Holiday Inn Express Cabo San Lucas

Situated right next to the busy highway that follows the coast linking the two main towns of Los Cabos, the Holiday Inn Express fits the "express hotel" bill almost to a tee. The plaza-like building, with other shops, restaurants, and services occupying various floors, at first looks like a strip mall, but once inside things are pleasant. Decor is predictably limited, but modern and bright, with gray marble floors, the brand's signature bright blue and green, and a few services available in the hotel's lobby. There's not really anywhere to gather and socialize, but the hotel mostly attracts business guests who are out for much of the day, so the vibe is subdued. Given its proximity to Cabo San Lucas and reasonable rates, the hotel is also a fine choice for those on vacation who don't mind using their own wheels to get around and see the sights.

On the busy highway that links Los Cabos' two main towns -- Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo -- the hotel's location is logistically convenient, but not exactly scenic. The sea can be glimpsed from the hotel's pool and upper-floor rooms, but there's no beach within walking distance. A few shops, a great cafe, and a gym are within the same building, and there's a popular taco joint within a five-minute walk, but otherwise guests need a car if staying here. It's a five-minute drive to downtown Cabo San Lucas, which is home to all manner of touristy trappings, including its bustling marina, booze-fueled bars and clubs, and taco stands galore. For something more quaint, San Jose del Cabo is a 30-minute drive north. The town is packed with galleries, charming cafes, and upscale eateries (as well as authentic open-air seafood grills and pastry shops). San Jose also hosts a popular Art Walk on Thursdays in high season. The airport is near San Jose del Cabo as well, a 35-minute drive from the Holiday Inn. 

Decor here hews close to what's expected from the brand, and while it's nothing memorable, interiors are at least modern. Light wood-veneer furniture, white bedding, and light tile floors all keep things bright, while green accents walls, abstract art, and navy bed runners add a nice pop of color. All rooms have a decent amount of space, but Executive Rooms are extra spacious, with armchairs set near the windows in addition to desks. The hotel uses its own firm, but yielding, brand of mattresses, and pillow menus are offered -- a comfort-enhancing perk. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, safes, limited free bottled water, and coffeemakers with free coffee. Bathrooms are compact, but include contemporary marble vanities and sinks plus glass-stall or roll-in showers. A basic selection of toiletries is provided and hairdryers come standard. Despite its setting right next to a busy highway, noise isn't an issue here. 

This hotel has a limited number of features, but what's on offer generally makes a nice addition and enhances the value of a stay here. The rooftop pool is a highlight. It's tiny and has a limited amount of seating, but the space is modern and offers distant views of the sea. The hotel's breakfast scores high marks and includes a wide array of hot and cold options, including rotating local dishes like chilaquiles. Lunch and dinner are not available. There are coin-operated laundry machines on-site and the hotel has a small computer station that includes scanning and printing, plus meeting rooms. Car rentals are available on-site with free airport drop-offs, and excursions can be arranged through a tour desk. Free access is provided to the gym that shares the hotel's building, and there's a great little unaffiliated coffee shop downstairs as well. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.