One&Only’s Pool Casita Suite
Photo Courtesy of One&Only Resorts
The 173-room One & Only Palmilla, Los Cabos Resort is the area’s oldest and best-known luxury resort. Once the palatial private estate of Don Abelardo “Rod” Rodriguez, son of the president of Mexico, the resort was completely renovated following last fall’s Hurricane Odile, emerging refreshed and more ready than ever for the loyal cadre of well-heeled guests and celebrity fans like Jennifer Aniston.
Take the plunge
There’s not as single bad egg among the resort’s guest rooms and suites. Each unit has perks like private balconies or terraces, a pillow and sheet menu, daily fresh fruit delivery, turndown aromatherapy and private butler service, plus ocean views. But if we just had to choose, we’d book the oversized Pool Casita suites, located in the adults-only area of the resort. Perched almost directly over the beach and crashing waves, these perfect-for-romance suites offer expansive terraces, private infinity-edge pools and Jacuzzis.
Outdoor Bliss, Photo Courtesy of One&Only Resorts
It’s all about that steak
There’s no doubt, dining is a highlight of any One & Only experience. From the “Mexi-terranian” meals at the signature cliffside eatery Agua by Larbi to the caught-fresh (or flown-in-fresh) daily sushi at Suviche, you’ll eat well no matter where you dine. But new addition Seared by celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is a welcome departure from Mexico’s typical tableside-prepped guacamole and local fish fare. Prime meats and innovative steakhouse preparations (try the Kobe beef) are complemented by fine Mexican and South American wines in an ambience that mingles resort cool and contemporary.
Shop in style
You’ll look paparazzi-ready after a visit to the Los Cabos hotel’s boutique, which stocks one-of-a-kind items by designers such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Stella McCartney, Christian Louboutin and more. From bikinis and caftans to sky-high heels and exclusive jewels, these curated-for-One & Only items might beat whatever you’d find in your local Neiman Marcus. Of course, you can also get a taste of Mexican culture with hand-embroidered linens, ceramics and more.
Spa, Photo Courtesy of One&Only Resorts
Work out the kinks
It’s easy to know why nearly everyone at Palmilla sports a rockin’ bikini bod. The resort’s 22,000-square-foot spa and fitness complex makes working out a pleasure, thanks to ocean views, a made-to-order juice bar and gratis daily fitness classes that range from TRX (Navy SEAL-approved suspension training) to yoga and barre. Completely renovated in early 2015, the spa now boasts the area’s best amenities, like the dedicated salon OBO by Jonathan & George (don’t miss the blowout bar), a men’s-only grooming and shave studio, Barber and Blade, and a glam Mani:Pedi:Cure studio by renowned French podiatrist Bastien Gonzalez, where you can get the A-list treatment (a simultaneous manicure, pedicure and facial). The 13 treatment villas, many with private indoor and outdoor showers and gardens, complete the luxe experience. Book a Tailored Time ritual, essentially two to three hours of blocked-off spa services, and choose whichever treatments you please when you arrive.
Say I do
There’s reason why celebrities and sports stars often choose One & Only for their nuptials and corresponding honeymoons. The resort is the only one in the area to have an onsite chapel. The 40-seat traditional church was originally designed for the local community — it stills host services each Sunday — but today it’s most commonly used for couples saying or renewing their vows. Each wedding experience is custom-designed, allowing the bride and groom freedom to plan everything from intimate elopements to grand buyout affairs.
