Viceroy Los Cabos

If you're after a beach escape that pairs destination dining, cool nightlife, and incredible architecture all in one, the Viceroy Los Cabos should be your pick. Opened in late 2018, this resort consists of striking Mexican modernist towers arranged around a vast series of reflecting pools cut across by pathways and centered on Nido -- an eye-catching inverted nest that's the resort's ceviche restaurant and centerpiece. Nido alone is worth a visit just to snag a photograph -- as are the entire grounds here, really. But style isn't the only thing on offer at Viceroy Los Cabos. Instead, you can expect everything from a serene spa and pools to a lively beach club and rooftop bar that hosts the occasional party with international DJs. This Viceroy draws a wide cross-section of travelers thanks to its luxury-level services and amenities and its Instagrammable interiors. It also serves as a social hub for travelers from around the region, as the bars and restaurants draw tourists and locals. We saw everyone from young influencers to families and couples during our late 2018 visit. 

Viceroy Los Cabos is located smack in the middle of the Hotel Zone just outside of San Jose del Cabo. Among its neighbors are some of the most recognizable resorts in the region, and there are a number of shops and restaurants along this same stretch of road. The hotel sits along the beach, and a sheltered bike path runs along the highway out front, leading right into the charming heart of San Jose del Cabo. It's a 10- to 15-minute ride by bike, or just five minutes by car. The town is worth checking out particularly on Thursday nights, when its galleries, cafes, and restaurants buzz until later in the evening for the Art Walk. Cabo San Lucas, which is where the region's spring break bars and loud nightclubs are found, is about 40 minutes away by car in the opposite direction. It's an 80-minute drive to Todos Santos, which is a popular day trip. Budget 25 to 35 minutes to reach the airport, depending on traffic.

The rooms here are all spacious, and come in a couple of distinct styles. Some have an ultra-contemporary white-on-white finish with glossy surfaces, low-slung or sunken seating areas, and light wood accents. Others feel a bit more bespoke, with Scandinavian and modernist lines, darker wood touches, and softer angles. You'll find pops of color in all units, including sharp patterned throw pillows and -- in many -- color-changing LED light controls. Floor plans are large, and even entry-level rooms have a small seating area. Larger Junior Suites and Premier Suites have full-blown loving areas and -- in many -- dining areas as well. 

Standard features include massive terraces -- some with private hot tubs -- that either look onto the resort's reflecting pools or to the beach and sea. You'll also score one or two Smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines, minibars, air-conditioning, and touch-panel blackout blinds. There's plenty of storage space as well. Bathrooms can be compact in many units, but all have at least rainfall showers, marble surfaces, and backlit vanities. Higher-category units, like the Viceroy Ocean View Premier Suite that we saw have immense open-plan bathrooms with dual sinks, separate soaking tubs, and spa-worthy showers. 

While style is definitely a big draw at Viceroy Los Cabos, it also packs in all of the luxury extras for which the brand is famous. It's one of the buzzier resorts in the region, with destination drinking and dining venues that are a top draw. The signature spot here is Nido, the iconic nest-like dome that sits amid the Viceroy's reflecting pools. Dinner takes place here, with ceviches and great cocktails amid the stunningly lit space. It's definitely a special addition to the property. Elsewhere, Casero slings local organic fare, while Otro provides coffees and drinks during the day as well as cocktails at night. As of early 2019, a rooftop lounge and bar is a big draw as well, with tourists from across the region posting up for beautiful views while DJs spin. All-inclusive rates are not available.

Nidito Beach Club offers beachside service for drinks and light food, though you can't swim in the ocean here (which is the case across most of Cabo). For a cool down, the hotel offers four pools and various hot tubs. Those are found woven in with the property's reflecting pools, though one on the rooftop is reserved for adults only. However, this is a family friendly property and the resort has both a cinema and kids' club (babysitting is available). There's also a spa and a great gym with trainers and a wide array of programming and fitness equipment. Wi-Fi and valet parking are both free.