Hotel El Ganzo: Why We Keep Coming Back to This Creative Hideaway in San José del Cabo
We’ve been to Hotel El Ganzo three times now and we’re already thinking about the next trip. There’s something magnetic about this place. It’s not your typical Cabo resort. It’s an independent, artist-driven hotel with real soul, an ever-changing creative energy, and the kind of setting you can truly sink into.
El Ganzo sits on the quieter marina side of San José del Cabo, far from the all-inclusive scene. It’s cool without trying too hard with a mix of raw architecture, local art, live music, and thoughtful hospitality that makes it feel both laid-back and alive. Every time we go back, it feels familiar in the best way, but never stale.
Creative Vibes and a Rooftop Worth Staying For
The first thing you notice about the El Ganzo is the aesthetic with its concrete walls, natural textures, curated art, and handwritten messages scrawled across the property by the many artists-in-residence who’ve stayed and created here. It feels intimate and expressive, like you’re part of something rather than just passing through.
The rooftop pool is one of our favorite places to spend the day in the bright sun, great music, panoramic views, and no pressure to do anything but lounge. The service is relaxed and friendly, and the cocktails always hit the right note.
A Beach Club You Reach by Boat
While the hotel itself is waterfront, the real beach action happens at El Ganzo Beach Club, which they ferry guests to by boat across the marina. The beach club has everything you want: soft sand, shaded beds, ceviche and tacos brought right to your lounger, and a mix of guests and locals that gives it an unpolished, authentic energy.
It’s not overly fancy and that’s the point. It’s just good.
Live Music, Good Food, and a Local Scene
One of the most unique things about El Ganzo is its commitment to the arts. There’s a recording studio on site, and you’ll often catch live shows and DJ sets, especially around sunset. Music is central to the identity of the hotel, and they do a great job of blending in local and international talent without making it feel like a scene.
The restaurant is solid with fresh seafood, vegetables, mezcal cocktails, and plenty of options whether you’re looking for something healthy or indulgent. We’ve had everything from quiet breakfasts to long dinners with live music playing in the background.
What really stands out, though, is that locals actually come here to the rooftop, the beach club, the events. It doesn’t feel like a tourist bubble. It feels like a place where people live, create, and connect.
Why We Keep Coming Back
El Ganzo isn’t trying to be perfect. It’s not about polished luxury or five-star everything. It’s about character, rhythm, and feeling like you’re part of something different. It’s a place we’ve returned to not because it checks every box, but because it makes us feel good, inspired, welcome, and never bored.
Three visits in, and it still feels special.