Home #WHERETONEXT Mexico Where Stars Align: Baja California’s Luxe Escape in Los Cabos

Where Stars Align: Baja California’s Luxe Escape in Los Cabos

Rande Gerber, Amal & George Clooney and Cindy Crawford photo courtesy of vansirius.com

Since the golden 1950s, Los Cabos has emerged as a sanctuary of luxury, captivating those searching for unparalleled beauty and serenity. This destination has been a magnet to iconic figures such as John Wayne, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Bing Crosby, Elizabeth Taylor, John Steinbeck, and many others. Whether seeking inspiration, living out their dreams, enjoying idyllic vacations, or simply finding peace, Los Cabos has offered the perfect setting for each story. From the memorable wedding of Keith Richards in the 80s to Adam Levine’s big day at Flora Farms and being one of Elon Musk’s favorite spots, Los Cabos continues to draw artists and celebrities looking to escape the daily hustle and bustle.

Nestled between the starkly scenic Baja California Sur Desert and the Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos is a destination that defies comparison. With luxurious resorts, an energetic nightlife, a spirited populace, and inspired cuisine, this gem on the Baja California Peninsula has quickly become beloved by solo travelers, families, couples, eco-tourists, extreme sports travelers, golfers, and just about everyone.

You can count the rich and famous among the growing numbers of Los Cabos’ admirers. The list of celebrities that have fallen in love with Los Cabos is long indeed…and studded with considerable star power. Perennial A-listers like George Clooney, Robert De Niro, Selena Gomez, Will Smith, Chris Pratt, and Zac Efron have all been spotted soaking up the sun in Los Cabos, to say nothing of the numerous athletes, musicians, and other actors photographed enjoying a little Baja California bliss.  Below, we recap a few of the more recent visits to Los Cabos and shine a spotlight on the amazing properties favored by the famous.

Macaulay Culkin & Brenda Song – Nobu Los Cabos

Photo: Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin, photo courtesy of @volindo_travel

Culkin (of iconic Home Alone fame) made headlines in the news and waves across social media when he decided to take on the part of hotel staff for fiancée Brenda Song’s birthday. While many found the goofy antics heartwarming, the picturesque backdrop certainly added to the allure of the ensuing photographs. This is perhaps no surprise, as Culkin and Song opted to stay at the Incredible Nobu Los Cabos.

As part of a collection of hotels synonymous with luxury worldwide, the Nobu Los Cabos certainly lives up to the pedigree of its name. The property brings a sophisticated Japanese aesthetic (with Japanese lanterns and wooden furniture) that blends harmoniously with Los Cabos’ laid-back, breezy style. With over 200 guest suites and residences, Nobu has accommodations for every taste and preference. However, you’ll want to make ample use of your room’s Onsen-style soaking tub for authentic Japanese relaxation.

Los Cabos’ famous farm-to-table cuisine is on full display when you dine at Nobu, whether you opt to eat at Playabites, the Ardea steakhouse, or the namesake eatery, where the aromas of rock shrimp tempura and miso cod mingle with the energizing salt in the air. Wellness seekers will be delighted with the robust outdoor hydrotherapy garden: 13,000 sq ft of experience pools, cabana jacuzzis, a water circuit, and much more. Impeccable style, rich amenities, and mouthwatering fare all combine at Nobu to form a can’t-miss experience. If only we could celebrate every birthday here!

Patrick & Brittany Mahomes – Chileno Bay Resorts & Residences

Photo courtesy of Brittany Mahomes/Instagram; Auberge Resorts Collection

Move over, Disneyworld. When a star quarterback wants to celebrate a Super Bowl victory these days, Los Cabos has become the destination of choice. Just ask Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes, who was joined by his wife Brittany and children Sterling and Bronze on a family getaway to Los Cabos, complete with archery lessons, golf, and more. The venue of choice? The beautiful Chileno Bay Resorts & Residences.

Chileno Bay is one of the only resorts in Los Cabos perched on a swimmable beach – and what a beach it is! The tranquil waters of its protected cove hide coral reefs just offshore, teeming with wildlife that makes for memorable diving and snorkelling excursions. The breezy, open-air design of the resort is mirrored in its suite layouts, many of which feature private terraces overlooking the ocean. The contemporary “Sky Villas”, available in 3, 4, or 5-bedroom variants, are particularly dazzling, offering unobstructed views of the sunset from the comfort of your rooftop, as well as a full kitchen and a private pool.

A resort known for its outdoor excursions and wellness, expect to see plenty of surfers, sailors, and golfers at Chileno. The Chileno Bay Club is a Tom Fazio-designed course that weaves between desert cactuses and crosses coastal cliffs, often presenting its players a glimpse at migrating whales between shots. With complimentary activities and meals for children, Chileno is an excellent choice for families of all fame levels.

Jennifer Aniston – One & Only Palmilla

Jennifer Anniston, photo courtesy of Goop.com

Jennifer Aniston is the “Queen of Los Cabos” if you ask the locals. That’s because Aniston possibly spends more time in Los Cabos than any other celebrity. Aniston reportedly favors the southern city of San Jose Del Cabo, renowned for its colonial-style architecture and artistic scene. Though she has been seen staying at resorts around the Peninsula, one clear favorite has emerged: the One & Only Palmilla.

Originally constructed in the 1950s as the first luxury retreat in Los Cabos, One & Only Palmilla set the standard for upscale hospitality in the region. From its inception, it was designed to cater to an elite clientele, offering unparalleled luxury and exclusivity. Over the years, the resort has added many more terracotta villas to its repertoire to become Los Cabos’ ultimate escape. Perched on a secluded cliff overlooking the azure waves, this resort truly has it all: spacious, lavish rooms, a world-class spa specializing in authentic Mexican healing traditions, and a robust catalog of excursions (including art trails, sailing, and horseback riding) all helpfully organized by the eminently knowledgeable staff. The oceanfront suites are available in various configurations, including amenities like adjoining infinity pools that make one feel rich and famous.

Dining at the One & Only is truly in a league. Opt for savor courtesy of Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s wood-fire grill, fresh sushi, and ceviche, or local coastal fare at Agua. You can soothe your body at the spa with hot obsidian and aromatic herbal remedies or participate in a uniquely Mayan sweat ritual.  Ready to experience the glamour of the Baja California Peninsula for yourself?

You can learn more about Los Cabos at https://www.visitloscabos.travel/.