Welcome to the Villa Santa Cruz blog! Here we post current happenings on the property and around Todos Santos.
A Culinary Guide to the Best Restaurants & Local Cuisine in Todos Santos
Todos Santos is more than just a charming coastal town—it’s a haven for food lovers. With its vibrant mix of traditional Mexican flavors and innovative culinary creations, this hidden gem offers a dining experience that’s as rich as its culture. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, farm-to-table delights, or authentic street food, Todos Santos has something to satisfy every palate.
Eco-Friendly Tips for Conscious Travelers
Traveling opens your eyes to the beauty of the world, but it’s no secret that tourism can leave a heavy footprint on the planet. As a conscious traveler, you have the power to explore responsibly and protect the very destinations you love. Sustainable travel isn’t just a trend—it’s a way to ensure future generations can enjoy these wonders as well.
Experience the Best Horseback Riding in Todos Santos
Horseback riding is a classic pastime cherished across cultures and generations. Beyond the thrill and adventure, it represents a profound relationship between humans and horses, a species that has been a companion and partner to mankind for thousands of years. This timeless bond is reflected in every graceful stride and gentle nudge between horse and rider.
Beach Vacation Essentials
Packing for a beach vacation is all about finding the perfect balance between fun and functionality. Whether heading to a tropical paradise or your favorite local shore, having the right essentials can make or break your experience. The sun, sand, and surf await, but being unprepared can leave you scrambling instead of relaxing.
Sandy Toes and Salty Kisses: Dream Beach Wedding in Mexico
Planning a wedding is an exciting and sometimes daunting task, especially when considering the perfect destination for your big day. If you’re dreaming of sandy toes and salty kisses, consider saying “I do” on the beautiful beaches of Mexico. Nestled in the charming town of Todos Santos lies Villa Santa Cruz, the perfect location to host your beach wedding in Mexico.
Experience Ultimate Luxury in Beachfront Glamping
Glamping offers a serene atmosphere through an innovative and more glamorous form of “camping.” This specific adventure includes the benefits of being isolated in nature while incorporating the perks of a high-end hotel room.
Safest Cities in Mexico for a Stress-Free Vacation | Villa Santa Cruz
Mexico remains the number one tourist destination for those looking for an enjoyable vacation. A country rich with culture, Mexico is a unique paradise, especially for American tourists.
In the last two years alone, tourism from the U.S. increased by 76%, resulting in a very successful season for Mexican towns. This peak season allowed for investment in the most important tourist areas of the region.
Glamping for Couples
The word “glamping” was recently coined as a fusion between “glamour” and “camping.” This has become one of the most popular activities for couples in Todos Santos. Glamping is a more elevated experience for those who like to camp outdoors because, unlike traditional camping, it combines the wonder of the outdoors with the comfort of a hotel.
Todos Santos Beaches
One of life’s simple pleasures is relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery the ocean can offer. Catching the sunset is a perfect way to end the day, whether it be in good company or as a solo activity. This is undoubtedly one of the best moments that life can give us; and there is no more beautiful place to do this than on Todos Santos beaches.
The Best Place To Stay In Baja California Sur
Recently, Baja California Sur has become one of the most coveted tourist destinations within Mexico and internationally too. It has endless activities to offer, guaranteeing that the whole family will have an incredible and unforgettable vacation. Even with all the fun activities it offers, it is recommended to consider several things if you are planning to visit this destination. Here we share a few tips to help you find the best place to stay in Baja California Sur and ensure you have an incredible vacation.
Día De Los Muertos Celebration In Todos Santos, Baja Sur
The Dia de los Muertos Celebration in Todos Santos, Baja Sur has become increasingly popular over the years. International travelers and Mexicans alike have made our town a favorite place to visit, mainly due to the Festival del Dia de Muertos that takes place at the end of October and beginning of November each year. This “day of the dead” festival is essential to the local celebrations, forming part of an already memorable holiday for most Mexican families. Todos Santos has been considered by Unesco as a World Heritage Site since 2003, attracting many tourists from abroad and creating a spectacular backdrop for this colorful and beautiful holiday.
Turtle Hatchling Release In Todos Santos, An Experience You Cannot Miss.
Todos Santos is a town known for its beautiful beaches and perfect weather to enjoy a family vacation. One of the most memorable experiences in Todos Santos is to end your day by releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean. There are releases almost daily between December and April at sunset. You can enjoy your evening at the beach with non-profit…
Amazing Things to do in Todos Santos Vacation
Nowadays, it is difficult to find a unique getaway that has not been saturated with tourist traps, traffic, or crowds. In post-pandemic times, with revenge travel on the rise, there are few places that aren’t struggling with an influx of travelers. But, despite these challenges, Todos Santos is still a safe-haven for wanderlust, one that has preserved the magic of Mexico. This town has maintained its calm and siesta-like essence since its first settlers came in the mid 1700s.
Top Ten Reason to Go Glamping in Todos Santos Vacation
Villa Santa Cruz is a boutique beach resort, dedicated to embracing the natural rhythm of Baja—not interrupting it. Todos Santos is a unique haven where nature meets luxury: a laid-back surf town with fun-filled act…
Glamping is an incredible experience, but is it good for the environment?
Are you searching for an amazing adventure with responsible travel in mind? Why not try something that will have a positive impact on the earth? When considering an ideal vacation, it is important to consider all aspects of travel including transport…
Your Safe and Healthy Vacation in Todos Santos, Baja Sur
Less Crowds, More Fun
Over the past two years, the uncertainty of Covid-19 has been challenging in many ways. We all deserve a break from the mental and physical exhaustion we are forced to cope with on a daily basis. Here in Baja, our gorgeous beaches and sun-drenched…
A Dream Destination
Todos Santos Baja is a refreshing, alternative vacation destination packed with delightful experiences and a variety of activities. Named after “All Saints,” this town is a Pueblo Magico for a reason. Its wondrous landscape and abundant flora and fauna create the perfect oasis for a boutique hotel like Villa Santa Cruz.
A Designated Magic Town
Todos Santos Mexico is the perfect place to fully embrace Baja culture, in a safe, socially-distanced manner. The beautiful beaches attract surfers from all over the world and draw in Baja California Sur locals. Due to its rich history, nature and culture, Todos Santos Mexico was desingated a “Pueblo Magico”, making the list of legendary Mexico towns.
Glamping in Todos Santos
The beautiful beaches of Todos Santos have become an increasingly popular getaway. Breathtaking sunsets and favorable weather make glamping in Todos…
Restaurants in Todos Santos
Ever find yourself daydreaming at work, imagining warmer days in Baja? Would you rather be enjoying a gorgeous sunset on the beach, waking up to an ocean view from your hotel room, walking through the small streets of a colorful Mexcian pueblo…
Best hotel in Mexico
Mexico is a favorite world destination, because of the unique and authentic experiences it offers. As a country with many cultures and huge diversity, it is full of Mexican folklore and adventure….
Things to do in Todos Santos
Things to do in Todos Santos, Mexico
If you are looking for a charming destination where you can appreciate local art and culture and beautiful beaches, the ideal destination for you…
Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz – Katie & Drew
Looking for hotels in Todos Santos? Better yet, a wedding venue in Baja? For a destination wedding in Todos Santos, Villa Santa Cruz is the perfect beach venue in Mexico. In December 2019, Katie & Drew invited 70 guests to this boutique hotel to share in their special day. Moreover, they created a memorable wedding weekend packed with fun-filled events.
ATV & Motorsports
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ATV Todos Santos
Let the adventure begin! One of the best ways to explore Baja and Todos Santos is on an ATV or Off-Road Side by Side. Experience the wild of Baja while ripping through the desert – feel …
Emily & Jordan Todos Santos Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz
This Todos Santos wedding is one to remember! On Friday, November 15, Emily Meersand and Jordan Russum celebrated their marriage with a destination wedding at Villa Santa Cruz in Todos Santos…
A Destination Dream Come True for Brooke & Dennis’ Wedding Day
For their destination wedding in Todos Santos, Dennis and Brooke’s created a beach-chic affair on July 6th. The fresh summer breeze and picturesque coastline did not disappoint as guests…
Sarah & Daniel’s Baja Bliss – A White Sand Wedding on the Pacific
Sarah & Daniel said “I do” in front of 65 of their closest friends and family members with their toes in the sand, lighthearted and brimming with joy. The celebration utilized the entire property, transitioning guests from a beachfront ceremony to a welcoming cocktail hour around the grand salt water pool.
An Unforgettable Wedding Weekend for Jessica & Sonia
For Jessica and Sonia, Villa Santa Cruz in Todos Santos delivered everything they were looking for to celebrate their love. With an intimate gathering of 65, the brides created a wedding weekend full of fun activities…
Beachfront Wedding Vows for Emerald & Devon
This celebration of love, witnessed by 40 guests in June 2018, had so many personal touches – we especially loved the bride’s two-piece lace dress, the hand embroidered ring pillow, and the Day of the Dead figurines on the welcome table.
Bold and Elegant on Claire & Jack’s Big Day – Destination Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz
All the way from New York City, Claire & Jack chose Villa Santa Cruz as their destination wedding location to escape the frenzied, hectic pace of city life.
Destination Wedding in Todos Santos – Rachel & Destin
A destination wedding in Todos Santos, Baja Sur at Villa Santa Cruz was the perfect antidote for Rachel & Destin after a long winter in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Gay Destination Wedding in Mexico – Carl & Marne
Carl & Marne’s gay wedding at Villa Santa Cruz was not only a dream come true for this awesome couple, but very personal for us as hosts…
Wedding in Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz – Brenda & Nando
As avid surfers who live here in Baja Sur (down in Cabo San Lucas), Brenda & Nando wanted their dream wedding in our little surf town of Todos Santos. Villa Santa Cruz was the perfect destination for their big day, especially because it is close to one of their favorite surf breaks, La Pastora, just a 10 minute walk down the beach.
Mexico Destination Wedding – Greg & Elise
Greg & Elise hosted an elegant destination wedding weekend in November 2017, coming all the way from Australia! With 40 of their closest friends and family cheering them on, they exchanged vows under the warm Baja sun and partied into the night.
Intimate Villa Wedding – Alex & Nadine (VIDEO)
Alex and Nadine traveled all the way from Munich, Germany, with a small group of family and friends, to celebrate their wedding at Villa Santa Cruz in May 2016.
Amazing Aerial Footage of Villa in New Promo Video
Check out this amazing new promotional video of Villa Santa Cruz, complete with aerial drone footage! It gives a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the property, a peek into the Crow’s Nest of the Palapa and a true feel of the expansive grounds and beach frontage.
Yoga and Retreats
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Yoga Todos Santos
Ready for yoga in Todos Santos? Take a deep breath and stretch and flex your way to outer and inner strength with a private vinyasa flow yoga session at
Tired of wines from the same old regions? Craving something new? Head over to the wine shop in Todos Santos, Amor D’Vino, to taste wines from the Baja California Wine Region. Stocking exclusively Baja wine , you’ll have the opportunity to expand your…Wine Tasting
Turtle Releases
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Turtle Releases Todos Santos
Ready to help with turtle releases? You can volunteer in the effort to help several species of the critically endangered turtles – Leatherback and Olive Ridley. Watch these …
Swim with Whale Sharks & Sea Lions
Swimming alongside these amazing sea animals is a definite “must do” activity for all travelers to Baja Sur. Head over to the Sea of Cortez, just north of La Paz (1.5 hours from Todos Santos), to explore the crystal blue waters and have an up close …
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
The newest fad to hit the waves, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, has made its way to Todos Santos. Head down to Cerritos beach to give it a try. Equipment rentals available at the beach.
New to the sport? Mario Surf School offers lessons.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Surfing Todos Santos – one of the best reasons to visit Baja! Villa Santa Cruz is one of the only beach hotels in Todos Santos with direct surf access -… Todos Santos Surfing Paradise: Where Surfers’ Dreams Come True – Stay at Villa Santa Cruz
Massage and Spa
Find peace and serenity in the relaxing massages and body therapies offered at Villa Santa Cruz. Choose from Relaxation, Deep Tissue and Therapeutic Massages. Pricing begins at $50 USD. All services performed in the privacy of your guest room….
Kayaking
Explore the calm crystal clear waters and sea life in the Sea of Cortez in La Paz. You’ll have the opportunity to kayak around Espirtu Santo island and check out beautiful Balandra beach.
For more information and guided tours, contact
Experience true Mexican culture with a horseback ride down the beach. Great for couples, groups and kids! For more information and tours, contact Todos Santos Eco Adventures<...
Horseback Riding
Fishing Excursions
Itching to get out on the open sea? Hoping to catch a marlin, tuna or dorado? Head out with a local guide in a panga boat that launches from Punta Lobos and spend the day on the Pacific.
$250 USD per trip. Up to 4 guests. Please inquire f…
Farmers’ Markets
There is little else that can convey the community feel of a town as well as a Farmers’ Market – and we, in Todos Santos, are lucky enough to have two of them each week (seasonal: Nov – May). On Wednesdays, La Esquina hosts a lovely Farmers’ Market w…
Cooking Lessons & Mezcal Tastings
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Learn to Cook Mexican Food!
Cooking classes and mezcal tastings in Todos Santos are one of the best ways to learn about Mexican culture! Todos Santos has so much to disco…
Bird Watching
A tropical oasis in the desert, Todos Santos is home to a wide variety of birds, giving visitors an amazing opportunity for bird watching. At Villa Santa Cruz, we have spotted egrets, ospreys, quail, nighthawks, pelicans, hummingbirds, and more. The …
Lauren and Michael’s Wedding
It was a fun family wedding celebration at Villa Santa Cruz on Sunday night for Lauren & Michael. With perfect weather, an incredible sunset, and a group of 100 guests that danced the night away.
True Happiness – Jenna and Adam’s Wedding
Jenna and Adam radiated happiness on Saturday afternoon as they exchanged vows on the sand and became husband and wife in front of an intimate group of 55 guests.
Granada Junior Suite
This lovely suite overlooks the Pool, Palapa and Pacific Ocean. The Spanish word granada means “pomegranate,” and they are just one of the many fruit trees grow…
Ballena Deluxe Suite
The Ballena Suite boasts breathtaking views of the Palapa, Pacific Ocean and Sierra de Laguna Mountain Range. The word ballena in Spanish means “whale,” and during the …
Love in the Air for Ross and Rachel
Love was in the air last night at Ross and Rachel’s wedding at Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel in Todos Santos. Ross and Rachel celebrated their love in front of a small group of friends and family in a beautiful beach ceremony, followed by dinner and dancing under the stars.
Elegant Beach Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz
What an elegant wedding it was for Laura and Mike last Saturday evening. Arriving at Villa Santa Cruz in Todos Santos from snowy Calgary, Canada, the couple was excited for the beach wedding they had always dreamed of.
Surf Sunset and Tequila Wedding
Kylie and Dave’s fun surf wedding at Villa Santa Cruz had the perfect Baja feel – casual and festive with authentic Mexican touches.
Intimate Beach Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz
Adam and Justine’s Saturday evening beach wedding at Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, was a beautiful and intimate affair.
Congrats to the Happy Couple
We send our warmest congrats to Jon-Michial & Catherine Carter who wed at Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, on Saturday evening.
Weathering the Storm (2003 – 2005)
As the summer of 2003 approached, Matt and John’s only choice was to lay low and recover from the frustration and disappointment of the failed farm and stalled construction project.
Grand Beach Wedding in Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz
Congratulations to James & Brianna, who were married at Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach in Todos Santos on Saturday evening, March 16, 2013. With 100 guests in attendance, the wedding was fun, festive and fancy!
Villa Santa Cruz in the New York Post (March 12, 2013)
Check out this great write up for Villa Santa Cruz in the New York Post! We enjoyed hosting travel writer, Jennifer Ceaser, at the Villa in October 2012.
The Lettuce Debacle and Breaking Ground on the Villa (2002 – 2003)
We are proud to post the next installment in the adventure of Villa Santa Cruz. If you have not yet read the first entry about how Matt & John found the land, Please read it.
The Journey Begins! Buying the Property (2001 – 2002)
When guests arrive at Villa Santa Cruz, often before they even make it upstairs to their guest suite, they want to know the story of the Villa. They pepper us with questions like: Who owns it?
Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Features Todos Santos and Villa Santa Cruz
Looking for the perfect destination wedding locale? Want something off the beaten track? Beachy? Mexican? Then, look no further than Villa Santa Cruz and Todos Santos, Baja Sur, Mexico – featured in Destination Weddings & Honeymoons this month as the #2 hot spot in their “Where to Wed” Guide for 2013.
Villa Santa Cruz Featured in National Geographic Traveler – December 2012/January 2013 Issue
Villa Santa Cruz is featured in the December 2012/January 2013 issue of National Geographic Traveler as one of four Mexican eco-lodges along the Pacific Coast.
Romantic Beach Wedding in Todos Santos at Villa Santa Cruz
We send our warmest congratulations to New York couple, Katherine & Mason, who were married on Saturday evening at Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, in Todos Santos, Baja Sur, Mexico.
Jump into the Todos Santos Art Scene at Studio N.E. Hayles
Whether you live in Todos Santos or are just passing through on vacation, the beautiful landscapes and warm light are sure to inspire your creative side. With spectacular surroundings – the crashing surf, green moun…
Sushi Lessons at Villa Santa Cruz
Sushi has a certain mystère that makes it feel impossible to master at home. So many unknowns are involved….how do you work with seaweed? how do you make that perfect sticky rice?
Summer Rain and Sunsets in Todos Santos
With barely any rain over the last three years, the Baja desert was dry, dusty and thirsty. The aquifers were low, the landscapes were brown and the sand was hot to the touch.
Gourmet Cooking Lessons with Chef Dany Lamote at Villa Santa Cruz
One of the very best things about visiting Baja and Todos Santos is the amazing food. From the abundance of fresh produce and seafood to the chefs who magically whip these ingredients into gastronomical delights, visitors to our area are in for a treat.
Beachy Boho Wedding Bliss!
Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, in Todos Santos, Baja Sur, is an amazing wedding venue for a bride and groom with beachy boho style! Just take a look at Kea & Lorrin’s fun and festive wedding from Saturday night.
Villa Santa Cruz Featured as Ideal Venue for an Authentic Mexican Beach Wedding
Considering a destination wedding in Mexico? Look no further than Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, in Todos Santos, Baja Sur. Recently featured on The Destination Wedding Site, Villa Santa Cruz…
Small, Intimate Wedding on Spectacular Supermoon Eve at Villa Santa Cruz
Congratulations to Sara & Tim who tied the knot on a gorgeous Cinco de Mayo night at Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, in Todos Santos, Baja Sur, Mexico.
Villa Santa Cruz Showcased as Top 10 Desert Getaway by Outside Online
Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, is featured on OutsideOnline.com as one of the Top Ten Desert Getaways in the world. Coming in at #4, we are thrilled to represent…
Neil Patrick Harris Officiates Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz in Todos Santos
Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach in Todos Santos, Baja Sur, Mexico was proud to have hosted the beautiful wedding of Emma Bates & Joshua Zar on Saturday, April 28, 2012, with celebrity officiant Neil Patrick Harris.
US State Department Recognizes Safety of Baja Sur – Finally!
The US State Department has finally recognized what we have known for a long time – that Todos Santos is one of the safest regions in North America.
Todos Santos Artist Studio Tour
Our pueblo of Todos Santos, a bohemian artist community, was in true form on Sunday, February 12 when over 30 local artists opened their studio doors and welcomed in the public for the 3rd Annual Artists’ Open Studio Tour. From Villa Santa Cruz, Tod…
Yacht Charter in La Paz with Baja.com – Beauty in our Backyard
Thanks to our friends at Baja.com – a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel advice on Baja California, Mexico – we spent the day aboard a spectacular yacht in the Sea of Cortez, explored…
Day Trip to La Paz Beaches
Balandra Beach, just north of La Paz, is one of the most breath taking stretches in all of Baja Sur. With crystal clear water, powder white sand and gently lapping waves, an afternoon here is one spent in paradise. Just over an hour from Todos Santos…
Food & Wine Pairing Event Wildly Successful – Benefited Todos Santos Orphanage
Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, hosted a lovely Food & Wine Pairing Event to benefit the Hogar del Nino, the orphanage in Todos Santos. From the sales of dinner tickets, silent auction…
Fun Beach Wedding Inspiration Photo Shoot by Chris Plus Lynn Photographers
Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, is the perfect backdrop for a hacienda-style wedding. Todos Santos based photographers, Chris+Lynn, captured the true essence of the Villa with…
Greening Up the Garden
The Villa Santa Cruz garden has a new look this year. In the spirit of being “green,” we scoured the property and found all sorts of discarded building materials that we repurposed to create raised planting beds.
Love in the Moonlight – Katie & Oliver’s Wedding at Villa Santa Cruz
Villa Santa Cruz was aglow on Saturday, September 10 to celebrate the union of bride and groom, Katie & Oliver. With a calm breeze in the air and beautiful afternoon light filtering through…
When Life Gives You Mangoes…
When life gives you mangoes, it is time to get creative in the kitchen! With over 40 mango trees on our property at Villa Santa Cruz, our trees are just dripping with fruit.
Downward Dog, Anyone?
Villa Santa Cruz, Boutique Hotel on the Beach, was the ideal setting for 20 yogis from San Diego to take a deep breath and find their inner calm.
Sunset Photo Shoot with Sofft Shoes
Villa Santa Cruz was ready for its close-up yesterday evening when the internationally recognized shoe company, Söfft Shoes, came to do a photo shoot for its Spring 2012 collection.
Salute to the Summer Solstice
With clear skies, a warm breeze and a peacefulness that only summer can bring, this is the kind of day that you wish would last forever – and, since today is the Summer Solstice, it almost does just that.
Day Trip to El Triunfo: An Unexpectedly Delightful Day
Itching to get out on the open road and explore a new area of Baja Sur, we decided to take a day trip to El TriunDay Trip to El Triunfo: An Unexpectedly Delightful Dayfo, a small historical mining town about 1 hour northeast of Villa Santa Cruz and Todos Santos.
Cinco de Mayo – An American Invention?
For many people living in the United States, the 5th of May, or Cinco de Mayo, is a day to let loose and celebrate. With visions of margaritas and cervezas, crazy sombreros and delicious…
Farmers’ Markets
There is little else that can convey the community feel of a town as well as a Farmers’ Market – and we, in Todos Santos, are lucky enough to have two of them each week.
Taking the Plunge: Learning to Surf
When giving tours of the Villa to guests, the pièce de résistance, without doubt, is the spectacular view from the Roof Terrace. With sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, our guests glimpse…
Asana in Paradise Yoga Retreats – July 2011
We are excited to host two back-to-back Yoga Retreats in July – reserve your space now, they are filling up fast! July 16 to July 20th & July 20th to July 24th.
History of Villa Santa Cruz
This is the story of how we came to be…
In 2001, Villa Santa Cruz founders Matt Canepa and John Brown, came down the Baja Peninsula on a surf trip and camped just north of Todos Santos and the famous La Pastora surf break.
Cooking Lessons
The head chef of the Hotel California, Dany Lamote, will teach you to prepare terrific Mexican dishes with fresh local and seasonal ingredients. He blends traditional Mexican cooking techniques with French, Asian and Italian styles and introduces his…