Los Cabos, on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, features a dazzling duo of coastal towns: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, and a sublime blend of sun-soaked beaches, upscale resorts, and vibrant culinary scenes and nightlife. This OutThere destination has carved out a reputation as a luxurious escape for travellers looking for upscale adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion. With its LGBTQ+-welcoming atmosphere and opulent offerings, Los Cabos is a magnet for discerning and diverse travellers from across the globe.
Los Cabos has long been a haven of inclusivity for those in the know, where diversity is celebrated and everyone is welcomed with open arms. It isn’t as obvious a ‘gay mecca’ as compared to its flashy, party-centric Mexican cousin in Puerto Vallarta… but still, it boasts an inherently progressive attitude, reflected in the many LGBTQ+-friendly and welcoming businesses and services tailored to the LGBTQ+ community.
The tourism board, alongside the local community and businesses have worked hard together, to create a safe and accepting environment, making it a standout destination for queer travellers. It is the first destination in the world to receive the ‘Queer Destinations Committed’ distinction which reassures LGBTQ+ travellers visiting the destination, allowing them to choose from a variety of certified properties and service providers that meet the highest standards of safety, service and excellence for the community.
Moreover, it is one of the only destinations we know that actively tracks just how much it draws LGBTQ+ travellers from across the world. The destination’s official marketing organisation – Visit Los Cabos – proudly tells us that 18% of its visitors are part of the LGBTQ+ community, with 72% coming from countries outside Mexico. It currently also attracts more lesbian, bi and pan female travellers than it does gay men… and 23% of its visitors identify as something other than male or female.
And we’re not surprised… the destination leads on rights for its LGBTQ+ community. In Los Cabos, same-gender marriage is legal (and gay and lesbian destination weddings are huge, by the way), adoption is allowed for LGBTQ+ adults, conversion therapy has long been banned and transgender people can self-identify when it comes to their legal documents. And of course Los Cabos Pride is held every summer in June.
Luxurious escapes
Los Cabos offers high-end accommodations that cater to the tastes of luxury travellers; who have been adequately trained to welcome LGBTQ+ travellers. There’s iconic Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, Solaz, A Luxury Collection Hotel, and one of the host hotels of OutThere’s recent LGBT+ Travel Symposium (held for the first time in the destination): Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa. Each are stunning beachfront properties. These indulgent oases boast lavish suites (and private villas), alongside world-class service and facilities.
There are also exquisite luxury villas for those seeking further privacy, that offer incredible amenities such as infinity pools, spacious terraces with breathtaking ocean views and personalised concierge services. Many of these villas – like those on offer from Queer Destinations certified villa rental company CaboVillas.com – blend modern elegance with traditional Mexican charm.
Culinary Delights
Los Cabos is a gastronomic paradise, boasting a culinary scene that rivals any major city. LGBTQ+ travellers will enjoy the destination’s many dining options, from street food stalls serving up authentic tacos to high-end restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, like Don Sanchez, Los Tres Gallos and NAO CABO. And all this doesn’t include the restaurants that Los Cabos’ luxury hotels offer. The indulgent brunch buffet at Manta at The Cape Hotel is legendary, known for its jovial atmosphere and ocean views.
Flora Farms Kitchen, a charming organic farm-to-table eatery and cooking school, offers a unique foodie experience where guests can savour fresh, locally sourced dishes in an oasis-like setting.
Experiences Awaits
Beyond the luxurious resorts and exquisite dining, Los Cabos whets your sense of adventure with a range of outdoor activities. LGBTQ+ travellers can embark on thrilling excursions such as whale watching, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez and coming up close and personal to the iconic El Arco by yacht with providers like Wild Cabo Tours, yet another Queer Destinations committed entity. There are other ways of exploring the rugged desert landscapes too – like ziplining, e-biking or a guided ATV tour with Cabo Adventures. For a more tranquil experience, a sunset sail on the Pacific Ocean offers a magical way to take in the natural beauty of the region.
Vibrant Nightlife
As the sun sets, Los Cabos comes alive with a nightlife scene that is both vibrant and diverse. Cabo San Lucas, in particular, is known for its lively clubs and bars where music and dance reign supreme. The Pink Kitty Nightclub and Mandala Los Cabos are popular spots where LGBTQ+ travellers can dance the night away in an inclusive and exhilarating atmosphere. There’s an LGBTQ+-dedicated bar too – although mostly only busy at weekends – Chandelier.
For a more chilled but equally fun-filled evening, we recommend the San Jose del Cabo Art Walk. The town is offers laid back drinking and dining every night of the week but comes alive with vibrant activities every Thursday.
Plan your trip
To help plan your next luxury trip, visit www.visitloscabos.travel or speak to your travel advisor.
Photography courtesy of Visit Los Cabos
This article is in partnership with Visit Los Cabos
