Casa Panga — Hotel in Baja California Sur

Casa Panga Who hasn't had that "money is no object" conversation and dreamed about what they would do with their money if they won the lottery? Casa Panga is that dream for me. I sat by the pool wondering what I would change about this place if I could, and I could not come up with a single item.

I'm kind of a low-key guy who doesn't like crowds or to stand out. I am a fan of the wilderness and keeping a low profile. That's not to say I don't like my luxury as well. Casa Panga fits me like a well-worn glove. Situated at what feels like the end of the world on a dirt road, it doesn't stand out. From the road it sits lower than some of the other extravagant homes in the area. From the beach, it doesn't scream, "look at me." Its classic hacienda style isn't so over done as to not fit in with some of the ultra modern style homes in the area, yet it has a warm inviting feel to it those boring squared-off houses lack.

When you come into the house, it feels like a home. For me, I couldn't help but feel like it was my home... and I just can't offer a better compliment than that. The first thing you'll experience is a walled-in and gated parking court that makes you feel immediately secure and taken care of. Here you'll meet Raquel and Raquelita, the two incredible women who will be attending to you during your stay. Then you'll step down into the courtyard of the house where a fountain sparkles in the sunlight. Six spacious bedrooms are a place to drop your luggage and get out of your long johns. Throw on your bathing suit and plan to pretty much leave it on for the rest of your trip. The infinity pool with its swim up bar speaks to an ancient part of us. Get in the water or play bartender, either way, the view is astounding.

My wife and I live in the Puget Sound area where the occasional whale sighting is celebrated. In fact, I have boated in and walked along the shores of the Puget Sound for years and had yet to ever see a whale until I came here. But here, whale sightings are so prevalent that they become common place after your first day. They play and torpedo out of the water... tail slaps, fin slaps... there's no end to their antics.

Then the stuff to do while you're here is incredible. We took a day to relax, then we went into Cabo San Lucas where we rented a boat for $15 USD a person to take us out and show us some of the sights. We saw the Arch and were dropped on Lover's Beach.

Warning: Divorce Beach is on the other side and it is dangerous. Do not get in the water on that side. I saw a few folks get a little too close to the surf and almost get pulled in.

There are no bathrooms

Getting back on the boat is a bigger challenge than getting off. Something to consider if you're in less than great physical condition.

Otherwise it's a great time. We ate at The Office and the food was fantastic.

Another day we went to La Fortuna which is another 5k up the same dirt road Casa Panga is on and a wonderful little surfing community. We had sushi at Zai and a couple beers at the Shade Beach Bar and Grill.

We went to the art walk they hold every Thursday in San Jose de Cabo which was a lot of fun. This is the best place to pick up gifts for yourself and family back home.

Then we went to Flora Farms for dinner and that was just an outstanding experience.

I will be leaving individual reviews for all these places, but I wanted to mention them here because these are some of the great things to do while using Casa Panga as your base of operations.

I just can't say enough about this place and feel privileged to have been able to stay here. The food is the best you'll have this side of your abuela's casa, and the entire estate is...

i CANNOT TELL YOU HOW FABULOUS THIS HOUSE IS! WE stayed there with a group of nine girls and it was perfectly situated. 6 bedrooms, plenty of hang out space, and the view is to die for. Infinity pool, ocean, whales, it was the best. And Raquel is the best...

Amazing house with beautiful views! Seen Whales, flying fish, dolphins and manta rays jumping out in front of the house! The lady’s that run the house are wonderful cooks and had great personalities. Definitely a...