Four Seasons Los Cabos: Cabo del Sol vs Costa Palmas

Between the desert and the Sea of Cortez sit two very different Four Seasons experiences: Cabo del Sol on the Golden Corridor and Costa Palmas on the East Cape. One brings Riviera-style buzz close to town; the other stretches out along a calm, swimmable shoreline with a private marina. Here’s how to choose your perfect match.

First Things First: How to Get There

Nearest airport: Los Cabos International (SJD)
Drive times:

  • Cabo del Sol: ~30 minutes from SJD; ~15 minutes from Cabo San Lucas private airport (CSL).

  • Costa Palmas: ~45–60 minutes along the East Cape, depending on traffic and route.

What They Share

Both resorts deliver Four Seasons’ polished service, thoughtful kids programming, and breezy indoor–outdoor living. Costa Palmas adds the region’s longest swimmable stretch, two miles of tranquil shoreline plus a private, on-property marina; Cabo del Sol layers in a lively village feel and effortless access to Cabo San Lucas.

Both properties excel at catering to different travel styles, whether you're planning an adults-only romantic escape or a multi-generational family adventure, each resort offers dedicated spaces and programming that ensure everyone finds their perfect spot.

Four Seasons Resort & Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol

If FS Cabo del Sol were a person, it would be that charismatic friend who knows all the best spots, speaks three languages, and somehow makes every night feel like a celebration. This isn't just a beach resort, it's a cultural immersion wrapped in Four Seasons luxury.

Location: Nestled in the coveted Cabo Del Sol community along Cabo's Golden Corridor, you're perfectly positioned between Cabo San Lucas and San José Del Cabo. Translation? You get the best of both worlds.

Vibe: A modern hacienda village with white stucco, warm woods, plazas and rooftops set on the Golden Corridor with a swimmable cove.  Think chic beach house meets artisanal elegance, where traditional Mexican textiles and handcrafted furniture create an atmosphere that's both sophisticated and authentically rooted in local culture. 

What Makes It Special:

La Plaza Mágica – Where Friday Nights Get Magical Every Friday evening, the resort transforms into a living, breathing Pueblo Mágico. Mariachi music fills the air, local artists showcase their creations at El Taller Art Studio, and El Mercado serves up handmade treats with Mexican wines. It's like having a front-row seat to authentic Mexican culture, minus the tourist traps.

Golf with Ocean Views from Every Hole The Cabo Del Sol Course, designed by Fry Straka, offers something most golf courses can only dream of – ocean vistas from every single hole. It's the kind of place where you might actually forget to watch your swing because you're too busy admiring the Sea of Cortez.

The Social Hub of Cabo's Hotel Corridor As the newest luxury property in Cabo, Cabo del Sol has quickly become the place to see and be seen. Don't be surprised to spot guests from other resorts making dinner reservations here. The buzz is real, and the rooftop bar with live music has become the unofficial after-dinner destination for Cabo's most discerning travelers. 

Keys: 96 guest rooms & suites + 61 residences, villas & estates all with Sea of Cortez views.

Rooms, suites & villas: Casitas and suites come with private plunge pools and outdoor showers; oceanfront villas and residences add full kitchens, larger pools, and host-worthy terraces. 

Dining & bars (8 total):  Mediterranean-leaning Palmerio, oceanfront Cayao by Richard Sandoval (Nikkei), beachy Coraluz, plus Sora Rooftop Bar, Mercado gourmet market, and in-room dining. Beyond the impressive on-site options, Cabo's legendary nightlife, from Bagatel's trendy vibes to Rosa Negra's sophisticated energy, is just minutes away.

Pools & wellness: Three pools (family, adults-only, spa). Tierra Mar Spa (Baja-inspired rituals) and a Harley Pasternak–designed fitness centre. 

Families: Kids For All Seasons “Papalote” is complimentary for ages 4–12, 9:00 am–5:00 pm; kids under 5 eat free at resort restaurants. 

Signature touches: Baja 360° adventure experiences, an artisan studio and Mercado-style plaza, easy ways to keep days varied without leaving the resort. 

Beach Reality Check: While the cove is technically swimmable most of the year, this is still Cabo, expect some rocks and seasonal variations in water conditions. There's a convenient sea platform for those perfect swimming moments, but don't expect the consistently calm waters you'll find on the East Cape. The trade-off? You're getting that dramatic Cabo coastline with all its rugged beauty.

Choose Cabo San Lucas If You're...

  • The Cultural Explorer: You want authentic Mexican experiences woven into luxury

  • The Social Butterfly: Friday night mariachi sessions and cooking classes sound perfect

  • The Golf Enthusiast: Ocean views from every hole is non-negotiable

  • The Convenience Lover: You want easy access to both Cabo towns

  • The Dining Adventurer: You want the best of both worlds, exceptional on-site cuisine plus easy access to Cabo's legendary restaurant scene

If you’re also exploring Mexico’s Pacific coast on a future trip, we recommend these Mandarina luxury resorts in Riviera Nayarit for a similarly culture-rich, design-forward escape.

Four Seasons Resort & Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas

If Cabo del Sol is the life of the party, Los Cabos at Costa Palmas (East Cape) is the wise friend who knows where to find the most beautiful hidden beaches. This is where you go when you want to remember what silence sounds like.

Location: Tucked away on Baja's East Cape on over two miles of pristine shoreline with the Sierra de la Laguna mountains as your backdrop. It's so untouched, it feels like your own private Baja.

Vibe: East Cape seclusion and big-sky horizons. Two miles of gentle, swimmable shoreline, seven pools, and a private marina that turns dinner into a boat ride. Picture sleek white lines and contemporary architecture that somehow manages to feel warm and cozy, like a sophisticated private estate where you can truly disconnect from the world.

What Makes It Special:

The Largest Swimmable Beach in the Region While other Cabo resorts boast about their beaches, this one delivers the goods over two miles of calm, swimmable shoreline. No fighting the surf, no worrying about currents. Just pure, blissful swimming in the tranquil Sea of Cortez. Unlike its sister property, Costa Palmas offers year-round swimming conditions, no seasonal surprises, and no need to check the daily surf report. Just pristine white sand and consistently gentle waters. Though the beach to access the water is very wide so prepare accordingly when temps are high and the sand is hot! 

Your Own Private Marina Step out of your room and literally onto your private marina. Want to explore Cabo Pulmo's protected marine area? This is the only Los Cabos resort with direct marina access. It's like having a VIP pass to the Sea of Cortez.For fishing enthusiasts and water sports lovers, this is game-changing, imagine walking just five minutes from your room to board a yacht or fishing boat for the day. No transfers, no hassles, just direct access to some of the world's best sportfishing and snorkeling.

Golf by Robert Trent Jones II Costa Palmas Golf Club isn't just a golf course, it's an 18-hole love letter to the desert landscape, framed by dunes and endless ocean views. Robert Trent Jones II clearly had his A-game on when designing this masterpiece.

The Ultimate Self-Contained Escape This is a property where guests rarely venture beyond the gates and why would they? With a comprehensive collection of on-site restaurants, a marina village accessible by water taxi, and that pristine beachfront, Costa Palmas has perfected the art of the complete resort experience. It's intimate, it's serene, and it's designed for those who equate luxury with the ability to truly unplug.

Keys: 141 accommodations (114 rooms + 27 suites) set across low-rise buildings and standalone villas/residences. 

Rooms, suites & villas: Ground-floor categories frequently include private plunge pools; multi-bedroom villas and residences (with kitchens and larger pools) suit families and groups.

Dining & scene (13 options): On-resort: Estiatorio Milos, Casa de Brasa, El Puesto, Limón, cafés and beach service. In Marina Village, take the quick and convenient water taxi (8:00 am–11:00 pm) to Mozza Baja (Nancy Silverton) and Chiki lounge. The extensive dining program here reflects the resort's self-contained philosophy, when your nearest restaurant neighbors are an hour away, you'd better make sure your culinary game is strong. Spoiler alert: it absolutely is.

Spa, fitness & sport: Oasis Spa with 10 free-standing treatment rooms, sauna/steam/hydrotherapies, plus couples’ suites with private plunge pools; Sports Club with tennis, basketball, lap pool; Costa Palmas Golf Club by Robert Trent Jones II. 

Families: Kids For All Seasons (complimentary, ages 4–12) and a Teen Centre; calm water and complimentary non-motorized toys make beach days easy.

Choose Los Cabos (East Cape) If You're...

  • The Serenity Seeker: You came to Baja to escape, not to party

  • The Beach Perfectionist: Two miles of swimmable beach is your definition of paradise

  • The Marina Adventurer: Direct access to Cabo Pulmo and sea adventures matter

  • The Privacy Devotee: You want luxury without the crowds

  • The Nature Lover: Sierra de la Laguna mountain views are breathtaking and there's also access to guided hikes to nearby natural areas like the Flat Rock and secret waterfalls, as well as trails along the desert and beach for exploring the East Cape landscape.

    For travelers drawn to raw Pacific drama and architectural beauty elsewhere in Mexico, make sure to keep this luxury beach resort on your shortlist.

The Verdict: We’re Here to Make Your Best Selection (of two great options)

Choose Cabo Del Sol when you want a polished, social resort close to Cabo’s orbit with a swimmable cove, spa daybeds, and that new-build sheen. Choose Costa Palmas when you want serene, big-sky beach days, seven pools, and a private-marina lifestyle on the East Cape.

The real question isn't which one to choose, it's how quickly you can plan a return trip to experience the other.

Pro Tip: As a Four Seasons Preferred Partner agency, KJ Travel can unlock exclusive perks at both properties. Think room upgrades (often at time of booking!), complimentary breakfast, resort credits, and sometimes even airport transfers. These benefits often make the difference between a great stay and an unforgettable one, regardless of which Four Seasons you choose.

Discover your perfect slice of paradise in Los Cabos or any other destinations. Contact a KJ Travel Advisor today and start planning your dream getaway.

Home Away From Home: Luxury Stays with Resort Perks

There’s something special about walking into a space that feels like home but better. For travelers who crave the privacy and comfort of a home-away-from-home without giving up five-star service, these stunning properties offer the best of both worlds: multi-bedroom villas, private residences, and full access to resort amenities, staff, and luxury hospitality.

Whether you're planning a family getaway, a group trip, or an extended stay abroad, these spots deliver space, style, and seamless service.

Here are some of our top picks:

O&O Aesthesis, Athens

Tucked away on the Athenian Riviera, the villas and residences at One&Only Aesthesis in Athens offer a tranquil, private retreat with all the polished service the brand is known for. Think sleek design, dedicated staff, and luxury that feels effortlessly personal. Kate loved her stay in a two-bedroom private pool residence last year and loved it so much, she extended her trip the perfect blend of homey and luxury.

Epos Residence Courtyard

Epos Residence Courtyard

Sunset at O&O Aesthesis

Sunset at O&O

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Tuscany

Rolling hills, vineyard views, and a private pool last summer, our clients spent their days in a four-bedroom villa nestled deep in the Tuscan countryside. But they weren’t exactly roughing it. The estate’s winery, championship golf course, and full-service spa were just a short stroll away. Several of the larger villas also come with your own 7-seat Land Rover Defender or a similar type of 4x4 vehicle to explore the area. Our top recommendation? The nearby village of Montalcino a wine lover’s heaven!

Castiglion del Bosco Aerial view

Castiglion del Bosco aerial view

Marbella Club Villas

These villas are ideal for families or friend groups who want space and vibrant resort life. Enjoy the perks of a full-service hotel beach club access, extensive kids' programs (we’re talking fully equipped music room, cooking-class kitchen, craft rooms, and outdoor spaces), wellness amenities all while staying in your own private villa. We recommend taking the resort bicycles into Old Town Marbella for great shopping and fun meals. Visit our blog for tips on planning a Marbella vacation.

Casabel Marbella Club Spain

Casabel, Marbella Club

Rocco Forte House, Rome

For travelers settling into the Eternal City for a while, Rocco Forte House is a standout. This sophisticated Roman apartment offers elevated interiors, high-touch service, and the kind of quiet elegance you’d expect in one of Rome’s most iconic neighborhoods, steps from the Spanish Steps. Our favorite feature? Access to sister properties Hotel de la Ville and Hotel de Russie for priority access to their beautiful courtyards and rooftop restaurant.

If you want to head north, check out our favorite luxury stays in Milan

Grosvenor House Suites, London

Live like a Londoner but with daily housekeeping, in-room dining, and a dedicated concierge. These apartment-style suites are right in the heart of Mayfair, a few blocks from Hyde Park perfect for longer stays with several family members or travelers who love having a kitchen and a hotel team on standby.

Planning a trip to London? Make sure you're up to date on the latest UK entry requirements for travelers.

Boutique Hotel Buyouts

Yes, you can have the whole hotel to yourself! In some cases, the best way to get a big family or a group all under one roof is through a boutique hotel buyout. This summer, we're organizing something truly special: a full boutique hotel buyout in Umbria for a group of travelers who want a completely tailored and exclusive experience. Think of it as a villa on a grander scale with full staff, tailored experiences, and no other guests in sight.

Looking for space, privacy, and all the comforts of a luxury resort-style vacation rental plus the freedom of your own place? These private luxury vacation rentals with hotel-level service are the perfect choice for your next getaway.

Let's Book Your Next Getaway Here

KJ Travel's Family Mountain Vacation Packing List

The snow has finally melted and the mountains are ready to be explored! Below is a travel checklist of a few essentials we always pack when headed to the mountains. 

CARRY ON ESSENTIALS

FOR THE KIDS

FOR THE ADULTS

TOILETRIES

OUTDOOR GEAR

Did we miss anything? Leave a comment below and let us know your mountain retreat favorites.

Click here to print your copy.

 
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