You could say that the Cabo Marina is the heart of Cabo San Lucas - and we wouldn't argue with you. It's a fact that sport fishing is what first brought tourism interest to Los Cabos. Back in the 1970's, there was little travel by foreigners to Cabo. But once a few adventurous folks discovered Cabo's world-class fishing potential, development of hotels and restaurants and infrastructure began in earnest. Come the 1980's, Cabo San Lucas had it's own full service marina and the rest, as they say, is history.

If you're a first-time visitor, we'd strongly suggest choosing the downtown and marina area as the place to stay. Why? You'll be in the heart of just about everything a traveller to the tip of the Baja would want to tick off their list of things to do and see. Swim in the warm ocean waters? Check. Medano Beach stretches out along the Bay of San Lucas well within walking distance and is the only swimmable beach for many, many miles. Into water sports? Check. Jetskis, paddle boards, kayaks, parasails, water taxis and glass bottom boats are right there on Medano. Sport fishing? One of the biggest fleets of charter boats and some of the best fishing the world offers is right at your door. A bit of a foodie? Well over a hundred restaurants from street food to 5 star gourmet dining awaits. Night person? Cabo is famous for it's nightlife and partying until the sun comes up is an everyday option.

Cabo is also a shopper's paradise. In addtion to the Puerto Paraiso Mall and Luxury Avenue for a more familiar shopping experience, there are dozens of artisan shops. Add a nice mix of outdoor markets to go along with art galleries, leather crafts, silver shops plus ultra high end jewelers and we doubt you'll be left wanting. If you're into tequila or fine cigars, you'll find no shortage of tequila tastings and humidors to get your fix.

If all the above sounds like your cup of tea, then here's a few of our favorite places to stay in the downtown and marina areas.

MARINA FIESTA RESORT & SPA
Located right on the Cabo marina this is one of the smaller properties in Cabo, and while it is one of the older hotels it is very well maintained and updated. Book 90 days or more ahead of your arrival and you'll save 60% or more off rack rates. A recent check on Marina Fiesta's website for a trip booked in January for a stay in May brought the rate per night down to $99 from a seasonal high of $261.

CASA BELLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Located right in downtown Cabo San Lucas, Casa Bella is probably the nicest small hotel you'll find. Built around a central courtyard, this hacienda style building feels like old colonial Mexico. You'll be surrounded by a dozen or more restaurants and only a few minutes stroll to the marina. The fact that this is a smaller property also makes it a perfect choice for events like weddings or family reunions.

If the Cabo Marina is the geographic heart of Cabo, then Medano Beach and its myriad resorts, bars and restaurants is the beach party zone. On this stretch of swimmable beach - roughly one mile long - you'll find an eclectic mix of high-end resorts, funky beach bars, a never-ending procession of strolling beach vendors and a let it all hang out kind of mentality. Food and drink are no problem, nor is finding water-sports providers, massages and other personal services like hair-braiding and henna tatoos.

Medano also offers incredible views of the Bay of San Lucas to Land's End, and while you won't see the famous arch from Medano, you will have plenty of scenic views of the rocky crags that march to the tip of the Baja. People-watching is a great way to pass the day as is the entertainment provided by newbie jetskier's, paddle boarders and hover boarders spied just offshore. If you not staying on this strecth of coast, it's best to take an uber or taxi (including water taxis from the marina) than driving as parking is a challenge and parking rates are not cheap.

Some folks get annoyed by the vendors that work this beach but a simple "No gracias" is all it takes to be left alone. But if you like to shop, there are some unique pieces to buy from silver jewelry and beadwork to hats, tees and beachwraps. You'll also have food vendors with Mexican street corn, ice cream and fruit and other local concoctions.

Some of our favorite resorts here on Medano beach are the Pueblo Bonito resorts - PB Rosé and PB Los Cabos (aka Blanco for it's white exterior).

PUEBLO BONITO ROSÉ RESORT & SPA
Done in Greco-Roman style and boasting large free-form and children's pools PB Rosé also offers guests a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts and European spa and salon. Six bars/restaurants are on site plus you'll also have access to PB's 3 other resorts with complimentary shuttles to those on the Pacfic coast side away from town. A recent check on Pueblo Bonitio's website for a trip booked in January for a stay in April found a rate of $234 per night, all-inclusive for two adults (plus 2 kids 4 and under free).

PUEBLO BONITO LOS CABOS (BLANCO)
The second of four sister resorts in the Pueblo Bonito portfolio of Los Cabos resorts is situated right next door to the Rosé. As mentioned above, PB resorts offer guests the opportunity to visit and utilize the facilities at all four properties. On Medano Beach, it's like having two resorts to enjoy for the price of one! Hope aboard their free shuttle and they'll take you up the Paific coast for a day at either Sunset Beach Resort and Spa or the adults-only Pacifica Holistic Resort and Spa.

The Los Cabos (Blanco) is a full service resort just like the Rosé, although the look is in a Mediterranean style that evokes the Greek Isles with their white-washed walls and blue-domed roofs.