The One&Only Palmilla leads this list with a perfect 9.7 staff score and Medano Beach access. Hotel El Ganzo counters with a 9.7 comfort rating and artist-in-residence energy. Together, they define the 5-star range in Los Cabos.
Norfolk’s 5-star scene isn’t about turquoise pools or swim-up bars. These are the real deals: high guest scores, specific amenities, and concrete locations from Old Port to the Oceanfront.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 five-star Norfolk properties across 7,500+ verified guest reviews, applying an 8.6/10 average guest score threshold to surface only the highest-ranked stays.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Overall: #1 One&Only Palmilla→ Rates
- Best Value: #2 Hotel El Ganzo→ Rates
- Best for Couples: #3 Marquis Los Cabos→ Rates
- Best for Families: #4 Villa La Estancia→ Rates
- Best All-Inclusive: #5 Le Blanc Spa Resort→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Riu Santa Fe – All Inclusive | (2,400+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas | (950+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Riu Palace Baja California – Adults | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Royal Solaris Los Cabos | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hotel El Ganzo – Adults Only | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Krystal Grand Los Cabos | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 7. GR Solaris Lighthouse | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Grand Fiesta Americana | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Viceroy Los Cabos | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Marquis Los Cabos | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Villa La Estancia | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Le Blanc Spa Resort | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Paradisus by Meliá Los Cabos | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 14. One&Only Palmilla | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Secrets Puerto Los Cabos | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 16. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Dreams Los Cabos Suites | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Hilton Los Cabos | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Garza Blanca Resort | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 20. JW Marriott Los Cabos | (30+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 20 Five-Star Norfolk Hotels Analyzed
1. Riu Santa Fe – All Inclusive
The Vibe
This is the volume play on Medano Beach. 2,400+ reviews prove it works for crowds who want maximum pool time and buffet variety. The 8.7 comfort and location scores are solid, but Wi-Fi at 7.5 tells you this is about disconnecting. Families pack this one for the sheer number of pools and the all-inclusive convenience.
What You Actually Get
Ten pools, eight restaurants, and a free parking lot that doesn’t nickel-and-dime you. The breakfast buffet gets specifically called out as “Very Good” in the data. Rooms are standard resort-style with balconies. The beachfront location means you’re steps from Medano Beach, but note the “not great” food complaint from some reviews. Cancellation policies are per-season, so check ahead. No pets allowed.
Choose this if: You want a reliable all-inclusive with massive pool variety and don’t mind crowds during peak season.
2. Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas – All Inclusive
The Vibe
Step up from the Santa Fe. The 9.1 staff score is the headline—guests consistently note the friendly, attentive service. The 8.8 cleanliness and comfort scores reflect the Palace level of upkeep. It’s still a large resort, but the vibe shifts slightly more upscale with the spa and dedicated restaurant variety.
What You Actually Get
Four pools, six restaurants, free on-site parking, and a beachfront setting that includes a private balcony in every room with sea view. The free breakfast is a perk, and the 8.3 Wi-Fi is better than its sister property. The spa adds a wellness angle that the Santa Fe lacks. Groups booking 5+ rooms face different policies, so check before organizing a big trip.
Choose this if: Service matters more than pool count. The staff here consistently outrank the competition.
Check Tonight’s Price for Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas – All Inclusive →
3. Riu Palace Baja California – Adults Only – All Inclusive
The Vibe
The adults-only Riu option with a 9.0 comfort score—the best in the Riu trio. No kids means the pool areas stay calm, and the evening entertainment leans grown-up. Michael Jackson show gets a specific shout-out in the reviews. Its 8.9 location score places it perfectly on Medano Beach.
What You Actually Get
Four pools, beachfront access, a fitness center, and facilities for disabled guests. The free Wi-Fi runs at 8.3, and the “Very Good Breakfast” is included. Room service is available. The 800+ reviews base is strong enough to trust the patterns. Note: groups booking 5+ rooms face different policies, and cancellation terms vary by room type.
Choose this if: You’re an adult traveler who wants the Riu all-inclusive formula without children around.
Check Tonight’s Price for Riu Palace Baja California – Adults Only – All Inclusive →
4. Royal Solaris Los Cabos – All Inclusive
The Vibe
This San Jose del Cabo property scores big on location near the airport and hits a surprising 8.9 for Wi-Fi—best in the mid-range all-inclusives here. The 8.8 location score means you’re close to golf course areas and the main hotel zone. Families like the dedicated children’s area, and the large pool gets praised.
What You Actually Get
Two pools, a fitness center, free airport shuttle, room service, and beachfront access. The “Good Breakfast” is included. The all-inclusive covers alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks per the property’s own FAQ. But heads up: the beach in front of the hotel is not swimmable. The nearest swimmable beach is Playa El Chileno, 20 minutes away. Groups booking more than 2 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: Airport proximity and strong Wi-Fi matter more than a swimmable beach.
Check Tonight’s Price for Royal Solaris Los Cabos – All Inclusive →
5. Hotel El Ganzo – Adults Only
The Vibe
Hotel El Ganzo is the cool kid of Los Cabos. A 69-room independent hotel with a recording studio, rotating art installations, and a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the marina. The 9.7 comfort score reflects beds guests rave about. It’s not a mega-resort—it’s a boutique experience with serious personality. The private beach club on La Playita is the only swimmable beach in San Jose.
What You Actually Get
An outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi (8.7), airport shuttle, free parking, a private beach area, and three restaurants. Breakfast is included. Rooms have bathtubs, and some suites offer in-room jacuzzis. The 9.4 staff and 9.6 facilities scores are elite for this list. Pets are allowed with charges. The marina view rooms overlook the yachts, not the ocean.
Choose this if: You want a boutique hotel with art, music, and swimmable beach access, not a cookie-cutter resort.
6. Krystal Grand Los Cabos – All Inclusive
The Vibe
The Krystal Grand gets mixed reviews—some guests love the Unlimited-Luxury all-inclusive, others find the food mediocre. Its 7.8 overall score is the second-lowest on this list, but the 8.3 staff score shows the team works hard. It’s popular with groups of friends and offers sea views from many rooms.
What You Actually Get
Four pools, a fitness center, free private parking, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, and a “Good Breakfast.” The all-inclusive includes most drinks, but premier items like lobster and romantic dinners cost extra. A $200 damage deposit is required at check-in. Wi-Fi is available in all areas but not separately scored. The beach is steps away.
Choose this if: You’re on a tighter budget for a 5-star all-inclusive and prioritize value over luxury.
Check Tonight’s Price for Krystal Grand Los Cabos – All Inclusive →
7. GR Solaris Lighthouse – All Inclusive
The Vibe
The Solaris Lighthouse scores a strong 8.8 for location and an 8.5 for both cleanliness and comfort, which are respectable for the price point. The 5 pools are the main draw, with one specifically noted for its sea views. It’s a family-friendly resort with a beachfront position and private beach area.
What You Actually Get
Five swimming pools, six restaurants, a fitness center, airport shuttle, and free private parking. The “Very Good Breakfast” is included. Private beach area means you have a dedicated spot on the sand. There’s a $6 USD room service charge not included in rates. 35 minutes to Cabo San Lucas marina, 10 minutes to San Jose marina by car.
Choose this if: Location and pool count matter most; you’re okay with a modest overall rating.
Check Tonight’s Price for GR Solaris Lighthouse – All Inclusive →
8. Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa
The Vibe
This is the rare Los Cabos resort with a genuinely swimmable, snorkel-friendly beach. The 9.0 comfort and 8.9 cleanliness scores reflect a well-maintained property. Families with kids love the setup—the beach is safe for swimming and snorkeling, which is a huge advantage in Cabo where many beaches are dangerous.
What You Actually Get
Three pools, a spa, golf course access, airport shuttle, private beach area, and an “Exceptional Breakfast” rating—the highest breakfast grade on this list. Pets are allowed with charges. The “Solarium” rooms come with umbrellas and benches in a garden close to the ocean. Check-in at 1 PM is earlier than most competitors.
Choose this if: You want to snorkel from the resort beach and value exceptional breakfast quality.
Check Tonight’s Price for Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa →
9. Viceroy Los Cabos
The Vibe
Viceroy Los Cabos is a design-forward resort with a 9.6 comfort score that rivals the top-tier properties. The 9.5 Wi-Fi is the best outside the Le Blanc property. It’s popular with solo travelers, which suggests a welcoming, non-couple-centric vibe. The staff score of 9.2 and facilities at 9.2 round out an impressive profile.
What You Actually Get
Five pools, five restaurants, beachfront access, free parking, free Wi-Fi (9.5), and tea/coffee makers in all rooms. Breakfast is available. The rooms are described as “large” and face the ocean. In-room Alexa speakers are a modern touch. Pets are allowed with a $150 one-time fee. Children 12+ are charged as adults.
Choose this if: You want a modern, design-conscious resort with strong Wi-Fi and solo-traveler energy.
10. Marquis Los Cabos, an All-Inclusive, Adults-Only & No Timeshare Resort
The Vibe
Marquis Los Cabos bills itself as “No Timeshare” for a reason—guests appreciate the no-pressure policy. The 9.1 overall rating is built on a 9.5 comfort score, 9.3 cleanliness, and a 9.2 staff rating. It’s adults-only (18+) and all-inclusive, with a pool described as having a stunning view. The “wonderful breakfast” label is rare.
What You Actually Get
Two pools, an airport shuttle, fitness center, free Wi-Fi (9.5), room service, and facilities for disabled guests. The “Wonderful Breakfast” is a standout. The tennis court is available. Note: the Canto del Mar Restaurant is not included in the all-inclusive plan. The credit card used for booking must be shown at check-in. Groups over 10 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You want adults-only quiet with top-tier comfort and no sales pitches.
Check Tonight’s Price for Marquis Los Cabos, an All – Inclusive, Adults – Only & No Timeshare →
11. Villa La Estancia – Medano Beach Villas
The Vibe
Villa La Estancia redefines Cabo luxury with villa-style living right on Medano Beach. The 9.6 location score is the joint-highest for beach access. It’s a beach-front complex where you get an actual villa, not just a hotel room. The 9.5 staff score and 9.3 cleanliness reflect meticulous upkeep.
What You Actually Get
Outdoor pool, beachfront access, free Wi-Fi (8.1), airport shuttle, family rooms, free parking, and private beach area. Breakfast is included. The villas come with kitchens and separate living spaces, making this ideal for longer stays. English and Spanish spoken. A deposit via bank transfer is required to secure the reservation—non-refundable but usable for future stays.
Choose this if: You want a home-away-from-home on Medano Beach with separate rooms for families.
Check Tonight’s Price for Villa La Estancia – Medano Beach Villas →
12. Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos – Adults Only – All-Inclusive
The Vibe
Le Blanc is the five-diamond adults-only resort on this list. The perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score is remarkable, matched by a 9.7 staff score and 9.8 comfort. This is the all-inclusive experience for people who actually expect luxury—butler service on every floor, top-shelf liquor included, and seven restaurants serving Asian, French, Italian, steak, Lebanese, Mexican, and seafood.
What You Actually Get
Four pools, free Wi-Fi (10.0), airport shuttle, beachfront access, free parking, seven restaurants, tea/coffee makers, and breakfast. The late check-out until 1:30 PM is generous. No children allowed. The 9.0 value score is high for an adults-only all-inclusive, suggesting guests feel they get what they pay for.
Choose this if: You want the best Wi-Fi in Cabo, butler service, and a true luxury all-inclusive.
Check Tonight’s Price for Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos – Adults Only – All-Inclusive →
13. Paradisus by Meliá Los Cabos – Adults Only – All Inclusive
The Vibe
Paradisus Meliá offers a record 13 restaurants and one of the few swimmable beaches in Cabo. The 9.0 cleanliness and comfort scores are solid, and the staff rating of 8.9 shows good service. It’s adults-only but pet-friendly on request, which narrows the options for travelers with dogs.
What You Actually Get
Outdoor pool, free parking, fitness center, 13 restaurants, room service, facilities for disabled guests, daily housekeeping, and tea/coffee makers. Breakfast is included. The swim-up bar gets praised in reviews. The credit card used for booking must be presented at check-in. Groups over 5 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: Dining variety is your priority and you want a swimmable beach without leaving campus.
Check Tonight’s Price for Paradisus by Meliá Los Cabos – Adults Only – All Inclusive →
14. One&Only Palmilla
The Vibe
One&Only Palmilla is the highest-rated property on this list at 9.6/10. The 9.7 staff and comfort scores are essentially perfect. This is old-money Cabo luxury—the kind of place where a return guest comes back for their 20th anniversary. It’s not all-inclusive, which means a more refined dining experience but higher costs for meals.
What You Actually Get
Outdoor pool, private beach area, free Wi-Fi (7.5—the only dip), airport shuttle, fitness center, and breakfast. The 13 spa treatment villas are private and ocean-adjacent. Pets allowed with charges. European plan (room only) is standard, but meal plan options are available. Children 12 and above charged as adults.
Choose this if: Money is no object and you want the absolute best service in Los Cabos.
15. Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa (18+)
The Vibe
Secrets Puerto Los Cabos is an adults-only (18+) resort with a strong 9.4 staff score and 9.2 cleanliness. The golf course access is a unique draw—it’s right on the property. The 8.8 overall score is solid, and the 9.0 location puts you near the marina and La Playita area. Guests call it “beautiful” and “fun.”
What You Actually Get
Outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi (8.8), airport shuttle, fitness center, facilities for disabled guests, room service, and breakfast. The resort has 6 restaurants plus 2 snack bars. Beach access is direct. Pets allowed on request with charges. No children allowed, but no age restriction means 18-year-olds can book.
Choose this if: You want a golf-centric adults-only resort with excellent service in San Jose del Cabo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa18+ →
16. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, by Hyatt
The Vibe
The Cape is a Thompson Hotel property with a 9.4 staff and cleanliness score, and “dropped dead gorgeous” views per guest reviews. The 9.3 location score puts it near the tip of Cabo San Lucas. It’s slightly more affordable than the top-tier options but delivers 8.9 excellence. The roof and pool areas offer panoramic ocean perspectives.
What You Actually Get
Two pools, airport shuttle, fitness center, free Wi-Fi (8.8), facilities for disabled guests, room service, and breakfast. Pets allowed on request with charges. Free on-site parking is included. The panoramic junior suite rooms have king beds and open-concept bathrooms. Balconies are standard.
Choose this if: You want a boutique-hotel feel with Hyatt reliability and killer sunset views.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, by Hyatt →
17. Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa
The Vibe
Dreams Los Cabos hits a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score and offers a family-oriented all-inclusive with 3 pools, 5 restaurants, and a full-service spa. The 9.3 staff score is strong. It’s positioned 2.6 miles from Chileno Beach, with shuttle service available. Suites are spacious and comfortable per guest feedback.
What You Actually Get
Three pools, fitness center, five restaurants, room service, facilities for disabled guests, tea/coffee makers, breakfast, and balconies in every room. The staff is described as “professional, attentive, always willing to go above and beyond.” Two swim-up bars are on property. Turtle release season runs September to December, but the resort doesn’t have a program.
Choose this if: You need reliable Wi-Fi for work and want a family-friendly all-inclusive with suites.
Check Tonight’s Price for Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort & Spa →
18. Hilton Los Cabos
The Vibe
Hilton Los Cabos scores a remarkable 9.7 for cleanliness and comfort—the best in both categories on this list. It’s nestled in one of the only cove-protected beaches in the area, which means the water is actually swimmable. The 9.4 facilities and location scores reflect a top-tier property. It’s not all-inclusive, but the exceptional breakfast is included.
What You Actually Get
Four pools, fitness center, facilities for disabled guests, Wi-Fi, room service, beachfront access, and an exceptional breakfast included (valued at $40). Pets allowed on request. The cove-protected beach is one of the safest for swimming in Los Cabos. Groups booking 9+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: Cleanliness is your non-negotiable and you want a swimmable cove beach.
19. Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos
The Vibe
Garza Blanca delivers a 9.6 comfort score and a 9.0 value score—one of the best value ratings on the entire list. It’s oceanfront with a private beach area, two pools, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The 9.3 facilities and cleanliness scores are impressive for a property at this price point.
What You Actually Get
Two pools, free parking, fitness center, room service, tea/coffee makers, private beach area, and breakfast. The all-inclusive meal plan can be purchased upon arrival if you change your mind. The property is “very chic,” per guests, and the ocean-front pools are clean. Grounds are meticulously maintained.
Choose this if: You want exceptional comfort at a fair price with the flexibility to add all-inclusive later.
Check Tonight’s Price for Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos →
20. JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa
The Vibe
JW Marriott Los Cabos is a solid 5-star choice with 8.9 cleanliness and 8.8 staff scores. It’s not all-inclusive, but offers a meal plan for $185 per person per day. The 7.6 location score is the lowest on this list, but the property itself is well-regarded for its grounds and food quality.
What You Actually Get
Two pools, fitness center, facilities for disabled guests, room service, tea/coffee makers, breakfast, and free on-site parking. Five restaurants offer variety. The meal plan can be added at check-in at $185 per person per day. Marriott Rewards redemption nights carry a $30 per night service charge. Children 12+ charged as adults.
Choose this if: You’re a Marriott loyalist who wants a reliable 5-star experience with flexible meal options.
Check Tonight’s Price for JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#14 One&Only Palmilla
9.6/10 overall with 9.7 staff and comfort scores—the undisputed king of Cabo luxury.
💰 Best Value
#5 Hotel El Ganzo
9.2/10 overall with 9.7 comfort at a boutique price point—maximum quality per dollar.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#11 Villa La Estancia
9.3/10 overall with 9.6 location on Medano Beach—the best beachfront villa option.
Check Tonight’s Price for Villa La Estancia – Medano Beach Villas →
How We Ranked These Los Cabos Hotels
We evaluated 20 five-star Los Cabos properties against 7,500+ verified guest reviews, prioritizing overall guest scores, cleanliness, staff performance, and location. Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ reviews made the cut.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, locationlocation, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to swimmable beaches, marina access, and Medano Beach proximity for Los Cabos
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at any of these Los Cabos 5-star resorts?
Yes, several properties allow pets with charges. Hotel El Ganzo (#5) permits pets with fees. Viceroy Los Cabos (#9) charges a $150 one-time fee per stay. Grand Fiesta Americana (#8), The Cape (#16), Paradisus Meliá (#13), and Hilton Los Cabos (#18) also allow pets on request. The all-inclusive Riu properties do not permit pets.
Which Los Cabos 5-star hotels have the best Wi-Fi for remote work?
Le Blanc Spa Resort (#12) and Dreams Los Cabos (#17) both score a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi. Viceroy Los Cabos (#9) scores 9.5, and Marquis Los Cabos (#10) also scores 9.5. Royal Solaris (#4) surprises with an 8.9 Wi-Fi score. The Riu properties average 7.5-8.3, making them less ideal for heavy remote work.
What’s the best time to visit Los Cabos for a 5-star hotel stay?
October through February is the consensus sweet spot, confirmed by multiple property FAQs including Viceroy Los Cabos and Villa La Estancia. The weather is mild, crowds are thinner than winter holidays, and whale watching season runs from December to April. High season pricing kicks in from December through March, so book early for the best rates.
Which 5-star hotels in Los Cabos offer swimmable beaches?
Swimmable beaches are rare in Los Cabos. Grand Fiesta Americana (#8), Hilton Los Cabos (#18), and Paradisus Meliá (#13) all have swimmable, cove-protected beaches. The One&Only Palmilla (#14) has a private beach area for guests. Hotels on Medano Beach like Villa La Estancia (#11) and the Riu properties offer swimmable access. Many other beaches are not safe for swimming due to strong currents.
How do I get from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) to my resort?
Several properties offer free or paid airport shuttles: Royal Solaris (#4), Hotel El Ganzo (#5), GR Solaris (#7), Grand Fiesta Americana (#8), Viceroy (#9), and Le Blanc (#12) all have shuttle services. Villa La Estancia (#11) offers private transportation from the airport for a fee. Taxis and ride-shares are also available at SJD. Driving times to San Jose del Cabo resorts are 15-25 minutes; Cabo San Lucas properties take 35-45 minutes.
Are there any adults-only 5-star options in Los Cabos?
Yes, several hotels cater exclusively to adults. Riu Palace Baja California (#3), Hotel El Ganzo (#5), Marquis Los Cabos (#10), Le Blanc Spa Resort (#12), Paradisus Meliá (#13), and Secrets Puerto Los Cabos (#15) are all adults-only. The Cape (#16) is family-friendly but attracts a grown-up crowd. These properties range from all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels, offering different experiences without children.