Solmar Resort

Part of the Solmar hotel group, this property is just about average in every way. While it’s clear that updates have been made since it opened, much of the original hotel remains. Nothing feels particularly dingy, just old. Heavy use of white stucco, red clay tile roofs, and extensive xeriscaping all feel right for the desert location. However, interiors are reminiscent of older -- possibly ‘90s-era -- resorts. Furniture and decor throughout the hotel's common areas blends gaudy pieces like wrought iron chandeliers with oversized pieces, like the heavy wooden chairs in the hotel's restaurant. Still, the hotel manages to draw plenty of guests year after year, and despite its all-inclusive status, it tends to be quieter than the all-inclusive properties right in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. The large, lively outdoor pool terrace seamlessly blends into the beach and only on-site restaurant, providing more than enough space for the hotel’s 100 rooms worth of guests to spread out. The clientele tends to be an even mix of families and couples all seeking the most affordable beachfront resort near Land’s End.

The hotel’s location on a wide, soft sand beach near Land’s End affords lovely views to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. While it feels quite secluded, the property is only a five-minute drive to the center of Cabo San Lucas, with dozens of restaurants, shops, and clubs. Unfortunately, this means that most center-city bars and restaurants aren't within an easy walk. Since the adjacent beach is not safe to swim, guests will likely need to venture 10 minutes north by car to Medano Beach -- the nearest accessible public beach. Los Cabos International (SJD), the area’s most convenient airport for international travelers, is a 40-minute drive north.

Room decor reflects the dated nature of the property, though they are pleasant enough for unfussy travelers. White tile flooring, rustic wood furniture, and microfiber couches are in mostly good shape, but don't do much to make these rooms feel fresh or modern. Expect to see lots of neutral tones like tan, white, and black, plus simple floral art on the walls and bolder -- but unintentionally vintage -- touches, like plaster sailfish bas reliefs above the beds in most units.The hotel’s two room categories feature similar amenities but differ in size and configuration. Studios provide simple, one-room layouts typical of most mid-range hotel properties. Deluxe One Bedroom Suites offer spacious floor plans that include a separate bedroom, an additional bathroom, and larger living and dining areas. Every category features a  kitchenette with microwave, electric cooktop, mini-fridge or small refrigerator, and a sink. Other essential amenities -- air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs -- are provided. Wi-Fi is only available via paid daily plans. All rooms have balconies or patios, and many have stunning ocean views. Like their respective rooms, bathrooms feature a similarly dated decor. Two-tone tiled walls, rough, built-in wood cabinetry, and painted faucets (which appear to be hiding salt damage) all reveal the hotel’s age. Spacious shower/tub combinations are standard, as are Vert de Terres brand bath products.

The Solmar has the expected amenities for an all-inclusive resort in Cabo, with few surprises. The main highlights here are the pools -- which is a good things as the beach, while pretty, is unswimmable. The Main Pool is spacious, especially given the hotel’s modest size, and has a swim-up bar plus an adjacent hot tub. On an upper terrace overlooking the property is a smaller Family Pool. However, given its secluded location and lack of kid-friendly amenities, it seems better suited as an adult-only pool. Rows of cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas line both spaces to provide plenty of shaded seating. Poolside drink service is also available to both pools.Tejaban is the hotel’s only full restaurant. The interior has casual decor that includes crisp linen tablecloths, high-back upholstered chairs, exposed brick, and vaulted ceilings. A lounge, two alfresco terraces, and outdoor dining adjacent to the pool provide additional dining options with the same buffet and a la carte menus. The aptly named Sushi Factory serves fresh sushi near the Main Pool. However, the tiny, basic shack feels more like an afterthought and less like a proper restaurant. El Trebol snack bar near the Family Pool also serves sandwiches and simple finger foods. Guests who choose the optional all-inclusive plan have access to several additional restaurants at nearby sister properties.There is no formal spa building, though typical massage treatments are available in a handful of charming, thatched-roof cabanas situated on the beach. The property also lacks a fitness center, but guests are welcome to use the services at the Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa sister property.Free valet parking is provided in a secure garage. Wi-Fi in the common areas is only available via paid daily plans.