10 Reasons the One&Only Palmilla is the One and Only

Guest blogger Tricia Sweet shares her top 10 reasons the One&Only Palmilla is one of Los Cabos’ best vacation spots in Mexico.

This spring, One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos reopened after being shuttered following September’s hurricane, where tiles flew off roofs like bullets and destruction was rampant. There’s plenty to enjoy at the revamped spot! Here are the highlights.

1. Sunrise Yoga with Devi on the beach

Normally, waking up for an exercise class at 7 a.m. is impossible.  However, I recently returned to yoga.  With the idyllic view of the Sea of Cortez, the waves crashing against the rocks and the smell of salt water, it was easy to forget your cares.

2. Cuisine

Our first evening started with dinner at Agua by Larbi.  From the lamb tanguine (one could truly image being in the Mediterranean Sea) to the perfectly seared sea bass, each bite was worth savoring.

The new restaurant Seared, by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, offered top-notch steaks as well as fresh Pacific seafood.  All the food tasted farm-to-table fresh — which meant we weren’t surprised upon learning their own farm was a mere 20 minutes away.

3. Spa

Upon arrival, I had the luxury of a blowout in the spa.  I finally had the beach waves in my hair I have always craved!  Our last evening I was treated to a sumptuous One&Only massage, followed by a sauna, steam, and plunges in the hot and cold pools. Hard to feel better than that.

 4. Views

Utter heaven.  Look one way, you see the dazzling blue of the Sea of Cortez — glance the other, the shimmering desert mountains are within view.

 5. Cocktails

Starting with the welcome tequila (complimentary for guests) and continuing on to the diverse fine wine selections and finishing with my favorite – the Serrano margarita with the Serrano spiced rim — it was hard to ask for more (without stumbling back to the room).

6. Pelican Beach

Had great time swimming and kayaking with my husband before retreating to our floating beds for the day.  If we tired of the beach, we could always relax in the infinite pools.  My favorite pool featured a swim-up bar, of course.

7. Staff

Upon arrival we were greeted by several smiling staff members who continued throughout our visit to meet every need.  We also learned there was a signature greeting all the staff used, not only to us but also to each other.  It was a simple nod as they placed their right hand over their hearts.  Getting to know the kindness every employee exuded, we quickly learned this greeting was 100 percent sincere.

8. Gardens

With the colorful, tropical gardens stretching from the beach to the top of the hill where the outdoor chapel rests, wandering about was a joy. The red-tiled roofs and abundant fountains completed the Mexican splendor.  As a lover of cooking, it was fun to see the tiered herb gardens, all of which are used in the restaurants on site.

 9. Dinner on the beach

Our private Mexican Fiesta on Pelican Beach was magical.  A rustic table was set with elegant flowers from the grounds.  A mariachi band entertained us all night as we were served various ceviches and sweet margaritas.  We were also told to pick one of two sweet yellow canaries, Pepe or Taco, who then proceeded to pick our horoscope out of a box.  I picked Taco, and my horoscope was spot on.  I did have an amazing night.

10. Tranquility

Two books and seven magazines that have been taking up space on my nightstand for countless months are now read. Peace, tranquility and calm will guide me into routine life, if only for a moment.

*Photos courtesy One&Only Palmilla.

About the author
Tricia Sweet holds a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University and a bachelor of arts degree from Holy Cross. She lives just outside of Chicago with her husband,journalist/editor David Sweet, three children, and two dogs. She’s written for Sun-Times Media in Chicago.