EAST CAPE

The East Cape's main draw for tourists has been its exceptional sports fishing. In recent years, many who have visited Los Cabos for years, are venturing north, beyond the familiar tourist spots, to visit the East Cape for its tranquility and still largely untouched beauty. The friendliness and easy-going personality of the region is a strong pull for many. Angling, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, beach-combing, horseback riding, ATV cruising, are available for the active visitor, Partaking in more relaxing endevours: such as getting a massage, manicure, or just sipping margaritas by the beach are also favorite pastimes along Baja's East Cape. 

LOCATION:

Baja's East Cape stretches from San Jose del Cabo north to the Bahia Las Palmas. The town of Los Barriles in Bahia Las Palmas, famous for its roots as a fishing village, is about 45 miles north of the Los Cabos airport, and about 70 miles south of La Paz.

HISTORY:

Though many visitors choose Los Barriles because it is a tranquil getaway, Los Barriles' main draw today is still its fabulous fishing. Dorado, tuna and marlin are the most frequent catches of the day. Sailfish, roosterfish, sierra, bonita, amberjack, red snapper and others are also sought and caught. Thanks to increasing conservation consiousness among fishermen and women, the billfish reeled in are also often released. In recent years more and more Americans have decided to make parts of the East Cape home for at least part of the year. Unlike Los Cabos, the thrust of building that is being done is that of private homes, not multi-story mega hotels.  About an hour drive south of Los Barriles, along a bumpy partially unpaved coastal road, is Cabo Pulmo, a nationally protected marine preserve which boasts Baja's only living coral reef. The Los Frailes Mountain, Baja's Eastern most point, is just south of Cabo Pulmo.

WEATHER:

Due to gentle off shore breezes weather in East Cape is generally tropical all year round.  Shorts, tank tops, and beachwear is generally the custom clothing for all seasons.

ACCOMMODATIONS:

There are several quaint hotels in the area.  The Rancho Buena Vista has a tennis court, a pool, beach access, as well as a bar and dining room.  Most hotels offer chartered fishing trips or can have arrangements made for you.  Rates ranges from US$70 to US$300.  Meals are generally included with the price.

RESTAURANTS:

Most restaurants serve good food at good prices, with spectacular views.  Tio’s Restaurant, East Cape’s most popular dining establishment, serves up good local cuisine as well as seafood.  There is also a full bar service here.

NIGHT LIFE:

The majority of hotels have a bar or dining room where one can sit and enjoy the views East Cape has to offer.  Tio's Restaurant has a full service bar that is popular with locals and repeat visitors. 

SHOPPING:

There are several small shops, stores and markets on the East Cape where you can find day-to-day necessities as well as some gifts and souvenirs.

CUISINE:

Traditional Mexican foods, seafood and local custom fish dishes are the types of cuisine you will find here. 

SERVICES: 

Banks: There is no bank on the East Cape, as of yet. There is, however, an ATM machine in the Pemex gas station on the Transpenninsular Highway #1, just south of the town of Los Barriles. Most businesses take dollars as well as pesos, though the exchange rate varies. The larger businesses also take some credit cards and traveler's checks.

Internet:  The Office is a communication and supplies center selling Telcel cellular phone products, DHL courier service, office supplies and as well is an internet caf?

Transportation: Some of the individual hotels have contracts with particular taxi companies or drivers to provide transport to and from the airport for their guests. Taxis are also available at the airport to drive you to any East Cape location, though prices might be higher. All major car rental agencies are available in the Los Cabos airport. Spa Buena Vista has several cars to rent, once you are on the East Cape. For a pick up fee, it can also be arranged to leave the car at the airport.  T.T. Cabo del Este is a co-op of taxi drivers, all with comfortable vans. They are available for anything from airport transportation, to day trips and tours, to rides to the supermarket or local restaurants and bars.