Book this if You want a polished, stress-free family vacation where the kids are entertained, the pools are heated, and you don't mind not swimming in the ocean.
Fresh from a $50M renovation (completed mid-2025) that modernized rooms and dining
Heated infinity pool that actually stays warm during cool Baja evenings
Location in San José del Cabo is quieter and more authentic than the party-heavy Cabo San Lucas
Quick Take: A top-tier family all-inclusive that nails the service and food, but you'll hear your neighbors through the walls and the ocean is strictly for looking, not touching.
Reviewed by @femme_foodie: I stayed in this One Bedroom Ocean View Suite and it was incredible. Waking up to the sound of the waves on my private balcony was the highlight of my trip. The bathroom is massive with a sunken tub that I used every night. Highly recommend for a romantic getaway!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
The hype
Travelers rave about the friendly staff and improved food quality post-renovation, but the 'chair game' at the pool starts at dawn.
Reality check
Despite the luxury price tag, the 'thin walls' complaint is the single most consistent gripe across all traveler types.
You are traveling with kids (the new water park and KidZ Club are hits)
You prefer a heated pool over a cold ocean swim
You want easy access to authentic local culture (San José Art Walk is minutes away)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable and thorough; turn-down service is a nice touch often included.
Bathroom hygiene: Post-renovation bathrooms are sparkling; rain showers are excellent with good pressure.
Maintenance: Most 'tired' elements were fixed in the 2025 reno, though elevators remain a weak point.
Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and plentiful; pool towels are large and fluffy.
Odors & scents: Fresh and neutral; the 'musty' smell of the past has largely been eliminated with the new interiors.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
Hallway conversations and rolling suitcases
Entertainment noise near the main pool/atrium
Connecting doors (avoid if not using)
Before you book
Good to know
The 'La Comer' supermarket nearby is a 'Mexican Walmart' perfect for grabbing forgotten essentials or snacks.
Dinner reservations are required for the Japanese restaurant (Dozo) and French restaurant (Bon Vivant) — book immediately upon arrival.
Uber is safe, reliable, and much cheaper than resort taxis for getting to downtown San José.
What to pack
White outfit for the weekly 'White Party' on the beach
Insulated tumbler (Yeti/Stanley) to keep your pool drinks cold
Light jacket or wrap for breezy Baja evenings, even in summer
Room Genie
Best picks
Tower B (Building 2) for the freshest post-renovation interiors
Ocean Front Master Suites in Building 1 for a quieter experience away from the kids' pool
Swim-up suites if you want instant pool access (but accept less privacy)
Rooms to avoid
Ground floor rooms near high-traffic walkways (privacy issues)
Rooms directly facing the main pool stage if you go to bed before 10pm
Connecting rooms if you aren't booking both sides (sound leakage)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would kindly request a room in the newly renovated Tower B (Building 2), ideally on a higher floor to minimize hallway noise. If possible, please avoid connecting rooms unless necessary.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Can I swim in the ocean?
No. The currents are extremely dangerous. You can walk on the sand, but entering the water is prohibited (red/black flags are standard).
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the main infinity pool and the adults-only pool are heated to a comfortable 82-84°F, which is crucial during winter months.
Is it adults-only?
No, this is a family resort (Ziva). For adults-only, you want the Hyatt Zilara nearby. However, there is an adults-only pool and bar here.
How is the Wi-Fi?
Generally reliable and fast enough for streaming, though it can be spotty on the far edges of the beach.
Do I need to tip?
Tips are technically included, but bringing $100-200 in small bills (USD or Pesos) for bartenders and servers goes a long way in getting faster service.
How far is the airport?
It's a quick 20-25 minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
Insider Tips
✨
Skip the expensive resort spa and walk across the street to 'Natura Spa' for a 60-minute massage for ~$50 (cash only).
✨
The 'Coco Loco' snack bar by the pool makes fresh ceviche that rivals the sit-down restaurants.
✨
Ask for a 'Miami Vice' (half piña colada, half strawberry daiquiri) at the swim-up bar — it's a crowd favorite not always on the menu.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'chair game' is fierce; if you want a prime spot by the infinity pool, you need to place towels down by 7:30 AM.
💡The elevators can be slow and glitchy, especially during peak check-out times.
💡Vendors on the beach are present but generally respectful of the rope line; they won't harass you if you stay on the hotel side.
💡The 'Ziva Suite' sounds fancy but often just has a Juliet balcony (standing room only) rather than a full terrace.
💡Room service delivery times can stretch to 60+ minutes during breakfast rush — order the night before.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is located and what's nearby.