East Cape

East Cape – Area Overview
Raw Beauty, Secluded Beaches, and Next-Wave Opportunity
The East Cape is one of the last truly wild stretches of coastline in Los Cabos. Running from the edge of San José del Cabo to Los Barriles, this area offers miles of untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and open skies — all with very little development and an undeniable sense of freedom.
While much of the East Cape remains off-grid and low-density, select areas are rapidly gaining global attention. Costa Palmas, a master-planned luxury resort anchored by the Four Seasons, Aman, and Six Senses, has turned this coastline into one of the most exciting opportunities in all of Baja. Yet just a few miles away, buyers can still find beachfront land, eco-estates, and custom homes that feel completely removed from the world.
Popular Communities & Destinations
La Ribera
Once a quiet fishing village, now a growing town at the center of East Cape’s transformation. Home to local shops, restaurants, and the entrance to Costa Palmas.
Costa Palmas
An ultra-luxury resort and marina community. Includes branded residences by Four Seasons, Aman, and Six Senses. Offers swimmable beach, private golf course, beach club, marina, and spa.
Los Barriles
A vibrant town farther north known for its kiteboarding scene, expat community, and laid-back restaurants. Great for full-time living and rental investment.
El Cardonal
Just north of Costa Palmas. Rustic beachfront parcels, off-grid estates, and custom homes tucked between the desert and the sea.
Zacatitos & Shipwrecks
Closer to San José. Remote surf and beach areas with solar-powered homes, 4x4 access, and limited commercial presence.
Vinorama / Boca del Salado
Ultra-quiet coastal areas south of La Ribera. Luxury homes, boutique projects, and off-grid developments with panoramic ocean views.
Cabo Pulmo
A protected national park and UNESCO Marine Reserve. Development is tightly restricted. Famous for snorkeling, diving, and nature-based tourism.
East Cape Real Estate Snapshot
- Price Range: ~$200K for raw lots, homes from ~$500K, branded villas at Costa Palmas $5M–$10M+
- Property Types: Beachfront lots, off-grid estates, eco-builds, luxury resort villas, hillside oceanview homes
- Rental Market: Growing in La Ribera, strong in Los Barriles, high-end short-term potential at Costa Palmas
- Full-Time Living: Limited infrastructure in most areas, but full-time expat life possible in La Ribera and Los Barriles
- Investment Potential: Extremely strong — especially for early buyers in underdeveloped beachfront areas
Beaches & Natural Access
Costa Palmas Beach
Wide, calm, and swimmable — rare on the Sea of Cortez. Exclusively accessed by Costa Palmas owners and guests.
Nine Palms & Shipwrecks
Surf breaks popular with intermediate and advanced surfers. Raw, unspoiled, and reachable by dirt road.
La Fortuna & Zacatitos
Remote coves and natural beaches. Ideal for privacy seekers, morning walks, and untouched scenery.
Cabo Pulmo
Protected coral reef and marine park. Snorkeling, diving, and whale watching available through guided eco-tours only.
Fishing & Boating
East Cape is world-renowned for roosterfish, marlin, dorado, and deep sea sportfishing. Launch from La Ribera, Los Barriles, or Costa Palmas Marina.
Dining, Services & Lifestyle
- Dining:
Estiatorio Milos & Mozza at Four Seasons
La Playa and La Providencia in La Ribera
Casual cafés and taco shops in Los Barriles - Groceries & Services:
Local tiendas in La Ribera and Los Barriles
Major grocery and hospital access in San José del Cabo (1–2 hours) - Wellness & Activities:
Kitesurfing, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, paddleboarding
Private yoga retreats and boutique wellness properties are growing near Boca del Salado
Location & Access
- ~90 minutes to 2 hours from San José del Cabo by car (depending on destination)
- Closest major airport: Los Cabos International (SJD)
- Paved highway to La Ribera and Los Barriles; dirt roads elsewhere
- Costa Palmas has its own private marina and helipad for charters
- Closest hospitals and major services are in San José del Cabo or La Paz
Who Buys on the East Cape?
Buyers here tend to value space, nature, and long-term vision. Some are investing early in the Costa Palmas ecosystem. Others are building boutique homes near surf breaks or off-grid estates with unmatched views. Whether it's a private beachfront retreat or a development-ready parcel, East Cape buyers see the future — and they’re getting in before the rest of the world catches up.
FAQs
Is the East Cape good for full-time living?
Yes, in certain areas. La Ribera and Los Barriles are most practical for full-time residents, while remote areas like Zacatitos or Vinorama require comfort with off-grid living.
Can I build off-grid here and still have services?
Yes. Many properties rely on solar power, water trucks, and satellite internet. Costa Palmas has full infrastructure, but most of the East Cape remains self-sufficient.
What is Costa Palmas and who can buy there?
Costa Palmas is a luxury master-planned resort community anchored by the Four Seasons, Aman, and Six Senses. Buyers can purchase branded residences, marina lots, and private golf homes — all with access to world-class amenities.
How far is East Cape from Cabo?
Drive times range from ~1.5 to 2 hours from San José del Cabo, depending on location. La Ribera is the most accessible, with paved roads most of the way.
Are there restaurants or infrastructure nearby?
Yes, but limited. La Ribera and Los Barriles have basic services. Fine dining exists inside Costa Palmas, but rural areas still feel off the grid.

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