Cabo’s Top Gated Communities

Discover the most secure, quietly luxurious enclaves in Los Cabos — and why choosing the right gated lifestyle makes all the difference.

Why Gated Communities Matter in Cabo

For many discerning buyers, finding the right home in Cabo begins with a simple question: “Is it in a gated community?” Whether you're a retiree looking for peace of mind, a seasonal homeowner needing lock-and-leave simplicity, or a high-net-worth buyer who values privacy, the answer often defines the search.

In Los Cabos, gated living isn’t just about security — it’s about lifestyle. These communities are designed for ease, calm, and consistency. Many offer not only 24/7 staffed entry and low-density layouts, but also concierge services, beach clubs, golf, wellness programming, and architecture that protects both beauty and long-term value.

Types of Gated Living in Cabo

Not all gated communities are created equal. Here’s how they differ:

Resort-Branded Gated Communities

Residences affiliated with names like Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Montage, and St. Regis — often turnkey, with fully managed service, rental programs, and hotel-level amenities.

Ultra-Private Residential Clubs

Communities like El Dorado, Maravilla, and Cove Club fall under Discovery Land Company’s portfolio — known for zero rentals, no tee times, and off-market access. Privacy is absolute, and service is personal.

Established Luxury Neighborhoods

Long-standing enclaves like Pedregal and Palmilla offer prime locations, panoramic views, and a refined but less resort-centric experience.

Design- and Wellness-Focused Enclaves

Places like Costa Palmas and Chileno Bay are built around intentional living — walkability, wellness, marina access, or family-forward lifestyles.

Cabo’s Top Gated Communities (Organized by Region)

Pacific Side

• Quivira – Master-planned resort with golf, new St. Regis residences, and several gated sub-neighborhoods.
• Pedregal – One of Cabo’s oldest and most prestigious hillside communities, overlooking the IGY Marina with 24/7 gated security and dramatic ocean views.

Cabo Corridor (Tourist Corridor)

• El Dorado Golf & Beach Club – Ultra-private Discovery community with Fazio golf, private beach coves, and zero short-term rentals.
• Cove Club at Cabo Del Sol – A Discovery Land Company enclave with private golf, gated coastal access, and new luxury homesites.
• Maravilla / Twin Dolphins – Private beach access, access to Twin Dolphins Golf Club, and Discovery-style concierge living.
• Chileno Bay – Gated modern community with Montage hospitality, a swimmable beach, and access to Twin Dolphins Golf.

East Cape / San José del Cabo

• Four Seasons Residences at Costa Palmas – Gated and walkable, with private marina access, golf, beach club, and resort-level service.
• Ritz-Carlton Reserve Residences (Puerto Los Cabos) – Quietly gated, positioned on the East Cape with top-tier privacy and design.
• Palmilla – Historic and refined; offers several gated sub-communities, golf access, and some of the most picturesque streets in Cabo.

What Homes in Gated Communities Typically Offer

Cabo’s gated properties span a variety of architectural styles — from contemporary oceanfront estates to branded villas and turnkey casitas. Across the board, most homes offer:

• Gated entry + 24/7 community patrol
• Ocean views, indoor/outdoor design, and private pools
• Concierge services, golf cart access, and optional beach clubs
• Branded service (housekeeping, maintenance, provisioning) where applicable
• Strong architectural guidelines that preserve neighborhood quality and resale value

What Makes Cabo’s Gated Living Different

• Zero rental policies in many of the most elite communities (e.g., El Dorado, Maravilla) help maintain tranquility and exclusivity
• Social life and service blend seamlessly — it’s privacy without isolation
• Golf, spa, and marina access are often part of the gated lifestyle
• Architectural unity across homes keeps property values strong and curb appeal timeless

Who Buys in These Communities

• Retirees and seasonal residents who want turnkey living and low-maintenance security
• Privacy-first buyers such as celebrities, executives, and families
• Long-term investors who value quality over quantity and seek consistent appreciation
• Buyers transitioning from resort stays to second-home ownership — especially within branded communities

Expert Insight: What to Know Before You Buy

• Some communities are by invitation only. Discovery Land Company (El Dorado, Maravilla, Cove Club) limits membership to owners and has waitlists or approval processes.
• Not all gated communities offer the same level of service. We help clients match their lifestyle goals to the community infrastructure (e.g., full concierge vs. independent HOA).
• Off-market listings dominate. In the most prestigious communities, the best homes often never hit the public MLS. Our team maintains private access to current availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most secure gated communities in Cabo?
El Dorado, Maravilla, Cove Club, and Pedregal are among the most secure — offering 24/7 staffed access, roving patrols, and zero public entry.

Do any gated communities in Cabo prohibit rentals?
Yes — Discovery communities (e.g., El Dorado, Maravilla) are strictly owner-only. Others may limit short-term rentals or require approval.

Which gated communities are best for retirees?
Chileno Bay, Costa Palmas, and Palmilla all offer security, ease of access, walkability, and medical proximity — perfect for seasonal or full-time retirees.

Can foreigners buy in gated communities?
Yes. Most purchases are structured through a fideicomiso (Mexican bank trust), which provides full legal ownership rights for international buyers.

What’s the difference between a branded resort community and a Discovery club?
Branded communities (e.g., Four Seasons, Montage) offer full-service and optional rentals. Discovery Land Company communities are ultra-private, non-rental, and lifestyle-driven.

Are there gated communities with both beach and golf access?
Yes — El Dorado, Cove Club, Palmilla, and Costa Palmas offer both beachfront homes and top-tier golf inside the gates.