The hype
Guests love the views, the authentic Mexican breakfast, and the friendly line staff, but hate the confusing billing system.
El Encanto All Inclusive Resort
$230-320/ night
Book this if You want a cliffside Baja escape with authentic Mexican charm and don't mind taking a shuttle to swim in the ocean.
Why People Love It
- Stunning cliffside views of the Sea of Cortez and Land's End
- Authentic Mexican architecture and vibe (not a generic concrete box)
- Dine Out privilege lets you eat at downtown marina restaurants for free
Quick Take: A beautiful property with a 'nickel-and-dime' attitude that feels more like a timeshare trap than a true all-inclusive.
Reviewed by @4theCultureTravel: We picked this spot for our anniversary and the views blew us away—you see the ocean from everywhere. The private plunge pool on our balcony was the ultimate luxury. Definitely upgrade to the Premium Package for the best dinners. A few room quirks, but we loved it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You will sign a bill with a dollar amount after every 'free' meal, which causes constant anxiety about what you'll actually be charged for at checkout.
- You prefer authentic hacienda style over modern minimalism
- You want to split time between the resort and downtown Cabo (using the free shuttle)
- You are a foodie who wants access to marina restaurants included in your plan
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is generally reliable, though some guests report missed refills on coffee/water.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are spacious and clean, with occasional reports of slow drains or worn grout in older units.
- Maintenance: Most grounds are manicured, but older rooms may have peeling paint or noisy AC units.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality; not luxury thread count but clean and functional.
- Odors & scents: Generally fresh ocean air, though ground floor rooms can sometimes smell damp.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Heavy machinery/construction on the 'Vista' side (starting early morning)
- Thin walls in some older units
- Golf carts buzzing by ground-floor patios
Before you book
Good to know
- Uber drivers often cannot pick up at the lobby; you may have to walk to the main gate.
- The 'Dine Out' plan includes specific restaurants in the Golden Zone downtown—use this to save money on marina dining.
- Reservations are recommended for the specialty on-site restaurants like Los Riscos.
What to pack
- Water shoes (the beach is rocky and rough)
- Earplugs (essential if you get placed near construction)
- Small bills for tips (staff work hard despite management policies)
Room Genie
Best picks
- El Encanto Suites on the upper floors for unobstructed ocean views
- Phase 1 buildings for a quieter experience away from the new construction
Rooms to avoid
- Vista building rooms facing the construction site (loud from 8am)
- Ground floor units near the main pathways (privacy and noise issues)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in a Phase 1 building or a high-floor El Encanto Suite, specifically AWAY from any active construction zones or the Vista side expansion. We require a quiet room and late check-out if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
No. It is a rocky cliffside beach with strong currents. You must take the shuttle to the sister resort (Marina Fiesta) to swim at Medano Beach.
Is it really all-inclusive?
Technically yes, but with many asterisks. Premium alcohol, lobster, and prime cuts cost extra. You also have to sign a check for every meal.
How bad is the timeshare presentation?
Intense. They will try to snag you at check-in with promises of discounts or freebies. A firm 'No, thank you' repeated several times is necessary.
Is there a shuttle to downtown?
Yes, a shuttle runs to the Marina Fiesta resort downtown. It is free for All-Inclusive guests but costs ~$5 USD for others.
Are pets allowed?
No, the resort has a strict no-pet policy.
What is the check-out time?
Strictly 10:00 AM. Late check-out is rarely granted and often incurs a fee.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Dine Out' plan works at Baja Lobster Co. and Los Deseos downtown—great for a change of scenery.
- ✨
Breakfast at 'Las Marias' is significantly better than the standard buffet; try the chilaquiles.
- ✨
Buy your own sunscreen and essentials before arriving; the on-site market markup is astronomical.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'bills' you sign at dinner show the full menu price, which can be shocking even if you don't pay it.
💡You might be charged a 'ground maintenance fee' or other small surprise taxes at checkout.
💡The 'Vista' rooftop pool is beautiful but often crowded and currently noisy due to nearby building works.
💡Room service often carries a delivery fee even for all-inclusive guests.
💡The walk from the lobby to the Uber pickup point at the gate is long, hot, and uphill.
Local Playbook
Map
See where El Encanto All Inclusive Resort is located and what's nearby.