San José del Cabo offers a colonial, artsy counterbalance to Cabo San Lucas, its buzzy neighbor 20 miles to the south. Together, the two cities form the dual spirit of Los Cabos (the capes) at the southern end of the Baja Peninsula, and each has a distinct personality.

Indeed, San José del Cabo has held on to its mission roots after the Jesuits founded one here in the early 18th century. Even as San José has grown as a tourist destination in its own right—with high-end restaurants, galleries, and resorts—it’s managed to preserve its architectural charm and cultural richness.

The historic San José del Cabo town center, known as the centro histórico, is the soul of the city. Cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings lead to the iconic Misión de San José del Cabo. On Thursday evenings from November till June, the Art Walk draws locals and visitors to the area’s renowned galleries, shops, and restaurants, showcasing everything from indigenous crafts to contemporary Mexican and international art. This sense of community, of connection and conversation, is what defines the pace of life here.

San José del Cabo is a place not just to visit—but to belong.