A Review of Luxury at Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort in Los Cabos

Editor's note: Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort offered TPG a complimentary three-night stay for an in-depth review of the property and its amenities. All views expressed here are solely those of the author and were not influenced by the hotel or any third party.

The southern Baja California coast, home to luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol and Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has become a hotspot for high-end travelers. But this wasn’t always the case.

Previously, the region was a haven for surfers, sport fishermen, and spring breakers. When it opened in 1997, Las Ventanas al Paraiso set a new standard of luxury for the then-quiet area.

Nestled on a pristine golden beach, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort features elegant white stucco buildings, sweeping pools, and upscale dining options offering refined Mexican cuisine. It quickly became synonymous with luxury in Los Cabos.

I first visited over a decade ago, and after staying at several newer resorts in the area, I was excited to return. I wanted to see if this iconic hotel still maintained its reputation as the gold standard for luxury in Cabo.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso Location

Situated along the Golden Corridor of Los Cabos, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort, lies between the bustling towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, offering easy access to both.

From Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), it’s approximately a 30-minute ride to the resort, costing between $30 and $50, depending on whether you opt for a taxi or use a ride-hailing service. San Jose del Cabo is just a 20-minute drive for about $20, and Cabo San Lucas is similarly 20 minutes in the opposite direction, also costing $20.

Booking Las Ventanas al Paraiso

For the best deals and exclusive offers, including a free fourth night with daily complimentary breakfast (subject to availability), book directly through Rosewood’s official site.

If you're a holder of The Platinum Card® or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, you can book through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts on AmexTravel.com. Benefits include room upgrades (subject to availability), up to a $100 on-property credit for meals or drinks, daily breakfast for two, and guaranteed late checkout.

Unfortunately, the hotel is not part of Chase’s The Edit or the Capital One Premier Collection.

Rates start at $1,327 per night, including fees. Keep in mind that taxes and service charges can add up to 35% more to your final bill, significantly increasing the total cost.

Notable Features

• The expansive rooms are decorated in classic Mexican style, with breathtaking ocean views that stretch endlessly.
• Outstanding dining options, including Alebrije, offer a sophisticated take on Baja's fresh flavors.
• While the beach isn’t suitable for swimming, the numerous pools around the property ensure you’ll always find a quiet spot to relax.
• Guests can expect exceptional service not only from personal butlers but from the entire staff throughout the resort.

Drawbacks

• Due to its location, it is somewhat boxed in by neighboring resorts and doesn’t feel as expansive as some of the other area properties.
• At nearly 30 years old, certain room features, like the electrical outlets, may feel outdated.
• With high nightly rates, expensive dining, and costly spa treatments, staying here can quickly add up to a hefty price tag.

The Ambience

First impressions matter, and Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood Resort certainly lives up to the hype. Guests are greeted as they turn off the main highway and pass through towering white walls, followed by a serene palm-lined driveway. The transition from the outside world to a tranquil paradise is instantly noticeable.

As you arrive at reception, your attention may be drawn to a group of cheerful staff members, some of whom may offer you a refreshing, frothy lemonade, all while you take in the breathtaking views that stretch across the resort's main pool and the vast Sea of Cortez in the distance.

Experience the hotel’s layout more personally as your dedicated butler leads you on a tour, strolling along paths lined with succulents and bougainvillea, past the tranquil spa and bustling pools. You'll also pass by the sunlit Sea Grill, where fellow guests — mostly from California and Texas — are savoring a relaxed lunch of freshly caught seafood and wood-fired pizzas. The crowd is a mix of couples seeking romance and families enjoying multigenerational vacations.

Once inside your villa or suite, you might find it hard to leave — particularly if it boasts a private pool and an outdoor terrace. Still, you wouldn’t want to miss out on the resort’s exceptional amenities or a peaceful walk along the nearly empty beach.

Upon your return, you might discover a thoughtfully curated sewing kit, complete with thread colors carefully chosen to complement your vacation wardrobe. It’s just one of the many exclusive, personalized touches that make Las Ventanas al Paraiso stand out.

My room at Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Las Ventanas al Paraiso offers a range of accommodations, from the expansive Junior Suites (starting at 960 square feet) to the opulent, 28,000-square-foot Ty Warner Mansion. Mansion guests enjoy luxury on another level, with a personal chef and the option to request private fireworks displays for an unforgettable experience.

My spacious one-bedroom oceanfront villa, spanning 3,900 square feet of both indoor and outdoor living space, was located at the western tip of the property. It featured direct access to the beach via its own private set of stairs. The expansive outdoor area included a shaded lounge with stunning sea views, an infinity pool with a fire pit, desert-inspired landscaping, a Jacuzzi, a sunbathing deck, and even a wet bar perfect for hosting guests.

Beyond the massive sliding glass doors, the interior was a celebration of Mexican craftsmanship. The space was adorned with large ceramic vases, intricate Tenango embroidery, vivid paintings of local life, and beautifully carved wooden doors and furniture.

The expansive living room featured polished limestone floors and a wooden-beamed ceiling, with a cozy crescent-shaped sofa, a small desk near the entrance, and a flat-screen TV beside a well-stocked minibar. I was never in need of a snack, as every time I returned, a fresh assortment of treats awaited me, including homemade chips with guacamole, ceviche, and a selection of artisanal chocolates.

The villa was equipped with its own compact private kitchen for in-room dining, where room service would deliver meals even if I had the do-not-disturb sign displayed. It also featured amenities for both coffee and tea preparation.

Guests are welcomed with a bottle of exclusive Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Platino tequila, which they can savor during their stay or take home as a souvenir.

The elegant bedroom was separated from the living area by intricately carved wooden sliding doors. A striking pebble-tiled headboard took center stage, while a blue-and-white Tenango runner added color to the bed adorned with crisp white linens. (The pillow even had my monogram stitched on it.) The hotel offers guests a sheet menu, allowing them to select from luxurious options like Egyptian cotton, Italian linen, and sateen.

Flanking the bed on each side were nightstands crafted from adobe and tile, adorned with wrought-iron sconces and convenient power outlets. (You'll need to bring your own adapters for charging devices with USB-A and USB-C ports.)

Opposite the bed, there was another flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, accompanied by shelves displaying vases and art books, and a cozy fireplace. A thoughtful addition: a candle diffuser, offering a selection of mood-based scents, which housekeeping would activate during turndown service to fill the room with fragrance.

Moving beyond the bedroom, there was a spacious closet perfect for storing luggage and hanging garments, along with a large wardrobe offering ample drawer space.

The Travertine-accented bathroom was equipped with an array of Bulgari The Vert products. It featured two hand-painted tile sinks set into a shared counter, accompanied by a large mirror. A separate water closet housed the toilet and bathing area, which included a jetted tub surrounded by jars of aromatic bath salts and oils, as well as a walk-in shower.

A door in the shower led to a private, tree-shaded patio that featured an outdoor shower and a rear exit to the pool deck.

With so many activities and dining options available at the resort, it would have been easy to stay busy all day. But given the expansive amenities in my villa and the fact that my personal butler, Paulina, was just a call away to fulfill any request, I almost felt like I could have enjoyed a complete and relaxing experience without ever leaving my room.

During an unexpectedly rainy day, I certainly had enough time to relax and take in my surroundings. But once the clouds parted and the sun returned, I was eager to venture out and explore the rest of the resort.

Restaurants and bars at Las Ventanas al Paraiso

While not an enormous hotel, Las Ventanas al Paraiso offers a variety of distinct restaurants and bars scattered throughout the property.

Alebrije

The resort's all-day dining spot, Alebrije, features a lively open-air bar alongside both indoor and outdoor seating areas, all conveniently located next to the main pool. It specializes in contemporary Oaxacan cuisine.

The breakfast may be a bit on the expensive side at $89 per person, but it’s typically included in most rates. The spread includes a variety of offerings, such as fresh fruit platters and freshly baked pastries. Standout signature dishes include a generous breakfast burrito filled with eggs, ham, Oaxacan cheese, and Mexican red sauce, as well as hearty chilaquiles served with red, green, or both sauces, plus your choice of eggs, chicken, or beef.

Before dinner, unwind in one of the cozy alcoves at the adjacent cocktail bar, where drinks are inspired by Mexico's rich culinary traditions. A standout is the "Copal" cocktail, which combines smoky mezcal, passion fruit puree, pineapple juice, and a rim of grasshopper salt, priced at $30.

For dinner, the menu features starters like the incredibly fresh kampachi ceviche, paired with roasted bell peppers, watermelon radish, and Granny Smith apples ($37), and indulgent soft-shell crab with charred eggplant, citrus, a sweet adobo sauce, and tangy tomatillo chutney ($38).

The menu offers hearty vegetarian options such as cactus paddle tlayudas ($30) and roasted cauliflower with macha sauce and green pipian ($35). For something more adventurous, try the suckling pig tamales with queso fresco and locally sourced beets ($35), or the giant prawns from Magdalena Bay paired with nori rice crackers, milpa salad, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette ($113). Don't miss the indulgent caramelized banana dessert, featuring chocolate truffles, nut brittle, and banana ice cream ($23).

For special celebrations, guests can reserve the exclusive La Cava wine room, surrounded by the resort's impressive wine collection. Alternatively, dine under the mesmerizing 'Tree of Love' sculpture by David Luna, which is adorned with 100 delicate glass-blown hearts. The glowing sculpture reflects in the nearby Beach Pool, creating an unforgettable romantic atmosphere.

Sea Grill

Situated next to the Beach Pool and overlooking the ocean, Sea Grill is a breezy, open-air patio with a Mediterranean-inspired vibe, thanks to its wood-fired oven and vibrant, welcoming decor.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the breakfast menu (also priced at $89 per person) offering healthy options like avocado toast, plant-based dishes such as amaranth pancakes, and an array of fresh smoothies. For lunch, enjoy a selection of fresh fish and seafood, along with custom-made pizzas.

Unfortunately, the restaurant was closed for dinner on the night I planned to dine there due to bad weather, but I was still able to sample some of their dishes in an alternative setting. I enjoyed a rich crabcake with green apple, radish, and herb salad ($40.50), as well as squid ink pappardelle with local lobster, octopus, and shrimp in a creamy saffron-garlic sauce ($99).

On regular evenings, the menu features a variety of salads, fun dishes like oven-baked nachos with chorizo, cheese, and mushrooms, a selection of fresh fish and steaks grilled over mesquite, and build-your-own flatbreads.

Arbol

Located next to the Oasis Pool and open exclusively for dinner, Arbol stands out as the hotel's most unique dining experience. The space is designed with a pueblo-inspired whitewashed aesthetic, brightly illuminated by bold light fixtures. It features tree-like sculptures, a visually striking wine cellar, and large booths sunken into a reflecting pool. Guests can reserve these booths for special occasion packages, which can include extras like a private fireworks show.

The menu artfully combines traditional Indian tandoor and Asian wok cooking techniques with locally sourced Mexican ingredients. It also includes a selection of crudo and sushi dishes.

Signature dishes include a rich Kerala lobster curry with tamarind, coconut gravy, and Jeera rice ($104), yellowfin tuna sushi with Tampico and jalapeno ($37), and stir-fried wagyu beef with lemongrass, oyster sauce, and black pepper ($113).

For dessert, indulge in inventive treats like the rich "Bananand" featuring hazelnut crunch, bananas, raspberries, and passionfruit ($23), or the decadent Kerala crunch with deep-fried jalebi, sticky saffron syrup, tangy yogurt ice cream, and crushed pistachios ($23).

Tequila and Ceviche Bar

Nestled between the reception and the spa at the top of the resort, the Tequila and Ceviche Bar serves just what its name suggests. In addition to tequila, the bar offers a variety of agave spirits such as raicilla and mezcal, as well as refreshing cocktails like the Matias Romero, made with rosemary-infused anejo tequila, St. Germain, grapefruit juice, and lime. The food menu features a mix of sushi, nigiri, poke bowls, tiraditos, and tostadas.

For those eager to explore the world of tequila, the Tequila Sign experience is available. Led by the resort's tequila experts, this immersive experience helps you discover the perfect tequila to match your preferences and personality through blind tastings.

La Botica

While its entrance may not be completely concealed, finding your way into La Botica, the hotel’s speakeasy and jazz bar, might require a bit of effort—unless you’re in the know and can enter the secret code into the typewriter by the front door.

For those in the know, the doors will swing open, revealing shelves filled with apothecary jars that slide aside to uncover a hidden collection of liquor bottles.

The vibe picks up after dark when resident artist Rosalia de Cuba, along with her band and backup dancers, bring their own flair to classic Latin music. Guests can groove to the rhythms while enjoying botanical-based cocktails such as the No. 3 La Botiki, made with Monkey 47 gin, cinnamon syrup, pineapple, and passion fruit ($41).

There’s a required minimum consumption of $99 per person, but given the drink prices, it's easy to reach that threshold.

For those interested, cocktail-making classes are available (a great indoor activity, especially on a rainy day). Guests can learn the art of mixology from skilled bartenders, exploring the history behind popular cocktails and mastering the techniques to create their own masterpieces.

Behind La Botica, in a hidden part of the hotel, you'll find a new late-night spot housed in an old Volkswagen van. It serves tacos, hot dogs, burgers, and cold drinks for those not yet ready to end the night.

Oasis

The Oasis restaurant, open for lunch, offers a selection of street food-inspired dishes like tacos, quesadillas, and guacamole with chips, all served by the pool. The relaxed beachside bar is an ideal spot to unwind for a couple of hours on a warm afternoon, perfect for dipping in and out of the Oasis Pool.

Tacos, including options like shrimp with chile guero sauce and fennel or spicy al pastor chicken with cilantro and pineapple, are priced at $10 each. Be sure to leave room for one of the signature "rolled" ice creams, such as the horchata-flavored variety topped with Oreo crumble ($20).

Amenities at Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Las Ventanas al Paraiso offers a range of amenities to help you design your ideal experience in Los Cabos, whether you're seeking a romantic escape, an active family vacation, or a rejuvenating wellness retreat.

The pools and beach

With so many pools scattered across the property, Las Ventanas al Paraiso likely boasts one of the highest pool-to-guest ratios in Cabo. This includes pools attached to individual accommodations, offering a unique and private water experience.

The hotel boasts several pools, each offering a different vibe. You can jump between them depending on your mood, or simply find the one that suits you best and settle in for the day.

The latest addition is the Oasis Pool, located just off the reception area. It's perfect for families with its abundance of loungers and a lazy river winding through a grotto. The lively atmosphere, enhanced by a DJ spinning tunes, sets it apart from the quieter pools. If you're visiting with kids, be sure to ask about the seasonal activities designed just for them.

On your way to the beach, you'll come across a tranquil pool with a view of the Cabo Real golf course, which remains peaceful throughout the day.

Stretching from reception to the beach, the Beach Pool is the largest and most popular in the resort. It draws crowds with its expansive loungers that line its perimeter and the adjacent lawn. A swim-up bar serves up drinks from Sea Grill, adding to its appeal.

As you continue west along the coast, you'll find the Twin Pools, which boast infinity edges and stunning sea views. These pools are adults-only and offer a serene atmosphere, often accompanied by soft music playing through discreet speakers.

No matter which pool you opt for, the attendants will ensure your comfort by setting up chairs with seat cushions, pillows, umbrellas, and buckets of chilled water bottles. Complimentary sunscreen is also available, and servers will regularly visit to take orders for meals, drinks, and offer free treats like popsicles.

The resort offers several beach cabanas for rent, available for either full or half-day use. These exclusive cabanas are said to be the only ones in Mexico featuring private plunge pools and Jacuzzis, along with cozy lounging areas and shaded interiors. A dedicated butler is available to provide amenities such as sunscreen, Evian mist spray, and full service for drinks and meals.

Sadly, the beach directly in front of the resort is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents and large waves. However, the expansive sand is perfect for walks, and you can easily head next door to the Hilton's beach for calmer waters.

Recreation and fitness

Las Ventanas al Paraiso boasts a 2,900-square-foot fitness center equipped with Technogym cardio and weight machines, Peloton bikes, and a dedicated stretching zone.

To reach the hotel entrance, follow the driveway from the reception, and you'll encounter two tennis courts (one also serves as a pickleball court). Guests can book the courts for personal use or schedule lessons.

For golf enthusiasts, the hotel can arrange tee times at several nearby courses: the Robert Trent II-designed Cabo Real course, the Tom Weiskopf-designed Desert Course at Cabo del Sol, the Jack Nicklaus-designed Palmilla Golf Club, and the courses at Golf Club Puerto Los Cabos, designed by Nicklaus and Greg Norman.

The hotel is delighted to arrange paid off-site excursions such as whale-watching, ATV rides, surfing, sport fishing, scuba diving, private yacht charters, and sunset horseback rides along the beach, among other exciting activities.

Las Ventanas al Paraiso is renowned for curating unforgettable romantic experiences. Want to propose on the plaza with a sunset backdrop, surrounded by 500 candles and a path of rose petals? Consider it done. How about sleeping under the stars on your villa's roof? Sweet dreams await. Private magic show at La Botica? The magic is real!

Additional experiences, such as outdoor movie screenings under the stars and family beach barbecues, are also available. Whatever your vacation desires, the staff is ready to fulfill (almost) any request.

The Spa at Las Ventanas al Paraiso

Inspired by the ancient healing practices of the Indigenous peoples of Baja, the intimate spa is designed around the four elements of earth, air, fire, and water. It feels like a lush, secluded garden tucked within the resort. Begin your experience with a steam or sauna session in the men's or women's locker rooms, followed by a refreshing cold plunge.

Afterward, relax in the garden lounge with a cup of tea while participating in a shamanic 'limpia,' or cleansing ritual. The smoke of sage, the sound of crystal bowls, and even the presence of an eagle feather work together to eliminate negative energy and restore harmony to your body and spirit.

A signature experience at the spa is the two-hour Milk & Honey body scrub, which uses Baja honey followed by a nourishing massage ($470). Another standout treatment, the Nopal Desert Detox, involves a vitamin C-packed cactus balm body mask that helps detoxify the skin before an essential oil massage (two hours, $470). For those seeking to feel rejuvenated, Orveda skincare facials are also available.

The spa also includes a quaint salon offering a variety of beauty services, including manicures, pedicures, hair treatments, and makeup applications.

Service at Las Ventanas al Paraiso

What truly distinguishes Las Ventanas al Paraiso from other hotels in Cabo and luxury resorts around the world is its exceptional staff. Their warmth, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm make a lasting impression. This was true during my first visit a decade ago, and remains true to this day.

My personal butler, Paulina (available to all guests), was always just a text away. She handled everything from making reservations and arranging activities to escorting me to dinner. She also ensured that every restaurant and bar knew my preferences or dietary restrictions. On top of that, she helped my partner surprise me with a bottle of wine and a platter of gourmet snacks for my birthday, which she secretly arranged while I was out enjoying an activity.

Everyone I encountered — from the breakfast hostesses to the pool attendants arranging my seating, to the cheerful bartenders at La Botica who taught me how to make the perfect Manhattan — was genuinely focused on making my stay exceptional. And it wasn’t in a forced or overbearing way. It felt like vacationing with good friends who just happened to work there. Throughout my stay, I overheard other (often demanding) guests praising the service, with many mentioning that this level of care is the reason they return year after year.

Out and about

Most visitors to Las Ventanas al Paraiso prefer to stay within the resort, occasionally venturing out for activities like golf, snorkeling, or dining at another hotel.

If you wish to explore beyond the resort, a $20 ride-hailing trip will get you to the lively tourist shops, adventure outfitters, and vibrant nightclubs of Cabo San Lucas in about 20 minutes. San Jose del Cabo is a similar distance and price, offering a weekly Thursday evening art walk where visitors can wander through its various galleries.

Accessibility

Las Ventanas al Paraiso is partially wheelchair accessible, with gently sloping paths, ramps, and level surfaces that lead to restaurants and elevators in various public areas. However, many rooms require navigating stairs either up or down from the main walkways.

The resort's ground-level rooms are wheelchair accessible, though they do not feature any additional specialized accommodations for wheelchair users. Similarly, there are no chairlifts available for the pools. However, hotel staff are always on hand to assist with any requests for help with entering and exiting the facilities.

Checking out

While Los Cabos is home to numerous world-renowned luxury resorts, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, a Rosewood property, remains one of the original gems in the area, standing out from the crowd.

Certainly, the luxurious accommodations, stunning beachfront location, innovative dining options, and unique spa all contribute to its appeal. But the true magic lies in the nearly perfect hospitality and the genuine warmth of the resort's staff — many of whom have been with the resort for over a decade. Their thoughtful little gestures create a welcoming atmosphere and make you feel truly valued throughout your stay.