A Seasonal Sports Guide for Los Cabos: Making the Most of Each Month

January 21, 2013 By Chris Sands 4 Comments

A seasonal sports guide for Los Cabos: Making the Most of Each Month!

For snowbirds traveling from the frozen north, Cabo San Lucas may seem like the land of perpetual sunshine. And while it’s true that the area never sees snow or sleet or hail, there are definitely seasonal variations here. Okay, so there aren’t many spring showers, and the leaves don’t change spectacular colors in the fall. But sometimes we have to wear windbreakers, and there are even days when we have to festoon our margaritas with tiny umbrellas to keep them safe from tropical storms.

If you’re looking for proof-positive that life in Cabo has its ups and downs climatically, look no farther than our favorite sports. Although conditions for golf, fishing, and other active pursuits are generally good year round, each has its ideal season.

Preparing for the Lord of the Wind? Kiteboarding is definitely one for the sports guide for Los Cabos.

Winter

Winter is when the El Norte winds blow down the Sea of Cortez, and Baja Sur boasts world class conditions for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Every January, aficionados of these water sports flock to the small East Cape community of Los Barriles for the annual Lord of the Wind contest, seeking everlasting glory and the ultimate ride. This isn’t the best season for board surfing (although the Pacific Coast sees some excellent days), but sailors will enjoy the brisk breezes that blow outside of Cabo San Lucas Bay.

However, let’s face facts. The most popular winter sport in Cabo isn’t really a sport at all. You don’t have to be in shape, and if you are athletic enough to get in and out of a kayak, panga, high-speed inflatable, or catamaran, you can participate in the annual whale watching rites. From mid-December through Mid-March, these leviathans of the deep – humpbacks and grays, primarily – make their annual migration to breed in the waters off Baja Sur, and getting close enough for a great photo does have elements of competition.

The Davis Love III designed Diamante Dunes is one of three Los Cabos courses to be ranked among the world’s 100 best.

Spring

The annual influx of Mexican, American, and Canadian students during Spring Break and Semana Santa makes this a great season for mixologists and cultural anthropologists, but hardly ideal for some of our other favorite pastimes. Nonetheless, this is my favorite time of year for the grand old game of golf. Los Cabos has a number of great courses to include in the sports guide for Los Cabos, courtesy of design efforts by major champions like Nicklaus, Norman, Player, and Love (a second Diamante layout by Tiger Woods is also in the offing), and this is the perfect time to see visiting golfers in all their plus four plumage. Bargain hunting duffers may prefer the fall, when rates drop, but the weather is often so hot and stifling that it is hard to summon enough energy to kick your tee shots out of the rough, and sandbag gullible types by heartily overstating your handicap. Spring is ideal, in my opinion. The winter winds have abated, the greens have softened, and beverage service is at its most attentive.

Surf’s up on Acapulquito Beach, just outside the Cabo Surf Hotel.

Summer

Sure it’s hot, but autumn is hotter, and rates in summer drop for just about everything, starting at the end of May. Summer is a good time for camping, whether on the coast, or at altitude in the Sierra de la Laguna, the mountain range that forms the spine of Baja California Sur. You can even take the easy way out and stop at one of the many campgrounds found in the Cabo area, where you’re treated to luxuries like electricity and hot water. But for pure sporting pleasure, summer is for surfing. This is the best and busiest season, with good waves on the East Cape, as well as the in the Los Cabos area and off the Pacific Coast. There are several good surf shops in the area, companies like High Tide offer lessons at Costa Azul, and there is even a boutique resort – the Cabo Surf Hotel on Acapulquito Beach – that caters to hipsters in high-end board shorts. The area is also home to several current and former professional surfers. For apres-sea action, head to Faraway in downtown Cabo San Lucas for Thai food, tropical cocktails, and surf-friendly ambience courtesy of the ownership group of former pros.

Fishing is tops in the sports guide for Los Cabos! Last year’s winning team at Bisbee’s Black and Blue.

Autumn

In many regards, Cabo owes its existence as a resort destination to the area’s superb big-game sportfishing. This is one of the best places on the globe to catch enormous blue, black, and striped marlin, as well as sailfish and tuna, and autumn is the best time to try your luck. The world’s richest fishing tournament, Bisbee’s Black and Blue, is held in October, and for the price of a midsized sedan, you can join in the chase for one of their million dollar jackpots.

This is also the best time of year for snorkeling and diving, with peak water temperature and visibility. There are great sites in San Lucas, Santa Maria, and Chileno Bays, as well as East Cape sites like Cabo Pulmo, home of both the the most spectacular living coral reef in the Western Hemisphere, and the highest concentration of marine life of any site in the Sea of Cortez. And although it lacks the romance of whale watching, sea turtle season also draws plenty of dedicated adherents, philanthropic types who like to help these fledgling critters navigate their perilous journey from seaside nests to the sea itself.

What is your favorite sport in Cabo San Lucas? Let us know, and maybe we’ll include it in the seasonal sports guide for Los Cabos!

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411

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Filed Under: Los Cabos, Play Tagged With: Bisbees, Cabo San Lucas, David Love, Fishing, golf, Kiteboarding, Los Cabos, Nicklaus, san jose del cabo, Sports, Sports Guide, Tiger Woods

Dressed to the K9′s Gala a Howling Success: Proceeds to Benefit Los Cabos Humane Society.

December 10, 2012 By Carla White 4 Comments

Proceeds from the 7th annual K-9′s gala event are going to the Los Cabos Humane Society

by Chris Sands

Los Cabos Humane Society benefits from the Dressed to the K9's gala event

Los Cabos loves its parties, and in Cabo San Lucas, the biggest and most elaborate galas are often those staged on behalf of local charities. That was certainly the case with the Los Cabos Humane Society’s 7th Annual Dressed to the K-9′s benefit, held Saturday, December 8th at Villa Marcella in Pedregal.

Dressed to the K-9′s has become a staple of the local social calendar, and kicked off the holiday season in splendid fashion, with many full and part-time residents of the area on hand to support the mission of the LCHS. The Humane Society receives no government support, so the annual fundraiser is crucial to their budget, with ticket sales and silent auction proceeds primarily going towards spay and neuter efforts. The event is also a great excuse for fancy dress and festive fun, with food, drinks, dancing, and live music.

Steve Apple headlined at the Los Cabos Humane Society event.

Apple & Co. may have been the headliners, the the stars of the event, as always, were the community members that donated their time, efforts, and services on behalf of the LCHS. Event chair Mark Poelvoorde and his co-chairs Elizabeth Schoell and Maye Cortinas oversaw the close to 50 volunteers who pitched in with this year’s gala. Local chefs Casiano Reyes and Denis Gabriel, of Casiano and Denni’s Catering, respectively, provided the gourmet feast. Chef and restaurateur Drew Deckman created the delicious welcoming cocktail, with shaking done courtesy of Martini Jungle. Yahwe Garcia of Del Cabo Events was responsible for the villa’s interior design and holiday decor, and staging and lighting was done by Ambar Productions.

“This year’s gala, our biggest and most elaborate, wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts of dozens of volunteers, working as a team to make the event a success,” said LCHS President Aida Trujillo.

Poelvoorde agreed: “So many volunteers, donors and sponsors, committed to helping the animals and communities of Los Cabos is incredibly moving. Their contribution is truly the heart of all our fundraisers.”

Auction donations to the Los Cabos Human Society gala included a red Fender stratocaster guitar used by Sammy Hagar.

Tickets were $125 per person, and were sold out this year, with a record turnout of 300 attendees on hand to support the local pet population. Like last year, the gala was held at Villa Marcella, a spectacular beachfront vacation getaway in the gated Pedregal community. The spacious 10,000 square foot villa was decked out festive holiday fashion, and guests enjoyed plenty of food and drink, fabulous entertainment, dancing under the stars, and even a fireworks display. And why not? There’s nothing wrong with a good party on behalf of a great cause. In spite of the huge success of this event, organizers note, though, that the Los Cabos Humane Society needs help throughout the year.

Los Cabos Humane Society helps K9's and kitties, too.

Local businesses were also very generous, and provided a terrific slate of goods and services for the silent auction, including custom jewelry, shopping sprees, golf outings at five championship-level courses, big-game fishing trips, cooking classes, five-star dinners, and accommodations at some of the area’s most luxurious hotels and resorts. But perhaps the most sought after item was the autographed guitar from Sammy Hagar. The former Van Halen frontman and Cabo Wabo founder donated a gorgeous Dakota Red Fender Stratocaster, along with other signed memorabilia.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

All photos courtesy of Dressed to the K-9’s.

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Filed Under: Charity, Los Cabos, Uncategorized Tagged With: Benefit, Cabo San Lucas, Canine, chris sands, Dean Martin, Fender, Gala Event, Guitar, Humane Society, K9, Los Cabos, Sammy Hagar, san jose del cabo, Steve Apple, Stratocaster

Rolling out the Red Carpet: Baja International Film Festival Announces Event Schedule

November 1, 2012 By nikki 1 Comment

by Chris Sands

Event Schedule Announced by Baja International Film Festival

Anticipation continues to build for the First Annual Baja International Film Festival, which will be held in Los Cabos from November 14th – 17th. The festival’s organizers, who include Vail Film Festival and Colorado Film Institute co-founders Sean and Scott Cross, hope the inaugural four-day fête will strengthen ties between the U.S. and Mexican film industries, and that the cinematic celebration will become an annual event on the level of the Cannes, Toronto, Berlin, Venice, and Sundance Film Festivals.

Event scheduled announced by the Baja International Film Festival at a press conference.

In the last several weeks, organizers have released information on the festival’s advisory board, its hotel and travel partners, the list of films to be screened at the festival, competition categories, cash and prize information, the event schedule, and, most recently, the subjects to be discussed at the filmmaker panel discussions. An announcement has not yet been made of the three finalists in the screenplay competition.

The festival will begin on Wednesday, November 14th, with an activities slate that includes a film screening and an opening night cocktail party. The kick-off events will take place at the new Los Cabos Convention Center, an expansive 75,000 square foot facility built for June’s G-20 summit of world leaders. The convention center is scheduled to host the majority of the festival’s events and screenings, although selected films will also be shown at Puerto Los Cabos, Plaza Mijares in San Jose del Cabo, and the Cultural Pavilion in Cabo San Lucas.

In addition to the opening night excitement, other festival highlights are expected to include Thursday’s Filmmaker Reception at Puerto Los Cabos’ Wirikuta Cactus Garden, the largest cactus garden in the world, and Friday’s Art Walk and L.A. Hotel Cafe Concert featuring singer-songwriter Sara Barreilles, the Grammy award-winning Cary Brothers, popular indie band Harper Blynn, as well as singers Madi Diaz and Holly Conlan.

Los Cabos Convention Center will most most of the Baja International Film Festival's events and activities.

Closing night begins early, with a 5 p.m. red carpet event at the Los Cabos Convention Center featuring some of the festival’s celebrity attendees, followed by the festival’s final film, and a post-screening Q & A session. Red carpet festivities will then continue with a walk up to the VIP cocktail reception and subsequent awards ceremony dinner. The guest list at the sit-down dinner will include some of the U.S. and Mexican film industrys’ most acclaimed filmmakers, with awards handed out in several categories, including Feature Films, Short Films, and Documentaries. After dinner and the awards presentations, the festival will conclude by honoring selected actors and directors with achievement awards.

An announcement has also been made about the subjects and schedule for the festival’s panel discussions, which will feature distinguished groups of actors and directors discussing topics relevant to the industry. The panel discussions will be part of Friday’s Film Forum Mexico-USA, and will primarily touch on challenges associated with investment and funding. The forum is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. in the Los Cabos Convention Center, with specific issues to include tax incentives, investment mechanisms for producing in the U.S. and Mexico, production costs, locations and facilities in Mexico, distribution in the U.S., and opportunities for Mexican talent in the U.S.

Still pending is information on the winner of the screenplay contest, which is being co-sponsored by Virgin Produced, the film and television division of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group.The grand prize winner of the screenplay contest will receive a complimentary stay at a local luxury resort for the duration of the festival, as well as two all-access VIP passes for screenings and events. The winning screenplay will also be given production consideration by Virgin. The submission deadline was October 26th, and information on the top three finalists will be announced via press release during the run-up to the festival.

For more information about the First Annual Baja International Film Festival, visit www.bajainternationalfilmfestival.com, or email info@bajafilmfest.com.

All photos courtesy of the Baja International Film Festival.

Want to find out where to have a great pre-film festival dinner? Where to stay in Los Cabos?

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Filed Under: Attend, Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, News & Views Tagged With: Baja International Film Festival, Cabo San Lucas, Cary Brothers, Celebrities, chris sands, Festival, Film, Los Cabo, Movies, Opening Night, Red Carpet, san jose del cabo, Sara Bareilles, Virgin, Wirikuta Cactus Garden

Sponsors Are Rallying Behind the SUP Mexico Championships: Quick Facts and Info

October 25, 2012 By nikki

by Meghan Fitzpatrick

Sponsors Are Rallying Behind SUP Mexico Championships!

November 3rd marks the beginning of the 3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships at Palmilla Beach. The two-day event will involve a lot of activities, events and general fun things during the action-packed 3-day championships. Both the community and sponsors are rallying behind the SUP Mexico Championships; the event has all the markings of a huge success.

Businesses involved in the event (sponsors, organizers and contributors) include Campamento Tortuguero Don Manuel Orantes (Cabo Tortugas), Yellow Tail, Clase Azul Tequila, Alecran Tequila, Peligroso Tequila, Tecate Beers, Don Sanchez Restaurant, Habaneros Restaurant, Royal Solaris Resort, Baja.com, Alaska Airlines, SUP Mexico, Bliss Events Los Cabos, Hennessey’s, Hobie, Snell Real Estate and Del Mar Development. Obviously, with this many big names involved, the event is not just about stand up paddleboarding – there will be a lot of other things going on! Aside from all of the aforementioned businesses somehow involved in the event, many businesses (local and from much further afield) will have booths at the event. This will be a great event for the community of Los Cabos, as well as for the SUP community.

Sponsors are rallying behind the SUP Mexico Championships that will benefit sea turtle preservation

Campamento Tortuguero Don Manuel Orantes (Cabo Tortugas) is a charity dedicated to helping Baja’s endangered sea turtles, and the organization that the 3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships will benefit from. The organization helps to protect the turtle eggs before they hatch and then during the “hatch and release” process they help the turtles find their way to the water safely. They hold their turtle releases in a sanctuary next to the San José del Cabo estuary. Campamento Tortuguero is a non-profit organization. Donations, volunteering or sponsoring a turtle are the best ways to help Campamento Tortuguero Don Manuel Orantes. Look forward to a turtle release at the championship!

Yellow Tail, Clase Azul Tequila, Alecran Tequila, Peligroso Tequila and Tecate Beers are all providing drinks for the event; Don Sanchez Restaurant and Habaneros Restaurant will be providing the food. Don Sanchez is also hosting the grand opening and closing ceremonies. The championships are sure to excite any gourmets, culinary enthusiasts and drinkers from all walks of life.

Other highlights and things to look forward to throughout the weekend include bootcamp classes from Cabo local fitness god/guru Modu (http://www.moduvated.com/Moduvatedtobefit/MDVFIT_Home.htm), a local school art and essay competition, a beach concert and what is sure to be a great raffle with some very impressive prizes up for grabs.

The two primary sponsors for the event are Snell Real Estate and Del Mar Development. This will be the third year running that Del Mar Development has sponsored the SUP championships. Both organizations do a tremendous amount of work in the Los Cabos community. The SUP event organizers are quick to point out that the success of this program will be due to the community, as a whole, and to the many sponsors who have stepped up to the cause.

Quick Facts and info about this year’s SUP Mexico event!

1. More SUP industry vendors/sponsors present

2. More Pro’s in attendance

3. Full Bar (Vodka, Rum & Tequila drinks available)- $50 pesos

4. Larger cash prizes for pro’s ($16,500 usd)

5. Saturday Beach concert by Pura Vida

6. Daily tequila tasting (Peligroso, Clase Azul & Alacran)

7. Fun photo booth on the beach for families to enjoy

8. Ceviche cooking demonstration by Tadd from Don Sanchez

9. Presenting sponsor lounge with waiters

Closing ceremonies will be held at the NEW Don Sanchez restaurant. Buffet/Open Bar/DJ/Dancing/Photo Booth. Racers get tickets with their registration. Each sponsor has tickets. General ticket price – $350 pesos.

Want to go to the beach, eat amazing food, and have a wonderful visit to Los Cabos? Visit Palmilla Beach…and find out more on Baja.com.

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Filed Under: Attend, Cabo San Lucas, Events, Los Cabos, San Jose del Cabo Tagged With: Beach, beer, Cabo San Lucas, Championship, Los Cabos, Mike Doyle, Resort, san jose del cabo, Stand Up Paddle Board, SUP Mexico, Tecate, Tequila

Baja Brewing Company: Craft Beer and a Microbrewery in Baja Sur

October 2, 2012 By nikki 2 Comments

“Burro is a bold survivor, an independent wanderer, a hard-headed master of his terrain, and the representative ambassador of the Baja. In homage of this noble beast, the Baja Brewing Company has been established to create great ale beers that match the splendor and majesty of our oh-so-loved Burro.” Baja Brewing Company

Baja Brewing Company: Craft beer and a microbrewery in Baja Sur! The Baja Brewing Company opened it’s doors in 2007 in San Jose del Cabo, the first microbrewery in the state of Baja California Sur. The beers and food were a hit from the start and it wasn’t long before they opened a second location…and now there are three. Just like that old and bold survivor, the Burro, Baja Brewing Company keeps on truckin’ down the road to beer success.

Want a change from Pacifico? Try the Baja Blonde. Prefer Negro Modelo? How about the Oatmeal Stout. And there are plenty more varieties to try!

With three locations, or cantinas, in Los Cabos–just off the plaza in downtown San Jose del Cabo, above Cabo Villas on the rooftop, and on the marina in Cabo San Lucas–Baja Brewing has become a favorite hangout among locals and tourists alike. It doesn’t take long to get to know the friendly faces of the staff and the regular patrons who come by to take advantage of the daily happy hour specials.

Baja Brewing Company at Cabos Villas Beach Resort

The beer selection varies, featuring seasonal beers, a pale ale, and even a raspberry lager. New recipes are always in the works. The company now distributes its beer up and down the peninsula, as well as across the globe — in fact, a company in Australia recently discovered the delicious flavors of Baja Brewing Company’s beers. Look for it on menus from Loreto to Sydney.

You don't have to be at the Baja Brewing Company to enjoy a cold one!

Where to taste a Baja brew? Well, besides anywhere including the beach, your bed, a boat deck, etc., you can just go to the following hot spots to find craft beer and the Baja Brewing Company!

Baja Brewing Company:
Downtown San José del Cabo in the
Historic Art District Ph 624-146-9995

Roof top terrace of Cabo Villas resort
On the beach behind Baja Cantina
Ph 624-143-9199 (ask fo Baja Brewing Company)

Ground floor of Puerto Paraiso mall on the Marina
(next to Ruth’s Chris and Jonny Rocket’s)
Ph 624-144-3805

What’s your favorite Baja brew? Even if you don’t have one yet, you’re bound to find one at Baja Brewing Company!

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Taste Tagged With: ale, Baja Blond, baja brewing company, Baja Sur, beer, Burro, Cabo San Lucas, Cabos Villas Beach Resort, Craft Beer, lager, Los Cabos, Microbrewery, Negro Modelo, san jose del cabo

Quintessential Quaffs: Signature Cabo Cocktails

October 1, 2012 By Chris Sands 2 Comments

by Chris Sands

As a former bartender, I have nothing but respect for a well-crafted cocktail. But the drink-maker’s art goes beyond creative recipes or mere technical skill. The true art lies in creating a drink that personifies the place in which it was born. We can argue all day about whether the martini originated in Martinez, California (I’ve got plenty of free time, and some very strong opinions), but there is little question that the daiquiri will forever be associated with Havana. In that spirit, if you’ll pardon the pun, here are five delicious cocktails that, once tried, will forever remind you of Cabo San Lucas. They are all quintessential quaffs: signature Cabo cocktails.

Capella Sling, Capella Pedregal

Cabo’s most luxurious resort also boasts one of the area’s better cocktail menus, with some creative tropical quaffs that are perfect for afternoons by the pool. Margarita lovers will want to try the Spicy Mango variation of this popular Mexican cocktail, enlivened by the addition of half a teaspoon of Tajin Chipotle. But remember, you shouldn’t neglect your antioxidants just because you’re on vacation (permanent, in my case). That’s why I prefer the Capella Sling, made with pomegranate-infused tequila, premium vodka, raspberry, grenadine, fresh lime juice, soda, and garnished with an orange wedge. Try one of these tasty treats, and you’ll instantly understand why Capella is one of the world’s most highly rated resorts and why this is a signature Cabo cocktail.

The Capella Sling is one of the Quintessential Quaffs: Signature Cabo Cocktails

The Waborita, Cabo Wabo Cantina

Everybody knows Cabo Wabo. Former Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar also fronts this famed downtown cantina, known for its live music, lively atmosphere, and impressive array of creative tequila-based cocktails. The Waborita is one of the cantina’s most addictive offerings. The colorful concoction is made with Cabo Wabo tequila, of course, which is poured into a salt-rimmed glass with Damiana, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, and a splash of Blue Curacao. Damiana, by the way, is a Baja liqueur known for its qualities as an aphrodisiac. But don’t take my word for it. Try a couple of Waboritas and see for yourself. Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients:

2 shots Cabo Wabo tequila
1-ounce fresh lime juice
1-ounce Cointreau
Splash of Grand Marnier

Directions: Combine the ingredients in a shaker, with ice. Shake a few times, strain and pour into a salt-rimmed margarita or martini glass!

Guayaba Mojito, Hacienda Cocina y Cantina

Regional Mexican Cuisine is the calling card of Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, the onsite restaurant at Hacienda Beach Club and Residences, and the homegrown flavors extend to the cocktail menu. The restaurant boasts several outstanding margaritas, including a well-built Jamaica Margarita with a splash of syrup made from dried hibiscus flowers. But let’s face it, great margaritas aren’t exactly scarce in Los Cabos. Great mojitos, on the other hand, are a bit harder to find. The traditional Cuban cocktail gets some non-traditional, Cabo-style twists at the Hacienda, and my personal favorite is the Guayaba, made with rum, tropical guava puree, mint, lime, sugar cane syrup, and a splash of soda. Pair it with a Cohiba, then sit back and enjoy the restaurant’s spectacular Land’s End views.

Xtabentun Flaming Coffee Cocktail, Lorenzillo’s Live Lobster House

After you’ve tucked into the langosta at this popular live lobster house, remove your bib and try one of the restaurant’s flaming coffee cocktails. These caffeinated postprandials are available with a variety of premium liquors, including Sauza’s Tres Generaciones triple-distilled tequila and Jameson’s Irish Whiskey. But given that this is a big year for followers of the Mayan calendar, I recommend trying the D’Aristi Xtabentun. This delicious Yucatan liqueur is made from rum, anise, and fermented honey, and provides an excellent base for the restaurant’s signature cocktail. The liqueur is heated and poured into a sugar rimmed glass, then topped with coffee, whipped cream, and cinnamon. If the world does end on December 21st, you’ll want to have a couple of these in your system.

Flaming coffee, anyone? Quintessential Quaffs: Signature Cabo Cocktails

Cabo Fire, Cabo Lounge

I know what you’re thinking: “What if I love flaming drinks, but it’s too late for coffee?”

Good question. Rips’ Bar may have the town’s coolest drink (and the preparation of their colorful rainbow shots has to be seen to be believed), but Cabo Lounge has the hottest. The Lounge is beloved amongst locals for its $1 food menu and free internet access, but owner and bartender Juan Tatemura’s most popular contribution to local culture is the Cabo Fire shot. Juan’s creation is a combination of Smirnoff vodka and banana liqueur mixed with a flaming shot of Cointreau, and served with an apple slice and cinnamon powder. Don’t forget to blow out the flame before drinking. Liquor-induced lip injuries aren’t covered by most major insurance providers.

General Information:

Capella Pedregal – 1 Camino del Mar, (624) 163-4300

Cabo Wabo – Calle Guerrero, between Madero and Lazaro Cardenas, (624) 143-1188

Hacienda Cocina y Cantina – Calle Gomez Farias, (624) 163-3144

Lorenzillo’s – Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas. (624) 105-0214

Cabo Lounge – Marina Boulevard, (624) 116-2238

Want to try some of those Quintessential Quaffs: Signature Cabo Cocktails? Fine out more about Cabo San Lucas Hotels, Cabo San Lucas Restaurants, and more.

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Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Taste Tagged With: Cabo San Lucas, Cabo Wabo, Capella, Cocktails, Cointreau, Los Cabos, Mojito, Quintessential Quaffs, Sammy Hagar

Inaugural Los Cabos Open Golf Tournament Set to Tee off at Puerto Los Cabos and Palmilla Golf Club

September 25, 2012 By nikki Leave a Comment

Los Cabos Open Golf Tournament

by Chris Sands

Local golfers are working on their waggles, and smoothing out the kinks in their putting strokes. The Open is coming to Los Cabos. No, not the US Open. Not the British Open. The Los Cabos Open Golf Tournament. If Bobby Jones were alive, he’d be shoving his plus fours in a steamer trunk, because the inaugural event is for amateurs only. The golf tournament will be held from October 4th through the 6th, with rounds scheduled at Puerto Los Cabos and Palmilla Golf Club. Winning the Los Cabos Open may not guarantee the golfing immortality enjoyed by course designers Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman, but it’s a good start.

Inaugural Los Cabos Open Golf Tournament Set to Tee off at Puerto Los Cabos

The Los Cabos Open Golf tournament will be comprised of 36 holes of stroke play on two of Los Cabos’ most celebrated courses, with players being grouped by handicap into three separate categories. Category A is reserved for players with handicaps ranging from scratch to 10, Category B for bogey golfers in the 11 to 18 range, and Category C for high handicappers whose number is between 19 and 36. Although each player is responsible for his own handicap, the tournament committee reserves the right to adjust the handicaps of sandbaggers, even if the sandbagger’s playing partners have already thrown him in a water hazard.

The opening round to be held October 5th at Puerto Los Cabos, with the first group teeing off at 8:30 a.m. The course is a collaborative effort between Norman and Nicklaus. The Great White Shark designed the front nine Mission Course, the Golden Bear the back nine Ocean course. Eventually, each designer will expand his nine hole layout into a full loop, but for now, golfers can check out the contrasting design styles of these living legends. Prizes will available on several of the holes. Closest to the hole on the par 3 6th gets a free car, so participating golfers will want to tighten up their iron play. All they have to do is hold the green after a hundred foot drop from an elevated tee box, and they can drive home in a new Jetta.

Hole #8 at Palmilla Golf Club will present challenges at the Los Cabos Open Golf Tournament

The action shifts to Palmilla Golf Club on October 6th, with the first golfers going off at 7 a.m. Jack Nicklaus, the godfather of golf in Los Cabos, also designed Palmilla, and the championship-level course has been ranked among the 100 best in the world. Palmilla consists of Mountain, Arroyo, and Ocean nines, but for a little consistency, only the Ocean and Mountain layouts will be used for the tournament. Prizes include another new Volkswagen model, a Movado watch collection, and a three night stay for two at the fabulous Sheraton Hacienda del Mar. Courtesy food and beverages will be available for participants at both Palmilla and Puerto Los Cabos.
A welcoming cocktail reception is scheduled for the evening of October 4th at Sheraton’s Pitahayas Restaurant, with festivities to begin at 7 p.m. The closing awards dinner will also be held at Pitahayas, and in addition to the restaurant’s excellent Pacific Rim cuisine, will include prizes, awards, raffles, and live music courtesy of Cabomax and The Twins. Sponsors for the inaugural event include Sheraton, Puerto Los Cabos, Palmilla, Telmex, Avaya, Cuervo Tradicional, Cabo Faces, Bisbee’s, Volkswagen, and Diamonds International. For more information, visit www.loscabosopen.com.

Don’t forget! The Inaugural Los Cabos Open Golf Touranment is Set to Tee off at Puerto Los Cabos and Palmilla Golf Club…make your plans now!

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Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Play, San Jose del Cabo, Uncategorized Tagged With: accommodations, Cabo San Lucas, chris sands, golf, Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, Los Cabos, Los Cabos Open, Palmilla, Palmilla Golf Club, the Great White Shark

Who is Mike Doyle and What is He Doing in Los Cabos?

September 16, 2012 By nikki 2 Comments

by Meghan Fitzpatrick

“Life is like a wave, so why not take a big one and get a long ride all the way to the beach!” Mike Doyle

Who is Mike Doyle? For the third year, Los Cabos is home to the annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race. So, who is this guy and what is he doing in Los Cabos?

Mike Doyle circa late 1960's

Mike is a champion surfer and paddler from the 1960’s. Today, Mike is also known for his custom surf and paddleboards and for being the author of his own highly popular story, the autobiography “Morning Glass.”

One of the defining characteristics of Mike Doyle and his surfing style is his attachment to the tradition of ‘The Waterman.’ This term refers to someone who embraces surfing, paddling, rowing, and rough-water swimming as well as possibly being skilled at diving, fishing, spear fishing, tandem surfing, lifeguarding, and handling outrigger canoes. Sort of a ‘renaissance’ approach to surfing.

Today, such notions in regards to surfing and paddling are sometimes considered to be old-fashioned and unimportant…yet it is quite possible that it was this approach that separated Mike Doyle from other surfers. Mike saw the importance of learning and understanding the water, believing that knowledge about the ocean, the tides and even the etiquette of water activities were extremely important.

Mike started surfing when he about 13 years-old. Mesmerized by the older surfers he saw when he was just a tyke, Mike decided at a young age that surfing was for him and he was determined to learn and be the best he could possibly be at the sport. Mike’s surfing career took off when he was voted “Best Surfer” by Surfer magazine in 1965 and 1966. He earned the nickname”Ironman” for his participation in surfing, tandem and paddle races all in the same day and usually winning at least two of three competitions. In 1968, Mike won the coveted Duke Kahanamoku Contest at Sunset Beach, Hawaii and the world surfing title in Peru. He holds the honor of inventing the first snowboard and the soft surfboard. Today, Mike lives every surfers dream by splitting his time between San Diego and Cabo San Lucas where he surfs and paints scenes of the ocean and the flavor of Baja. And, he has become wildly successful at another aspect of surfing and boarding.

Today, Mike Doyle custom surfboards are among the best that money can buy. Mike has been studying, designing and crafting surfboards for more than 35 years and is recognized not only for handcrafting individual boards but for designing and producing customized selections for surf shop owners. Mike Doyle surfboards are shipped all around the globe. The company logo states “Working closely with the individual surfer during the ordering process to ensure that we tailor a board to each surfer’s specific needs.” It is this commitment combined with Mike’s extensive experience that make Mike Doyle surfboards so famous within the industry.

It was a natural progression that Mike would come to be involved with the Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race. In 2012, after two very successful years, the race will be even bigger and better than ever before. Hennessey’s Stand Up Paddle World Championships has joined forces with the race (The 3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships) for what is sure to be an outstanding event — and with none other than Mike Doyle as the SUP championship ambassador.

Who is Mike Doyle: surfer, author, creator, artist and ambassador of the The 3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships Photo courtesy of Cabo Surf Shop

Who is Mike Doyle and what is he doing in Los Cabos? To find out more, or for tickets and entry information about this year’s, “3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships” please view the event information here: http://baja.com/cabo-san-lucas/events/hennesseys-world-suppaddle-championships-los-cabos-2012/.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas, Connect, Los Cabos Tagged With: accommodations, Cabo San Lucas, Hennessey's, Los Cabos, Mike Doyle, paddle boarding, Peru, SUP Mexico, Surfboard, surfing, World Paddle Championships

The 3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand Up Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships

September 11, 2012 By nikki 2 Comments

What: Top Paddle Board and Stand Up Paddle Board professionals meet to compete at the 3rd Annual SUP Mexico event.

When: Nov. 2-4, 2012

Where: Palmilla Beach, Los Cabos, Baja

Who: Alfredo Salafranca, race director; Kym Kuharski, Bliss Events, organizer.

After the overwhelming success of last year’s Los Cabos Classic SUP Mexico – Mike Doyle Stand Up Paddle Race, this year Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships has joined forces with the event, for what is sure to be an action-packed and very exciting weekend benefiting the Campamento Tortuguero Don Manuel Orantes (Cabo Tortugas), a turtle monitoring and hatchling release program. Professionals from around the world have been competing in the Hennessey’s SUP & Paddle Board racing series in order to qualify for the World Paddle Championships.

The weekend races will include the Los Cabos Classic races (the regular annual event) that are open to amateurs, the 11-mile Point-to-Point race (P2P), a four-mile course race, and the extremely popular Relay Race, which consists of four people per team, one of whom must be female. A full schedule of events is available at the SUP event site.

Other events will include the opening ceremonies, a live DJ, a turtle release, a kid’s clinic hosted by SUP pros, a beach concert, food & beverages, tequila tastings, SUP demos, closing ceremonies and the final festivities at the new Don Sanchez Restaurant. The final party will include up to four hours of bar and food service with a photo booth and a live DJ.

Beverages for the weekend will be provided by Yellow Tail, Clase Azul Tequila, Alecran Tequila, Peligroso Tequila and Tecate Beers. Food will be provided by Don Sanchez Restaurant and Habaneros restaurant (both owned by celebrity chef Tadd Chapman). Royal Solaris is the hosting hotel for the event and is offering special packages for racers and spectators attending the event. Alaska Airlines is also offering a special travel rate for the event for people flying between Southern California and Los Cabos.

This promises to be a weekend full of fun with activities to suit all ages and genders, raising money for a worthwhile cause, and in one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Los Cabos. For more information, visit Facebook/SUP Mexico, Facebook/SUP Mexico—Los Cabos Classic or read about the event page at Baja.com.

The event is presented by SUP Mexico, Bliss Events Los Cabos, Hennessey’s and Hobie. Snell Real Estate and Del Mar Development are presenting sponsors and Baja.com is media sponsor.

Where to stay? What to do? Where to eat? Find it all at Baja.com.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about localrestaurants,hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, San Jose del Cabo Tagged With: beaches, Cabo, Hennessey's, Los Cabos, Paddle Board, Palmilla Beach, san jose del cabo, Stand Up Paddle Board

Sea Turtle Season in Los Cabos

September 10, 2012 By nikki 4 Comments

by Chris Sands

Most visitors to Los Cabos know about whale watching season, the period from December through March when gray and humpback whales make their annual migration to breeding grounds off the coast of Baja California. Although its been considerably less publicized, the Capes region also has a sea turtle season, with two of the eight extant sea turtle species nesting on local beaches from June through February. The turtles aren’t nearly as photogenic as the whales, but which is more satisfying: watching a brief but spectacular breaching by a humpback, or participating in a hands-on program to save area sea turtles from extinction?

Mature Olive Ridley females nesting on the beach. Photo by Claudio Giovenzana

Los Cabos isn’t the only nesting ground for Olive Ridley and Leatherback turtles, but female sea turtles generally return to the beach where they themselves were born. They’re sentimental that way. These two species represent both ends of the sea turtle spectrum. Olive Ridleys are the smallest sea turtle, and average about 100 pounds at maturity. Leatherbacks, on the other hand are the largest of the sea turtles, and may be up to 70 inches long, and weigh as much as a ton. A bit of trivia: Leatherbacks are the fastest reptiles on earth (in the water, of course), and one of the deepest divers as well, able to submerge to depths of more than 4,000 feet. Olive Ridley females nest in Los Cabos from June through December, Leatherback females from November through February.

Once sea turtles mature, they have very few predators, but the hatching process is fraught with danger. After a two month incubation process, hatchlings claw their way out of the nest and instinctively edge their way towards the sea. Unfortunately, many are eaten by birds and crabs before they reach the water, and those that do often fall prey to ocean predators or fishing nets. Increasing resort development is also a major problem, as the lighting from hotels and housing developments disorients the fledgling sea turtles, and often leads them in the wrong direction. As such, hatchling nursery programs have become hugely important in improving sea turtle survival rates, and there are two very good ones in Los Cabos.

Leatherback turtle swimming Photo courtesy of NOAA Fisheries

Turtle monitoring and hatchling release are two of the preservation touchstones at Campamento Tortuguero Don Manuel Orantes, a government sanctioned operation headquartered on a beach near the San José del Cabo wildlife estuary. Large-scale sea turtle preservation efforts are also being made at the 2000 acre San Cristobal Nature Preserve, which extends over several Pacific-side beaches north of Cabo San Lucas. The nature preserve is run by Rene Pinal and his non-profit group ASUPMATOMA (Association for the Protection of the Environment and the Marine Turtle in Southern Baja).

Although increasing development has been a contributing factor in the endangerment of sea turtles, eco-conscious businesses are participating in protection efforts. Guests staying at the Hilton Los Cabos from August through November may sign up for the Sea Turtle Protection Program, and assist with the releasing of baby Olive Ridley sea turtles. Tour groups such as Cabo Outfitters are offering similar programs, generally in conjunction with long-time sea turtle advocates like ASUPMATOMA and Campamento Tortuguero Don Manuel Orantes. Proceeds from the upcoming 3rd Annual SUP Mexico-Mike Doyle Los Cabos Classic Stand UP Paddle Race & Hennessey’s World Paddle Championships, which will take place on Palmilla Beach from November 2nd through the 4th, will help benefit sea turtle conservation and preservation at Don Manuel Orantes.

It’s Sea Turtle Season in Los Cabos. Ever experienced the joy of watching hatchlings take off to sea? You can. Travel to Cabo with Baja.com!

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Filed Under: Discover, Los Cabos, San Jose del Cabo Tagged With: beaches, Cabo San Lucas, Hatchlings, Los Cabo, san jose del cabo, Sea Turtles, SUP Mexico, Whale Watching

Cabo San Lucas