Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, between the historic colonial town of San Jose del Cabo and the resort city of Cabo San Lucas, Las Ventanas al Paraiso rises almost mirage-like from the Baja desert. Elegant guest suites are built to mimic traditional Mexican architecture, with hand-carved furnishings, intricate tiling and adobe fireplaces. Each opens onto a terrace with views out over the cacti-filled gardens or the sparkling Sea of Cortez. Suites come with a telescope for stargazing and whale watching; from December to March, the magnificent mammals breach just off the shore. Swimming isn't advised from the beach as the currents and waves are strong, but just beneath the surface, there is world-class snorkelling and diving around a kaleidoscope of coral reefs. Back on land, take part in cooking classes, yoga sessions or unfurl by one of the eight freshwater swimming pools. The award-winning desert spa taps into healing treatments and therapies from all over the globe, and there is even a lazy river to drift down, where pool butlers are on hand to serve cool drinks and snacks.