-liked food ranges from simple grill fare to higher-end a la carte dining. The bars are busy all day -- as are the sparkling clean pools -- and the terrace restaurants overlooking the beach are lovely spots for taking in the ocean views. The minimalist-modern rooms include balconies -- most with sea views -- and bathrooms feature separate walk-in showers and bathtubs. However, flaws included a lack of power during some of our visit, malfunctioning in-room features, shabby design details, a few dated common areas, and inconsistent Wi-Fi. Check out the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos instead -- rates there are lower and the hotel has a far more polished atmosphere.

Located along the secluded Tourist Corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, The Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa isn't close to much -- aside from the beautiful beach (with rough waves) and the airport. Rooms are large and sleek, and there are numerous gorgeous infinity pools with ocean views. For some (particularly couples), the seclusion, quiet, and stunning desert coastline setting of this resort is the major draw. Its kids' club and large rooms make it a good choice for families as well, but partiers and beach bunnies may consider staying at a resort on the calm waters of Medano Beach, close to the hopping scene of downtown Cabo San Lucas.

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Sea of Cortez, the massive Hacienda Encantada Resort and Residences is one of the top upscale hotels in the area, known for its sweeping views, beautiful pools, and all-inclusive options. All 237 rooms are Mexican-inspired and feature modern amenities: flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and balconies. The resort is ideal for families, with a massive kids' zone, plenty of games, and an activity pool. There are several dining and drinking options -- Italian, Mexican, and buffet -- and a few wellness choices such as a small spa and fitness center. Though sun loungers are set up on a rocky stretch of shore, there isn't a real beach here. Past guests have complained about everything from time-share pitches to closed restaurants. For those who want sand access, the Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa is right on swimmable Playa el Medano. 

The upscale Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa is a popular all-inclusive option on The Corridor in Cabo. The resort's contemporary Spanish-style design carries over to the 308 suites, all of which have minibars, furnished balconies, and premium cable. There isn't much within walking distance of the property, but couples and families who stay here are kept plenty busy on-site. Highlights include seven restaurants, four bars with top shelf liquors, two outdoor pools with activities, plus a spa and modern fitness center. There's also a full beach setup, though like many hotels in the area, the water is usually too rough for swimming. With a kids’ club, daily DJ sets, and evening entertainment, expect an energetic (and often noisy) atmosphere. For an alternative closer to downtown Cabo, the Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa has similar rates and features, plus rooms with kitchenettes.

The 270 rooms of the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos are spread out in colorful buildings across pristine grounds. The room decor itself may not be that exciting (tiled floors, rare pops of color, and local artwork attempt to create an authentic vibe) but everything is modern, including flat-screen TVs and crisp white linens. Every room has a private terrace, many with gorgeous ocean views. The private beach, where the waves can get a bit rough, is rarely crowded. And the hotel also has three pools, one with a swim-up bar. It's a good choice for families, with a kids' club and four on-site restaurants, but the hotel is a 15-minute drive from downtown Cabo, so partiers may want to stay closer to the nightlife.

While the suites at Marbella En La Playa are not impressively decorated or luxurious, they are some of the most spacious, clean and affordable in Baja California. They vary wildly in their offerings (some have full kitchens while others only have a microwave and empty mini-fridge), but they all have lovely views. The pool area is nice and shaded, if a little small and oddly laid out, and the Jacuzzis offer great ocean views. The attractive beach is the real draw, and replaces the booze-fueled parties of nearby Cabo with laid-back bonfires. The secluded surroundings cater well to couples or relaxed families.