TOP 5 INCENTIVE RESORTS
When it comes to planning unforgettable incentive trips, Los Cabos often sits at the top of the list. Known for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and endless activities, it’s a no-brainer destination. But if you’re looking to go beyond the usual suspects, we’ve got you covered – dive into our top five under-the-radar resorts!
HOTEL EL GANZO
Where art, music, and relaxation meet
Hotel El Ganzo is not your typical Los Cabos resort. Tucked away in Puerto Los Cabos, this boutique hotel is a haven for the creatively inclined. Imagine walking into a place where every corner tells a story through art, music, and relaxation. From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll notice that El Ganzo is a pure celebration of creativity. With its artist-in-residence program and underground recording studio, El Ganzo merges luxury with artistic flair.
The 70-room hotel offers stunning ocean views that can make even the most jaded traveler swoon. The rooftop infinity pool? Pure bliss. The private beach club is equally impressive, offering a secluded spot to soak up the sun or try your hand at paddle boarding. Dining here is an experience in itself, with farm-to-table options that showcase the best of local produce. And the spa? Let’s just say you’ll walk out a different person than you walked in…
But let’s get to the nitty-gritty: why is this place so perfect for incentive trips? El Ganzo stands out for its unique blend of creativity and luxury, making it ideal for fostering innovation and out-of-the-box thinking. The resort’s emphasis on art and music creates an inspiring environment that can fuel creativity and team bonding. Plus, the meeting spaces are anything but boring. Think rooftop terraces perfect for cocktail receptions, intimate meeting rooms for brainstorming sessions, and outdoor event spaces at the beach club for those more relaxed gatherings.
As creatives ourselves (could you tell?), we are outwardly seeking creative refuges – spaces for the curious, rebellious and imaginative to explore and experience and “El Ganzo stands as a leader in the immersive travel space through its dedication to bespoke experiences aimed to inspire.”
The most noteworthy part of this hotel, we think, is its commitment to the environment, community and its employees.
It is the first hotel in all of Mexico to obtain a B Corp certification (Certified B Corps are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental responsibility, public transparency, and legal responsibility to achieve a long-term balance of profits and purpose).
In addition, La Playa Centro Comunitario was established in 2015 on empty land adjacent to the hotel to serve as a nurturing environment for creation, socialization, and education for local youth to explore their artistic inner self while connecting with others.
It is committed to using only locally sourced products, raw materials, and amenities and grows its own herbs and microgreens on-site.
And the cherry on top? Hotel Ganzo harnesses the importance of career development by offering its employees personalized training programs.
As a guest of the hotel, you have the opportunity to positively impact the people and environment of San Jose del Cabo and La Playa.
The etceteras:
- 2,500 square feet of function space
- Spa treatments inspired from the vast flora of the region
- Yoga and wellness experiences
- Live artist installations
- Recording studio
- On-site musicians
- Rooftop infinity pool heated with solar power
- 4 on-site restaurants featuring farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients
- Art tours and workshops
- Live music events
- Snorkeling
- Paddle boarding
THE CAPE, A THOMPSON HOTEL
Mid-century cool with a side of dramatic ocean views
The Cape offers a stylish, mid-century modern escape on the iconic Monuments Beach. It is the epitome of cool, with sleek lines, panoramic views, and a vibe so effortlessly chic you’ll feel like a celebrity. Each of its 161 rooms has a private balcony with stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, making it perfect for those VIP incentive trips where you really want to impress.
The property’s design is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces to create an environment that’s both luxurious and inviting. The unique architecture and minimalist yet sophisticated design elements make every corner Instagram-worthy.
The lobby sets the tone with its mid-century modern décor and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking ocean views while the rooms are a haven of comfort and style. With sleek furnishings, locally sourced art, and expansive views of the Sea of Cortez, each room feels like a private retreat.
And let’s talk about the rooftop bar and lounge—it’s the stuff of legends. It is the ideal spot for evening gatherings where guests can sip cocktails as the sun paints pink and orange hues across the horizon.
Dining at The Cape is a treat, with fine dining that focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood. And the infinity pool with a swim-up bar? You mean we don’t have to leave the pool to get a cocktail? Ummm, yes, please!
For events, the rooftop terrace with its breathtaking views is no doubt the place to host an evening gathering, while the modern private dining room suits exclusive events.
Our favorite place to gather (for smaller-size groups) is the beachside fire pit. It’s intimate, elegant, and unique – and the perfect spot for real human connection. If you know POP | X, you know we love all things human connection.
For those who appreciate style and substance, The Cape is a top choice.
The etceteras:
- Rooftop lounge with panoramic views (named one of the best in Cabo!)
- 6,200 square feet of mixed event space
- Spa and wellness center
- Paddle boarding
- Beach and desert adventures
- Hiking
- Surfing
- Snorkeling expeditions
- Boat tours
- Yoga & fitness classes
- Mixology classes, wine tastings, & tequila tastings
- 5 restaurants
- Green Key certified
MAR DEL CABO
Boutique elegance with a nod to traditional Mexican charm
Mar del Cabo is a boutique resort that combines modern luxury with historic Mexican charm. Nestled along the Tourist Corridor, this 46-suite gem offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an oasis where time slows down and every detail invites you to relax and unwind. And, come on, who doesn’t love walking down cobblestone paths lined with bougainvilleas…
The blend of elegance and authenticity at Mar del Cabo makes it a standout choice for incentive trips focused on cultural immersion and relaxation. The cozy atmosphere and above & beyond personalized service make guests feel like they’re in a private oasis, ideal for fostering deeper connections and meaningful experiences.
The on-site restaurant, Encanto, serves up a delightful array of farm-to-table dishes made with diverse, local ingredients. Think mouth-watering ceviche, tender octopus, and deliciously grilled fish — of course with a handcrafted, refreshing cocktail in hand. The resort also features an on-site organic garden, which not only supplies the kitchen with its fresh produce but also offers guests the opportunity to learn about sustainable farming practices. It’s a lovely touch that adds to the overall sense of peace and connection with nature that pervades the property.
The restaurant’s beachfront setting truly makes every meal an experience, whether you’re dining under the stars or enjoying a leisurely breakfast as the sun rises. Plus, it earned the Diner’s Choice Awards in 2023!
Though there is indoor function space, the event spaces at Mar del Cabo are geared more toward the outdoors, including the Sun Terrace, Patio Sun Terrace, Playa Encanto and the Encanto Terrace.
It’s evident that each of the activities offered here are thoughtfully curated to truly enhance the guest experience and create lasting memories. From cooking classes to yoga to craft beer tastings, there is an experience for everyone and anyone.
While this spot earned the 2023 Traveler’s Choice Top 5 Best Hotels in Los Cabos, Mar del Cabo has limited dining options on-site, and its smaller property might feel too quiet for some groups. But if you’re looking for a place where luxury meets authenticity, Mar del Cabo is the place to be.
The etceteras:
- 3,000 square feet of event space
- Spa
- Gym
- Beach
- Cooking & mixology classes
- F&B experiences (Paella in the Pool, Tacos & Mezcalitas, Tequila Tasting, S’mores & Churros)
- Guided meditation and yoga sessions
- Private boat tours
- Golf nearby
- Whale watching (December-March)
- Fishing
- Pet-friendly
ESPERANZA, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION
Ultimate luxury with an intimate touch
Esperanza, the only private beach resort in Los Cabos, is where ultimate luxury meets intimate, personalized service. Located in Punta Ballena, this resort offers stunning ocean views, world-class dining, and a host of bespoke activities tailored to your group’s desires. From the moment you arrive, you’ll understand why Esperanza is a favorite among those in the know (and why it earned a spot in the Top 5 from POP | X)!
Esperanza’s impeccable service and attention to detail, secluded setting, and high-end amenities make it an ideal location for exclusive incentive trips. The award-winning spa offers treatments that will leave guests feeling rejuvenated and ready to conquer the world (more on that later). And with five pools, there’s always a perfect spot to relax.
The Cocina del Mar restaurant, bar and lounge is hands-down one of the most spectacular places to dine we’ve ever seen. Mix a lively outdoor exhibition kitchen preparing just-caught seafood and vibrant, coastal Baja cuisine with hand-crafted cocktails beside a wood fired oven perched atop a cliff overlooking the Sea of Cortez…
This is not a creation of our imagination or a scene out of a movie. This is real life, people!!!
For events, Esperanza offers oceanfront terraces for scenic gatherings, versatile indoor meeting spaces equipped with the latest technology, and poolside venues for relaxed, informal events. If you’re really looking to create an unforgettable experience for a small group of VIPs, we recommend the Beach Glamping Experience. It offers an elaborate private dinner set-up on the hotel beach, ideal for 6-8 people, and features an exclusive dinner menu crafted by the resort’s Executive Chef.
Their signature collection of Wellness Journeys and spa treatments rooted in the Medicine Wheel (an ancient symbol of hope and healing) is like no other. Each journey begins with a Gratitude Ceremony and Intention Card reading, followed by a private breathwork and meditation session and a seasonally inspired lunch. Where the desert meets the sea, ancestral wisdom meets modern wellbeing.
The high price might be a consideration and securing bookings can be challenging due to its popularity, but for those who want to deliver the best of the best, Esperanza is worth every penny.
The etceteras:
- Five pools
- Five on-site restaurants
- Two private beaches
- Award-winning spa
- Hydrotherapy circuit
- 6,000 square feet of event space
- Private tequila tastings
- Whale watching tours (seasonal)
- Artisanal crafting workshops
- Racquet sports
- Cabanas
- Two-story open-air beach palapas (each featuring a daybed, swing, private butler service, and many more amenities such as a Yeti Cooler filled with beverages)
- State-of-the-art fitness facilities
- Fitness classes
- Golf nearby
MONTAGE LOS CABOS
Modern elegance on the shores of Santa Maria Bay
Montage Los Cabos epitomizes modern elegance, offering luxurious accommodations on the pristine shores of Santa Maria Bay. With 122 expansive rooms, suites, and casas, Montage combines contemporary design with natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for incentive trips that want to prioritize wellness, relaxation and rejuvenation.
The property is sprawling, yet intimate and the architecture is sophisticated, yet inviting.
The resort offers an impressive 15,000 square feet of event space, making it the ideal choice on our list for larger gatherings and conferences. The event spaces are designed to be as flexible as they are beautiful, with state-of-the-art facilities that can accommodate any caliber of event.
But what truly sets Montage apart is its experiences. The resort offers direct access to the calm waters of Santa Maria Bay, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. The bay is a protected marine sanctuary, its crystal-clear waters home to vibrant coral reefs and an array of marine life. Guided snorkeling and scuba diving expeditions are available for those who want to explore the underwater world — Montage is the only 5-star PADI Resort certified in Los Cabos!
And of course, there is no finer finale to a busy day of snorkeling, hiking, or sun bathing than a wellness experience at Spa Montage Los Cabos, a 40,000-square-foot holistic-minded retreat. Its spa therapists use an array of non-invasive techniques and indigenous ingredients from the pharmacopeia of the local desert landscape combined with European spa science and ancient wisdom traditions.
The resort boasts several gourmet dining options, each offering a unique take on local and international cuisine. The culinary team at Mezcal, the signature restaurant, takes pride in showcasing the flavors of Baja California, and every dish is a celebration of local ingredients and innovative techniques. It combines traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary techniques to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Although the Montage Cabo San Lucas Resort has a beautifully diverse selection of restaurants, the remote location means fewer nearby off-site dining options, which may be of importance to some. But if a luxurious escape that blends relaxation and adventure is top of mind, here’s your answer.
The etceteras:
- 15,000 square feet of function space
- 5 on-site dining options, including an all-day café and marketplace
- Cabanas
- Private boat charters
- Spa
- Fitness center
- ATV tours
- Bike tours
- Camel safaris
- Ziplining
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Snorkeling and diving
- Waverunners
- Horseback riding
- Sailing
- Tennis (Tennis pros available to book)
- Pickleball
- Golf nearby
Choosing the perfect incentive resort for your group in Los Cabos doesn’t have to mean going with the obvious choices. From the artistic vibes of Hotel El Ganzo to the peaceful elegance of Montage Los Cabos, each resort on our list provides a distinctive flavor of paradise that’s just waiting to be discovered, experienced and celebrated.
Cheers to the art of experience!
