About The Cape, A Thompson Hotel
The Cape is a luxury boutique resort perched on Cabo San Lucas’s famed Monumentos Beach, overlooking the Sea of Cortez and El Arco. It opened in 2015 as Thompson Hotels’ first property in Mexico . Today it has 159 rooms, suites and villas, all with private terraces facing the ocean . The striking architecture – by Mexican architect Javier Sánchez with interiors by Marisabel Gómez – blends modern mid-century style with natural materials (concrete, wood, stone) to connect directly with the desert landscape . Every vantage point offers panoramic views of El Arco and the bay, making sunrise and sunset special moments for guests. The resort has gained wide acclaim: in 2024 it was named one of Travel + Leisure’s top 500 hotels worldwide (and a top 10 in Mexico) , and Conde Nast Traveler readers rank it among the best in Western Mexico. In short, The Cape is notable for its bold design, cliffside locale, surf-town meets SoCal vibe, and the way it reshaped the Los Cabos scene with top-tier cuisine, service and creative energy .
Signature features include two unique pools – an infinity pool with a swim-up bar and a second saltwater pool carved into the natural rock – plus a dramatic sixth-floor rooftop bar and lounge offering 360° views . The spa (Currents) has ocean-view treatment cabanas. Guests often call The Cape an “epicenter” of Los Cabos culture, anchoring surf and wellness retreats in addition to being a hotel . Its casual luxury and focus on Mexican artistry (from locally-sourced ingredients to curated décor) have made it a draw for both international travelers and the local creative community.
Events and Programming
The Cape is more than a hotel – it’s an active venue for events mixing sports, music and food. Its most famous annual event is “Switching Gears” each summer, a 3–4 day retreat that brings together pro surfers, cyclists, chefs and musicians. Participants “switch gears” between activities like biking excursions, surf safaris and pickleball, and receive gourmet meals and nightly entertainment . The program always culminates in a surf tournament on Monumentos Beach (hosted by the Baja California Sur Surf Association) just in front of the resort . The 2025 edition (July 3–6) marked the 5th year of this signature event . Beyond that, the hotel frequently hosts special dinners and cultural happenings – for instance, in 2025 it held exclusive chef collaborations like a “Sabores de México” 6-course dinner and brunch featuring Mexican cuisine across regions .
Throughout the year, The Cape offers a lively nightlife program. Its rooftop bar often fills with live acoustic music at sunset and DJs on rotation after dark . The poolside restaurant (Point Break) has weekend DJ sessions alongside Mexican seafood and ceviche specials . The Ledge hosts Sunday brunch with live music, and the Sunken Bar (in the lobby) transitions to a cocktail spot by night. Holiday evenings (New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, etc.) are celebrated with themed parties, fireworks, or multi-course gala dinners. In short, expect a steady calendar of casual concerts, tastings and pool parties – with high-energy DJ nights and beachfront dining featuring top chefs. Keep an eye on the hotel’s social media or concierge for exact event dates, as schedules are announced seasonally.
Tickets and Booking
The Cape itself does not sell public “concert tickets” since its music and DJ nights are free for hotel guests and restaurant patrons. Instead, meal reservations or party table bookings are required. For signature retreats or festivals like Switching Gears, registration is typically handled via the hotel or partnering organizations months in advance. For example, the hotel website or concierge lists any special packages or event packages. When planning a visit, guests can book tables or buy event packages directly through The Cape’s reservation team (or Hyatt’s site) – no external ticket websites are needed. The resort is entirely cashless, so any event fees or packages would be charged like any hotel booking.
For walk-up entry to evening events (like a DJ night on the Rooftop), there is generally no cover charge, but groups larger than six people may need a minimum spend . Private parties and weddings, if hosted here, have separate booking contracts. If you’re eyeing a popular evening (for instance, a New Year’s gala or a big concert announcement), it’s best to reserve weeks ahead through the hotel. Restaurants (Manta, The Ledge, Sunken Bar) almost always require advance reservations, especially for dinner on weekends, and special multi-course meals can cost $100+ per person (plus drinks) since it’s high-end cuisine. In summary: book dining and event packages early via The Cape’s website or concierge, and note that most entertainment costs are rolled into food, drink and room charges rather than standalone tickets.
Seating and Layout
The Cape is laid out vertically on a hillside with terraces and open decks. There are no fixed “seats” like in a theater – mostly lounge chairs, couches and high-top tables. The highlight is The Rooftop (sixth floor): an open-air sky garden with bars on both ends, a firepit, raised sunken seating areas, and a separate beer-garden pergola . For the best views of sunset and El Arco, aim for the outer railing tables on the Rooftop. The high-top tables or bar stools also offer clear sightlines. The central lounge couches are great for atmosphere but can block view if standing behind them. Children are only allowed on the Rooftop until 7:30 pm (with a special menu for kids); after that it is adults-only , so plan seating accordingly.
Downstairs, The Ledge restaurant has indoor seating that opens onto a shady patio with ocean views . Poolside loungers (in the main pool and the salwater pool cove) provide general-admission spots – first come, first served for sunbeds or swim-up bar spots. Cabana rentals (if available) give VIP-ish shaded views of the pool but typically must be booked via the hotel. Indoor event spaces like “Glimpse” and “A-Frame” (used for weddings or conferences) have theater-style and banquet layouts for 100–300 people . In short, for daytime music or pool events, arrive early to claim prime lounge chairs. For rooftop evenings, grab a seat at the edge or near the bar for unobstructed views. There aren’t strictly “bad seats” – nearly every angle sees the ocean – but avoid crowding in corners away from speakers if you want full sound. One tip: on breezy nights, sitting near a firepit can keep you warm.
Getting There and Parking
The Cape is located at Kilometre 5 on the Carretera Transpeninsular (Highway 1) in the Misiones del Cabo development, just outside Cabo San Lucas’s downtown area. In practical terms it’s about a 10–15 minute drive (roughly 3 miles) west of Cabo’s main marina. From Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), it is approximately 28 miles (45 km) and usually takes around 40–50 minutes by car . The resort address for GPS is simply Carretera Transpeninsular Km 5, Misiones del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, BCS .
The most convenient way to arrive is by taxi, shuttle or rideshare (Uber and Uber-like apps operate in Cabo). All major taxi companies also serve the hotel – have the driver drop you right at the porte-cochère in front. The Cape provides on-site valet parking (no need to find a spot); guests can pull up and hand off luggage. There is no separate self-park lot (it’s valet only) but please note that Cabo often has security checkpoints for taxis at highways, which may add a few minutes. Public bus service (the local “Amber” buses between Cabo and San José) does not stop at the hotel, so don’t plan on a city bus. If driving yourself, free parking via valet is covered for guests . Rideshare drop-off and pickup happen at the main entrance, usually a convenient distance from the lobby with porters on hand for luggage.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests check in at the open-air lobby; security will typically screen bags as a courtesy. The décor follows the hotel’s style: exposed concrete walls, Mexican tile, woven light fixtures and lots of natural light. The vibe is laid-back luxury – flip-flops are fine around the pool, but smart-casual attire is expected in the evening venues. Be aware of signage: after dark, the rooftop enforces an 18+ policy（with a limited kids’ menu offered early on） .
The Cape has five main dining outlets (see below), plus 24-hour room service . The Sunken Bar, at the heart of the lobby, offers coffee and breakfast in the AM and craft cocktails by day or night . All restaurants have restrooms on site. The distance from the lobby to pools and rooftop is covered by elevators; the hotel is wheelchair-accessible (except for the beach itself). Free Wi-Fi covers the entire property, and outlets are plentiful in the lobby, rooms and pool areas. There is a small gift shop near the entrance selling souvenirs, beach gear and resort wear. Coat checks or cloakrooms aren’t needed (the climate is warm), but we do recommend bringing a sweater or light jacket for breezy evenings on the rooftop. If you plan to use electronics or need business services, the 24-hour business center and front desk can assist with printing or faxing. The fitness center (ocean-view) is open daily, and towels and water bottles are provided at the pools and gym.
Nearby Amenities
The immediate area around The Cape is quiet – the nearest beachfront neighbors are the Grand Solmar Land’s End resort to the west and the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica resort about 1 km to the east. There aren’t any public restaurants directly adjacent except those onsite. For more dining and nightlife, most people head into Cabo San Lucas proper. Downtown Cabo (Centro and Marina area) is just a 5–10 minute drive east; there you’ll find dozens of restaurants, bars and shops. Popular options include:\u00a0
Pueblo Bonito Pacifica (5 min away) : A luxury resort with the Península Grill & Wine Bar, which serves steaks and seafood with ocean views.Cabo Downtown (10 min away) : The marina district offers everything from casual taquerías to upscale seafood or steak houses. Notable venues include Baja Cantina (beachfront Mexican), Sunset Monalisa (fine dining overlooking the bay) and Spanish tapas spots on the pier.San José del Cabo (30 min away) : If you head 20 miles northwest, the Art District has more casual and artistic eateries.
As for nightlife, the hotel’s own bars (Rooftop, Sunken Bar, Point Break) are the main options on-site. After leaving the venue, the lively clubs of Cabo (Medusa, Mandala, El Squid Roe) are about 10 minutes’ drive near the marina. Uber or taxi services are plentiful back to the hotel even late at night; the street address and valet entry make pick-up easy. If you want quick bites outside the resort, the Pueblo Bonito resorts each have cafes and a convenience market. For last-minute shopping, the Sur Plaza (a small strip plaza on Highway 1 just east of The Cape) has a grocery store and souvenirs. In general, plan to arrive early for dinner (many local restaurants require reservations), and if you stay late, be sure to pre-book your ride back via app or the front desk (taxis can be scarce past midnight).
What Makes This Venue Special
The Cape’s specialness comes from its unique architecture and cultural focus. It was designed by Javier Sánchez (a star Mexican architect) and architect Benedikt Fahlbusch of JSa Arquitectura, with interiors by Marisabel Gómez . That team created a “desert-meets-ocean” aesthetic – a black-box style restaurant (Manta) that frames the secluded beach, open terraces that let in sea breezes, and hand-crafted Mexican art throughout . Its signature rooftop lounge was the first of its kind in Cabo – a 360° outdoor sky deck blending greenery, fire pits and water features for sunset cocktails .
The hotel has also played a role in shifting Cabo away from the traditional All-Inclusive model. It put a spotlight on Baja cuisine (through Enrique Olvera’s Manta and guest chefs) and on Baja adventure culture (through surf and cycling events) . In local lore, The Cape is known as an “unofficial surf headquarters” because of Monumentos beach, and it often hosts the Monumentos Surf Championship. Its stair-tread steps echo the rugged coastline, and Mexican crafts (like blown-glass lanterns and textiles) add authenticity.
Famous moments include its induction into Virtuoso’s list of top new hotels in 2015, plus numerous “best rooftop” and “best spa” awards from travel magazines. Notoriously, it gained a travelers’ reputation for being a lively hotspot – many guests recall the party-like vibe of late-night roof-bar DJs. Yet it also has quiet, contemplative corners: the saltwater pool alcove and the tranquil spa cabanas offer peaceful escapes. This blend of party and serenity, modern design and local soul, is why both artists and audiences love The Cape. It stands out in Cabo as a place where “la brisa del mar” (sea breeze) and “arte Mexicana” (Mexican art) coexist seamlessly .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Cape is generally wheelchair-friendly, with elevators to most levels (even up to the Rooftop) and ramps on common paths . The spa and all restaurants are on flat levels, but note that access to Monumentos Beach requires going down steps or a short hike (no boardwalk). Guide dogs are welcome; service facilities are modern.
What to Bring: Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a hat for daytime, as the sun is intense on the white-sand beaches. The resort can be breezy at night, so a light sweater is handy, especially for outdoor dining. Bring copies of your booking confirmation (the front desk also has your info), and remember cash/credit (all major cards are accepted for dining). A reusable water bottle is wise – the tap water is safe to drink. Guests often pack sneakers or hiking sandals for walking the trails around Monumentos. The Cape’s upscale casual environment means comfortable resort-wear is fine; but if you plan on dining at Manta or Rooftop after dark, smart-casual attire is recommended (no bare chests or flip-flops after 7:30pm at the Rooftop ).
Common Mistakes: Don’t underestimate the distance – although it feels remote and cliffside, the hotel is just outside town. Guests arriving by taxi may not see a front sign, so tell the driver “The Cape, Km5.” Also, many expect Monumentos Beach to be a swim beach. In reality, it’s a famous surf break, so avoid swimming far out (stick to shallow water or just sunbathing on the shore). At poolside, remember that Spanish nap-time is real: music can go quiet briefly in mid-afternoon (though not strictly enforced). Tip generously – local service staff expect tipping and share tips among teams. Finally, book restaurants well in advance. The Ledge’s famous “Cape Toast” breakfast and Sunday's brunch fill up quickly , and Manta is often fully booked weeks ahead.
Venue Policies: The hotel is non-smoking indoors; smoking (including vape) is allowed outdoors only. Outside food and drink are not permitted in hotel venues. Photography is welcome in public areas, but professional recording of performances typically requires permission. The Lost and Found is at the front desk, so label gadgets during busy events. Emergency exits are well-marked and staff are tri-lingual (English, Spanish, Portuguese).
Pet Policy: The Cape is pet-friendly (up to 1 dog, 50 lbs) for a fee (about $100 USD per stay) . Notify the hotel ahead if you travel with a pet; there’s usually a pet deposit and strict guidelines (pets must be leashed or crated, and not left alone in rooms).
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is fast and free in rooms and public spaces. Outlets in rooms are US-style, with a few USB ports. There is cell coverage (Telcel and other carriers) throughout the hotel – rooftop 5G/LTE works fine. The hotel offers an online portal for room service and mini-bar ordering.
Health & Safety: Swimming pools have lifeguards on duty during daytime; spa has licensed therapists. Be cautious of the tropical sun and drink lots of water – dehydration is common. CodeBlue (medical) and RedCross first aid are on the premises. The hotel's security team patrols at night; use the resort phone or front desk in case of emergency.
What is the address of The Cape, A Thompson Hotel and how do I get there?
The Cape is at Carretera Transpeninsular Km 5, Misiones del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, BCS, Mexico. It’s about a 10–15 minute drive west of downtown Cabo. The easiest way is by taxi or rideshare from Cabo San Lucas (ask driver to go to “The Cape, Km 5”). From the airport (SJD) it’s roughly 28 miles (45 km), ~40–50 minutes on Highway 1 . Valet drop-off is at the hotel gate. There is no direct bus stop, so taxis/Ubers are recommended for public transit.
Is parking available at The Cape, and is there a fee?
Yes. The resort offers on-site valet parking for guests . Just drive into the porte-cochère and hand over your keys; the valet will park your car. There is no additional self-parking lot. Parking is generally free for registered guests, though always confirm with reception (especially if you have special vehicles). For late-night pickup, instruct the valet to retrieve your car when you’re ready to leave.
What transportation options are there to reach The Cape?
The most convenient transport is by car. Taxis and Uber/delete operate between the airport or Cabo town and The Cape. Some hotels offer private airport shuttles (check with The Cape’s concierge). Note that public buses do not stop at The Cape, so reliance on buses is not recommended. If driving, The Cape is on the free Highway 1 (Transpeninsular) – look for “Km 5” on highway mile markers. Once inside The Cape gate, valet parking is available .
Where is the best place to watch the sunset or enjoy views at The Cape?
The Rooftop lounge is the renowned sunset spot. From its sixth-floor terrace, you have sweeping views of Cabo’s marina and El Arco . Any perimeter table or bar stool on the Rooftop offers a front-row view at dusk. Early evening seating at the fire pit areas is also popular. Downstairs, pool terraces and The Ledge patio also face west – both have good sunset visibilities. Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to secure a lounge chair or table, especially on busy nights.
Are children allowed in the rooftop bar and pool areas at The Cape?
Yes, The Cape is family-friendly in general. Children are allowed in the pool areas and casual venues like The Ledge (which even has a kids’ menu). The rooftop bar welcomes kids only during early evening hours (approximately 5pm–7:30pm), with a special child-friendly menu . After 7:30pm, the Rooftop becomes 18+ only. There is no formal age limit for pools or most restaurants, but standard hotel rules apply (e.g. lifeguard policies at pools). Check with the front desk if bringing infants or needing high chairs.
What dining options and bars are available at The Cape, A Thompson Hotel?
The Cape offers five distinctive eateries on site . Manta is the upscale signature restaurant by Chef Enrique Olvera (focus on seafood and Pacific-inspired cuisine) . The Ledge is a casual beach-house restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (famous for its “Cape Toast” French toast) . Sunken Bar is the open-air lobby bar with panoramic ocean views (coffee & breakfast by day; cocktails and a raw bar at night) . Point Break is the main pool grill/bar – swim-up bar and terrace for poolside Mexican salads, ceviches and tacos . Lastly, The Rooftop is a sixth-floor lounge serving craft cocktails under the stars, with light bites in a communal setting . There is also 24-hour room service , so you can dine in-room any time.
Does The Cape have a spa and fitness center?
Yes. Currents Spa is The Cape’s full-service spa. It includes treatment rooms, two ocean-view private cabanas (for couples or special treatments), a steam room and relaxation areas. Services range from massages and facials to yoga classes and the special “sound healing” meditation with Tibetan bowls (introduced in 2023). There’s also a modern fitness center overlooking the ocean. Spa treatments and wellness classes (like yoga/surf stretching) can be booked with the spa desk. A reminder: spa appointments tend to fill up, so reserve early through the spa or concierge.
Is Wi-Fi available at The Cape, and is it free?
Wireless internet is provided throughout the property and is free for all guests. You can expect strong Wi-Fi in rooms, the lobby, restaurants and lounge areas. Each room has at least one dedicated ethernet or USB port as well. Public areas have seating and charging outlets. Note that large group events or certain meeting venues may have separate audio/visual setups, but basic internet access is free resort-wide. (If you join a local tour or surf school, they’ll provide their own connectivity for equipment.)
Can guests swim or beach at The Cape’s beachfront?
The Cape is situated on Monumentos Beach – a beautiful stretch of white sand known for its surf breaks. Guests are free to stroll or lounge on the beach directly in front of the hotel (via a guest-only staircase). However, beware that Monumentos has strong currents and waves suitable for surfing, not casual swimming. There are no lifeguards on this section of beach, so swimming is not recommended. Instead, enjoy ocean views from beachfront loungers or rent paddleboards/kayaks through the hotel’s activity desk for safe exploration. For calmer swimming conditions, the hotel’s private pools (one infinity saltwater pool enclosed by rock and a heated infinity pool with a swim-up bar) are excellent alternatives.
What is The Cape’s check-in and check-out time?
Standard check-in at The Cape is usually in the mid-afternoon (around 3pm) and check-out around noon, in line with most luxury resorts, but you should verify current times with the front desk. Early check-in or late check-out may be available on request (often for a fee or based on availability). If you arrive early, the hotel can store your bags while you enjoy amenities. For departures, plan to settle your bill in advance or the evening before to facilitate a smooth checkout.
Does The Cape offer any nightclub or live music events?
Yes. The hotel’s Rooftop lounge serves as its trendy nightclub/bar. Even beyond DJs and bands at sunset, it often hosts special live events (like acoustic sets or themed parties). In many respects The Cape’s nightlife is built around these venues: the Rooftop (with its dance floor and firepit) and occasional poolside fiestas at Point Break or Sunken Bar. There’s no separate “ticketed club,” but popular evenings can be crowded. Drinks are available until at least 1–2am (check local regulations). For an official nightclub, downtown Cabo is a 10-minute drive away. Within the resort, evening entertainment is a mix of casual live bands and DJ-curated dance nights.
What is the capacity of The Cape, in terms of rooms and event space?
The Cape has 159 guest accommodations (rooms, suites and villas) . In terms of event facilities, the largest single space is The Rooftop, which can hold about 200 people for a reception or party . Indoor breakout rooms like “Glimpse” or “A-Frame” seat up to 170 (theater style) . Overall, the resort can host events of up to ~300 guests when using multiple spaces. As a point of reference, the Rooftop is often billed as accommodating about 200 people at capacity , and all banquet setups combined easily cover a few hundred.
Are pets allowed at The Cape, and is there a fee?
Yes, The Cape is pet-friendly for dogs (subject to restrictions) . The policy allows 1 pet per room, up to about 50 pounds. There is a non-refundable pet fee (around $100 USD per stay) plus tax. Guests must clean up after pets and keep them leashed in public areas. Pets are generally not allowed in the hotel’s restaurants or on the spa deck. If traveling with a pet, it’s best to call ahead and clarify any conditions.
Does The Cape have a dress code for its restaurants and bars?
The atmosphere is island-casual by day and resort-casual by night. In general, upscale swimwear and cover-ups are fine at poolside or The Ledge during the day. In the evening (especially at Manta or The Rooftop after 7pm), “resort casual” is recommended – men should wear collared shirts or nice T-shirts and no bare chests or flip-flops, while women can wear dresses, nice tops with skirts or tailored shorts. Sankiri, Punta de Burros beaches (one at Solmar next door) might set bars up suggests. Basically: no swimwear in the fine-dining restaurant, no shorts/flip-flops at The Rooftop lounge past sunset. When in doubt, smart casual attire (like linen pants or a sundress) is safest for dinner.
What items are not allowed at The Cape?
The hotel is reasonably relaxed, but standard venue rules apply. Outside alcohol or glass containers are prohibited in public areas. No fireworks or drones are allowed (for safety and privacy). Beach access near the hotel is unsecured, so valuables should not be left unattended on the sands. During live events, professional camera equipment may require approval (phones and handheld cameras are fine). Smoking is banned indoors and on pools; only designated outdoor areas permit it. Weapons, illegal substances or disruptive behavior will, as everywhere, get you removed. If attending club-style events, dress codes may restrict hats or sports jerseys in indoor dining venues.
Is the rooftop bar at The Cape wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Cape’s public spaces, including the rooftop and major restaurants, are wheelchair accessible . There is an elevator that stops at every floor, including the top lounge. Ramps and wide passages are incorporated throughout the lobby and dining areas. Note that the beach itself and rocky paths leading off the resort are not wheelchair-friendly. If you need assistance, the staff can provide help with transit around the property.
Has The Cape received any notable awards or recognition?
Yes. Since opening, The Cape has won numerous accolades. For example, it was listed in Travel + Leisure’s “Top 500 Hotels in the World” and ranked among Mexico’s top 10 resorts in 2024 . Conde Nast Traveler’s readers have named it a top Western Mexico resort. Many travel publications have given The Cape awards for Best Rooftop Bar and Best Spa. Additionally, TripAdvisor handed Travelers’ Choice awards to its restaurants (like The Ledge in 2025 ). These honors reflect its reputation for high-end hospitality and design-driven luxury.
