Private Beach Access Just Minutes from Downtown Cabo
Cabo Bello and Santa Carmela are two well-established gated communities located along the Cabo Corridor, just five minutes from Cabo San Lucas. Known for their secure streets, oceanview homes, and quiet atmosphere, these neighborhoods are popular with full-time residents, second-home owners, and investors alike.
With private beach access, walkable coves, and quick proximity to dining, golf, and shopping, they offer a low-density lifestyle close to everything — but without the pace of Cabo’s resort zones.
Quick Community Snapshot
- Location: Cabo Corridor – close to downtown Cabo and Costco
- Beach Access: Yes – private beach cove (Cabo Bello), oceanfront clubhouse (Santa Carmela)
- Golf: 10–15 minutes to Cabo Del Sol and Cabo San Lucas Country Club
- Price Range: ~$600K–$3.5M+
- Property Types: Oceanview villas, low-rise condos, custom homes
- Club Access: Beach club, tennis courts, parks (varies by community)
- Rental Program: Permitted with registration; short- and long-term allowed
- Ownership: Fee simple – gated, HOA-managed neighborhoods
Why Cabo Bello / Santa Carmela?
These are some of the most practical and desirable non-resort communities along the Cabo Corridor. Both neighborhoods have matured over decades, offering strong long-term value and resale appeal.
Cabo Bello is known for its walkable swimmable beach cove, while Santa Carmela is known for larger custom homes, an oceanfront clubhouse, and a more residential feel. Both are minutes from Costco, private schools, and the Cabo Marina — making them ideal for buyers who want coastal living with real convenience.
Residences & Availability
Cabo Bello:
- Mix of condos, villas, and oceanview homes
- Homes often feature terraces, rooftop patios, and rental-friendly layouts
- More variety in architectural styles
Santa Carmela:
- Larger lots with custom homes, oceanfront estates, and pool villas
- Quiet streets with mature landscaping
- More architectural consistency and larger footprints
Both Communities:
- Gated access with security
- HOA oversight and community rules
- Mostly resale inventory; some off-market opportunities
Lifestyle & Amenities
Cabo Bello:
- Private beach cove with natural entry for swimming and snorkeling
- Peaceful streets, low HOA fees, and community parks
- Popular with part-time owners and investors
Santa Carmela:
- Oceanfront clubhouse with entertaining spaces
- Tennis courts and landscaped walking areas
- No beach entry, but excellent for sunset views and gatherings
Nearby Highlights:
- 5 minutes to downtown Cabo San Lucas, Marina, and Medano Beach
- Dining: Sunset Monalisa, El Huerto, El Merkado, and El Peregrino
- 10 minutes to Chileno and Santa Maria beaches
- 30 minutes to SJD International Airport
Beach Access
Cabo Bello’s private cove is swimmable and walkable from most homes. It's popular with locals for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and peaceful beach days — without the tourist crowds.
Santa Carmela does not have direct beach access but includes an oceanfront clubhouse that sits just above the shoreline, offering panoramic views and a peaceful place to gather.
Ownership Experience
- Full-fee simple ownership
- Rental programs allowed; many homes are Airbnb-ready
- HOA-managed security, landscaping, and infrastructure
- Popular among snowbirds, retirees, and full-time professionals
Location & Proximity
- ~5 minutes to Cabo Marina and Medano Beach
- ~10 minutes to Chileno Bay and Santa Maria Beach
- ~15 minutes to San José del Cabo
- ~30 minutes to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD)
- Nearby grocery, schools, gyms, golf, and private medical care
Expert Insight
Cabo Bello and Santa Carmela are quiet, established communities with private beach access and easy proximity to Cabo. For buyers who want to be close to everything — without living in a resort — these areas offer some of the best all-around value on the Corridor.
FAQs
Is the beach at Cabo Bello swimmable?
Yes. Cabo Bello’s cove is swimmable with calm entry points ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding. It’s one of the few private-access beaches in the area.
What’s the difference between Santa Carmela and Cabo Bello?
Cabo Bello offers more variety in property types and a walkable beach, while Santa Carmela is more upscale, with larger custom homes, an oceanfront clubhouse, and tennis amenities.
Can I use my home as a vacation rental?
Yes. Both communities allow rentals with proper HOA registration. Many homes operate successfully as short-term vacation rentals.
Are these neighborhoods good for full-time living?
Yes. Both are popular with full-time residents and have access to top schools, hospitals, and grocery within a 5–10 minute drive.
Can foreigners buy in Cabo Bello or Santa Carmela?
Yes. International buyers can purchase through a fideicomiso (bank trust), which grants full legal ownership rights under Mexican law.
