Tips & things to do in Los Cabos, Mexico: A three-minute guide

WHY?

Located just a two-hour flight south of Los Angeles on the tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos is the perfect introduction to the colourful and intoxicating Mexican culture – 'Corona Lite', if you will, minus some of the challenges of less tourist-friendly parts of Mexico. A proliferation of luxury resorts lures Hollywood celebrities and party animals to this former fishing community, but beyond the glamour factor, Los Cabos (meaning The Capes, with its two main towns San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas linked by a 32-kilometre seafront corridor) is spectacularly beautiful, the saguaro-filled desert colliding with the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez with geographical drama, epitomised by the iconic landmark, The Arch.

VISIT

An hour north of Los Cabos on the Pacific Coast is the 'pueblo magico' (designated 'magical town') of Todos Santos, a former colonial mission with a laidback vibe recalling the glory days of the '70s, when the peninsula was the domain of surfers and hippies. A hotel claiming to be the original Hotel California (disputed by The Eagles, but what the hey!) has a lovely courtyard for sipping margaritas, while a profusion of galleries and craft shops provide a taste of bohemian Mexico. See todossantos.cc

EAT

There's no shortage of great restaurants in Los Cabos, with an emphasis on modern Baja California cuisine featuring locally sourced produce and seafood. Located in downtown San Jose del Cabo, La Revolución, with acclaimed Mexico City chef Benito Molina at the helm, is one of the most innovative, with share plate specialties including ceviche, oyster tacos and charbroiled octopus. There's also an extensive cocktail list – try the Perro Callerjero (Street Dog), a concoction of gin, Campari and coconut water served in a Campbell soup can.

LOOK

The town of San Jose del Cabo is considered the more traditional of the two "Cabos", its historic plaza is flanked by cobbled streets lined with adobe galleries. Between the cooler months of November and June, a self-guided Art Walk is held every Thursday between 5 and 9pm, with the main street Obregon closed to traffic so pedestrians can stroll, visiting galleries holding exhibitions and events such as artist in attendance, live music and wine tastings. There are 14 galleries within several blocks, so it's a fun way to explore the district before a dinner booking. See artcabo.com

MUST