San José del Cabo, Baja California, Mexico

San José del Cabo, The City
A good place to start your tour is at Mijares Plaza, the tree-filled central square with its attractive bandstand and outdoor amphi-theater where a variety of cultural events are staged.

Estero De Las Palmas, Mission Of San José Del Cabo.
Established as a mission in 1730 by the Missions Inspector José de Echeverría and the priest Nicolás Tamaral, it owes it name to the Marquis of Villapuente, Don José de la Fuente and Peña, the town’s great benefactor.  In 1735, the mission was moved to the beach but in 1753 it was re-established

at its original site.  The mission experienced floods, epidemics and illnesses, including an attack from the Chilean navy, all of which it resisted until it was abandoned in 1840.

The beautiful church, still standing, has a lovely mosaic located on the façade, at the main entrance, which narrates the killing of the missionary Tamaral by Pericúes living in the region.

City Hall
This beautiful colonial-style building was built in 1891 and although it has been remodeled since then, the façade incorporates parts of the original structure.

Cultural House
This is the place to go for theater, dance and musical workshops.  It has had a colorful history; in 1847, North American marines were sheltered in this building during the War of Intervention.

San José Del Cabo Estuary
This lovely oasis is Baja California Sur’s tropical bird sanctuary and has been designated as a Protected Natural Area.   It is the habitat of 150 different species of birds; watching them is a sensational experience.  The two birds that seem to be a ubiquitous presence here are frigate birds and brown pelicans, a constant reminder of the sanctuary’s proximity to the sea.

Shopping
The Art Garden, the town’s main park, serves to showcase the local artisans as well as artists who have made their homes in San José and now exhibit their work every Sunday in this open air art forum.   You’ll find lovely items made by local craftspeople, as well as paintings, photography and even poetry.

If you are shopping for clothing, souvenirs, jewelry, traditional “brand” items as well as handcrafts, there is nothing better than a stroll along the beautiful boulevard that leads to the city center.  Here you can shop and even do a bit of haggling.  Among the boutiques and shops you’ll pass, there are also restaurants, cafes and ice cream shops.

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