Baja’s Todos Santos is like Cabo’s cooler, younger sibling—laid-back, creative, and just far enough off the beaten path. Located nearly 90 minutes north, this surfer-flavored beach town is rugged in all the right ways, where unpaved roads lead to unexpectedly stunning corners, many right on the oceanfront.
At the edge of one such road sits Villa Santa Cruz, a 24-room hideaway perched directly on the beach. The property blends hacienda-revival architecture with a palette of warm, saturated tones—think sun-drenched oranges and bold, happy yellows that echo the Baja landscape.
Mornings begin gently here: the rhythmic crash of waves from the nearby La Pastora surf break, and a tray appearing quietly outside your door, bearing fresh French press coffee or tea, flaky pastries, and a delicate bouquet plucked from the garden. If you’re up for it, sunrise horseback riding along the sandy shoreline makes for a mindful way to start your day—the onsite wrangler leads an impactful program that invokes a sense of presence and grounding.
Accommodations are as varied as they are dreamy—from breezy tented oceanfront suites and bungalows nestled in tropical greenery, to rooftop villas with private hot tubs and cozy fireplaces. Each corner of the property reveals its own magic—whether you're basking in quiet at the Serenity Lap Pool or wandering along aromatic paths lined with olive trees and blooming herbs.
But Villa Santa Cruz is more than beautiful design—it’s an invitation to slow down and savor. At its heart is a flourishing on-site garden, which fuels two distinctive dining experiences: the beloved beachfront Green Room and the elevated Caracara (the latter’s magnificent outdoor dining area sits under an artful assemblage of twig-like objects that you have to see to believe). Everything—from sun-ripened citrus to hand-harvested herbs—is grown steps from the kitchen, turning each dish into a celebration of the land.
Whether you’re craving stillness or adventure, the rhythm is yours to set. Unwind with a massage at The Nest, join a yoga class by the sea, or lose track of time with a book beneath the palms. Feeling energized? Try bocce or pickleball, ride horseback along the coast, dive into a cooking class, or sip your way through a mezcal tasting. As the day winds down, climb the Observatory Tower for unforgettable stargazing.
At Villa Santa Cruz, every moment feels intentional—rooted in nature, steeped in charm, and made to linger.
Top Takeaways
Location: Todos Santos, BCS, Mexico
Address: Calle, Camino A Las Playitas, 23300 Todos Santos, B.C.S., Mexico
Rating: 4.5 stars
The Vibe: Relaxed, unpretentious Baja charm
Amenities: Pools, spa, beach access, two restaurants, on-site farm, horseback riding
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Villa Santa Cruz’s location is its secret sauce. Nestled in Todos Santos—a low-key, beachside desert town—it offers a more tranquil alternative to hotspots like Cabo or Cancun. One standout moment? A peaceful horseback ride along the shore, where the local wrangler encouraged mindfulness in the saddle. It was grounding and unforgettable.
Food + Drink: There are two restaurants. Caracara offers elevated dining, while the beachfront Green Room keeps things laid-back. Both are fueled by fresh ingredients from the on-site garden.
Any Neighborhood Recs? Take advantage of the complimentary daily shuttle into Todos Santos (about 10 minutes away), or walk it if you're up for a stroll. The town is full of charm—independent shops, art galleries, and standout eateries. Don’t miss Oystera, a stylish transformation of an old sugar mill that now houses chic boutiques and a standout restaurant.
What’s Nearby:
- Todos Santos town center
- La Pastora Beach (great for surfing)
- La Poza Beach
- La Cachorra Beach
Rooms: 24 accommodations in total, including luxurious tented beach suites that blend comfort with coastal wilderness vibes.
Nearest Airport: Manuel Márquez de León International Airport (LAP) – 61 miles away
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