Mission-Style Boutique Hotel on Mexico's Quiet Pacific Coast

About 50 miles north of rowdy Cabo San Lucas, Los Cerritos Beach's sparsely populated, white sand coast shows a quieter side of the Baja California Sur peninsula. Here, Hacienda Cerritos boutique hotel sits atop a private ocean-side bluff, its marigold-hued façade and mission-style design evoking a traditional hacienda. Everything from the massive, hand-carved wooden doors to the courtyard’s palm trees and traditional fountains suggests the history and grandeur of Old Mexico. Climb up the spiral staircase to the hotel's turret for panoramic views of Los Cerritos Beach, one of the only swimmable and surfable beaches on the Pacific side of the peninsula. The crescent-shaped stretch of sand attracts surfers and celebrities looking to enjoy the spot's steady swells and predictable whitewater.

White lounger beds surround the resort's outdoor pool, which features a lengthy swim-up bar where up to 18 patrons or a flock of thirsty pelicans can grab a drink. At nearby Cerritos Beach Club, surf instructors impart their knowledge during lessons. After hanging ten, guests can pop into the Beach Club restaurant for a meal. On Sundays, the club pulsates with live music, often headlined by jazz singer Daline Jones.

Each upscale one-bedroom suite has its own combination of amenities. Most suites feature private balconies or terraces, and some come with carved stone fireplaces. A private pool and jacuzzi can be found in select units, including bungalow four. Each suite is adorned with elegant, traditional decor such as woodwork, leather furnishings, and floors inlaid with Mexican tiles.

Todos Santos, Baja California Sur: Surfing, Jet Skiing, and Seaside Horseback Riding in Flourishing Artists’ Colony

A tranquil vibe prevails in the areas surrounding Los Cerritos Beach. Thanks to the wide shore, you can zip around the sand on ATVs or horseback without disturbing sunbathers. Jet skiing and kayaking are also popular pastimes. From December through April, gray whales and their offspring can be seen splashing in the warm waters offshore, after having migrated down the Pacific coast in their top-down convertibles. A 10-minute drive from the hotel brings travelers to the seaside village of Todos Santos. Founded as a mission in 1724, the town grew as a sugar-cane production center before farmers began growing poblano chilies, avocados, papayas, and mangos here. In the last decade, Todos Santos has become a creative hub for artists, who sell sculptures, paintings, and other works in the town's boutiques and galleries.

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