Day 1

Arrive at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD); transfer to a hotel in downtown San José or a resort along the Corridor. Consider El Encanto Suites for modest accommodations or Casa Natalia for something more upscale. A condo at Playa Costa Azul on the outskirts of San José is another good option. If it’s Thursday, browse open galleries on the weekly evening Art Walk in downtown San José. Savor the tastes of alta cocina mexicana at one of San José’s stylish restaurants, such as La Panga Antigua, Tequila Restaurant, or Don Emiliano.

Day 2

Grab a pastry for breakfast at the French Riviera. Relax with a good novel by the pool. Later, walk or kayak along the Estero San José; snorkel the rock reefs at Playa Chileno or Playa Santa María, looking for green moray eels, spotted eagle rays, and an array of tropical fish; or catch some waves at Playa Costa Azul. Book a sunset horseback riding tour along Playa California. In the evening, order a refreshing michelada followed by a seafood dinner at an oceanview restaurant along the Corridor, such as Puerta Vieja or Sunset Da Mona Lisa. Finish the evening at LaSanta Wine Bar or Morgan’s Restaurant and Cellar, both near the plaza in San José.

Day 3

Head out for a day of fishing from La Playita or surfing at Playa Costa Azul. Alternatively, you could travel to Cabo San Lucas to go diving. Or browse the many interior design shops in San José, dreaming of ways to decorate your own vacation home. Better yet, sign up for a massage at one of the luxurious spas at the Westin Los Cabos, Marquis Los Cabos, or Esperanza resorts.

Ask Restaurant-Bar Pepe’s to prepare your fresh catch for dinner, head to Carnitas El Michoacano to order carnitas by the kilo, or try the stone bowls filled with flank steak and avocado at Guacamaya. Afterward, head to Havana Supper Club or Zippers at Playa Costa Azul for some live music.

Excursion: To see a more remote side of Baja, drive to La Playita (15 minutes) and along the southern stretch of the East Cape. Retrace your steps, allowing time to get back to your hotel before dark.

Day 4

Last chance to work on a tan by the pool. Stroll Boulevard Mijares one last time to pick up gifts and souvenirs at Sol Dorado or Antigua Los Cabos. Pack your bags and leave time for lunch at Mariscos Mazatlán II on your way to the airport. Finish reading your book on the plane.

© Nikki Goth Itoi from Moon Baja, 9th Edition