Hotel El Ganzo Review: Artsy Hotel in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
Have you gone on your summer getaway yet? Many US airlines have cheap flights to Los Cabos and many Mexican airlines have even cheaper flights to Los Cabos, a region of cities and towns at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. If you are looking for a place to stay, I highly recommend Hotel El Ganzo in San Jose del Cabo.
When people say they’re going “to Cabo,” they could mean any number of things. Cabo San Lucas is known for partying and San Jose del Cabo is known for relaxing. Note that I’m making broad generalizations here; you will find opportunities for both in each spot. There are plenty of places to visit all around the tip of Baja California and an accommodation that will fit every traveler’s goals. My goal was to stay in a posh and artsy hotel with interesting things to do, but somewhere not too crowded.
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Accommodations
Hotel El Ganzo really checks all of my boxes. The room is stylish and spacious. There is a lean-out balcony overlooking the marina. The bed is comfortable, and there is plenty of space to unpack a suitcase and put away clothes. There is a deep soaking tub and dual sinks. The flatscreen TV shows programming in Spanish and English, and there may have been a mini-fridge in the room, but I can’t exactly recall.
Each room has original artwork in it. It’s tough to see above, but check the below picture to see the string art installation above and behind the headboard. Other rooms feature original murals or other types of art.
In addition to art, music is a huge part of this hotel’s vibe. The TV features a channel that shows concerts recorded in their secret (not-so-secret) basement music studio. Many nights of the week there is live music in the lobby and restaurant. The first night we arrived, a flamenco dancer performed during dinner, and our final night at Hotel El Ganzo there was a live jam band on the terrace that played for hours.
The service staff was unparalleled. The hotel did not seem to be fully booked at the time we stayed there, (although there were plenty of guests) but the staff made us feel like VIPs the whole time.
Amenities
Aside from the stunning view (which can be considered an amenity all on its own), there were other amenities such as two pools, a gym, spa, and on-site restaurant. I will provide more details on the pool(s) and beach club below.
I have to admit I only got one photo of the food I had during my stay, and it was of the breakfast included with my booking.com rate (I chose the option with breakfast included). It’s dubbed a “continental breakfast” but isn’t not self-serve like what I expected to fall under that term. Instead it includes a breakfast of pastry, fruit, yogurt and granola, and a choice of coffee or juice.
I longingly looked at some of the more deluxe breakfast options but enjoyed my tasty small meal knowing it was already paid for. Note: We did need to communicate this clearly to the staff. My guess is people usually upgrade their breakfasts.
The menu at the gourmet onsite restaurant features elevated spins on Mexican regional dishes. Menu prices are higher than elsewhere in Cabo but the food is so special, high-quality, and artisan, the price is well earned. Every meal I had was superb, and I always dove right in before taking a picture (bad travel blogger!).
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Beach Club
Some of the Cabo hotels are positioned right on the water and have a private beach. When I booked my stay, I honestly didn’t know what to expect in terms of the beach, however Hotel El Ganzo’s Beach Club is across a small inlet from the hotel. The hotel staffs a small boat to shuttle guests across; it only takes about 30 seconds to get over there.
On the beach, there are a variety of lounge chairs and cabanas, fresh beach towels, and wait staff. There is no extra fee to use a cabana, but food and drinks are charged to the room.
The beach is very private and secluded between two jetties – this makes for a much better swimming experience, especially considering Baja California’s dangerous rip currents. The water is deep blue with gentle waves. It is clear enough to see fish and calm enough to paddle board (no extra cost). Watching the pelicans dive to catch fish sounds simple, but provides a charming backdrop for a day on the beach.
Book your stay at Hotel el Ganzo (affiliate)
Pool
I may have buried the lede here, but one of Hotel El Ganzo’s trademark features is a rooftop infinity pool and hot tub. It’s accurate to state that I spent most of my time up here reapplying sunscreen and taking in the views of the end of the earth. There are plenty of cabanas in the shade and lounge chairs in the sun. At one end there is a swim-up bar with barstools, but the staff is eager to provide poolside service and wait on guests in the cabanas. Note: There are a limited day passes available for those not staying at the hotel. The music at the rooftop pool club varies from mild to wild based on the time of day.
Above pictured, a quiet use pool available for those who want a little solitude. Below, a gathering space in the lobby just inside the front doors. Check in desk is to the left. To be clear, this is not an all-inclusive hotel (of which there are many in this area if that’s what you’re looking for).
In all, I had a great time at Hotel El Ganzo and I highly recommend it; I would love to go back. It was a sublime place to disconnect and spend a 4-day weekend. This child-free hotel is calmer on the weekdays and bustling on the weekend so plan accordingly depending on what kind of trip you’re seeking. The hotel also has a lot of art and music events. Follow their instagram for more details on upcoming happenings.
Or: A Similar Vibe, Stateside
Booking.comThe global COVID-19 pandemic has affected travel in every way. Please refer to local ordinances in the country, state, or city, and look up the website of the museum, tour, restaurant, or hotel you are considering visiting.
