East Cape

Baja California Sur’s beautiful East Cape describes an approximately 70-mile coastal arc from San José del Cabo to Los Barriles. The region is a popular destination for those seeking the “Old Baja:” meaning dirt roads, rustic or off-the-grid beachfront accommodations, pristine beaches, and world-class conditions for fishing and diving.

See & Do

Fishing was the original East Cape tourist attraction, and the region remains popular among big-game anglers. Punta Colorada is known as the “roosterfish capital of the world,” and Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore tournament is a summer tradition in Buenavista. The marine sanctuary at Cabo Pulmo, meanwhile, is a must-see for snorkelers and divers. Not only does it boast the highest concentration of fish in the Sea of Cortés, but also one of the oldest and largest living coral reefs in the Western Hemisphere. Windsports like kiteboarding are world-class during the winter months.

Eat

There are several notable restaurants along the East Cape, beginning with Buzzard’s Bar & Grill, which offers Mexican and American menu favorites at a scenic site just outside San José del Cabo, near El Encanto de La Laguna. Crossroads at the boutique Hotel VidaSoul in Boca de la Vinorama features surfer omelets and Italian specialty dishes, while Roadrunner Café & Bakery in Los Barriles showcases freshly baked pastries and espresso drinks, as well as diner style burgers and milkshakes.

Party

The East Cape doesn’t exactly rival Cabo San Lucas when it comes to nightlife, one of the reasons most locals moved there in the first place. There are a few places worth visiting, however, although they close relatively early. Crossroads and Roadrunner Café both host occasional live musical performances, and Tio Pablo’s in Los Barriles is a popular hangout for lovers of live sports coverage and comfort food favorites like ribs and pizza.

Stay

Van Wormer’s Palmas de Cortez in Los Barriles is perhaps the premier East Cape accommodation, with air-conditioned rooms and suites, seaside views, dining and spa services, and rates packages that include daily fishing charters. The Buena Vista Beach Resort in nearby Buenavista offers similar charms, and Cabo Pulmo Eco Resort is the go-to lodging for diving enthusiasts who want to spend a few days exploring the nationally protected marine sanctuary. The resort’s onsite dive shop handles tours, classes and equipment.

Shop

ExotiKite in Los Barriles is the apparel and equipment outfitter of choice for visiting kiteboarders. Art and jewelry lovers will appreciate Galería Los Ángeles and Copper River Designs, respectively, while vacation essentials and souvenirs are available at Baja Beach Company. These shops and boutiques, too, are located in Los Barriles, as is Charlie’s Chocolates, a popular stop for both souvenir hunters and those looking to regain the calories they burned kiteboarding.