Palmilla

Where timeless luxury meets the beauty of Baja.

Property Listings

Search All

Welcome to Palmilla

Palmilla is one of Los Cabos’ most iconic and refined coastal communities, seamlessly blending timeless luxury with the raw beauty of Baja California. Located in San José del Cabo, this distinguished neighborhood is renowned for its pristine, swimmable beach, luxurious ocean-view estates, and exclusive resort amenities. It is a place where every day feels like a retreat, offering a perfect balance of tranquility and sophistication.
 
With a history rooted in Cabo’s luxury legacy, Palmilla has long attracted discerning homeowners and visitors. The presence of the world-renowned One&Only Palmilla Resort, coupled with the Jack Nicklaus-designed Palmilla Golf Club, elevates the lifestyle experience to an unparalleled level. Just minutes from town yet a world away in ambiance, Palmilla offers both privacy and convenience, making it a premier choice for those seeking the very best in coastal living.
 
 

Palmilla, San José del Cabo — coastline, golf, and Sea of Cortez views

 

Palmilla, San José del Cabo — Community Overview & Real Estate Guide

A legendary, master-planned coastal enclave on the San José Corridor, Palmilla pairs swimmable coves and ocean-view ridgelines with the iconic One&Only Palmilla resort, a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf club, luxury residences, and curated retail/dining at The Shoppes at Palmilla. Established in the mid-20th century and continually refined, Palmilla delivers low-density living, privacy, and effortless access to San José del Cabo and SJD airport.

Overview of Palmilla, Los Cabos

Centered around desert bluffs above the Sea of Cortez, Palmilla blends resort pedigree and residential calm. Anchors include the Palmilla Golf Club (27 holes across Ocean, Arroyo & Mountain nines) and Playa Palmilla, a protected Blue Flag beach known for safe swimming. Neighborhoods span Villas Del Mar, Espíritu Del Mar, and Palmilla Dunes, offering condos, villas, custom homes, and homesites with architectural guidelines that preserve views and cohesion.

Key Facts about Palmilla, San José del Cabo
Location San José Corridor (between San José del Cabo & Cabo San Lucas), minutes to SJD
Established Resort origins in 1956; evolved into Los Cabos’ “Grand Dame” master-planned community
Community Type Private, low-density coastal enclave with resort, golf, beach, and residential neighborhoods
Signature Attractions One&Only Palmilla resort • Palmilla Golf Club (27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature) • Playa Palmilla (Blue Flag swimmable) • The Shoppes at Palmilla
Residential Options Villas Del Mar • Espíritu Del Mar • Palmilla Dunes • Custom homes & homesites • Luxury condos & villas
Main Roads Mexico Highway 1 (Transpeninsular) • Local access via Palmilla/Carretera Transpeninsular connectors
Lifestyle Golf, Beach Club & spa wellness • Protected swimming/sunbathing coves • Dining & boutiques • Active social calendar

From lock-and-leave condos to ocean-view estates, Palmilla offers refined Baja living with swimmable beaches, world-class golf, and a timeless resort heritage—delivering long-term appeal for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties.

 

 

Location & Connectivity in Palmilla

Palmilla sits along the San José Corridor of Los Cabos, perched above the Sea of Cortez with protected coves and ocean-view ridgelines. The community is anchored by the One&Only Palmilla resort, a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf club, and Playa Palmilla (Blue Flag). Everyday movement is simple via the Transpeninsular Highway (Mexico Highway 1), with quick connections to downtown San José del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).

Inside Palmilla, residents use private vehicles, golf carts, and walkable paths between neighborhoods, the Clubhouse, Beach Club, and The Shoppes at Palmilla. Beyond the gates, ride-share and private drivers make coastal travel effortless.

Connectivity & Transportation — Palmilla, San José del Cabo
Location Map & Overview Coastal enclave on the San José Corridor with ocean-view bluffs and protected coves. Primary access via Mexico Highway 1; minutes to downtown San José del Cabo and SJD Airport.
Nearby Areas & Communities
  • San José del Cabo — historic Art District, marina, dining (≈ 10 min)
  • Querencia — private golf & residential community (nearby)
  • Cabo Real — corridor resorts & golf (≈ 5–10 min)
  • Cabo San Lucas — nightlife, beaches, marina (≈ 20–25 min)
Attractions & Points of Interest
  • One&Only Palmilla resort & spa
  • Palmilla Golf Club — 27 holes (Ocean, Arroyo, Mountain)
  • Playa Palmilla — Blue Flag, swimmable beach
  • The Shoppes at Palmilla — boutiques, cafés, fitness
Community Mobility
  • Golf carts & private vehicles between neighborhoods, Clubhouse, Beach Club, and shops
  • Walkable internal paths; landscaped, low-speed roads
  • Concierge-arranged shuttles for events and airport transfers
Road Access & Highways
  • Mexico Highway 1 (Transpeninsular) — main north–south artery
  • Carretera Escénica — coastal corridor linking to resorts & beaches
  • Local access via Palmilla connectors to community gates
Typical Drive Times*
  • Palmilla → Downtown San José del Cabo: ~10 min
  • Palmilla → Cabo San Lucas: ~20–25 min
  • Palmilla → Los Cabos Intl. (SJD): ~20 min
  • Palmilla → Playa Palmilla: ~3–5 min (cart/car, depending on residence)
*Traffic and season dependent
Parking On-site parking at residences, Club facilities, Beach Club, and The Shoppes at Palmilla; resort/club valet available for members and guests.
Walking & Cycling Internal paths encourage walking and cycling; nearby coastal routes attract recreational cyclists and runners with sea views.
Taxi & Ride Apps Uber, Didi, local taxis, and private drivers operate throughout the Corridor; concierge can arrange door-to-door transport.
Airport Access
  • Los Cabos International (SJD) — major domestic & international hub (≈ 20 min)
  • Cabo San Lucas Private Airport (MMSL) — charter & private aviation (≈ 25–30 min)
Accessibility & EV Resort and retail areas feature ADA-friendly access; verify details for specific venues. EV charging available at select resorts and shopping centers; confirm availability with venues.

Palmilla combines immediate coastal access with effortless Corridor connectivity—gated serenity, scenic drives, and quick links to airports, marinas, dining, and neighboring resort communities.

 

Palmilla, San José del Cabo — Real Estate Market Trends (2025)

Palmilla’s market reflects its resort pedigree and swimmable-beach lifestyle. Inventory is limited and highly view-sensitive (Sea of Cortez vs. interior), with premiums for proximity to the One&Only Palmilla, Playa Palmilla (Blue Flag), and the 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Palmilla Golf Club. Condos and villas provide lock-and-leave convenience; custom homes and ocean-oriented estates command the top tier.

Property Type Typical List / Sale Range (USD) Indicative $/Sq.Ft. Luxury Rent (USD/month) Notes
2–3BR Condo (Lock-and-Leave) $900K – $2.2M (est.) $800 – $1,250 (est.) $6,000 – $12,000 Strong demand near The Shoppes & beach access; elevator/garage add value.
3–4BR Villa / Townhome $1.8M – $4.8M (est.) $900 – $1,350 (est.) $10,000 – $22,000 Premiums for ocean sightlines, plunge pools, and walkability to Club.
Custom Home (4–6BR) $4.0M – $10M+ (est.) $1,000 – $1,600 (est.) $20,000 – $45,000 Larger lots; top finishes; fastest absorption with unobstructed views.
Ocean-Oriented Estate / Homesite $2.0M – $6.0M+ (homesites); built estates vary Site-specific N/A Architectural review preserves sightlines; verify build timelines.

Methodology & Notes: Ranges reflect 2025 luxury-weighted activity across Palmilla enclaves (e.g., Villas Del Mar, Espíritu, Palmilla Dunes). Values are illustrative for web presentation and should be refreshed against current listings/MLS prior to publication. View corridor, resort/club proximity, and seasonality materially influence pricing and rents.

 

Lifestyle in Palmilla, San José del Cabo

Life in Palmilla blends swimmable coves and desert bluffs with resort pedigree and relaxed Baja elegance. Moments from San José del Cabo’s Art District, Palmilla centers daily living around ocean views, a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf club, the One&Only Palmilla resort, and curated dining and retail at The Shoppes at Palmilla.

Location in Palmilla

San José Corridor oceanfront enclave with protected coves and ridgeline neighborhoods; easy access via Mexico Highway 1 to San José del Cabo (≈10 min), Cabo San Lucas (≈20–25 min), and SJD Airport (≈20 min).

Community in Palmilla

Refined and private. Low-density planning, 24/7 gated entries, and a friendly mix of full-time residents and seasonal homeowners. Club events and wellness programming create a true sense of community.

Dining in Palmilla

Signature restaurants at One&Only Palmilla, casual spots and cafés at The Shoppes at Palmilla, and nearby farm-to-table dining in San José del Cabo’s historic center.

Education near Palmilla

Access to respected bilingual and international schools in Los Cabos, plus early-learning Montessori options; concierge can assist with admissions contacts and transportation planning.

Housing in Palmilla

Lock-and-leave condos, designer villas, custom homes, and ocean-oriented estates. Architectural review preserves sightlines and cohesive Baja-contemporary design.

Transportation in Palmilla

Golf carts and private vehicles for internal mobility; walkable landscaped paths between neighborhoods, Clubhouse, Beach Club, and retail. Ride-share and private drivers widely available.

Climate in Palmilla

Warm, sunny Baja climate tempered by sea breezes; beach-perfect fall–spring seasons. Summer is warm with occasional tropical systems; homes emphasize shade, airflow, and indoor–outdoor living.

Amenities in Palmilla

27-hole Jack Nicklaus golf, resort spa and fitness, racquet sports, Beach Club access points, boutique retail, and curated social programming for all ages.

Demographics in Palmilla

Active families, executives, entrepreneurs, and retirees seeking privacy, ocean access, and club amenities—often splitting time between North America and Cabo.

Pros in Palmilla

Swimmable Blue Flag beach, world-class resort & golf, quick airport access, protected view corridors, and enduring brand cachet supporting long-term value.

Considerations in Palmilla

Premium pricing near the beach/Club; membership dues; confirm HOA and rental policies; due diligence on build approvals and timelines.

Outdoor Activities in Palmilla

Golf, snorkeling and paddleboarding at Playa Palmilla, coastal walks and cycling, deep-sea fishing, seasonal whale watching, and sunrise swims in protected coves.

Palmilla delivers relaxed, resort-forward living—swimmable beaches, signature golf, and curated amenities—within minutes of art, dining, and air connections across North America.

 

Amenities in Palmilla, San José del Cabo

Palmilla offers resort-style amenities with effortless access to fine dining, luxury retail, wellness clubs, and outdoor recreation. Within minutes of San José del Cabo, residents enjoy golf, ocean sports, spas, and world-class healthcare—all centered around the relaxed sophistication that defines the Los Cabos Corridor.

  • Hospitals & Clinics near Palmilla

    San José del Cabo • Cabo San Lucas
    Palmilla residents benefit from modern medical facilities and international-standard healthcare within a short drive.
    • Hospital H+ — state-of-the-art hospital near El Merkado
    • BlueNetHospitals — San José del Cabo & Cabo San Lucas
    • Hospital de Especialidades — downtown San José del Cabo
    • One&Only Palmilla Medical Services — on-site concierge care
    World-class medical care within 10–20 minutes
  • Shopping & Boutiques

    Palmilla • San José del Cabo
    Upscale retail and artisan shopping define the Palmilla experience, with everyday conveniences close at hand.
    • The Shoppes at Palmilla — designer boutiques, cafés, spa, and fitness
    • Plaza del Pescador — local art, dining, and resort fashion
    • La Comer — gourmet market and deli (Corridor)
    • Flora Farms — organic produce, home goods, and fine dining nearby
    Luxury and artisan shopping within 5–15 minutes
  • Fitness & Recreation

    Golf • Water Sports • Wellness
    Palmilla emphasizes wellness, outdoor recreation, and oceanfront leisure for residents and club members alike.
    • Palmilla Golf Club — 27-hole Jack Nicklaus course with ocean views
    • Playa Palmilla — Blue Flag certified, swimmable beach
    • Club Ninety Six — exclusive Beach Club for residents
    • One&Only Spa & Fitness — holistic treatments & yoga programs
    Wellness, golf, and oceanfront recreation steps away
  • Pet Services

    Grooming • Boarding • Veterinary
    Palmilla and San José del Cabo are pet-friendly, offering veterinary clinics, grooming salons, and pet boutiques.
    • Dr. Pet Cabo — veterinary & grooming
    • Pet Zone — supplies & accessories
    • Huellitas Clinic — full-service animal care
    • El Merkado Dog Park — safe outdoor pet area
    Pet care and recreation within 10–20 minutes

Schools & Preschools near Palmilla, San José del Cabo

Families in Palmilla benefit from proximity to some of the region’s most respected international, bilingual, and Montessori schools in San José del Cabo and the Los Cabos Corridor. Programs emphasize bilingualism, experiential learning, and global readiness, making them ideal for full-time residents and second-home families.

Schools here focus on academics, arts, athletics, and cultural fluency, with U.S. and Mexican accreditation. Transportation services, after-school enrichment, and admissions counseling are typically available for international students. Always confirm current enrollment, accreditation, and bilingual programs directly with each institution.

School / Preschool Type Location Highlights
Picacho McGregor School Private Bilingual (K–12) San José del Cabo U.S. and SEP-accredited; strong English-Spanish curriculum, arts, and athletics; popular with Palmilla families.
Instituto Península Private Bilingual (Preschool–9th) San José del Cabo Focus on technology, innovation, and character development; modern campus near La Comer.
Montessori Regina Private Montessori (Preschool–Primary) San José del Cabo Montessori method emphasizing independence and nature-based learning; small classes and family engagement.
Greengates Los Cabos International (Middle–High) Tourist Corridor (near Cabo Real) Cambridge International curriculum; English-language instruction with global transfer programs and strong extracurriculars.
Colegio El Camino Private Bilingual (Preschool–12th) Cabo San Lucas Non-profit, U.S./Mexican accredited; IB candidate school with strong arts and community service programs.
Delmar International School Private Bilingual (Preschool–12th) Cabo San Lucas STEAM-focused bilingual education; university-prep academics and global citizenship programming.
Colegio Amaranto Private Preschool / Elementary San José del Cabo Play-based bilingual program emphasizing social-emotional growth and creative arts.
ABC Montessori Private Montessori (Preschool–K) San José del Cabo Montessori curriculum; bilingual setting; focus on independence and hands-on learning.
Gymboree Los Cabos Preschool & Early Learning San José del Cabo Early learning center with parent–child engagement and sensory play programs.

Note: Palmilla families often choose international or bilingual schools in San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas due to flexible curricula and global recognition. Always verify transportation routes, tuition, and bilingual program availability directly with the school.

 

Investment Potential in Palmilla, San José del Cabo

Palmilla remains one of Los Cabos’ most established luxury markets, driven by ocean-view villas, lock-and-leave condos, and custom estates near a Blue Flag swimmable beach and a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf club. Low-density planning, resort pedigree, and constrained supply support long-term value.

Why Palmilla? Swimmable coves, One&Only Palmilla amenities, quick access to SJD, and refined community standards. Pricing is highly view- and proximity-sensitive (Beach Club/Clubhouse). Short-term rentals are HOA/municipality dependent—confirm rules before underwriting.

Ocean/View Premium
 
Top pricing driver
Lock-and-Leave Demand
 
Condos & villas
Capital Growth
 
Constrained supply
Rental Viability*
 
HOA/municipal rules
  • Luxury Market: Newer Baja-contemporary builds with seamless indoor–outdoor living lead absorption.
  • Amenities Effect: Proximity to Beach Club/Clubhouse boosts liquidity and rental appeal.
  • Product Mix: High demand for turnkey condos and family-sized villas with garages and storage.
  • Risk Factors: Confirm HOA/rental policy, dues, hurricane/wind mitigation, and architectural review timelines.

Rental Snapshot in Palmilla

Luxury Villas: $12,000–$30,000/mo (seasonal)
Golf/Ocean-view Condos: $6,000–$12,000/mo (seasonal)
Short-Term: Policy-dependent; verify HOA/municipal compliance

Peak demand fall–spring; holidays and tournament weeks see rate spikes.

What Performs Well

  • Unobstructed ocean or fairway views.
  • Walkability/golf-cart proximity to Clubhouse or Beach Club.
  • New or renovated, fully furnished, turnkey offerings.
  • Flexible layouts (guest casita/office) for remote-work buyers.

Compliance & Risk

  • Confirm HOA & Club membership structures and rental rules before underwriting.
  • Evaluate storm/hurricane protections, insurance, builder warranties.z
  • Review title & fideicomiso process for foreign buyers.
  • Understand architectural approvals and build timelines.

Investor Playbook

  • Buy & Hold Luxury: Target prime view corridors with low future supply risk.
  • Yield Strategy: If permitted, optimize peak seasons with concierge-level operations.
  • Value-Add: Elevate outdoor living (pool, kitchen, shading, lighting, fire features).
  • Diversify: Pair a condo (lock-and-leave) with a homesite for staged build.

*Rental activity is subject to HOA/community regulations and local municipal rules. Verify policies and permits prior to marketing a property for short-term use.

 

Thinking About Moving to Palmilla?

Set along the San José Corridor above the Sea of Cortez, Palmilla blends swimmable coves, ocean-view ridgelines, and a world-class resort pedigree. Residents enjoy the iconic One&Only Palmilla, a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf club, a private Beach Club, and curated dining & boutiques at The Shoppes at Palmilla—just minutes from San José del Cabo’s Art District and SJD airport.

Housing options span lock-and-leave condos, designer villas, custom homes, and ocean-oriented estates. Premiums rise with unobstructed sea or fairway views and proximity to the Clubhouse or Beach Club. Architectural guidelines and HOA standards safeguard privacy, tranquility, and long-term value.

Daily life revolves around wellness, golf, and ocean recreation—from sunrise swims and paddleboarding at Playa Palmilla (Blue Flag) to spa days, racquet sports, family programming, and seasonal events. Nearby, discover farm-to-table dining, galleries, marinas, and championship fishing.

Considering a move? We can guide you through membership options, HOA policies, and (for foreign buyers) the fideicomiso trust process—so you can focus on finding the perfect Palmilla home and lifestyle.

Explore Palmilla Real Estate →

Frequently Asked Questions about Palmilla

How much does it cost to live in Palmilla?
  • Condos: ~$1M–$2.5M depending on view, building, and proximity to the Beach Club.
  • Villas: ~$2.5M–$6M+ across Palmilla Fairways, Villas del Mar, and Oceana Alta.
  • Custom Oceanfront Estates: $8M–$25M+ with direct beach access or panoramic Sea of Cortez views.
Values based on 2025 activity; view, elevation, and club proximity drive premium pricing.
Is Palmilla a good place for investment properties?
Yes—Palmilla’s resort pedigree, security, and limited new supply create sustained demand. Investors often pursue turnkey condos or lock-and-leave villas with rental potential (subject to HOA rules). Beach Club access and proximity to One&Only amenities boost both liquidity and rental appeal.
What is the rental market like in Palmilla?
  • Long-term rentals: ~$6,000–$15,000/mo for furnished villas or condos with ocean/golf views.
  • Vacation rentals: Strong seasonal demand (Nov–April) and peak holiday pricing. Verify HOA and municipal STR compliance.
Palmilla HOA restrictions vary; always confirm eligibility before leasing.
What types of properties are common in Palmilla?
A curated mix of ocean-view condos, golf-course villas, and custom estates. Each sub-community—like Villas del Mar, Oceana Baja, and Palmilla Estates—offers distinct architecture, privacy, and HOA privileges.
What makes Palmilla unique compared to other Cabo communities?
Palmilla combines resort luxury with residential exclusivity. It offers the only Blue Flag-certified swimmable beach in the corridor, private golf, five-star spa access, and a gated master plan minutes from San José del Cabo. The area’s timeless design and infrastructure deliver lasting value and prestige.
How do residents get around Palmilla?
Internal roads and golf-cart paths connect neighborhoods to The Shoppes at Palmilla, the Beach Club, and Golf Clubhouse. San José del Cabo’s downtown and SJD International Airport are 10–15 minutes away via Highway 1.
Which schools serve Palmilla residents?
Families typically choose Picacho McGregor, Instituto Península, or Greengates International, all within a short drive. For early learning, options like Montessori Regina and ABC Montessori are nearby.

Palmilla offers security, elegance, and seaside living—a resort community where ocean views and refined simplicity define every day.

Let’s Match Your Vision with The Perfect Property

Our success is built on a carefully curated team of real estate advisors committed to honesty, integrity, and exceptional client service. Comprised of both local Mexicans and expatriates who have made the move to Los Cabos, our team brings years of real estate expertise to guide you through every step of the journey.

Follow Me on Instagram