Los Barriles

Los Barriles – Area Overview
Adventure, Community, and Ocean Views on Baja’s East Cape
Los Barriles is the kind of place people come to for a weekend and end up moving to. Nestled along the Sea of Cortez about 90 minutes north of San José del Cabo, it’s a vibrant beach town known for its active lifestyle, year-round sunshine, and tight-knit community.
Whether you're here to kiteboard in the winter, fish in the summer, or soak in the natural rhythm of Baja life, Los Barriles offers an experience that’s as engaging as it is relaxed. The town has grown in recent years but has held onto its charm — with small markets, beachfront restaurants, and a friendly atmosphere that appeals to both expats and locals alike.
Popular Neighborhoods & Residential Areas
Downtown Core
A walkable grid of local shops, cafés, taco stands, and beach access. Popular for full-time residents and short-term rentals alike.
North Los Barriles
More spacious and peaceful, with larger homesites and big-sky views. Great for buyers looking for privacy and custom builds.
Spa Buena Vista
South of town, this area is home to historic beach cottages, hot springs, and laid-back beach living. Known for wellness and ocean access.
Vista del Mar / El Teso
Hillside communities perched above town with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez. Many homes here are custom-built and offer privacy with proximity.
La Capilla / Rancho Leonero Area
Low-density, ocean-close neighborhoods surrounded by natural beauty and agricultural land. Beachfront access with a rural feel.
Punta Pescadero
A secluded bluff-top area with luxury homes, calm cove beaches, and its own private airstrip. Ideal for buyers seeking high privacy and direct fly-in access.
Real Estate Snapshot
- Price Range: Lots and small homes start around $200K; oceanview homes and estates can exceed $3M
- Property Types: Beachfront villas, hillside homes, off-grid estates, view lots, and custom-built compounds
- Rental Market: Strong for both vacation and seasonal rentals; many owners rent during high season (winter + fishing months)
- Full-Time Living: Year-round residents include retirees, remote workers, and lifestyle-driven families
- Construction Options: Land is still available; custom builds are common, and several quality builders operate locally
Beaches & Outdoor Lifestyle
- Los Barriles Beach
A long, sandy beach with swimmable waters and space to launch kites, paddleboards, or boats. Kite schools and beachfront dining dot the shoreline. - Buena Vista Hot Springs
Natural hot springs located close to the beach — great for soaking, relaxing, and health benefits. - Punta Pescadero
Coves, tide pools, and calm waters make this area ideal for snorkeling and private beach walks. - Fishing & Boating
One of the world’s best spots for roosterfish and dorado. Charter boats operate daily from shore. Tournaments and local guides are active year-round. - Kiteboarding & Windsports
From November through March, Los Barriles becomes a global hub for kiteboarding. Consistent wind and warm weather make it ideal for all skill levels. - Trails & Terrain
ATV riding, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking are all popular — with access to the Sierra de la Laguna foothills and desert trails right outside of town.
Lifestyle, Dining & Community
- Dining:
Lazy Daze (beachfront bar)
La Casita (modern Mexican)
Smokey’s Grill and Cantina (BBQ & sports)
Caffe Encinalito (coffee + baked goods)
Bay View (casual seafood and views) - Community Activities:
Pickleball courts, Spanish classes, live music nights, artisan markets, yoga on the beach - Shopping:
Groceries, hardware, organic markets, and everything you need for daily life — no need to drive to Cabo - Wellness:
Massage therapy, pilates studios, naturopathic treatments, and health-focused lifestyle options are available across town
Location & Proximity
- ~90 minutes to San José del Cabo
- ~1 hour to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD)
- ~1 hour to La Paz for larger hospitals, private schools, and major shopping
- Fully paved highway access all the way to town
- Punta Pescadero features a private airstrip for fly-in buyers or charters
Who Buys in Los Barriles?
Buyers here are drawn to the active, community-oriented lifestyle — and the chance to enjoy Baja without the pace or polish of bigger resort towns. Many residents fish in the morning, kiteboard in the afternoon, and walk into town for dinner. Whether you're looking for a turnkey vacation rental or a hillside lot to build your dream home, Los Barriles offers space, nature, and neighborhood in equal measure.
FAQs
Is Los Barriles a good place to live full-time?
Yes. The town has all the basics — medical care, internet, grocery stores, and a year-round community. Many expats and locals live here full-time and enjoy a very comfortable lifestyle.
What’s the kiteboarding season like?
Winds blow consistently from November to March. It’s one of the best destinations in the world for winter kiteboarding, with schools, rentals, and ideal conditions.
Are there restaurants and grocery stores in town?
Yes. You’ll find casual and mid-range dining, grocery stores, fresh produce, and even organic items locally. No need to drive to Cabo unless you’re shopping for something very specific.
How does Los Barriles compare to East Cape areas like La Ribera or Zacatitos?
Los Barriles has a more established town center, larger expat population, and more built-out infrastructure. It’s more walkable and social than most parts of the East Cape.
Can I build a custom home or live off-grid here?
Yes. Many buyers build custom homes — both on-grid and off-grid. Solar is common, and services like water delivery and Starlink internet are widely used outside of town core.

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