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Buying and Selling Real Estate in Los Cabos
A Basic Guide to Buying and Selling Real Estate in Los Cabos
It’s amazing how much can be obscured by the simple act of translation. Buying and selling real estate in Los Cabos, for instance, is not a difficult process, but some common misconceptions–fueled by foreign language documents and poorly informed travelers– have left many Americans and Canadians with the mistaken impression that they aren’t able to own land in México, or that the terms are particularly onerous.
Neither is true…in fact, buying a dream home in Los Cabos has never been easier than it is right now.
Common Misconceptions & The Truth About Real Estate in México
Much of the confusion about buying real estate in México stems from misconceptions about the “restricted zone,” and Mexican bank trusts known as fideicomisos.
Mexican law states that persons of any nationality can own real estate in the country, however, there are certain regulations for property within 50 kilometers (approximately 30 miles) of the coastline, or within 100 kilometers of México’s border with other countries. This area is known as the “restricted zone,” and its specific regulations were included in the Mexican constitution for reasons of national security.
Can foreigners (U.S. and Canadian residents) buy real estate in the restricted zone? After all, that’s where many of the best properties, from beachfront homes in San José del Cabo to hillside luxury villas in Cabo San Lucas, are located. The answer is yes. You can buy and sell real estate in the restricted zone, and even will it to your heirs after your death. Foreign owners, contrary to any misconceptions, have the same rights of ownership and succession as Mexican nationals. However, all of this must be done within the fideicomiso system.
What is a fideicomiso (pronounced fee-day-coe-mee-so)? It’s a bank trust, generally with a small annual fee, and a renewal period set at 50 or 100 years. Contrary to another common misconception, a fideicomiso is not a lease. Leaseholders cannot sell their property, remodel it, or use it as collateral. Owners can, and despite the strangeness of the process for U.S. or Canadian residents, a fideicomiso is essentially the same as simple fee ownership. The bank does not own the real estate. You do.
The Purchasing Process
The purchasing process in Mexico is actually very similar to that in the U.S. or Canada. You find the home of your dreams and you make an offer. If that offer is accepted, then you proceed to closing. There are specific details to note in each part of this process, however, beyond the fideicomiso aspect.
The first is the art of finding the home of your dreams, or at the very least a secondary home which you or your family or friends may use as a seasonal residence. It’s very important, in México as elsewhere, that you choose the right ally. Windermere, for example, is a real estate company with over 300 offices and 6,000 agents west of the Rockies. Our agents have well over 100 years combined experience in the local market, and know all the ins and outs and the subtle distinctions and legal fine print, of buying and selling real estate in Los Cabos.
We’re a name you can trust, and we know every available property in the area, including those that are still in the planning stages. This is an important note, which we’ll explain below.
With resale real estate, the property is purchased from an individual, with a reservation held by deposit (typically 10% of the purchase price), followed by an OTP (an offer to purchase), a contract or purchase agreement, and finally the transfer of the title deed (via fideicomiso). With pre-construction real estate, the property is purchased directly from the developer, which generally entails a waiting period during the construction phase before you can take ownership.
Make sense? See, we told you it wasn’t as complicated as you had been led to believe.
Ready to Get Started? Ready to Get Started?
Call us from the USA / Canada at 011 52 (624) 228-3509 for more details. We’ll help you find and buy your dream home in Los Cabos. Contact Us here
Property Taxes in Los Cabos
Property Taxes in Los Cabos Are Lower Than You Think (And Easier to Pay!)
It’s no secret that Los Cabos is home to some of the most spectacular real estate on earth, from sprawling hacienda style properties overlooking the ocean to gorgeous beachfront condos and breathtaking hilltop luxury villas.
Discerning travelers and those interested in the secondary home market also know that cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo are destinations on the rise, thanks to a thriving culinary scene driven by celebrated chefs, and upscale amenities like pampering spas and championship-level golf courses.
But what’s not so well-known are the Los Cabos area’s property tax rates, and how well they stack up against those in the U.S.
Differences in Property Tax Rates Between the U.S. and México
Not only are magnificent ocean view homes more readily available, and at much lower average list prices than those of its North American neighbors, but Los Cabos also offers superb value in terms of annual property taxes.
Los Cabos property taxes, known in Spanish as the predial, are assessed annually at only 0.1% of the value of the property at the time of its purchase. That’s well below the rate for all 50 U.S. states. Hawaii, for example, is the U.S. state with the lowest annual property tax rate at 0.27%. Colorado, California and Texas occupy the proverbial middle ground at 0.57%, 0.79% and 1.86%, respectively; while Illinois and New Jersey, at 2.32% and 2.40%, have the highest annual U.S. property tax rates.
Los Cabos is also a value when compared to Canada, easily besting the property tax rates of cities like Vancouver (0.25%) and Toronto (0.64%).
Annual Taxes based on the above for a $500,000 usd home:
- Colorado @ 0.57% = $2,850 usd
- California @ 0.79% = $3,950 usd
- Texas @ 1.86% = $9,300 usd
- Hawaii @ 0.27% = $1,350 usd
- Illinois @ 2.32% = $11,600 usd
- New Jersey @ 2.40% = $12,000 usd
- Vancouver @0.25% = $1,250 usd
- Toronto @ 0.64% = $3,200 usd
- Los Cabos @ 0.1% = $500 usd
How to Accrue Additional Savings on Your Los Cabos Property Taxes
In addition to the built-in savings on property taxes vs. U.S. rates, home owners in Los Cabos are also eligible for additional savings simply by paying their taxes in a timely fashion.
(Photo Credit to CaboCribs)
The annual deadline for property taxes in Los Cabos is March 31, however, the Los Cabos Municipal Council offers discounted rates to those who pay early. Discounts are awarded on a sliding scale: 20% off the predial for payment in January; 15% in February; and 10% in March.
For those considering Los Cabos as a retirement destination, senior citizens over 60 years of age who are also permanent residents qualify for property tax discounts of up to 50% off the standard predial. These savings are available through México’s INAPAM program, which issues a card to enrolled seniors entitling them to discounts on a wide variety of goods and services.
How to Pay Your Los Cabos Property Taxes
No need to stress the payment process, either. It’s completely modernized and conveniently easy. Home owners are able to pay the predial online at http://www.eloscabos.gob.mx/. The only prerequisites are your clave catastral (a 17-digit tax ID number) and a valid credit card.
The Big Picture
Los Cabos continues to take steps to reward home owners who pay their property taxes on time and in full, as well as to streamline the process for maximum ease and convenience. Consider these attractions in tandem with the stunningly beautiful locale, and lifestyle factors like abundant upscale amenities and a lower cost of living, and it’s no wonder that the Los Cabos real estate market has never been hotter than it is right now.
For more information about Los Cabos real estate, please call us today at 011 52 (624) 228-3509 to find out more about buying a dream home in Los Cabos or contact us here, thanks!
The Wonders of Whale Watching in Los Cabos
A Season Unlike Any Other – Whale Watching in Los Cabos
Los Cabos is a place of many wonders, from spectacular granite monuments like The Arch at Land’s End to towering desert cacti and the confluence of two major bodies of water, the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez. But for sheer magnificence and natural grandeur, nothing captures the imagination quite like the region’s most famous seasonal residents.
Think the roar of a lion or a full-throated elephant rumble is impressive?
Imagine a creature the size of 6 full-grown African elephants, 110 golden maned lions, or over 400 adult humans, exerting its maximum force in a random display of playfulness and joy.
(Photo Credit to Cabo Adventures)
That’s the spectacle of a breaching humpback whale, a 30 to 50-ton leviathan lifting its entire body out of the water and then crashing back down with enough force to displace several Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of water.
For some more perspective, the power required to generate this leap is roughly equivalent to the power needed to lift a Boeing 747 aircraft off the runway and into the sky.
It’s a breathtaking sight, and amazingly humpbacks aren’t even the biggest whales. That honor belongs to the blue whale, which at 100 to 150 tons is the largest creature ever to exist on Earth. Bigger than any dinosaur, woolly mammoth or other prehistoric beast.
Whale Watching Season Officially Starts December 15th
Each year, from mid-December through mid-March, many of these remarkable (and remarkably large) creatures can be seen just offshore from Los Cabos. Estimates vary, but the best guess is that 5,000 to 1o,000 whales journey from their summer arctic feeding grounds to warm water breeding grounds in the coves and lagoons of Baja California Sur each winter.
A gray whale named Varvara became famous in 2015 for the longest mammalian migration ever recorded–nearly 14,000 miles round-trip, from Russia to Cabo San Lucas and back–but her journey was only considered special because it was accurately tracked. There are thousands of Varvaras each year, and just like U.S. and Canadian snowbirds, these whales love heading to sunny tropical Los Cabos when the weather gets cold up north.
Many Species of Whales Can Be Seen
Humpbacks and grays are the most commonly sighted, but sperm whales, orcas and even blues can be spied from touring boats or from coastal homes and beachfront lookouts. Each species has its favored breeding grounds. Big blues like the UNESCO protected Islands of Loreto; grays favor Ojo de Liebre and Magdalena Bay; and humpbacks seek out shallow water Sea of Cortez coves off the southern rim of the Baja California peninsula.
(Photo Credit to Cabo Adventures)
Lucky Los Cabos residents are treated to the biggest show on earth on a regular basis, and statistics or comparisons can’t really do the majesty of these seasonal visitors justice. They are beyond comparison, and enumerating how high water shoots from their blowholes (20 – 25 feet) or how large their lungs are (big as a car) doesn’t really prepare one for the thrill of seeing a live whale up close. It’s almost a kind of magic to share the same space and breathe the same air, and the fact that they are commonly seen for several months each year never lessens the impact.
That’s really the wonder of Los Cabos, when you think about it. The common is never commonplace.
For more information about Los Cabos real estate, please call us today at 011 52 (624) 228-3509 to find out more about buying a dream home in Los Cabos or contact us here, thanks!
The Good Life at Land´s End
3 Reasons Los Cabos is the Fastest-Growing Destination in Mexico
In Los Cabos, rapid growth isn’t just an abstract concept or an impressive set of statistics, it’s a tangible, measurable fact. Not only is Baja California Sur’s southernmost municipality the fastest growing tourist destination in México, it’s also among the country’s fastest growing destinations for U.S. expats, and for seasonal residents who are buying second homes in the area.
One need only cruise the coastal highway between cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo to see the evidence of this explosive growth. There, a striking collection of new luxury resorts and residential developments are vying for the most breathtaking views of gorgeous golden sand and the glittering blue waters of the Sea of Cortez.
And that’s merely one of many coastal zones with ambitious new developments in progress.
Los Cabos, long the discerning snowbird’s preferred winter getaway spot, is suddenly hotter than ever, and no one seems in any hurry to go home. For many, in fact, it now is home.
Here are three reasons why…
Climate & Setting
(Photo Credit Blue Sky Cabo)
The weather isn’t just sunnily, palm tree perfect when frigid winter temperatures are buffeting much of the U.S. With an average of 350 days of warm sunshine annually, just about every day is perfect in Los Cabos.
But it isn’t just the temperate year-round climate that’s attracting new residents, it’s the jaw-dropping scenery. Surrounded on two sides by water – Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas is the symbolic demarcation between the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez – and with an interior that segues seamlessly from picturesque playas to stark, cactus-framed desert landscapes and rugged mountains, Los Cabos is one of the most spectacularly beautiful and geographically diverse places on earth. Legendary French explorer and naturalist Jacques Cousteau once called the Sea of Cortez “the world’s aquarium,” and the area’s wealth of natural wonders are always on display, both on land and beneath the sea.
Lifestyle & Amenities
(Photo Credit Quivira 13th Hole)
Los Cabos’ varied terrains translate to abundant activities and lifestyle pursuits, from the area’s famed big-game sport fishing and year-round surfing to mountain biking and off-road racing. The most popular activities, however – at least in recent years – have been leisurely pastimes like golf and spa visits.
No surprise, really, given the incredible options.
No place outside the golf’s ancestral home of Scotland has more world-class courses in such close proximity as Los Cabos. The cape cities boast over a dozen top courses from legendary names like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, three of which are currently ranked among the 100 best in the world.
Spas too are abundant, not to mention abundantly pampering. In annual rankings from Travel + Leisure, Los Cabos dominates rankings of the top spas in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Overall Quality of Life
(Photo Credit Cabo Adventures Luxury Sailing)
Beautiful weather, gorgeous natural settings, and a bevy of luxury amenities and lifestyle options are all very persuasive arguments for the area’s high quality of life…but that’s only scratching the surface.
Los Cabos has a lower cost of living than the U.S., and significantly lower list prices for coastal real estate; meaning it’s possible to buy the home of your dreams for a fraction of what it would cost in the U.S.
Add it all up and the real question isn’t why are so many people moving to Los Cabos, but why isn’t everybody?
For more information about Los Cabos real estate, please call us Toll Free today at 011 52 (624) 228-3509 to find out more about buying a dream home in Los Cabos or contact us here, thanks!
Paradise at the Right Value
How to Find Your Dream Home in Los Cabos
(Photo Credit Blue Sky Cabo)
There’s a reason people call Los Cabos a paradise, and it’s not just because cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo enjoy year-round sunshine and tropical mood-enhancers like palm trees and golden sand beaches. It’s because one of the most beautiful places on Planet Earth still has plenty of ocean view real estate available, and you don’t need to be a billionaire, or even a millionaire, to afford it.
List prices for ocean view real estate are significantly lower (and more available) in Los Cabos than for similarly spectacular properties in the U.S., and home financing is now an option.
Are you ready to find your dream home in paradise? Here are three basic steps to follow.
Find the Right Location
There are many views and vantages in paradise…now more than ever, given Los Cabos’ current growth spurt, which has translated to an unprecedented building boom at picturesque locales throughout the area. Exciting new developments are underway now on the ruggedly beautiful Pacific Coast north of Cabo San Lucas (Quivira, Diamante and Rancho San Lucas), along the Sea of Cortez facing “tourist corridor” which connects the cape cities (Solaz, Montage, Ritz-Carlton and Hyatt), and on the pristine and sparsely populated East Cape (Four Seasons, Aman and Caesar’s Palace).
Each of Los Cabos’ many ocean view locales and neighborhoods has its advantages and amenities, from private golf courses from legendary names like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Davis Love III, Greg Norman and Fred Couples to marina access, culinary marketplaces and pampering day spas.
The question is: which location is right for you?
Find the Best Value
The options are nearly endless, and we’re not just referring to the many new residential developments on Los Cabos’ golden coasts. There are also many types of homes available, from cliffside luxury villas to beachfront condos, resort-based residences to sprawling hacienda style estates.
Finding the best value doesn’t just mean finding the lowest listing, but finding an affordable property that’s also perfect for the needs of you and your family. Do you fancy something intimate and romantic – a hilltop pied-à-terre overlooking the sea – or do you dream of a large beach house that will accommodate frequent visits from friends and family? Will you be in residence full-time or only seasonally? Fractional ownership may be an option to consider.
Find the Right Ally
Finding the right ally is actually step one, as it makes finding the right location and value so much easier.
Windermere’s agents have over 100 years of combined experience in the Los Cabos real estate market. We’re well-versed in Mexican law and real estate regulations, and always up-t0-date on all the latest properties and developments.
What we’re most proud of, however, is our ability to help clients find and finance their dream home…the place they’ve always dreamed of, and in many cases thought they could never afford.
Fortunately, after years of “cash only” home buying options, Windermere has recently discovered Global Mortgage is offering fixed-rate 15 year loans, with full amortization, and one of the lowest interest rates available from any institutional lender in Mexico. As an added bonus, annual taxes, insurance, trust and HOA fees are all included in the monthly mortgage payments.
Translation: Paradise is easier to find – and finance – than ever before.
Call us Toll Free today 011 52 (624) 228-3509 to find out more about buying a dream home in Los Cabos or contact us here, thanks!
A Year in Los Cabos
When finding your dream home in Los Cabos, Mexico, it’s good to know, what to expect when moving to paradise. It’s a vibrant place attracting people from all over the world. Throughout the year, there are events, celebrations, and occasions catering both to visitors and locals alike. The weather never really goes too bad, however, certain times of the year are better for particular activities. Windermere Los Cabos has prepared for you this summary of the month to month highlights of living in Los Cabos.
January
January is high season in Los Cabos. With gentle warm weather (on average 66°F) it attracts tourists and holidaymakers. It is the perfect time to head out whale watching as the season runs from December to April. The mild temperatures also make it a good time to go and explore the outdoors and head inland. A noteworthy national celebration in January is the Dia de Los Reyes Magos (January 6) during which you might find Rosca de Reyes traditional pastries being baked. This day signifies the day the Three Wise Men gave gifts to Jesus Christ.
February
The shortest month of the year might be dull and forgettable elsewhere, but it’s as glorious as any other in Los Cabos. For nature lovers, whale watching goes on at full speed. Art lovers can witness Todos Santos Open Studios, which is an annual event going strong for nine years already. Visitors are welcomed to visit artists in their studios and witness the creative process first hand. If you’re up for a challenge, Los Cabos Half Marathon cannot be missed. During February, the weather isn’t very much different than in January. Mild temperatures averaging 68°F allow you to enjoy everything Cabo has on offer.
March
Many festivities and celebrations take place in Los Cabos during March – you just have to take a pick. Days are getting longer and the weather – warmer. The second week of March is when the festival of San Jose del Cabo takes place. During this time, parades and festivities honour St. Joseph, the patron saint of San Jose del Cabo. Expect music and carnivals, great food and a good time. On March 21 it’s also a national celebration and commemoration of the country’s first president Benito Juarez.
April
April is the last chance before December to go whale watching as the season runs only until April 15. April is the last month of the so-called high season, and you can expect to see a lot of party crowds during Spring Break.
May
While you might expect to see a lot of Cinco de Mayo celebrations, that’s not exactly the case in Los Cabos. Many emphasize that Cinco de Mayo in terms of celebration means more to Americans than to locals in Los Cabos. May is a good time to be in Cabo as it is between two high season periods. You can expect fewer crowds and great discounts on a lot of things. Those into surfing will enjoy the Surf Summit taking place mid-May. Even though Cabo doesn’t get a lot of rainfall altogether, on average May is one of the driest months and the temperature averages around 79°F.
June
June is the last month to enjoy fairly milder warm temperatures before the hot weather hits. It’s important to remember sunscreen wherever you go as June is pretty much cloud-free. The surfing conditions are good during June and it’s a good time to hit the waters. Los Cabos Open of Surf takes place mid-June. Not only can you witness top surfing athletes, but there’s also concerts and other events.
July
A month of warmest waters and generally great weather. A good time to hit the waves both in the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. The tourism season is not at its peak due to hot temperatures and slightly increased chances of rain. However, Los Cabos, in general, gets very little rain so the talk of the rainy season is slightly exaggerated.
August
August is among the hottest months in Los Cabos with temperatures ranging from 88°F up to 99°F degrees. During this time you’ll see fewer tourists and it’s not the best time for outdoor activities like heading inland as the temperatures are just too high. Many family attractions and activities are closed during the more quiet months so a day at the beach is the best option for families since the water temperatures are the warmest and nicest. Los Cabos Open men’s tennis tournament happens in August and there are a few fishing tournaments happening too.
September
Mexican Independence Day takes place on September 15 and even though September is more of a quiet month in Los Cabos, you can expect great festivities on this day. While both air and water temperatures remain high, September is excellent for being near the sea. It can be especially appealing to those, who like fishing since there’s a great variety of marlin in the waters during the month of September. If you feel especially passionate about nature, you can join a conservation group helping rescue sea turtles as many of them nest near beach resorts. The dates usually vary between September and October.
October
Before the peak tourist season picks up around December, October and November is the best time to enjoy much kinder temperatures than in the summer months. There are plenty of fishing tournaments happening in October, such as the worldwide recognized Bisbee’s Black and Blue Tournaments, which have been taking place in Los Cabos for over 30 years. It’s also a good time to go snorkeling as whale sharks arrive at the area. On October 18 the Fiesta de Cabo San Lucas takes place celebrating the patron saint of Cabo San Lucas and you can expect to see a parade.
November
November is the last month before the peak season takes off. A good time to head into the water to fish or snorkel. Mid-November is when the humpback whale season takes off and if you’re lucky, you can spot one of these majestic beauties. The temperatures are getting to a more tolerable level and the humidity also drops. The beginning of November marks Día de Los Muertos or the Day of the Dead which commemorates deceased family members and friends. Expect to find the traditional “Pan de Muerto” in bakeries and supermarkets all over town.
December
Last month of the year is the buzzing start to the peak tourism season in Los Cabos. The temperatures have gone back down to a nice and relatively mild level, which makes December perfect for outdoor exploration. The whale watching season also takes off mid-December and lasts until mid-April. There are a few Catholic celebrations happening during December but the majority of festive events happen around Christmas time and especially the New Year’s.
10 Questions You Should Always Ask When Buying a Property in Los Cabos
Real estate remains to be one of the most influential investments in many parts of the world. One such part is Los Cabos, where you can always find a property to suit your needs. Owning properties in this part of Mexico is a dream for many people looking to invest in destination living in a pleasant climate. There is also a big market for luxury real estate in the area. However, if you are not well prepared, making this dream come true can be difficult.
The wisest thing to do is to hire the services of an expert in the real industry to protect your interests and assist you with the process of buying in this popular luxury tourist destination. Below are ten questions we suggest you ask your real estate agent when buying a property in Los Cabos, Mexico, to ensure you are educated in settling for the right choice and make your buying process smooth.
1. How long have you served in the real estate industry?
An agent who has been in the business for long may be more knowledgeable about how things are run and have more odds of finding your dream home. To ascertain the quality of their services, you may even inquire if the agent has gotten any awards for their performance.
However, being in business for long doesn’t guarantee a quality service. You should therefore not despise the services of a newbie. The essential thing is ensuring they are licensed to operate.
2. Where is the property located?
Los Cabos is a big municipality located in the Baja California Sur peninsula. It includes Los Barrriles, Cabo Pulmo, East Cape, Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, among other areas. Each of these towns is unique regarding the environment and the facilities they offer.
For instance, if you want your property in a town with a busy nightlife, varied beach activities, tours, shopping, and cruises, then Cabo San Lucas is the place to buy. San Jose del Cabo, on the other hand, is a more peaceful town with great restaurants, more tranquil beaches, and a fantastic art district. Therefore we suggest you ask where exactly the property is located to get the right fit for your needs.
3. Can we submit a lower offer than the price listed?
Sometimes the prices in real estate are negotiable. If you think the property you are about to buy can be offered at a lower price, do not hesitate to ask the agent whether the listed price is definitive.
4. Are there any health or safety issues I should be aware of?
Before buying a property in Los Cabos, consult with your real estate agent about any health or safety concern you may have, such as the quality of indoor air, lead paint, mold, mosquitoes, etc. Being informed about all these issues can help you counter them.
5. Can you give me some references?
When buying a property in Los Cabos, you can always ask your realtor whether they can give you any references to previous customers. If any, make an effort to reach them and inquire about their experience with the agent.
6. Can you show me similar properties in the area?
The more options the realtor has, the better for you. You want to get real value out of your investment and not just go for any property you find in the market. Therefore, to find your dream home, go house hunting with your agent and evaluate all your options.
7. Are there any zoning laws?
Knowing the zoning laws and any planned project or development in the location of your desired property will enable you to make an informed projection of possible future changes in the neighborhood.
8. Are you aware of any disadvantages the property may have?
No matter how perfect a place may seem, your agent knows best. A property inside a development may have HOA issues, noisy roads nearby at night, or any other situation you may not notice in a regular day tour.
9. Do you offer any guarantee for your services?
If after making an offer things do not work out the way you wanted, your agent should be able to cancel the agreement. A good agent should offer you the flexibility to change a deal without any hassles.
10. How long has the property been on the market?
When a property is listed for too long in the market, doubt arises. It is not necessarily a bad thing, but you can always calm yourself by clearing any doubts with your real estate agent. Find out if the property is too expensive, or if there may be something wrong with it.
Buying a property in Los Cabos with the help of a real estate agent from Windermere is definitely a safe investment. The real estate industry may be too difficult to handle alone. Windermere, where dreams become a reality, is currently providing over 100 years of Real Estate experience in the Los Cabos area. Regardless of the type of luxury property you are looking for, may it be for destination living, leasing or any other purposes, we have got you covered.
5 Benefits of Living Near the Sea
If you ask someone, what their ideal holiday looks like the majority would say – somewhere by the sea. People love water and many dream of a beach wedding or even buying a house near the sea someday. Looking at all the benefits that life by the sea can offer, it’s no wonder why so many of us crave to spend more time close by the water. Here are five advantages of living in a town like Los Cabos, near the sea.
- Health
Life by the sea has many benefits but the most significant that everyone should take into account is how good it is for your health.
Fresh air will certainly do you good and seaside air is especially beneficial. Not only is it free from pollutants common in the city like exhaust fumes and particles. It is less dry and can benefit people, who suffer from respiratory problems like regular coughs and even asthma and allergies.
On top of that, seaside climate also helps improve mental health. Serene views of the deep blue sea and sound of the waves help reduce anxiety and improve your sleep at night.
Regular walks by the water in the warm sunlight also help boost your vitamin D levels, which are essential for overall health.
- Fitness
When living in the city, many of us feel like there’s not enough time and opportunity to exercise. It’s one thing to go to the gym several times a week but nothing feels as good as working out in the fresh air.
Living near the sea is the perfect opportunity to get out more. From running to yoga or even a morning or afternoon swim, nothing can beat the feeling after an open-air workout. If you get into the habit of doing it regularly, it can also boost your immune system as your body will adjust to different weather and temperatures.
- Family Life
Sometimes juggling all aspects of life can be a challenge. And when things get too much, it might be time for an escape. When living in the city, that escape might mean getting out to the country but that’s not always easy when you have a partner, children, and pets. And then there’s time for friends. How to squeeze it all in?
When you live near the sea, things can be easier. Even just a few hours spent at the beach with the family can make a big difference and allow you to save time and money planning a trip away from home. Invite friends and you can have a picnic on the beach.
- Varied Diet and Fresh Seafood
For centuries coastal lifestyle has been associated with plenty of fresh produce and seafood. Not enough people include seafood in their diet and it may be difficult to do so, when living in large urban areas, where prices are higher, things are not as fresh, and the selection is simply more limited. Majority of seafood is an excellent source of nutrients. It’s high in protein, low in fats and cholesterol, and contains much needed omega 3 fatty acids.
- Social Life
With so many people heading to the beach from places all around, coastal lifestyle is perfect for meeting new people. Whether it’s enjoying recreational and watersport activities or heading to local cafes, events, or simply going shopping, there are so many opportunities to meet new people and make friends. And your kids will love it too as playing on the beach can be a natural and relaxed way for the young ones to join in activities with other kids.
10 Fun Activities To Do In Los Cabos
You’d be surprised, but Los Cabos does have it all. The perfect “home away from home”. Everything from bright blue sea to beautiful sandy beaches to perfect sunsets over desert views. Relaxing in a quiet and romantic spot can be easily mixed up with outdoor adventures and exploring the vast sea life. Whether going with friends or family, there is something for everyone. In Windermere Los Cabos we are happy to share our favorite activities in this unique destination. Just take a pick.
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- Visit the Arch
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- Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo
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- Scuba Diving in Cabo San Lucas
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- Polaris Adventure
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- Ride a Camel in Cabo San Lucas
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- Chill Out in Santa Maria Beach
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- Snorkeling in Medano Beach
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- Surfing in Costa Azul
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- Whale Watching in Cabo San Lucas
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- Zip Lining in Cabo San Lucas
1. Visit The Arch
The recognizable natural rock formation known as El Arco is a signature landscape associated with Los Cabos. Due to being the southernmost point of Baja California Peninsula, it’s also known as The Land’s End. Since there is no access to El Arco by land, the best way to see it up close and get some unforgettable views and photos is by getting a water taxi. Who knows, you might even see some sea lions that love to hang out by the rocks.
2. Art Walk in San José del Cabo
The beauty of Los Cabos can be enjoyed not only through the day but also at night time. Every Thursday night between 5 PM and 9 PM (October to June) a vibrant and colorful event takes place in San José del Cabo Gallery District known as the Art Walk. Numerous galleries open their doors and put up special events for anyone wanting to see the artful side of Los Cabos. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, sip a glass of wine, while diving into the creative atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
3. Scuba Diving
Take a deep breath and dive into the water. Seeing the stunning beaches of Los Cabos is one thing, but there’s more under the surface. Just a short boat ride from the marina, and you can reach some fantastic diving locations offering spectacular underwater views. There’s something for everyone. Beginners can get comfortable with diving around Lover’s Beach while Sand Falls are perfect for experienced underwater adventurers.
4. Polaris Adventure
Into adrenaline? Go off-road. Polaris RZR tours in Los Cabos will take you through dunes and deserts, villages and beaches showcasing everything that Los Cabos climate has to offer. Grab the 4×4, a couple of friends or family and put the pedal to the metal.
5. Ride a Camel
You don’t have to fly to the Arabian Desert to ride through the sand on the back of a camel. Camel riding safari in the Baja desert is perfect for everyone in the family. You can even enjoy a delicious Mexican lunch and tequila tasting as part of it.
6. Chill Out In Santa Maria Beach
Between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo lies the Santa Maria Bay. A horseshoe-shaped beach with clear turquoise water and beautiful warm sun above your head. The bay is surrounded by rocks which makes it perfect for snorkeling as fish like to hide in underwater cliffs and coral. The Santa Maria Beach is easily accessible both by car or public transport.
7. Snorkeling in Medano Beach
Medano Beach is not only among the most popular beaches in Los Cabos, but it’s also somewhere you can practice snorkeling. Since this is a swimmer-friendly beach with not a lot of underwater cliffs and corals, you might not see the most significant amount of fish there. However, if you plan to spend a day on the beach, why not bring those snorkeling masks and swim fins along?
8. Surfing in Costa Azul
If you plan to visit Los Cabos during summer and autumn, make sure to give surfing a go in Costa Azul. Located on the so-called tourist corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo it’s suited for beginners and those already comfortable with this watersport. Complete newbies will be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff, who will show all the tips and tricks for mastering the waves.
9. Whale Watching
Whales are not the only sea animals you can encounter in Los Cabos, but they are the most spectacular. Whale watching in Los Cabos runs from 15 December to 15 April. During this time you can expect to see humpback whales and grey whales, among others. You can opt for anything from small group tours to private ones for just your friends and family, but keep in mind that you’re only allowed to approach the wales on certified boats.
10. Zip Lining Experience
Another exciting option for the whole family on a day out is outdoor ziplining. Glide over canyons or enjoy the fastest and longest zip line in Mexico going at 60 mph for over 4000 feet. If you’re looking to take your ziplining experience to the next level, why not try ziplining at night?
Day of the Dead: A Rich Mexican Tradition
In Windermere Los Cabos, we are fascinated with the Mexican traditions we are now sharing with the locals, and this holiday is a special one. The “Día de los Muertos” translated as Day of the Dead, celebrated in Mexico every year in November 2nd, is a tradition that honors the loved ones that have parted and pretends to make peace with the eventuality of death.
There is historic data that shows this celebration was created around 2,500 and 3,000 years ago. Led by the goddess Mictecacihuatl, also known as “Mictlan’s queen” or “Lady of the Dead,” when the celebration lasted a month. But in the XV century, the Spanish arrived and converted natives to the Roman Catholicism. This religion celebrates the “All saints” and “All souls” days in November 1st and 2nd. The natives then adopted these days as their new holidays, combining their ancient traditions with the new roman Catholicism.
The result is a colorful, sentimental, cultural and powerful tradition to celebrate the souls of the dead. The symbols, the family values, and the respect for their loved ones all in one amazing experience.
The Altar and Symbols
During this day, it is common for Mexican families to build a colorful altar to receive the souls of their loved ones. These altars usually share the same elements:
- A picture: This is one of the main elements of the altar. It is a picture of the loved one that has parted and the family is now honoring.
- Flowers: The representative orange flowers usually used are called cempasúchil, or Mexican marigold. They are set as a path and represent the bridge between the underworld and the altar. It is also very common to decorate the altar with other flowers, mainly if the loved one the family is honoring liked one type in particular.
- Chiseled paper: Also known as papel picado, is one of the most representative and colorful ornaments in the altar. For some people it represents the element of air.
- Food: Food, that the loved one used to enjoy, is also placed in the altar. It is very common to see the altars filled with tamales, local candies such as sugar skulls, fruit, coffee, atole and other meals depending on the region. The family believes that the loved one will take this food and enjoy it like he/she used to do.
- Personal objects: The family may also choose to include personal objects of their loved one, like clothes, toys, or tools, to decorate the altar. This is believed to make the soul of the loved one feel more comfortable while visiting.
- Candles: They are used as a symbol of guidance, but also as a symbol of hope. They are believed to show the souls their way to the altar and back.
- Spiritual elements: As Catholicism is now a big influence in these altars, it is common to find some elements like crucifixes and/or images of the Virgin Mary.
Overall every altar is created with dedication, respect and love to the soul of the loved one.
But for Mexicans, the Day of the Dead is not only about creating an altar or eating pan de muerto; it’s also about visiting their loved ones in the graveyard. Many families take this day off to visit their graves, remember the good moments they shared and pray for their souls.
Day of the Dead in Los Cabos
Interested in visiting an altar in Los Cabos? For 3 years, Flora Farms has been connecting local businesses with local charities through this tradition. The 3rd Annual Day of the Dead Altar Competition will exhibit 13 altars, from October 31st to November 6th, as a fundraiser for 13 different non-profits. In October 31st they will host the presentation of the altars in a lovely event with live music, entertainment, and appetizers.
