Beyond the Resort: Discovering Palm Springs and Los Cabos
From Palm Springs’ mid-century style to sunrise kayaking and exceptional dining in Los Cabos, this journey revealed two destinations filled with personality.
In June 2026, I travelled to Palm Springs and Los Cabos as part of the Travel Associates Immersion Program. Our journey began with three nights at The Parker Palm Springs, a wonderfully whimsical property with hidden gardens, playful design and quirky details around every corner. One of my favourite moments was sitting beside the pool with a cocktail from the hotel’s lemonade stand, followed by an atmospheric dinner at Mister Parker’s. The hotel felt like a destination in itself and perfectly reflected the character of Palm Springs. With its palm-lined streets, colourful personalities and iconic mid-century architecture, the city is relaxed, indulgent and unapologetically individual. Even a dusk visit to the Marilyn Monroe statue became a memorable photo opportunity that captured the destination’s playful spirit.
From Palm Springs, we travelled to Los Cabos and experienced three very different properties: ME Cabo, Marquis Los Cabos and Montage Los Cabos. The resorts were beautiful, but one of my biggest takeaways was the importance of exploring beyond them. Hiking along Baja California’s rugged west coast revealed a striking contrast to the polished luxury of the hotels, while a catamaran journey from Cabo San Lucas gave us an entirely different perspective of the coastline. Watching manta rays unexpectedly leap from the water was one of those spontaneous moments that no itinerary can guarantee. Sunrise kayaking across the calm waters of Santa Maria Bay was another highlight, offering a peaceful and memorable start to the day before the heat arrived.
Los Cabos also surprised me with its exceptional food and distinctive local character. A hands-on Mexican cooking class was a fun introduction to the region’s cuisine, while the freshness of Baja California’s seafood made fish, ceviche and tacos some of my favourite meals of the trip. Standout dining experiences included El Huerto Farm to Table, Oystera in Todos Santos, Sage in San José del Cabo and Sunset Monalisa, where the setting was as memorable as the food. San José del Cabo was perhaps my greatest surprise. Wandering through its Art Walk, visiting galleries, sampling tequila and enjoying local entertainment allowed me to experience a more authentic side of the region. Taking part in a sunset ritual inspired by Indigenous traditions also reminded me that meaningful luxury experiences often happen when travellers step outside their hotel and engage more deeply with a destination.
Of the three properties we visited in Los Cabos, Marquis Los Cabos was my personal standout. The atmosphere, local entertainment and impeccable service made it the hotel I returned home most excited to recommend. The smallest touches were often the most memorable, from assistance preparing a traditional margarita with ingredients from my minibar to the thoughtful organisation of personal items during turndown service. Montage Los Cabos offered a different kind of appeal, with restorative spa treatments and the space to slow down after days of hiking, kayaking and exploring. Ultimately, this journey changed how I viewed both destinations. Palm Springs offers design, freedom and fun, while Los Cabos brings together beautiful resorts, adventure, nature, outstanding food and authentic local experiences. To create a journey that balances genuine discovery with time to unwind, contact your local Travel Associates adviser.