Viva Los Cabo

On the eastern end of the cape, San José del Cabo is a traditional Mexican town nearthe site where Jesuits founded a mission of the same name in 1730.The main square, with its wrought-iron bandstand, is surrounded bypleasant cafes, a number of jewelry stores, and several excellentart galleries.

Surf watching. Just south of town, Playa Costa Azul (exit Hwy. 1 at km. 28) is a spectacularsurfing beach. Rent boards from Costa Azul Surf Shop, right on thebeach, or watch from the highway lookout point.

Down fish tacos. The main road into San José bustleswith students and locals who stop at Taquería Rossy (Hwy. 1 at intersection of ManuelDoblado; 624/145-6755) for beef or fish tacos at a buck each.Splurge on scallop tacos for less than $2.

Finding art. In town, Sabina Macouzet owns Veryka (Blvd. Mijares #6-B; 624/142-0575), a fine folk-artgallery carrying items from all over Mexico. Pieces like ahand-beaded jaguar mask aren’t inexpensive, but they are thebest.

Silver hunting. Several jewelry stores ring the plaza, manyselling Mexican fire opals as well as good selections of silver,which are sold by weight. Three shops are run by members of theSanchez family (Plaza Mijares; 624/142-6394).

Festival of chilies. An 18th-century hacienda houses Damiana (San José town plaza; 624/142-0499), the bestrestaurant in town. Try the Festival de los Chiles: four flavorfulchilies stuffed with shrimp, tuna, cheese, and picadillo (mincedmeat).

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