The Sounds of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula

Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of desert landscapes and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos stands out as the gem of the scenic Baja California Peninsula. Having cultivated an international reputation as a high-end haven – where daring architecture, endless excursions, and inspired cuisine meet a spirited, storied local culture – Los Cabos has no shortage of sites to see and things to do. This exceptional destination also boasts plenty of things to hear: as the sun sets, the rhythmic beats and melodies from jazz clubs, festivals, and impromptu jam sessions weave an aural tapestry you’ll want to unravel each and every night.

The diverse music scene of Los Cabos contributes as much to the ‘soul’ of the destination as any of its myriad art galleries, trendy fusion-fare bistros, or cutting-edge boutique hotels. From nightly performances to some of the biggest festivals in the country, Los Cabos is a hotspot for acoustics of all genres.

If you’re ready to indulge your senses and experience a deeper connection with the destination through its music, come along as we explore where music comes alive in Los Cabos.

Cabo Wabo: Where Music and History Meet

Photo: GarzaBlancaResort.com

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more storied music venue than the legendary Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas. Part nightclub, part restaurant, Cabo Wabo has since expanded from its initial, iconic location to franchises in Hollywood and Las Vegas. The story of this spot began in 1990, when rock legends Eddie Van Halen, Alex Van Halen, Michael Anthony, and former lead vocalist Sammy Hagar decided to open their own restaurant – and a tequila brand bearing the same name. The rest, as they say, is history: Cabo Wabo continues to be the best place to jam out to classic and modern rock, with live music and entertainment available daily.

Fresh seafood and flavourful Mexican fare accompany the beer and tequila of your choice on Cabo Wabo’s lunch and dinner menu: after all, it’s hard to rock out on an empty stomach. In addition to rock performances, Cabo Wabo hosts comedy nights, international DJs, and some of the biggest names in the local Los Cabos music scene, ensuring an incredible diversity in experience. It’s worth visiting multiple times over the course of your trip: no two parties at Cabo Wabo are ever the same.

Photo: San Jose Jazz Festival, VisitLosCabos

Getting Jazzed Up

Los Cabos loves Jazz… Many of the destination’s most anticipated annual concerts are Jazz concerts, attracting lovers of the trombone, saxophone, and clarinet from all corners of the globe to the sunny shores of the Baja California Peninsula. The Los Cabos Jazz Festival offers a vibrant weekend of soothing, soulful tunes every fall; past iterations have featured the likes of Warren Hill, Eric Darius, and Gerald Albright.

The San Jose Jazz Weekend Festival is another can’t-miss ode to the arts that brings together some of the most talented musicians and passionate enthusiasts for a weekend of music in San José del Cabo. Featuring both renowned artists and local up-and-comers, the festival also offers food and drink vendors, art exhibitions, and hands-on workshops. As far as festivals go, it just might be the best option for fans looking to connect with the musicians directly.

If you’re just looking for a spontaneous serving of Jazz while on vacation, Jazz on the Rocks is happy to accommodate. This contemporary establishment, perched atop the Sunset Monalisa Restaurant, features live jazz bands playing a variety of styles from classic, Latin, flamenco, and modern jazz. As you take in the performances, you’ll also have the opportunity to admire stunning views of the Land’s End arch and the magnificent sunsets over the water. Soak up the cultivated ambiance created by innovative mixology and delectable food in this gastro-bar concept, where you can have an immersive Jazz experience.

New Day, New Sound

Photo: Rooftop 360 at Corazon, therooftopguide.com

Music is so embedded in the character of Los Cabos that one does not need to venture out of their way to find it. Many of the destination’s most popular resorts, restaurants, and bars offer their own bespoke contributions to the destination’s musical scene. These recurring events have quickly garnered a dedicated following, becoming an inseparable part of the Los Cabos nightlife.

The Hotel El Ganzo is known for championing local art and music, as well as attracting the likes of Diplo for a blockbuster New Year’s Eve performance. Each Wednesday marks Flamenco night at this trendy property, where performers pay homage to the lively Spanish tradition with steps and twirls, dressed in crimson.

Rooftop 360 – the “highest terrace in town” at Corazón Cabo Resort and Spa, drops the disco ball every Thursday night and plays host to Boogie Nights. Here, flanked by sparkling infinity pools and one of the best views in Los Cabos, the nostalgic sound of the 80s’ and 90s’ takes over and transports patrons back in time with an immaculate, energetic vibe.

For a traditional nightclub experience that is anything but predictable, El Squid Roe keeps the music playing all night long. Boasting a top-notch sound system, vibrant LED displays, and an energetic dance floor, the venue hosts renowned DJs, transforming regular nights into extraordinary ones. Signature events like the Beach Party, Viva Mexico, and New Year’s Eve make this thrilling nightlife destination eminently popular among those seeking a truly legendary night on the town.

Photo: Sound Healing Los Cabos

The Sounds of Wellness

The most unique – and profoundly relaxing – way to experience the power of sound on the peninsula… Sound Healing Los Cabos harnesses the healing effect of sound therapy (delivered through the resonating medium of the Tibetan singing bowl) to relieve pain, increase circulation, and soothe the soul. Their certified sonotherapists have dedicated years of study and practice to master the use of vibrations. Whether you opt for the bronze bowls, the tuning fork, or the wooden koshi, your customized session (either alone or with a partner) is sure to ease your anxieties and put you in a deep state of relaxation.

Dance the night away, or rock out as the sun goes down. Get your body moving, or offer it a little welcome respite. Music takes many forms in Los Cabos; each waiting to inspire you. Learn more about Los Cabos at www.visitloscabos.travel.

Los Cabos, located at the tip of the 1,000 mile-long Baja Peninsula, is one of the world’s most diverse tourism destinations. Boasting a dramatic desert backdrop nestled by coastlines of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos is home to award-winning resorts and culinary offerings considered some of the finest available anywhere. A growing list of championship golf courses, rejuvenating spas and world-renowned sport fishing tournaments add to the destination’s unmatched appeal.