Discover Baja: Cabo San Lucas

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What destination tops even San Diego's eternal sunshine? San Diego's southerly neighbor, Baja California—more specifically, Cabo San Lucas. Pack your polka-dot bikini and sunglasses, and in just two hours by plane you'll be strolling on Cabo's deliciously warm sands.

A perfect weekend getaway from San Diego because of the short travel time, Cabo offers a wide range of restaurants, nightclubs and other activities, from water sports and ATV riding to shopping and merely relaxing.  

Downtown Cabo has undergone huge changes in the past 10 years, including the construction of a new shopping mall, Plaza Bonita, adjacent to the marina. Hosting a number of restaurants and shops, it's a pleasant place to stroll or grab a quick bite.

Nightly cab rides from Cabo's farther corners can be costly, so if you want to be a part of Cabo's nocturnal action, be sure to book a hotel downtown. A favorite hotspot is the ME Cabo, a Melía resort.

Located right on the Medano Beach, the ME is home of the famed Nikki Beach and is outfitted with the latest luxuries to truly satisfy every traveler's desires. By day, you can lounge on one of the hotel's poolside beds and sip a mojito while grooving to the sounds of a live DJ. By night, Nikki Beach turns into an exclusive club and hosts themed parties. If you stay in the portion of the hotel called The Level, you can scope out the pool and bar from your personal Jacuzzi spa and lounging deck.

Ready for the games to begin? Head down the beach to The Office, a Cabo favorite for its giant margaritas and delicious guacamole. Although Patron is one of the most well-known and frequently ordered tequilas, opt instead for Don Julio Silver or another local tequila. Because of the notoriety of Patron, some places charge a walloping $23 a shot. Better yet, buy a bottle at one of the local markets and pre-party in your room.

Adjacent to The Office, the Mango Deck offers two-for-one happy hour all day, which makes it a great place to get your drink started. If you're strolling through town, be sure to hit the Hippo Bar—home of the best margaritas in Cabo. The Hippo Bar is located in the middle of the plaza, which also boasts prominent restaurant/club Cabo Wabo.

When the sun goes down, The Giggling Marlin, El Squid Roe and The Zoo are some of the downtown's most memorable nightspots. For a laugh, be sure to read some of the sayings on the walls of El Squid Roe.

Now that Cabo's quenched your thirst, are you feeling hungry? Luckily, Cabo is a wonderful place to dine. It's truly a seafood lover's paradise, with endless selections of fish, shrimp and lobster. The Living Lobster overlooks the marina and offers multiple preparations of lobster, fish and oysters with accommodating and friendly service in a nautical setting.

Looking for a less-trod locals destination? Try Rafael's for some of the hands-down best food in Cabo, and an extensive wine list. As an added bonus, the whimsical décor will truly make you feel like you're under the sea, complete with blue walls, murals and fish tanks. For more traditional Mexican cuisine, visit Mi Casa in the heart of the city. Mi Casa also offers gift store if you're looking to bring back some traditional trinkets.

Traveler's tip: Avoid visiting Cabo during hurricane season in October. While rate are lower, precipitation is high.