Best Pool Hotels in Baja California

Flanked by the secluded sands, aquamarine waters and pristine fairways of the Los Cabos corridor, One&Only Palmilla offers a long list of high-end amenities. You can rejuvenate with a deep tissue massage at the spa before retreating to your room, which comes with a flat-screen TV, a Bose audio system, Lady Primrose bath products and a balcony or patio that overlooks the Sea of Cortez or the Pacific Ocean. If you're looking for more activity, break out your irons and take a swing along the resort's 27-hole golf course or visit the concierge to sign up for a scuba or snorkeling adventure or a deep-sea fishing excursion. When hunger sets in, head to SEARED, the celebrated on-site restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. While some past visitors bemoaned the exorbitant menu prices, others said the steakhouse fare is well worth the high price tags. Plus, the resort offers three other eateries to choose from that serve everything from traditional ceviches to inventive sushi dishes.

Overlooking the Sea of Cortez from its 12-acre Los Cabos corridor perch, Cabo Azul Resort attracts those looking for dramatic scenery and an exclusive experience. You can take a dip in the three-level infinity pool, indulge in a snorkeling excursion or head to scenic links for a round of golf at nearby Palmilla Golf Club or Cabo Real. Afterward, venture to the property's PAZ Body & Mind Spa to soothe your muscles in a cabana-style treatment room. Once you're feeling relaxed, escape to your well-appointed suite or villa. Each is outfitted with stone flooring, a walk-in shower, a king-sized bed and a private patio terrace. Recent travelers highly recommend splurging on an ocean view room for exceptional vistas. According to a few previous guests, the only downside to staying here is the high price of the dishes and drinks served at Javier's Restaurant & Bar and Flor de Noche. That said, many said the on-site market, El Mercado, offers plenty of coffee, pastries and snacks to satiate your appetite at a lower cost.

With secluded sands, five pools and spacious accommodations, the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar caters to R&R-seekers. However, adventurous types can take advantage of a bevy of outdoor activities off of the property grounds. Golfers looking to perfect their swings can arrange a tee time with the hotel concierge at one of two nearby golf courses. And those looking to crank up the luxury on land can sign up for a decadent treatment at the Cactus Spa before escaping to their guest rooms' Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds, minibars and private terraces or balconies. As far as dining goes, you'll have your pick of four on-site restaurants, though guests especially recommend De Cortez Grill and Restaurant for its versatile menu and superior service. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here. You'll find the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar situated just 7 miles east of downtown Cabo San Lucas.

Sitting pretty along San José del Cabo's pearly sands, this all-inclusive Hyatt retreat provides a balance of relaxation and adventure. Those looking to unwind can lounge by one of four pools or along the beach before getting pampered at Zen Spa. Meanwhile, active travelers can tee off from one of the nearby golf courses. Once you've worked up a sweat, soothe your appetite at one of Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos' seven restaurants. Apart from the flavorful cuisine, recent guests praised the resort's superb scenery and outstanding customer service. And then there are the accommodations. Equipped with hydromassage tubs, rainfall showers and complimentary Wi-Fi, rooms offer ample space and garden or Sea of Cortez views from their private balconies or terraces.

Located in Cabo San Lucas, this sprawling all-inclusive resort lures travelers with its enviable access to the downtown area, as well as its versatile array of family-friendly amenities. Traveling clans praise the resort's children's pool, Kids Club (for guests ages 4 to 11) and youth-friendly dining venues. Plus, the airy accommodations – appointed with kitchenettes, living areas and ocean-facing balconies or patios – provide optimal space for larger groups. Parents looking to unwind can sign up for a massage or body treatment at the award-winning Armonia Spa at Sunset Beach, while golfers can venture to pristine fairways at the nearby Quivira Golf Club, situated next to Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort (note: these activities are not covered in the all-inclusive room rates). When you're ready to refuel, you'll have your pick of several on-site dining establishments. However, not all are included in the all-inclusive rates, and some – like LaFrida – require an extra cover fee per person. Should this pose a problem, just stroll into downtown Cabo San Lucas to sample some authentic dishes and get a taste of the lively cultural scene.

Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa, an all-inclusive resort, sits in the center of Los Cabos (roughly 13 miles northeast of downtown Cabo San Lucas). Each suite contains a satellite TV, stocked minibar and rain shower, not to mention commanding views of the Sea of Cortez from a private terrace or balcony. But the guest rooms' vantage points are only part of this Dreams resort's appeal. Travelers highlight Dreams Los Cabos' versatile array of daily activities, which range from yoga to golf to beach volleyball, as a major asset. Meanwhile, couples can relax at the adults-only pool or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Dreams Spa by Pevonia. When you're ready to eat, venture to one of the resort's eight restaurants, all of which receive high marks from recent guests for their diverse menu options and large portions. Though guests do report a satisfactory experience overall, they caution that taxi travel between the hotel and downtown Cabo can add up quickly. If you're looking to spend most of your time in Cabo San Lucas, consider bedding down somewhere closer to minimize transportation costs.

Situated within 2 miles of Cabo San Lucas' vibrant marina, Cabo Villas Beach Resort & Spa provides guests with dramatic scenery and enviable access to Cabo's numerous restaurants and boutiques. You can start your day by laying your towel down along Medano Beach's sugary sands or splashing around one of three hotel swimming pools. If you're looking for more activity, the hotel concierge can arrange a fishing charter or off-road adventure in Wild Canyon. Afterward, satisfy your appetite at one of the resort's three restaurants. The Baja Brewery Company, perched on the hotel's rooftop terrace, receives rave reviews from past travelers for its festive ambiance, imaginative "beer pizzas" and scenic Land's End vistas. When you're ready to unwind, pamper yourself with a replenishing treatment at the full-service SPARITUAL. Then, cozy up in your peaceful digs, which come appointed with kitchenettes, internet access and private decks.

Just like other Auberge properties, Esperanza provides guests with extravagant amenities like yoga classes, an oceanfront infinity pool and a sculpture garden. If you're craving a little rest and relaxation, head to the spa for a replenishing massage; though spa treatments will cost you a pretty penny, recent visitors said they're well worth the splurge. Once you're feeling relaxed, dig into some tantalizing dishes at Cocina del Mar, which offers fresh seafood that is prepared using cooking styles and traditions from across North, Central and South America. Or, if you would prefer more casual dining, sit down at one of the other on-site restaurants – La Palapa, Las Estrellas, La Terraza Americana and The Lounge Bar. Afterward, retreat to your spacious casita, suite or villa, which feature private terraces, lavish bath products, flat-screen TVs and (of course) personal concierge service. You'll find Esperanza in Cabo San Lucas, flanking the Sea of Cortez.

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort features the Unlimited-Luxury amenities of all Secrets properties. This all-inclusive, adults-only outpost is situated in San José del Cabo and offers plenty of features to keep visitors entertained. If R&R is what you're looking for, make your way to the Secrets Spa by Pevonia for a seaweed wrap or an aromatherapy salt glow treatment, or stake your claim to a lounge chair along nearby Puerto Los Cabos beach. Searching for a little more activity? The resort offers a championship golf course, fitness classes and two pools that set the scene for weekly theme parties. As for food options, you can take your pick from seven eateries that showcase global cuisine ranging from traditional Mexican fare to gourmet Italian dishes. When it's time to retire to your digs, you'll find your suite appointed with a Jacuzzi, minibar restocked daily, complimentary Wi-Fi and a private terrace or patio showcasing ocean or garden views.

Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, the Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences impresses guests with its authentic Spanish colonial architecture and attentive service. Recent visitors can't stop raving about the resort's home-away-from-home feel that's created with personal touches, like resort staff remembering guests' names. The warm, inviting atmosphere extends to the accommodations, which are adorned with bright colors, local artwork, handcrafted wood furnishings and private balconies. During the day, sun-worshippers can stretch out along the sand or lounge by one of several swimming pools before escaping to the Hacienda Encantada Spa or the Temazcal (a heated room similar to a sauna). Meanwhile, adventure seekers can sign up for a zip line tour or spend the day parasailing or diving. And with five restaurants and two swim-up pool bars – not to mention the eclectic array of bars and restaurants situated around the nearby Cabo San Lucas marina in the Golden Zone – there are plenty of culinary options to choose from.

Surrounded by 8 acres of golden sands, turquoise waves and Cabo's striking Land's End rock formation, this hideaway impresses visitors with its authentic hacienda-style decor and ocean views. All 260 guest rooms and suites boast private balconies, custom-made furniture, kitchens (or kitchenettes) and satellite TVs. Travelers also commend the versatile array of food specialties available at the resort's handful of restaurants, giving particularly high marks to the tasty Mexican steak and seafood dishes served at The Brigantine Restaurant. Luxury-seekers looking to stay closer to resort grounds can drop off the children at the Kids Club before claiming a spot by the adults-only pool or escaping to the luxurious Playa Grande Spa. Meanwhile, adventurous types looking to venture off the property will have their pick of a variety of outdoor activities that can be arranged through the hotel, including sport fishing, scuba diving and golfing. And because of its ties with the Preferred brand of hotels, the Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa allows guests to use or earn I Prefer points.

This all-inclusive resort is located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Not only does the resort sit between the city's picturesque marina and the beach, but it also puts guests within walking distance to top attractions like Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach) and Land's End. Along with the hotel's excellent location, guests were pleased with the quality of customer service, with many saying it was the highlight of their stay. Dining, on the other hand, was a different story. There are four on-site restaurants, including the buffet at Don Diego, but many guests said the food was hit-or-miss. Though the adults-only pool, with its swim-up bar, was a traveler favorite. Meanwhile, rooms feature tiled floors, light wooden decor and a crisp white color palette. Amenities include in-room coffee makers, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, minibars and a balcony or terrace. All-inclusive rates cover meals and drinks, unlimited tennis, access to the kids clubs and daily activity programs, such as fitness classes, pool games and beach activities.

With its enviable location (just a short walk from downtown Cabo San Lucas), The Ridge at Playa Grande Luxury Villas offers easy access to the area's sands, boutiques and restaurants. When you're not strolling about town, catch some rays at one of three swimming pools (recent visitors compliment the attentive pool staff). While you're perfecting your tan, the kiddos can splash around the kids' pool and water slide or practice their putting on the hotel's mini-golf course. Or if you're ready to embark on an adventure with your clan, arrange a kayaking, horseback-riding or deep-sea fishing expedition through the hotel concierge. Afterward, ease your muscles in one of the two hotel Jacuzzis or the Playa Grande Spa before satiating your appetite with delectable Mediterranean fare at The Ridge Bistro or at one of the other five eateries and bars. When you're ready to hunker down, retreat to your room, which comes furnished with bright Mexican-inspired accoutrements, a kitchen, living room and creature comforts like Internet access and a flat-screen TV.

Occupying real estate on Cabo San Lucas' scenic coastal stretch, the all-inclusive Hotel Riu Palace Cabos San Lucas offers guests upscale amenities and beautiful surroundings. Facing the Sea of Cortez, accommodations are decorated in auburn hues with wooden accents. Each room also features a stocked minibar and private balcony or terrace; past guests highly recommend reserving a room on a higher floor for the best ocean views. For sun-seekers, two spacious pools offer tranquil places to enjoy afternoon siestas. And out of the sunlight, you'll have access to this RIU property's salon and spa. As far as dining goes, you can linger by the pool or sip a refreshing cocktail at one of two swim-up bars or the poolside dining area. You can also dine a la carte at one of five restaurants. After you've recharged your batteries, you can indulge in a little more activity with a horseback ride, sailing or a round of tennis.

This isolated Rosewood retreat rewards guests with perks like personal butlers, BVLGARI bath products and fresh fruit delivered daily. Each of its standard junior suites features an iPod docking station (upon request), a marble bathroom, an adobe fireplace and a private patio with a telescope and garden or ocean views. But Las Ventanas al Paraíso's striking scenery is only part of its appeal. Travelers agree this Los Cabos hideaway is guaranteed to inspire romance. In fact, Las Ventanas al Paraíso has an entire department devoted to amorous guests, with specialists who can arrange anything from private salsa lessons to personalized couples spa treatments. Should you crave more activity, the concierge staff can arrange tee times at four nearby golf courses; recent guests highly recommend taking a swing at Cabo Real Golf Club, a championship Robert Trent Jones II course (located about a mile away from the property). And as far as dining goes, you can head to any of the five on-site eateries and bars.

Nestled within the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Grand Solmar Land's End Resort & Spa charms travelers with its prime ocean views and Mexican-inspired decor. Suites are highlighted with bright red, green, blue or orange accents and outfitted with wooden furniture and private terraces that face the ocean. When you're ready to engage with your surroundings, you'll find infinity pools, shaded cabanas and plenty of water sports activities (for an extra fee). After you've gotten your fill of the great outdoors, sample the traditional Mexican fare served at La Roca Restaurant or one of four other on-site dining venues. If you're still seeking an extra dose of luxury, step out of the sun and into the spa for a replenishing treatment. You can also count on total pampering outside of the spa; previous visitors said the friendly resort staff makes you feel welcome with extras, such as remembering guests' names and arranging nightly dinner reservations. Members of the I Prefer rewards program can earn or redeem points here.

Perched along the scenic Los Cabos corridor (within 4 miles of downtown San José del Cabo), the luxurious Hotel El Ganzo offers prime access to the beach and San Jose del Cabo's dining venues. But with three dining establishments serving everything from traditional ceviche and chilaquiles (tortillas layered with eggs, onion and cheese) to Japanese and Peruvian-inspired cuisine, there's hardly a reason to leave the property. When you're not indulging in a relaxing massage or body treatment at the spa or catching up on some light reading with your feet dipped in the rooftop infinity pool, you can lounge at the hotel's private beach club. Afterward, kick back in your well-appointed accommodations, which come with organic bath products, Wi-Fi access, Frette robes and stocked minibars. Apart from the modern rooms, past visitors especially praise the hotel's courteous, friendly staff members who they say go above and beyond to take care of guests.

Upon entering this hacienda-style retreat (situated 13 miles northeast of downtown Cabo San Lucas), guests are greeted with breathtaking vantage points of the surrounding Sea of Cortez. Though previous guests said Casa del Mar Golf Resort & Spa's Zen-like atmosphere induces repose upon arrival, R&R-seekers looking for an extra dose of luxury should head straight to the Sueños del Mar Spa to take advantage of a relaxing massage. You'll also have access to stimulating enrichment programs and facilities, such as cooking lessons and wine tastings, as well as two swimming pools, two tennis courts and fitness classes. And as far as dining is concerned, you can recharge at one of three on-site venues before kicking back in your digs. Accommodations feature 42-inch flat-screen TVs, Jacuzzis, BVLGARI bath products, daily replenished minibars and expansive outdoor terraces. What's more, members of the I Prefer program can earn or redeem points for bedding down here thanks to the hotel's Preferred ties.

Welcoming luxury-seekers to its secluded perch along Medano Beach, Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa seeks to provide a warm, inviting atmosphere. Guests believe it achieves this goal with it its authentic Spanish-colonial architecture and upscale amenities. Upon entering the lobby, guests are surrounded by sweeping views of Land's End and the Sea of Cortez. The serene ambiance extends to the hacienda-style suites, outfitted with spacious bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, kitchens and private balconies. Previous visitors strongly recommend splurging on an ocean view room, claiming the ambient sound of the ocean waves guarantees a good night's sleep. If you're a sun-seeker, you can kick off your day by staking out a spot along the beach before taking a quick jaunt to The Desert Spa. At this 31,000 square-foot spa, you'll find an extensive selection of specialty treatments, such as the "Sea of Cortez" body scrub. And when it comes to dining, you'll have your pick between La Parrilla (for breakfast and lunch) and La Casona (for breakfast and dinner), along with casual bites at the Palmita Market & Deli.

Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos' Mediterranean-style retreat appeals to travelers looking for a room with a view. From your guest room's private balcony or patio, you'll gaze out over Medano Beach to the Sea of Cortez and the Land's End rock formation. Each of the 147 suites features a blue and white color palette and comes with a kitchenette, cable TV and complimentary internet access. Previous visitors said the hotel's proximity to Cabo's bustling downtown area is just as great an asset as its clean, spacious rooms. Travelers also applaud the attentive staff, along with the tasty Mexican and international cuisine served at the property's two restaurants, Cilantro's and Las Palomas. If you prefer lounging by the pool, delight in light dishes as you admire impressive ocean views at the Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos poolside bar. More perks of this all-inclusive resort include private beach access, restaurant "theme nights" and cooking and bartending classes.

About 110 miles north of Cabo San Lucas, CostaBaja Resort & Spa is a sprawling resort that overlooks the Sea of Cortez. The resort plays up its coveted seaside location with a marina and access to sea kayaking, fishing, scuba diving and whale watching (some of which you can book through the resort's concierge). Guests also enjoy CostaBaja's beach, but suggest arriving early to snag a lounge chair. If lounging poolside is more your speed, then head over to the swim-up bar. When hunger sets in, you can choose from six on-site eateries (guests particularly love Steinbeck's and La Barcaccía for their enticing menu items, like smoked chicken and fresh fish entrees). And when the sun goes down, retreat to one of CostaBaja's guest rooms, which each come outfitted with complimentary wireless Internet access, a 42-inch flat-screen TV and a private balcony. Do note that the guest rooms have no bathtubs: Accommodations only contain glass-enclosed showers that are visible from the bedroom, so choose your roommates wisely.

This extravagant San Jose del Cabo property wins over guests with its lavish amenities, including a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, lofty guest rooms and activities like cooking classes and private tennis lessons. Accommodations feature spacious baths, ocean-facing balconies and, in some suites, private plunge pools. Some travelers note that the main pool can be chilly and caution that the costly cocktails served poolside can rack up an expensive tab quickly. For an extra dose of relaxation, book a specialty massage — or a marine crystals scrub — at Brio Spa before strolling along the beach. At the end of the day, sit down for a meal at Ola Mulata, where you can savor inventive Mexican cuisine as you admire ocean views. The Grand Mayan at Vidanta Los Cabos also houses two additional dining venues, both of which garner praise from past guests for their eclectic culinary delights.

The Westin Resort & Spa places guests within easy access of both Cabo San Lucas and San José de Cabo. Sun-seekers can flock to Medano Beach (about 13 miles south of the resort), while golfers step onto links at six neighboring courses, like Cabo Real. Those who would rather stay on the property grounds can lounge by one of two pools or get pampered with a rejuvenating massage at The Spa. The accommodations – which feature the Westin brand's signature Heavenly Beds, 32-inch TVs and private balconies – earn a nod of approval from recent guests, who described the rooms as clean and comfortable. Previous visitors also praised the gracious staff and impressive views overlooking the ocean. In terms of dining, you'll have your pick of four restaurants, all of which receive rave reviews from diners. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Recent visitors warn newcomers they won't want to leave this hotel once they've arrived. With its beachfront location on the shores of Cabo San Lucas, the hotel overlooks the famous El Arco. Everywhere you go in this hotel you'll run into spectacular scenery, literally – each guest room features ocean views. This, grouped with balconies, rain showers, kimono bathrobes, binoculars for whale watching and a welcome tequila amenity, not only make for a great getaway, but an unbeatable paradise. If guests do decide to leave their digs, they'll find even more luxury within the hotel's spa, nestled upon one of The Cape's natural rock formations. Lodgers can indulge in four bars, including the Pool Bar and the Rooftop Lounge, as well as two on-site restaurants, both serving up a blend of seafood, Mexican cuisine and American comfort dishes. Previous guests applauded the chefs for creating such flavorful food, no matter how simple the dish. But aesthetics and gastronomy aside, The Cape's most admirable quality is its impeccable service, according to travelers. From the moment guests arrived until the time they were bid a friendly adios, they felt they were truly taken care of. 

Located approximately 7 miles southwest of San José del Cabo, Marquis Los Cabos All Inclusive Resort & Spa, as the name suggests, is an all-inclusive property that touts picturesque vistas, upscale amenities and a wide variety of resort activities. Previous visitors highlight the resort's abundant amenities – which include infinite libations at the on-site bars and lounges, gourmet dining and concierge service – as the biggest draw here. Guests also compliment the resort's extensive sands and three pool areas. For an extra dose of relaxation, escape to the 13,000-square-foot Spa Marquis for a rejuvenating massage or treatment. Once you're feeling relaxed, soothe your appetite at one of five on-site restaurants. In the evening, cozy up in your spacious suite: All accommodations are appointed with terraces or balconies, satellite TVs, stocked minibars and separate showers and bathtubs. What's more, the hotel is part of The Leading Hotels of the World, meaning Leaders Club members have access to perks here.