Forget Italy And France, A European-Inspired Yachting Destination Is Emerging In Mexico

While Italy and France have long been renowned for their world-class marinas and luxury yachts, Mexico is quickly becoming a top choice for yacht enthusiasts seeking a unique and sophisticated experience. And it’s all centered around the new development on the East Cape called Costa Palmas.

While many tourists flock to popular destinations like Los Cabos and its famous beaches, the East Cape offers an alternative for those seeking a more secluded and authentic experience. The region—which extends from several miles east of San Jose del Cabo along the Sea of Cortez—has recently gained popularity due to its miles of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes.

In addition, the East Cape region’s proximity to Los Cabos and other popular destinations in Mexico makes it an ideal stopover for yachts traveling along the coast. Many yachting enthusiasts appreciate the laid-back and authentic atmosphere of the East Cape region, which starkly contrasts the region’s more crowded and commercialized areas.

But Costa Palmas’ Marina Village has become a hub for those seeking the boating lifestyle, drawing in seasoned and novice yacht owners alike. Here, world-class yachts, sailboats, and fishermen pass by and partake in the Baja lifestyle, creating a unique and picturesque atmosphere. At the center lies a carefully curated selection of hand-selected boutiques, signature, and casual dining venues, an outdoor lounge area, and waterfront gathering spaces.

And thanks to the completion of the marina construction project, the semi-private, the full-service port can accommodate over 200 motor yachts, sailboats, and fishing vessels, with mega-yachts of up to 350 feet now welcome. It’s also Baja’s first and only port of call for superyachts.

This all comes as the boating business is booming. Beginning in 2020, people took up boating as a socially-distant hobby, and its popularity continues to increase. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, there were 1.2 million boats sold in the U.S. last year, with 34% being first-time boat owners. This uptick in sales is attributed to people working remotely and spending more time in their vacation homes. In addition, the ability to relocate to a waterfront destination can justify investing in the boating lifestyle.

Beyond yacht life, visitors to Costa Palmas can enjoy various activities. The Four Seasons Resort boasts seven additional dining venues, including the highly acclaimed Mediterranean seafood restaurant estiatorio Milos. In addition, oasis Spa offers a peaceful desert retreat. Guests can partake in East Cape adventures such as scuba diving at the UNESCO World Heritage Marine Site or spearfishing with their on-staff world-record-holding spearfisherman.

For those seeking a luxurious stay between yachting adventures, the Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos’ new Private Retreats collection offers hundreds of ultra-luxury villa rentals, ranging from $2,500 to $50,000 a night. The collection’s crown jewel is a six-bedroom oceanfront residence offering breathtaking 180-degree views of the coastline, estuary, and mountain landscapes. The Marina Residences, Four Seasons’ first-ever marina offering, is now available, while the Amanvari Resort & Residences will open in 2024.