Grand Solmar Land's End Resort & Spa

The hotel’s dramatic location adjacent famous Land’s End arguably one of the most beautiful in Cabo San Lucas, even if the iconic rock arch isn't visible from this side of the mountain. The Mediterranean-inspired architecture and decor are a tasteful blend of grand archways, wrought iron accents, and rich mahogany furniture -- all punctuated with rich, deep pops of color and locally-inspired artwork. Most common areas -- the restaurants, bars, pools, and the spa -- all feature an open-air design that appears to flow into one another seamlessly. The atmosphere here is refined and you won't see any hard partiers at this resort. The varied clientele includes just as many families as honeymooning couples, and most of them spend most of their time at the resort, without venturing off of the property for much. Given the number of features here, it's hard to imagine what they'd be missing, anyway. Even so, beware about time share pitches and ongoing construction that may disrupt the peace and quiet.

Along with a handful of other resorts, Grand Solmar Land's End Resort & Spa is situated in a small hotel compound off Boulevard Paseo de la Marina. The shops and bustling nightlife of downtown Cabo San Lucas are five minutes away by car, though a bit far to reach on foot. The vibe on this side of the peninsula is markedly different than the rowdy party atmosphere along Medano Beach (a 10-minute drive away). Unfortunately, the boozy trappings of Medano Beach are the only place to swim nearby, as the ocean next to the hotel is far too dangerous to get in the water. Travelers looking for day trips might consider San Jose del Cabo, which is a quaint, artsy town that's a 40-minute drive north. Todos Santos is about an hour away, for those looking to explore one of Mexico's Pueblos Magicos. Los Cabos International (SJD) Airport is reachable in 45 minutes by car. The hotel offers paid shuttle service for a pricey per-person fee. Alternatively, private bus and taxi services are the most affordable public transportation options. Several brand name car rental providers are also located in the airport terminal.

Room decor is -- like the common areas -- tasteful, sophisticated, and luxurious. Dark oak and mahogany furniture, ornate fabric patterns, creamy travertine surfaces, and deep, bold pops of color abound. The blend of traditional silhouettes -- like stately headboards and benches -- alongside artsier accents like broken-glass lamps and abstract art create spaces that have a refined quality.All six room categories are spacious, with even entry-level Grand Studios feature 737-square-foot (68-square-meter) layouts with separate sleeping, living, and dining areas. Suites feature an additional bathroom, a full kitchen with a wet bar, and better ocean views. Flagship Three Bedroom Penthouses and Four Bedroom Penthouses have massive floor plans of up to 6,232 square feet (579 square meters) and almost dizzying amenities lists. Full kitchens, separate living and dining rooms, multiple bathrooms, marble wet bars, whirlpool hot tubs, and private terraces with (optional) plunge pools are all on offer. At a minimum, every room has at least one private ocean-view balcony, even those on the ground floor. Additional amenities typical of a luxury hotel -- air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs -- are standard. Fast, free Wi-Fi is also available property-wide.Bathroom sizes variy widely depending on the room category. However, all are done in marble and stone, with intricate tile inlays and decorative wall insets. The master bathroom in every category has a separate bathtub and a walk-in shower stall. Vert de Terres bath products are standard.

Given the hotel’s luxury status, the extensive list of resort-style amenities isn’t surprising. Guests have access to eight pools, three full restaurants, several bars, a modern gym with a yoga studio, and a breathtaking spa with views of Land’s End. Don't expect all-inclusive rates here, though -- in fact, most luxury hotels in Cabo don't offer them.

Although the hotel houses nearly 250 rooms, the eight pools scattered throughout the property ensure that guests never feel overcrowded when they want to lay by the water. These include a kiddy pool, adult-only pool, and three additional oceanfront infinity pools, all with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Hundreds of chairs, umbrellas, and outdoor couches/cabanas line every pool terrace. Poolside drink service is available throughout, and snack bars are conveniently located near most as well. An additional private pool is available in the Sea Spa, exclusively for spa guests.

The three full on-site restaurants are located in airy, beautifully designed spaces, each with unique, modern decor. La Roca, the main restaurant, is situated in a casually elegant space with water views from the indoor and outdoor seating areas. Breakfast and dinner are served both buffet-style and a la carte with a blend of Baja (mostly seafood) and international fare. Don Luis provides specialty fine-dining dinner service with rotating themed menus that include Italian, Mexican, and Argentinian. The hotel’s Sushi Lounge is tucked into an intimate, open-air space that blends the area’s natural rock landscape with tasteful man-made rock formations. In addition to sushi, the menu includes an extensive list of bespoke cocktails. Additional dining options are available at several snack bars spread throughout the property as well as 24-hour room service.

The massive beach is long and pristine with a clear view of the mountainous backside of Land's End, but not the iconic arch. However, the lack of facilities or seating on the sand is unfortunate. Due to the resort's location on the extreme southern end of Baja California Sur, the beach is exposed to the rough, open waters of the Pacific Ocean. Because of this, the hotel strongly discourages swimming as the water is typically dangerous and rip currents are common.

Although the on-site spa is modestly sized, its beachfront location is arguably one of the most dramatic of any spa in Cabo San Lucas. Each of the private, thatched-roof cabanas provides a private balcony with stunning views of Land’s End. A full menu of massage treatments is available with most sold as multi-hour packages that include drinks, meals (or snacks), and ample time for guests to relax in their cabana. Essential beauty treatments are also available, including hair and nail services.

The spacious fitness center is situated in a bright, modern space that gets plenty of natural light. Dozens of cardio- and strength-training machines are available, along with ample free weights and televisions. A yoga studio in the rear provides free instructional classes as well.

Free valet parking is provided in a secure lot. Wi-Fi is likewise free throughout the property, and we found the service fast and reliable.