The Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa

Posted like a picture frame over the Sea of Cortez, the Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa are one of the more distinctively designed properties in the region. The rounded edges of the coral-pink building hearken a different era of design, but make no mistake that the hotel itself is a fresh and modern property. It also has cool regional touches that aren't often found in chain properties in this part of Mexico -- we especially loved the hand-stitched Oaxacan tapestries used in the rooms in the Royal, East, and West Towers. Last overhauled in 2017, the property has an upbeat atmosphere, with a mix of older and younger couples as well as families all congregating around the seven pools, ocean-facing restaurants, and at the beach. The Westin is significantly quieter than nearby options like Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos and Hilton Los Cabos, though it has more of a lively vibe than competitors like the chic JW Marriott Los Cabos, farther up the coast. 

The Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa is located on a beach along The Corridor, the 20-mile stretch of land between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. It's a region that's packed with resorts and hotels, though the Westin feels a bit more secluded compared to properties closer to the two main towns. While the resort sits right on the beach -- and it's a stunning stretch of sand that stays free of vendors -- you can't swim in the ocean here. That's unfortunately quite common in Los Cabos. There's a calmer beach at Palmilla, around 10 minutes away by car, where you can swim most of the year. Otherwise, Chileno Beach (Playa El Chileno) is the closest beach where the water stays calm year round -- it's 15 minutes away by car and has its own parking lot. Budget 15 minutes by car to reach charming San Jose del Cabo, where Thursday nights see the streets closed to traffic and galleries and restaurants open late for the Art Walk. In the other direction, it takes around 25 minutes to reach Cab San Lucas, where there are plenty of nightclubs (as well as the iconic Land's End and Lover's Beach). It will also take around 25 minutes to reach the airport by car. 

With 224 rooms -- or villas, as the Westin has dubbed them -- the rooms here are mostly contemporary, especially in the Royal, East, and West Towers. Expect bright colors and details like Oaxacan embroidered textiles adding some local flavor to the decor. We love upmarket touches like wooden ceiling fans and contemporary bedside lamps, while amenities are all essentially brand new. Bluetooth sound systems, modern kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs, and powerful air-conditioning all come standard. Rooms can fit four to six people, though eight guests can pack into some of the two-bedroom units. Balconies look to the sea, and views are particularly dramatic from the Royal Tower. The East and West Towers have partial ocean views from the balconies, though keep in mind that six units lack balconies. Guests staying in the Baja Point part of the resort have a private check-in area. While the Westin as a whole is a calm property, those really seeking peace and quiet will do best in Baja Point, where villas are arranged like a cliffside village into eight buildings. While this is the quietest part of the property, there are also stairs to navigate, so mobility challenged guests will want to opt for for the main towers. Rooms in the Baja Point section of the resort also look a bit more classic, with a Baja condo style. Bathrooms are nice across the board, with rainfall showerheads in all units and some including bathtubs as well. 

Of course, the beach here is a main draw. It's pretty as a picture and stays free of aggressive vendors. However, you can't swim in the sea at the resort, making the pools a crucial part of the Westin experience. Luckily, there are seven of them for only 224 rooms, meaning you're likely to find space for sunbathing and taking a dip. Most of the pools look out to sea, making them particularly pretty, and poolside service is also offered. Don't expect any wild pool parties or anything of the sort here -- the most energetic outdoor activity you'll find at the Westin is Zumba. If you'd prefer to unwind indoors, the attractive spa offers a range of massages and treatments. The sauna and steam rooms are free for guests to use. There are also two well-stocked fitness centers with a range of cardio equipment and free weights. The gym in the Baja Point section stays especially uncrowded. You'll also find activities at the gyms like yoga and TRX, but note that some fitness classes will cost extra. A kids' club is available and there's a kiddie pool as well. Dining options are numerous at the Westin, with Cocina Casera serving as the main hub of the resort. Breakfast and dinner buffets are served here, with casual theme nights on offer as well. There's both indoor and outdoor seating. Lunch takes place at Coraline, or either the pool bar or sports bar. There's also fine dining on offer at Ciruelo, where seven-course dinners and stunning coastal views are the name of the game. Reservations are recommended at Ciruelo. All-inclusive rates are not available at the resort. Regional shuttles are offered, though there are minimum numbers of guests required to book them. It's worth having a rental car to explore Los Cabos -- particularly to reach San Jose del Cabo for the art walk, or to find the region's swimmable beaches. Valet parking is free.