Luxury Hotels in Baja, California: Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Nothing can prepare you for the moment when you first see Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto. David and I were on a trip up the Baja peninsula from San Jose del Cabo up to Ensenada, and we were told we absolutely *had* to stop in the town of Loreto. Loreto, perched on the Sea of Cortez, is one of my favorite spots in all of Mexico for its rugged, natural beauty, calm water, towering mountains, funky town, and, of course, this fabulous hotel, which happens to be one of the best Baja California Sur all-inclusive resorts.

Being one of the top luxury hotels in Baja California carries considerable cache — the peninsula is home to top tourist towns like Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and Todos Santos, all of which are known for their best hotels in Mexico. When it comes to Loreto, Mexico resorts, however, there can only be one Villa del Palmar.

So if you’re looking to book one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Baja, Mexico, read on to discover my full review of Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto.

And if you're so inclined to book it for yourself, you can do so right here.

Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

Baja California Sur All-Inclusive Resorts: The Vibe of Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

The vibe at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto evokes the feeling of stumbling upon a secret club you never knew you needed to belong to. Guests of the resort are unwaveringly devoted, and many have been repeat guests for years.

With that in mind, the vibe here is supremely chill. The staff has known guests for years and vice versa. It’s like coming home to see old friends, where your favorite table is always waiting for you and the waiter never forgets the kind of wine you like. Yes, we were first-timers and only stayed a short time, but we felt like we were just as special as the veteran guests.

Service was attentive, quality was wonderful, and options for things to do were endless. And yet, it felt like one of the most relaxed and comfortable experiences. This was probably my favorite resort on that entire road trip… if that holds any weight with you.

Luxury Hotels in Baja California: The Amenities at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

What *can’t* you do at Villa de Palmar? The options were truly endless. The resort sits within a private community on the very calm Bay of Danzante, surrounded by massive peaks and overlooking a smattering of islands in the distance. The views are nothing short of magic, and the resort offers so many wonderful things to do because of its location.

You’ll find many different pool areas in the center section of the pool. I’m very much a pool person so this was where I spent the majority of my time. But the beach is rather spectacular, as well. The beach club area has a chill beach bar, plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas, and easy access to the sparkling blue Bay of Danzante. This is a kayaker’s or SUPer’s paradise. The water is often like glass and is really shallow for a long way out.

I mean it when I say the views here are jaw-droppingly beautiful. I could have spent hours sitting on the shoreline gazing out at the puffy white clouds that dotted the piercingly blue sky, the trim of white sand that hugged the ends of reddish mountains. The Bay of Danzante is thoroughly protected from the Sea of Cortez and is one of the most tranquil and serene spots I've ever seen in all of my travels.

Tip: Take the hike to the 17th hole on the golf course. I’m not a golfer, but the trip to this special spot is a must for the most epic and inspiring views you’ll see in Baja.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Baja, Mexico: The Rooms at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

I was lucky enough to stay in one of the new towers at the resort, which has brand-new guest rooms and suites. Our spacious suite was beyond impressive with a separate bedroom, kitchen and dining area, a living space, and two sprawling outdoor terraces. One of the best features with the outdoor whirlpool, which overlooked the ocean.

But you don't have to splurge for the highest room categories to have a great stay. The standard rooms are also lovely, and all have views of either the backdrop of mountains or out over the bay. It will be easy to see why this is one of the top Loreto, Mexico hotels if not one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Baja, Mexico.

I will say that the color scheme and decor are a little bit dark for my preference and gives a slightly dated look to the rooms, but that does not take away from the comfort of the beds, the size of the rooms, the cleanliness, or the views.

Baja California All-Inclusive Family Resort: The Dining at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

Villa del Palmar was the second Villa Group resort I stayed at on this trip. We also had the chance to stay at Villa La Valencia while we were in Los Cabos. It seems that a high standard for cuisine is a common brand goal, as the food at both of these resorts was outstanding.

Guests can opt for an EP plan or the all-inclusive plan. If you go EP, book a room with a kitchen so you can cook your meals. You won’t find many dining options near the hotel unless you take a 30-minute trip into town. But if you are staying for a short amount of time or don’t plan to leave the hotel, the all-inclusive option is worth it.

No doubt our favorite meal was at Danzante, the fine-dining steak and seafood house. For all-inclusive guests there is an additional $20 per person charge to eat here, but it is beyond worth it. The steak is fantastic (some of the best I’ve had in Mexico), and the service is so caring, friendly, and comfortable.

Loreto, Mexico Hotels: The Wellness at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

I’ll start up front by saying that I did not get to use the spa here. That said, I hear it is one of the largest and most comprehensive spas you’ll find on the Baja Peninsula. In fact, our friends who stay here regularly never come home without experiencing at least one spa treatment. Often they book two.

I will say that the gym here is fabulous. It has everything a gym rat would need to stay on track, plus a Smith machine, which is always my favorite piece of equipment to find at a resort gym.

Stay at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto

Have I convinced you yet? If you want to book a stay for yourself, you can do so right here. Note that I may earn a small commission if you book through my blog.