A Dream Escape to Los Cabos at Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Along the southern tip of Mexico‘s Baja California Sur peninsula in San Jose del Cabo, where the cacti-dotted desert meets the shimmering ocean, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort, is indeed a window to paradise as its name suggests. Upon arriving to the resort’s thatched open-air lobby, waves of bliss and serenity immediately wash over you, almost in sync with the water. And with more than 350 days of sun a year, the weather couldn’t be more predictably perfect, especially during the winter and spring months.

Gorgeous beachfront digs, numerous pools, fine dining and amenities all come with the territory of an exclusive 5-star property, but it’s the dedicated team behind Las Ventanas who create the real magic. Whether it’s pampering or seclusion you’re after, the care with which the staff looks after guests is genuine and heartfelt, and it’s why so many return again and again.

Highlights of Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort

Accommodations

With just 84 rooms housed within whitewashed stucco buildings across 12 acres, it’s easy to see why guests often feel like they have the entire resort to themselves. From sprawling junior suites (starting at 960 square feet) to standalone villas, interiors feature latilla ceilings made from branch beams, intricate tilework, hand-carved wood furnishings and colorful Mexican textiles and pottery, lending a true sense of place. Bathrooms are generously sized as well, with double sinks and soaking tubs.

All rooms boast private patios or terraces, some with Jacuzzis. During my recent visit, I loved sitting outdoors and watching the sun come up with coffee in hand, a quiet moment that set the tone for the day. Facing the Sea of Cortez, halfway between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, Las Ventanas’ perch allows for fantastic sunrise views.

Adults traveling without kids in tow should also consider the one-bedroom villas for the private infinity pool, Jacuzzi and firepit. (This is where I spent much of my time while actually in my room.) By day, enjoy soaking up the sun by the pool and by evening, dip into the hot tub or sit by the fire under the starry sky. Cabo is a prime area for stargazing with relatively little light pollution.

It’s also worth noting that all rooms at Las Ventanas include butler service at no additional charge. These team members support guests with any needs or wants, no matter how big or small. As a big fan of aqua de Jamaica (tart, refreshing hibiscus water), I asked our butler, Javier, if he would be able to leave some in the room fridge. Not only did he comply, he replenished it daily without my having to ask. From restaurant reservations to activities to coordinating transport, Javier took such great care of us and became our individual point person for the entirety of our stay.

Amenities and Activities On- and Off-Property

With eight pools to choose from, the property’s design and layout allows guests to retreat to quiet corners at their leisure. The central infinity-edge pool overlooking the sand and ocean boasts a swim-up bar, while the lazy river Oasis pool has a hot tub within a hidden grotto. There are also pétanque and mini-golf areas adjacent to the Oasis pool.

Fitness-minded guests can enjoy all manner of equipment and classes on-property, and the team can even arrange some private sessions in rooms upon request. The Four Elements spa is not to be missed, with treatments inspired by the healing traditions of Baja. Try the Flor de Luna exfoliating scrub made with dragonfruit and indigenous moonflower, or a couples’ treatment complete with rose petal soak.

Though much of Cabo’s appeal is the idea of staying put at a luxury resort, those keen to venture off-property can take advantage of the region’s signature activities, from whale watching (humpbacks are known to migrate through the region) to golf. Scuba diving is popular also, as Jacques Cousteau called the  UNESCO-designated Sea of Cortez  “the world’s aquarium” due to its rich marine biodiversity. Las Ventanas can easily arrange private charters of its 58-foot-yacht for a romantic sunset sail with cocktails and dinner onboard.

One of my favorite experiences at Las Ventanas was a special cooking demonstration-cum-lesson with executive chef Victor Palma. Over two hours, Chef Victor showed us how to make mole negro; mushroom tinga; and nopal (cactus) and potatoes in a tangy adobo sauce, as well tortillas cooked on a comal (griddle) from scratch. Sharing food traditions and history as we laughed and cooked together was an absolute highlight of our visit.

Lastly, on Thursday evenings November through June, San Jose del Cabo hosts a lively downtown art walk. Meet local painters, sculptors and artisans showcasing their work and wares along streets and squares.

Food & Drink

With several restaurants on-property, there’s no shortage of different venues and cuisines to sample. Two standouts are the Sunset Bar with couches and tables on the sand and the award-winning Arbol, where the Pan-Asian menu includes everything from sashimi and sushi to tandoori-style chicken.

Off-property but worth a lunchtime visit is Flora Farms, a 25-acre working farm with an open-air restaurant where guests can stroll the grounds, pop into a soap shop and designer boutique, grab a homemade ice cream cone and be back at Las Ventanas in time to hit the pool.

Service

For a hotel team to care for guests with thoughtfulness and sheer joy is a kind of art — hospitality at its utmost. At Las Ventanas, this degree of care is the norm, not the exception. (The property has some 750 employees for its 84 rooms.)

Even as they walk along the stone paths, staff members greet guests with a smile, a nod and a quick “good afternoon” or “good evening” in Spanish. Each and every driver, server or pool attendant manages to convey, often without words, that they wish your stay to be as enjoyable, memorable and special as possible. And months and years later, that is what will remain with you.

Relevant Links: 

Browse all accommodations and destinations in Mexico on Ciao Bambino

See our favorite ideas for beach vacations

Cultural immersion and beachfront fun in Los Cabos, Mexico

Best things to do on the Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Photos by Tanvi Chheda except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.