- Introduction: Hotel Hopping In Amazing Los Cabos
- Review: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
- Review: Zadun, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Los Cabos
- Review: The Cape, A Thompson Hotel Los Cabos
- Review: Four Seasons Los Cabos At Costa Palmas
- Review: Solaz Los Cabos, Marriott Luxury Collection (My First-Ever One Star Rating)
Want to take advantage of Hyatt Privé benefits, including a room upgrade, complimentary breakfast, a hotel credit, and more, when booking a cash stay? Contact Ford ([email protected]) for more details. He may even be able to help if you already have a stay booked.
I was excited to check out The Cape Los Cabos, a Thompson resort, given that I’m a World of Hyatt Globalist member, and Thompson has become one of my favorite Hyatt brands. I got an incredible deal on our stay using points, and the property sure didn’t disappoint.
If you’re a Hyatt loyalist and haven’t been, I’d absolutely put The Cape on your bucket list. The Cape has some of the best views in all of Los Cabos, in my opinion.
In this post:
Our amazing points redemption at The Cape
The Cape is a Category 6 World of Hyatt property, meaning that a free night redemption costs the following number of points:
- 25,000 points in a standard room
- 40,000 points in a standard suite
- 50,000 points in a premium suite
While that can be a good deal to begin with, in July 2020 there was an awesome opportunity to redeem World of Hyatt points at The Cape. Specifically, Hyatt started letting members redeem points for suites directly online, and in some cases the “premium” suites were really premium.
One such case was at The Cape, where members could book the Penthouse Villa with Ocean View as a “premium” suite using points. This is an unbelievable suite — it’s 3,000 square feet and has three bedrooms, and has a huge 2,000 square foot rooftop terrace.
Including taxes & fees, the nightly rate for this room would have been $3,700, so suffice to say that was an amazing use of World of Hyatt points. For what it’s worth, I value World of Hyatt points at 1.5 cents each, so to me redeeming 50,000 points per night would be the equivalent of paying $750.
This redemption even included daily breakfast for all guests, a private roundtrip airport transportation, a private pool cabana for a day, and complimentary daily happy hour drinks (later the hotel eliminated some of those perks for award redemptions, but it was honored for those who had already made reservations).
Even if you’re not a Hyatt loyalist, earning World of Hyatt points can be pretty easy. In addition to being able to earn World of Hyatt points with the World of Hyatt Credit Card (review), you can also transfer over points from Chase Ultimate Rewards.
- Earn 4x Points at Hyatt Properties
- Free Night Every Year
- Complimentary Discoverist Status
- $95
- Earn 4x Points at Hyatt Properties
- Complimentary Discoverist Status
- Gift Discoverist Status up to 5 Employees
- $199
- 3x points on Travel after the $300 Annual Travel Credit
- 3x points on Dining
- $300 Travel Credit
- $550
- Earn 3x points on travel
- Earn 3x points on shipping purchases
- Cell Phone Protection
- $95
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- Car Rental Coverage
- Extended Warranty Protection
- $0
- Earn 5% Cash Back at office supply stores
- Earn 5% Cash Back on internet, cable TV, mobile phones, and landlines
- Car Rental Coverage
- $0
- Earn 3% Cash Back on Dining
- Earn 3% Cash Back at Drugstores
- Earn 1.5% Cash Back On All Other Purchases
- $0
How to book paid stays at The Cape
If you are booking a cash stay at The Cape — regardless of whether you’re booking a standard room or villa — I’d recommend doing so through a Hyatt Privé travel advisor. These rates cost the same as standard flexible rates (not member rates, advance purchase rates, AAA rates, etc.), and include the following additional perks:
- Daily full breakfast for two in the hotel’s restaurant
- A $100 property credit per room per stay
- A one category room upgrade confirmed within 24 hours of booking (room-to-room or suite-to-suite) — based on availability at the time of booking
- Early check-in (as early as 9AM) and late check-out (as late as 4PM), subject to availability
- A welcome gift and letter
Across the board, premium Hyatt properties are generally best booked through the Hyatt Privé program. Ford is happy to help with these requests, and can be reached at [email protected].
The Cape location
The Cape is located in Cabo San Lucas. It’s about 40 minutes (roughly 25 miles) from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). The Cape is only about a 10 minute drive from the town of Cabo San Lucas (it’s a bit further from town than the Waldorf Astoria, but not by much), so the hotel has a pretty convenient location. The hotel definitely isn’t as secluded as Zadun, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve property, for example.
The Cape check-in & lobby
As we arrived at The Cape we were helped by the friendly bellmen, and escorted to reception.
We first had to walk through some sort of metal-detector-looking disinfecting machine, and then further down the path was the open-air lobby.
The lobby was beautiful, and had breathtaking views of both the resort and the Pacific Ocean.
Our check-in process was quick but thorough, as the front desk agent explained all the things that were included with our booking. Within 10 minutes we were being escorted to our villa.
For what it’s worth, two friends joined us for our stay, but they arrived later, so we arranged the complimentary airport transfer for them.
The Cape Penthouse Villa
The Cape has a total of 161 accommodations — there are 115 guest rooms and suites in the main building, and then there are two buildings next to it containing 46 villas, which are one, two, or three bedroom (in fairness, I would consider these to be more huge suites than villas, since they’re not actually standalone, but this is a common practice).
We were assigned villa 651, located on the top floor (all the Penthouse Villas are on the top floor, since a key feature is the huge private rooftop deck).
The Penthouse Villa had an interior space of 3,000 square feet, so it was massive. Inside the entrance was a dining table that could seat seven people.
Next to the dining table was the minibar area. This contained snacks and liquor — there was no mini-fridge, since the minibar drinks (for purchase) were in the large fridge in the kitchen.
Past that was the living room area, which had a couch, a couple of chairs, and even a desk.
On the other side of the living room back near the entrance was the kitchen, which had three barstools, and all the amenities you’d expect in a full kitchen, like a fridge, stove, microwave, washing machine, etc.
There was also a Nespresso machine, with complimentary coffee pods.
One awesome feature of this villa was the washer & dryer, which sure came in handy after having been in Cabo for a while, and not wanting to pay the ridiculous hotel prices for having clothes washed. Suffice to say we made good use of this amenity.
Also off the living room was a half bath, which was one of five bathrooms in the villa.
The Penthouse Villa had three bedrooms — there wasn’t one obvious “master” bedroom, but rather I’d say they were all roughly equally nice (two had a better view, which was the only real difference I noticed). One bedroom was on one side of the living room, and featured a king size bed and a desk. It was furnished with typical Thompson decor, with some nice local touches.
The bathroom was a good size, and featured double sinks, a walk-in shower, a soaking tub, and a toilet.
Toiletries were the Bowmakers collection from D.S. & Durga.
The two other bedrooms were on the opposite side of the living area. The bedroom with the better view was closer to the living room, and had great ocean views. It was furnished in a similar way to the first bedroom, but also had a loveseat.
The last bedroom was perhaps slightly less nice, but wasn’t that different than the other two bedrooms.
On the same floor as the indoor space was a large deck, featuring an outdoor dining table, and a couple of sitting areas.
However, the real highlight of the villa was what was located at the top of the staircase.
The Penthouse Villa has a jaw-dropping 2,000 square foot rooftop private deck, featuring everything from a plunge pool (which wasn’t a hot tub, but stayed warm), to lounge chairs, to a fire pit, to a dining area with a kitchen, to a couch. What an absolutely epic outdoor space.
There was even an extra bathroom upstairs.
To top it all off, our Penthouse Villa had incredible views. I believe The Cape has some of the best views in Cabo, given that the coast curves around this area, so you have both beautiful ocean, beach, and mountain views.
The sunsets from our deck were unreal.
A few more things to note regarding our villa. As a welcome gift we were given a bottle of tequila, as well as a fruit plate.
Then there were also the “chef’s daily turndown amenities,” which were brought to us every afternoon at around 5PM. They varied, from sweet to savory.
I mean, what can I really say about this villa? This was easily one of my best-ever uses of World of Hyatt points (then again, Calala Island and Canaves Oia Epitome were pretty epic redemptions as well). The villa offers a huge amount of space for a group traveling together, and the rooftop deck is simply next level.
If I had any feedback, it’s that the villas could perhaps feel a bit more luxurious. I thought the bedrooms were beautifully appointed, while the living area could have maybe used a few more touches to elevate it a bit. But seriously, this was an incredible villa.
The Cape pools
The Cape has two pools. There’s the main pool, which is infinity-edge, and is the central point of the hotel. This pool had a swim-up bar and two hot tubs in it, and it was definitely a party scene here (even though Los Cabos was quiet in general).
Talk about a pool with a view!
There was plenty of seating around the pool, and it was never an issue finding some seats.
One day we received a complimentary cabana on account of having a villa booking. It was nice to have some shade and a semi-private space.
To the side of the main pool was a smaller second pool. I’m still not sure if it’s intended for kids, or what exactly the theme or purpose is supposed to be.
The Cape beach
I’d say the one disappointing aspect of The Cape is the beach. The beach isn’t massive, and you can’t easily walk very far, as there are some big rocks along the side of the hotel (which largely adds to the amazing views, so it’s a tradeoff).
In general you don’t come to Los Cabos if you want to swim in the ocean, since the ocean is really rough, though you could still enjoy the beach here. It’s just not quite as pristine or big as some of the other beaches, particularly at the Four Seasons and Zadun.
The Cape gym
The Cape has a solid gym, which has all the amenities you’d expect from a gym at a resort. The selection of cardio and weight equipment was good.
The Cape The Ledge Restaurant (breakfast)
Breakfast at The Cape was served daily from 7:30AM until 11:30AM at The Ledge. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, and like the rest of the resort, has views.
Breakfast was entirely a la carte (maybe that wasn’t the case in the past, since it looks like they used to have a buffet setup), and you can find the breakfast menu here. If you have breakfast included with your rate, you receive coffee and juice, a fruit starter, and then one main course.
While that’s a perfectly fair breakfast offering, I’d say that by Hyatt standards it’s not the most generous, especially for Globalist members. For example, only hot coffee is included, and iced coffee, cappuccinos, etc., are extra.
The food as such was great, including the fruit plate to start.
Over the course of our stay we tried the acai bowl, avocado toast, “cochinita” bun, an omelet, and the french toast.
The Cape Point Break Restaurant (lunch)
Point Break is The Cape’s pool restaurant and bar, and it’s open daily from 8AM until 7PM. You can find the menu here. You can either order food or drinks from your seat around the pool, or there’s a dedicated dining area.
We had some drinks here, which were excellent.
The food was very good as well, ranging from the guacamole, to the ceviche, to the poke bowl, to the sushi and nigiri, to the tacos. The vibe around the pool is just so fun that this is a great place to hang out.
The Cape Sunken Bar (evening drinks)
Sunken Bar is The Cape’s lobby bar, and it operates as a cafe from 7AM until 3PM, and as a bar from 3:30PM until 11PM. You can find the menu here. The bar is massive, and the setting is great, given the views.
There was also the pool table, where I had the pleasure of losing about five times in a row.
On account of our villa booking we received one complimentary cocktail per person per day, anytime between 7PM and 11PM. The drinks were very good.
The Cape Manta Restaurant (dinner)
One night we ate dinner on property at Manta, which is the hotel’s fancy dinner restaurant. This was one of our best meals in Los Cabos, so if you’re visiting I’d highly recommend eating here, even if you’re not staying at the hotel (just make sure you make your reservation early). The restaurant is located at the far end of the resort, so has unbeatable views.
We decided to do the five course tasting menu. While not cheap at $95 per person, the quality and overall experience was sublime.
I’ll let the pictures of the food speak for themselves, and I can’t recommend dining here enough, even if you’re not usually a seafood fan.
The Cape service
Service in Los Cabos in general is excellent, and The Cape is no exception. Every employee we interacted with was friendly and helpful, so I have nothing but good things to say about the service.
I will say that service perhaps wasn’t as personalized or attentive as at Zadun, the Four Seasons, or the Waldorf Astoria, but that’s also to be expected, since this hotel is priced significantly lower, and isn’t intended to be uber-lux.
Bottom line
The Cape is an exceptional Hyatt property in Los Cabos. Suffice to say that we got the deal of a lifetime, being able to book a Penthouse Villa for 50,000 World of Hyatt points per night, which included three bedrooms and a huge rooftop deck.
However, even without that I’d highly recommend this hotel, and absolutely plan on returning. The Cape has incredible views, great restaurants, a really fun vibe, and solid service. I’m such a fan of Los Cabos in general, given its proximity to the US, great weather, and consistently friendly people.
If you’ve stayed at The Cape, what was your experience like?
Just curious if a Globalist can get early check in here?
I went to come in Canada please help me.
On a day when me and my friend grilled food on the roof deck. that was amazing experience
one day we actually walked to Costco and got steak and lobster tails and wine and grilled on the roof deck. amazing Experience!
We were in Cabo last month. We almost booked the Cape using out Hyatt points but decided to splurge and go for the Nobu using Chase Pay Yourself Back and cash. Zero regrets.
Cape definitely looks nice. That's a great deal you got. I hear it's more of a party hotel, but I imagine due to Covid, not many guest around.
Looks very similar to my Service Apartments also provided by Hyatt :)
are you kidding me? you stayed at The Cape and didnt review their ROOFTOP BAR AND RESTAURANT? AKA the best rooftop in Cabo ? i cant with you sometimes ben haahha omg
Visited The Cape over a Covid "WFH" trip. Loved the hotel. You forgot to include the rooftop in your review. Great place for sunset cocktails, but I guess you had your own rooftop view!
Great review Ben, as always!
The water looks pretty nice at the Cape and seems to be calm and quite swimmable. It looks like you can at least dip in close to the shore.
Had a very nice stay here earlier this year in a regular room. I didn't care for the room decor much but the hotel and staff were very nice. One of the highlights of the hotel that Ben didn't cover is the rooftop bar/lounge. The vibe up there during the evenings is awesome. Sometimes a DJ, sometimes live music, with incredible views and more than solid food. Lunches at the pool were way above your...
Had a very nice stay here earlier this year in a regular room. I didn't care for the room decor much but the hotel and staff were very nice. One of the highlights of the hotel that Ben didn't cover is the rooftop bar/lounge. The vibe up there during the evenings is awesome. Sometimes a DJ, sometimes live music, with incredible views and more than solid food. Lunches at the pool were way above your average pool food. My only small complaint would be the lounge chairs at the pool felt kind of cheap. I judge hotels by the type of pool lounge chairs they have (anyone else do this?). I much prefer lounge chairs with actual cushions instead of just the netted ones that The Cape uses.
I was also lucky to grab this deal and got the 3 bedroom penthouse for 50K point/night. It was also a phenomenal stay for us as well and agree with everything you said in the review.
The sofas in the suite could do with a bit more luxurious and firmer cushions. They sink and slide too much. Fabric was bit rough.
Their beds are one of the most comfortable hotels bed for me...
I was also lucky to grab this deal and got the 3 bedroom penthouse for 50K point/night. It was also a phenomenal stay for us as well and agree with everything you said in the review.
The sofas in the suite could do with a bit more luxurious and firmer cushions. They sink and slide too much. Fabric was bit rough.
Their beds are one of the most comfortable hotels bed for me and I'm still trying to figured out how to buy the sheets that they use. I love it.
Good memories at the pool table. I don't remember the 2nd half of that morning.
The Ledge has Sunday Brunch with few buffet stations along with their normal menu items so what you assumed is correct. No buffet stations for the rest of the week though.
We were not impressed with Manta, it was an overprice meal for very mediocre food.
We went to Acre and had a great meal for much less.
Went to Cabo in December of last year. Split time between The Cape (3 nights at 25k each, upgraded due to Globalist) and the Waldorf Astoria (two free night certs). Really liked both hotels, but for scenic views and value The Cape cannot be beat. Also agree that the restaurants were excellent.
Hey Ben!
Are you no longer doing flight reviews at the moment?
I loved this review but it made me think, "How did you get there?"
Kind Regards
Jack
Ben, you really should do more fine dining, given how much you loved the tasting menu here and how much you enjoy the Alain Ducasse menu at the AF La Premiere lounge. I know you’d really enjoy it!
Omg, you stayed there 4 nights and DIDNT try the lobster Benedict? Truly one of the best things I've ever eaten in the world (and I have ~100 Michelin stars under my belt...pun intended).
This alone should be a reason for you to return to The Cape. It is INCREDIBLE.
Great review! What a deal. Only issue with review is you are not letting Winston in any of the photos!
I don't understand one thing about the beaches. Is it actually forbidden to swim there or is it just dangerous and not recommended? Is there a lifeguard or is it totally unguarded?
I stayed at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal right before The Cape and I asked that very specific question as they won't give you a straight answer. It is not forbidden, only not recommended, and to be fair to them when the tide was low, we did not go in because navigating the rocks was tricky. But the water was amazing in October and we went swimming off the beach every day when the tide was in.
It's the undertow. You will see plenty of surfers in front of the Cape as there is a solid break there. I would go out on my board, though I would not swim there due to the undertow.
I swim there every time but I like the big waves. If you're cautious, you won't like the waves and the rocks underneath. Not good for a child but if you're a confident swimmer it's OK. Go swim on the right side (looking at the ocean) and not right out front where the surfers are.
Does anyone know if they changed something on the redemption front? It looks like no matter which date I'm looking at, the only premium suite that's offered on points is the one bedroom villa.
The Penthouse was only bookable on points for about two days last summer. Since then the one bedroom villa has been the premium suite 50,000 point option.
I’m pretty sure the Thomson removed the penthouse villa for redemption unfortunately.
Headed there next month (only a standard award redemption)... Anyone have experience with what room type globalist upgrade qualifies for?
Really hoping for the villa with plunge pool (seems to be available for our dates as of now).
with a suite this large, what would be an appropriate tip to the housekeeper each day? $10 dollars or $ 15 dollars?
thank you
you americans and your tipping culture....aiaiai
That tasting menu looks exceptional and actually looks like very good value for the price.
Great review of a truly outstanding property. I too was able to book the Penthouse for 50,000 points a night, however had to change my dates. First world problem, however I did rebook at a later date and ended up in the Thompson Suite. When I return I will secure the same room as it is perfect for a romantic escape. To date this is my best use of Hyatt points, though I have Hana-Maui on tap for next week, so we'll see if that changes.
Excellent review, Lucky. I can't say enough about how much we enjoyed our stay. Two notes: I believe the second pool is saltwater. When we stayed the Ledge had a buffet for breakfast on Sundays.
Oh I new this review is coming. Thanks Ben.
I was lucky enough to book the same villa type on points last year for Thanksgiving, and we had a very similar, great experience. At the time there was also a breakfast buffet in addition to a la carte. All the staff was excellent, particularly Rocio at concierge desk was beyond helpful. There was a wedding one night and we enjoyed a spectacular firework show form the rooftop. I would return in a heartbeat
Just now really getting into Hyatt points... The ability to directly redeem this kind of accommodation at 40,000-50,000 points per night without worrying about status, upgrades or anything is pretty good. Has anyone published a list of directly bookable Hyatt suites at 40,000+ points an night?
Great review. We did exactly the same trip on exactly the same deal last October. It has to be one of the best uses of points ever. We actually walked to Costco one day and got steak and lobster tails and wine and grilled on the roof deck. Just amazing!