Why book?
To unwind and feel miles from civilization without breaking the bank, 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Los Cabos. Due to its location on the windy Pacific Ocean side of the Baja California peninsula, Nobu is one of the more affordable five-star resorts in Los Cabos. Set amongst 14 quiet acres of beachfront and desert dunes, it’s a blending of the elements that seems to instantly pacify tired travelers upon check-in. Even at full occupancy, you’ll often feel like you’re the only guest on-property: The 200 hotel rooms are spread across three buildings, and the minimalist yet inviting accommodations only enhance the experience. All rooms feature teak spa-style deep soaking tubs (that are actually comfortable enough to lounge in) and balconies with cushy chairs that encourage lingering with a good book.
Beyond the rooms, the property offers numerous ways to relax—from the spa and hydrotherapy garden to the adult-only pool and beachfront yoga classes—making it a true haven for those seeking solace from the stress of everyday life and a crowded, bustling hotel experience.
Set the scene
Cabo San Lucas is known for being highly developed and dotted with rowdy bars and clubs. But you’d never know that if you drove directly from the airport to the Nobu Los Cabos. As you near the property, cactus-filled desert landscapes and beautifully manicured golf courses fall into view, and upon arrival at Nobu, it’s like you’re on another planet entirely; a calming oasis where the desert meets the magnificent Pacific Ocean coastline.
Mulling about the open-air lobby groups of 30-something women in colorful Zimmerman cover-ups grab matcha lattes from the cafe and snap photos of each other near the made-for-Instagram sculpture garden and water feature. Fit, young couples—a mix of honeymooners and babymooners—lounge by the pools (there are three) in Celine sunglasses while sleepily sipping Champagne as laid-back Afro beats dance through the air. The waves from the adjacent beach add to the calming soundtrack and provide an unadulterated feast for the eyes—largely because the sand is mostly empty.
Guests are not permitted to swim in the ocean at any Pacific-side properties in Los Cabos due to the strong currents and sudden changes in water depth. For that reason, Nobu Los Cabos may not be the best choice for beach lovers or those looking to snorkel or boat on-property. However, it’s a true heaven for anyone who wants a quiet escape to truly unwind—especially wellness enthusiasts, spa lovers, and foodies, who can enjoy eight very different dining experiences at the hotel throughout their stay.
The backstory
The brainchild of renowned restaurateur Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro, and film producer Meir Teper, Nobu Hospitality launched its first hotel in Las Vegas in 2013. Since then, the portfolio has expanded to include over 40 properties, with Nobu Los Cabos being the first to open in Mexico. (Punta Cana and Tulum locations are slated to open in 2025 and 2026, respectively.)
Matsuhisa’s culinary approach has always been about using Japanese cooking techniques to create new dishes that celebrate local flavors and ingredients. A similar philosophy extends to the aesthetic of all of the hospitality group’s properties; however, the Nobu Los Cabos is unique because it was designed from the ground up. Unlike other Nobu hotels, which were all born from renovations, the architects behind the Los Cabos property were given the opportunity to create a unique environment that reflects both Japanese design and Mexican influence. The result is a hotel that feels like something only Nobu could bring to life.
The rooms
Like the lobby and common areas of the hotel itself, the rooms are a masterful blend of modern Japanese minimalism, locally sourced materials, and Mexican artworks. The color palette is neutral, featuring calming muted tones of rust and slate blue that complement the natural elements visible to guests as they peer through their glass-lined balconies. The wooden soaking tubs, river-stone paved shower walls, and latticed closets (inspired by Japanese shōji screens) only add to the calming aesthetic.
At approximately 514 square feet, all the Deluxe Rooms are generously sized. However, it’s worth springing for the Deluxe Ocean View rooms (there are 76 of them) if you want a bit more space. The price is similar to the Deluxe Rooms, yet many of them are exceptionally spacious—something that isn’t advertised online—plus, you get a view! The junior ocean front suites should be a consideration if you want to unwind away from prying eyes. Each opens up to a walled-in patio with a pool, steps from the sand and the sea, which provides a soothing soundtrack for early morning dips and walks on the beach.
Guests traveling with kids or planning an extended stay may be interested in booking a Nobu Residence suite. The smallest unit, which is a one-bedroom, is slightly less expensive on average than a similarly sized hotel room and features a washer and dryer, as well as a fully equipped kitchen where a concierge-arranged chef can prepare meals on-site. Guests of the residences have access to a private gym and spa, which serves as a welcome respite from the hotel’s fitness center, which can be crowded in the early morning, even during the low season. The residences, some of which can sleep up to 14 people, are also great options for large groups. Depending on the exact suite, amenities may include a private pool, a pool table, a hot tub, and an outdoor grill.
Food and drink
There is no shortage of dining options on-property, and the cuisine was, unsurprisingly, a delight. The hotel’s namesake restaurant was a similar experience to what you’d have at another location of the chain, but with some additional menu items that celebrate the Los Cabos culinary scene. The restaurant does feature some locally sourced seafood, but the menu fails to highlight what was caught in the region, which would be a helpful addition for diners. Guests can enjoy Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature dishes, including black cod miso, rock shrimp tempura, and yellowtail sashimi, while admiring the crashing waves—something not to be missed at sunset. If simply enjoying sushi isn’t enough for you, the restaurant also offers sushi-making classes. The neighboring Mexican restaurant, Pacific, also offers instruction to those who prefer to be active participants in the creation of their tacos and tapas.
For a vibey pre-dinner drink by the fire, head to M Bar. It offers a lengthy cocktail and mocktail menu featuring unique blends of Mexican, Japanese, and Greek ingredients, which perfectly primes the palate for a meal at the adjoining Mediterranean restaurant, Muna. The eatery boasts a stunning open kitchen where guests can see chefs hard at work preparing seasonally inspired dishes as they take in the sweeping views of a nearby golf course and the glistening Sea of Cortez. Don’t miss the salmon tartare, topped with a curry vinaigrette, poured tableside.
The Nobu Cafe, an all-day lobby cafe featuring specialty espresso beverages, iced teas, and pastries, was also particularly good. Hotel coffee bars can be hit or miss, but if you’re particular about your morning caffeine, this one may pleasantly surprise you. It can get busy at times, though, so bake time into your itinerary if you’re grabbing a cup before jetting off to a scheduled activity.
The spa
Spas at five-star hotels can sometimes feel similar to one another. But Nobu’s Esencia Wellness Spa is a memorable experience worth the indulgence. (If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Esencia is found at many upscale hotels around the world.) Upon check-in, spa butlers greet guests and assist them in locating their lockers and robes before providing a tour of the hydrotherapy circuit, a tranquil garden oasis of hot and cold pools, steam rooms, and saunas. Unlike some other spas, however, the butler remains at guests’ beck and call, ushering them to and from their treatments. In a world where it’s not uncommon to have to anxiously watch a nearby clock to ensure a prompt arrival for treatments, this attention to detail allows guests to let their minds wander and fully sink into relaxation.
Their signature 50-minute Essentia massage starts with a delightful essential oil-infused steam, delivered via a freshly heated bucket of water placed beneath the massage table. The other treatment offerings draw inspiration from cultures around the globe, including Japan, and range from shiatsu massages to facials and body treatments. Additional relaxation and fitness experiences include Pilates and boot camps, which can be enjoyed at the neighboring fitness center, complete with an outdoor yoga pavilion ideal for stretching in the sunshine.
The area
Situated within a private, gated enclave, Nobu definitely feels secluded. But it’s only a 30-minute drive to downtown Los Cabos, where visitors can board private boats at the marina, stroll along the boardwalk, party at one of the many nightclubs, or explore Plaza Amelia Wilkes, where local artisans showcase their crafts. All that said, the Pacific coast of Los Cabos may not be what you’d expect from a Mexican vacation, thanks to rough seas and intense winds, which make it cooler than the surrounding areas. If you’re craving a true beach getaway, head to a property along the Sea of Cortez or one of the Bays.
The service
Guests are warmly greeted with cold drinks and warm towels as soon as they arrive, and check-in happens from a comfortable couch in the open-air lobby overlooking the ocean. There are over 700 employees on-site, which translates to approximately 2.5 employees per guest, ensuring a constant supply of happy and helpful staff available to answer questions, arrange nanny and private transportation services, or schedule off-site reservations and excursions.
An additional perk: All guests are assigned a Local Ambassador whom they can text questions and requests throughout their stay. This means if guests need something attended to, there’s no need to call the front desk or leave their pool lounger. And speaking of which, it should be noted that there are no pool concierge services. Servers are delighted to provide menus and meals poolside, but don’t expect them to set up towels or slather on sunblock.
For families
The property is primarily geared toward adults, but families with kids who are old enough to safely navigate concrete stairs without railings (there are a fair number of them) and an abundance of prickly plants will also have a nice stay here. The Residences are the perfect accommodations for this latter group. Not only do they offer multi-room accommodations, but they also include an in-unit washer and dryer, a full kitchen, and communal living areas for group hangs.
The Kizzu Kids Club is another perk, offering several activities, including arts and crafts, games, and reading, appropriate for little ones of all ages. The concierge can also arrange on-property babysitting services for guests seeking a romantic night out without the kids.
Eco effort
The property is certified by EarthCheck, a leading global certification program for sustainable tourism, so throughout the property, you’ll see sparse landscaping and local drought-tolerant plants instead of unnaturally green lawns and flowers that wouldn't normally survive in the desert. Additionally, the hotel limits its use of energy, carbon emissions, and paper to support its eco efforts.
Accessibility
There are two ADA-compliant hotel rooms available, as well as one accessible residence. There are ramps and elevators located throughout the property, and the pools, restaurants, and common areas are also accessible. Most of their activities are fully accessible and inclusive, as well, including the cooking classes.
Anything left to mention?
This hotel hosts a lot of weddings—two per week—and depending on the location of guests’ rooms, the noise can travel. However, local ambassadors do text guests ahead of time to let them know the start and end times of events, and the music is promptly turned off at 11:00 p.m.
Polígono 1. Fracción D. Fraccionamiento Diamante, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur 23473
Mexico
https://www.nobuhotels.com/los-cabos/
(624) 689-0160