Issuu

WINTER 2026

Black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus) Photo: Wild Canyon Adventures Instagram: @wildcanyon

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Winter in Baja begins with movement. Flights arrive heavy with anticipation, marina docks wake before sunrise, and the streets fill again with a mix of languages carried on the morning air. It is a season that settles into place quietly, yet with a clear sense of momentum. The whales arrive too, traveling thousands of miles on a route shaped by deep time. Their return reminds us that the strongest forces often move slowly, guided by rhythm more than urgency. Responsible whale watching offers perspective on the care required to protect what returns year after year, and on the responsibility that comes with welcoming them back each winter. It is the same perspective that threads through this edition: a focus on what endures, and on the steady work that shapes the future of the peninsula’s southern end. In real estate, the shift is already visible, as the market learns to build with intention and long-range planning. Health is evolving in a similar direction, through regenerative medicine and the effort to extend not only lifespan but wellbeing. And throughout Baja California Sur, new investments in solar infrastructure signal a long road toward reliable energy, where progress depends on patient commitment rather than speed. To understand that rhythm, it helps to start with daily experience. Our winter guide maps the places, beaches, events, and activities that define the season in Baja Sur, offering a sense of how life moves here as the months unfold. Through the stories in this issue, a shared message emerges: progress grows from patience and commitment. There is calm confidence in the work being done here, and real possibility in what lies ahead. Welcome to the Winter 2026 edition, Alejandro Ehrenberg

On the road near Mulege Photo: Andrés Navarro Instagram: @el.navass

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M A S T H E A D

Cardón cactus (Pachycereus pringlei) Photo: Wild Canyon Adventures Instagram: @wildcanyon

PUBLISHER Owen Perry EDITOR IN CHIEF Alejandro Ehrenberg INVESTMENT MANAGER Lance Niederhaus COMMERCIAL LEAD Frida Ludwika Rodríguez GRAPHIC DESIGNER Rebeca Beltrán CONTRIBUTORS Nathalia Collins Rian Chandler-Dovis Victor Suárez DIGITAL TEAM Erika Coatzin – Social Media Manager Victor Suárez – Content Strategist WEBMASTER Edgar Valdez DISTRIBUTION Christian Jiménez SALES EXECUTIVES Christian Jiménez Yoselin Hideroa EDITOR’S CONTACT alejandro@destinoloscabos.com COVER PHOTO Photo: Andrés Navarro Instagram: @el.navass

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DESTINO GROUP SA de CV Tél: (624) 105-9700/ (624)142-4949 / Dirección: Carretera Federal Libre Transpeninsular San José San Lucas. Km. 4.3, Local 6, Col. El Tezal, Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur / Email: contact@destinoloscabos.com / © 2021 Destino Group SA de CV / / NÚMERO 173 INVIERNO 2026 Todos los derechos reservados por Destino Group. / Prohibida la reproducción total o parcial del contenido sin previa autorización por escrito de los editores. ISSUE 173 WINTER 2026 Printed in Mexico. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. DESTINO GROUP welcomes all written and photographic material. We cannot guarantee return. Rights to publish unsolicited material are retained for 12 months. Circulation throughout Southern Baja. For more information on distribution visit: DESTINOLOSCABOS.COM

C O N T E N T S

08 THE BAJA GUIDE: WINTER 2026 EDITION Food, Activities, and Events this Season The best places to eat, explore, and experience Baja California Sur as winter begins.

LIFESTYLE & HOSPITALITY 30 The Wild Still Lives Here

Eco-tourism at Wild Canyon and the effort to balance adventure with environmental responsibility.

16 Days by the Sea: The Beaches of Baja

A guide to the shorelines that define life in the southern end of the peninsula, from quiet coves to surf breaks.

On the Whales’ Terms Guidelines for responsible encounters that protect Baja’s migrating giants.

18 Give Back: Ways to Support

37 Whale Watching Map

19 How to Get Pesos in Baja Without the Tourist

38 The Science of Living Well

A visual guide to the species most commonly seen in Baja Sur, mapped across key towns and viewing points.

How to engage with local nonprofits strengthening community health, education, and the environment.

Markup

Practical strategies to access fair exchange rates and avoid inflated conversion fees.

Dr. Kirk Sanford, founder of Longevity Medical Institute, on how regenerative medicine and longevity science are shaping new approaches to health.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

20 Eating Like a Local in Cabo

Neighborhood restaurants and everyday spots that shape the rhythm of life in town.

40 Photo Essay: Between the Sierras, Life in the Heart of Baja California Sur

A journey through the Sierras de la Giganta and Guadalupe, documenting remote towns and the landscapes that sustain them.

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT 23 From Boom to Blueprint: What’s Next for Los Cabos Real Estate

Why the market is shifting from rapid transactions to long-term planning and structured growth.

44 Turning Sunlight into Power

Inside Baja Sur’s renewable-energy transformation and the path to stable infrastructure.

46 Las Veredas del Agua: A Park for the Future of Todos Santos

26 A Different Pace: Golf in Loreto

How Danzante Bay is shaping a quieter model for residential living and outdoor recreation.

A civic proposal to restore the historic oasis through shared stewardship and public space.

48 Padrino Foundation: Closing the Healthcare Gap for Children

Inside the network improving medical access for children throughout Baja Sur.

28 Understanding Ejido Land in Baja California Sur

What buyers need to know about communal land rights, risk, and opportunity.

BACK OF BOOK Maps of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas

50 A two-page reference for orientation, navigation, and exploration.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tanner Mansell @tannerunderwater

Andrés Navarro @el.navass

Alejandro Méndez Martínez de Escobar @alex.fpv2

THE BAJA GUIDE

FARM-TOTABLE DINING GUIDE From orchard kitchens to seaside grills, discover where the season tastes best LOS CABOS El Huerto – Cabo San Lucas Just outside town, El Huerto pairs open-air dining with its own agricultural rhythm. The menu celebrates organic crops from its nearby ranch in Miraflores. Plates like burrata with basil oil, roasted beets with honeyed walnuts, and fresh catch ceviche capture the kitchen's balance of simplicity and technique. SEAD – Cabo San Lucas Situated near Sunrock Hotel and The Cape, SEAD emphasizes freshness and balance in its offerings. The kitchen utilizes locally sourced produce and proteins while avoiding seed oils. The menu includes gluten-free and vegan options. Additionally, the zero-proof cocktails are created using herbs, roots, and adaptogens instead of alcohol.

Acre – San Jose del Cabo Tucked within a palm grove outside town, Acre blends global inspiration with local agriculture. The menu changes with the harvest. Think roasted vegetables, freshly caught fish, and tropical fruit desserts. Its contemporary kitchen garden and design-forward setting make it one of Los Cabos' most distinctive farm-to-table destinations. EAST CAPE Monte Cardon – Zacatitos Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Monte Cardon limits its primary ingredients to a 12-mile radius. The result is an ultra-local tasting menu of six courses offered only a few nights each week. Dishes might include goat cheese with roasted pepper sauce or grilled amberjack in olive oil pressed on-site.

Outpost – Cabo San Lucas Also known as O.P., Outpost blends inventive cooking with craft mixology in a lush setting of light, music, and regional architecture. Its rooftop garden supplies the kitchen with daily harvests of greens and sprouts, grounding each dish in freshness. The result is modern Baja dining at its most vibrant and immersive.

Delphine at Costa Palmas – La Ribera French chef Ludo Lefebvre brings Mediterranean clarity to the East Cape. The menu leans heavily on vegetables, featuring dishes like ratatouille, steak au poivre, and grilled calamari. The dining room opens directly onto the sand, and the wine list emphasizes balance over excess.

Los Tamarindos – San Jose del Cabo Set within a 19th-century farmhouse, Los Tamarindos grows nearly everything it serves. The menu features dishes that rotate weekly, defined by the fields of tomatoes, herbs, and citrus. Expect rustic plates with elegant restraint — seasonal fish, grilled vegetables, handmade pasta.

Limon, Four Seasons Costa Palmas – La Ribera An al-fresco concept set among orchards and citrus trees at Four Seasons Costa Palmas. Limon highlights produce grown on-site and at nearby farms, serving dishes centered on freshness and texture, including grilled vegetables, citrusmarinated seafood, and local herbs.

Flora Farms – San Jose del Cabo A pioneer of Baja's farm-to-table movement, Flora Farms grows, harvests, and cooks on the same property. The open-air restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and signature cocktails crafted with garden-fresh herbs. Beyond the table, the property consists of a market, bakery, and classes that invite guests to experience the rhythm of the farm.

TODOS SANTOS / PESCADERO / CERRITOS Jazamango – Todos Santos Chef Javier Plascencia's garden restaurant defines the farm-to-table movement in this region. Lunch unfolds in a shaded terrace surrounded by herbs and fruit trees. Expect Baja oysters, grilled chocolate clams, and wood-fired vegetables drawn from the local soil. It's a long, generous meal meant to showcase the land itself. Benno, Hotel San Cristobal – Todos Santos Overlooking Punta Lobos, Benno reflects Baja's coastline in each plate. Seasonal seafood, local produce, and Mediterranean simplicity meet in a refined yet relaxed setting. The menu changes with the tides, highlighting ingredients sourced from nearby farms and fisheries. Hierbabuena – Pescadero Open-air tables surrounded by citrus groves and hummingbirds. Flatbreads with arugula and fig, roasted vegetables, and local cheese are featured on the menu. The cooking feels effortless, the atmosphere grounded in place. One of the peninsula's most authentic outdoor dining experiences. Pescadero 62 – Cerritos / Pescadero A roadside kitchen with creative flair. The menu blends grilled seafood, local produce, and craft beer in a relaxed, rustic setting. Occasional live music and inventive cocktails enhance the atmosphere, making it a favorite for casual dinners and spirited evenings.

WINTER 2026

LA PAZ Majagua Majagua is a vibrant addition to the Puerta Cortes dining scene, offering refined, farm-to-table Mexican cuisine. Set under a magnificent pergola beside the Marina Costa Baja, the menu balances premium cuts with coastal flavor, featuring characteristic tiraditos, savory tacos, and the daily fresh catch. Oyster House by FISM Not farm-to-table, but close in spirit. This neighborhood raw bar builds its menu around the day's catch. Oysters with morita aguachile, shrimp ceviche, and fried oyster sandwiches. Everything tastes freshly pulled from the sea, best enjoyed on the porch with a mezcal as La Paz drifts by. Tatanka Blending the agricultural bounty of the surrounding valleys with the city's fishing traditions, Tatanka sources much of its produce from small family farms in Los Planes and El Centenario. Expect grilled local vegetables, seasonal seafood, and house-made bread that reflects the unique flavors of the sea and the soil of Baja Sur.

LORETO Los Olivos – Downtown Loreto A long-standing institution that continues to refine its approach to regional seafood. The kitchen collaborates closely with nearby farms and fishermen, serving risotto made with the daily catch, seasonal soups, and grilled octopus accompanied by citrus butter. Evenings on the terrace feel timeless. Danzante – Villa del Palmar Loreto Fine dining without pretense. Set against the sea, Danzante serves dishes like mezcal shrimp, zarandeado octopus, and local greens. Each plate respects its ingredients and surroundings, drawing from Mulege's valleys and the surrounding waters.

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LOS CABOS

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Whale Watching Season Begins Between January and April, humpbacks fill the Cabo waters. Smaller tour groups offer intimate sightings near Land's End, ideally guided by marine biologists. Early mornings are best for calm seas and clear light on the cliffs.

Surfing at Cerritos Beach Gentle breaks make Cerritos perfect for beginners. Soft sands, steady waves, and relaxed surf schools define the morning scene. Even spectators enjoy the view. Sun, spray, and the rhythm of the Pacific.

Sportfishing Winter brings ideal conditions for striped marlin (most abundant from December to February) along with yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and dorado. Charter boats leave at dawn from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, offering anglers a classic Baja experience on open water.

Hiking Punta Lobos The coastal trail starts near the old cannery and rises to panoramic cliffs. In winter, whales pass offshore, and the desert blooms faintly. Carry water, take your time, and let the horizon unfold before you.

Hike Sierra de la Laguna Cooler months bring ideal hiking conditions in the Sierra. Trails climb from desert scrub into pine forests, ending in clear pools and waterfalls. Hiring a local guide is recommended, as routes can be demanding. Bring layers and start before sunrise; the light alone is worth the journey.

LA PAZ

EAST CAPE Snorkeling Cabo Pulmo A UNESCO-listed reef and one of Baja's living treasures. Divers and snorkelers find schools of snapper, sea turtles, and rays under glass-clear water. Winter visibility peaks here, making each outing luminous and full of motion. Kitesurfing in Los Barriles By late December, the wind returns and the sails rise. Pros and beginners share the bay, and beach cafés turn into impromptu viewing decks. Lessons are easy to book, and the energy onshore feels contagious. Sol de Mayo Waterfall & De la Zorra Canyon A desert canyon in the Sierra de la Laguna hides a 40-foot waterfall pouring into a jade-green pool. The hike begins near Santiago and passes palms and volcanic rock. Winter's Hot Springs and Ranch Trails Natural hot springs and ranch paths near El Refugio showcase the quieter inland life of the East Cape. The experience combines relaxation, stunning landscapes, and the region's traditional ranching heritage.

Kayaking Balandra Bay With turquoise shallows and pale sandbars, Balandra remains the city's natural emblem. In winter, the crowds fade and the water still warms under the midday sun. Paddle quietly through mangroves and let the bay set the pace. Evenings on the Malecon As the day cools, locals reclaim the boardwalk. Families stroll, skaters glide, and vendors sell “elotes” and ice cream. The ritual is simple: walk, pause for the sunset, repeat tomorrow. Paddle & Snorkel Espiritu Santo Islands A short boat ride from La Paz, these protected islands offer ideal winter paddling and snorkeling. Sea lions, colorful reef fish, and dramatic volcanic cliffs define the scenery. Quiet and luminous, it's one of the most unforgettable outings in Baja Sur. LORETO Blue Whale Watching From January through March, the world's largest mammals return to Loreto Bay. Small, licensed operators offer respectful and educational tours that highlight the serenity of these encounters. The experience is humbling: quiet seas, imposing creatures, and slow breathing. Hike to San Javier Mission The stone mission is situated deep in the Sierra de la Giganta, accessible by a winding mountain road. At dawn, the light filters through palms and orchards. Stop for handmade tortillas and coffee at one of the roadside kitchens.

WHAT TO DO WHEN THE WHALES RETURN Cool mornings, open trails, and clear light define Baja's most welcoming season.

THE BAJA GUIDE

EVENTS FOR WHEN THE YEAR TURNS NEW A season of festivals, concerts, and retreats across Baja California Sur.

LOS CABOS ABC Art Baja | Mar 20–Apr 5 Though extending into spring, the festival begins in late March. A multi-city celebration of visual art, performance, and design connecting the peninsula's creative hubs, like Los Cabos, La Paz, and Todos Santos. 21K Race Los Cabos | Early February Held in San Jose del Cabo, this half-marathon (with 5 K, 10 K, and 21 K options) winds through sea vistas and urban turns. It's part race, part celebration. Local energy meets international runners, and every stride takes in Baja's light, salt air, and terrain. Cabo San Lucas Marathon | Jan 18 From desert edges to the iconic arch of Cabo, this full- and half-marathon event offers distances ranging from 5K to 42K. Open to both beginners and seasoned athletes, it transforms the heart of Los Cabos into one long finish line. EAST CAPE East Cape Guild Songwriters Festival | Early March | Los Barriles Hosted by the East Cape Guild, this communitydriven festival gathers regional and international songwriters for two days of live performances supporting local education initiatives. An intimate and authentic musical experience set against the Sea of Cortez backdrop. TODOS SANTOS / PESCADERO / CERRITOS Tropic of Cancer Concert Series | Jan 14–18 An annual music gathering where rock, reggae, and folk fill the desert nights. The energy feels both local and global. Todos Santos Art Festival | Feb 2026 A long-standing cultural event that transforms Todos Santos into an open-air gallery. The festival includes visual arts, live music, and open studios, showcasing the town's vibrant artistic identity.

Workshops at the Modern Elder Academy | El Pescadero Part retreat, part classroom, MEA's programs focus on life transitions and leadership grounded in purpose. The beachfront campus, located just south of Pescadero, hosts multi-day workshops that blend conversation, wellness, and community in an atmosphere of calm intention. Abre Tu Boca | Todos Santos A social-writing initiative that deepens voice and community. Based in Todos Santos, Abre Tu Boca guides participants through its "inner-voice" method of writing, reading, and listening in English or Spanish. Winter programming centers on multi-day circles and open-stage forums. LA PAZ La Pazion Fest | Feb 6–8 A three-day celebration of salsa and bachata featuring workshops, social dances, and live performances by international artists. A highlight for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in La Paz's vibrant music scene. Carnaval La Paz | Feb 13–18 One of Baja California Sur's most anticipated celebrations, with parades, music, and street festivities along the city's waterfront. The event blends local culture, traditional costumes, and a festive atmosphere that fills the Malecon. Slow Baja Winter Expedition | Mar 1–7, 2026 A guided overland adventure through Baja's deserts and coastlines, focusing on slow travel and local hospitality. The expedition highlights regional cuisine, ranch life, and conservation efforts. LORETO Festival of Culture and Nature | Jan 17–19 A three-day festival dedicated to celebrating local producers, traditional crafts, and environmental education. Set against the Sierra de la Giganta, it offers workshops, nature walks, and regional cuisine that connect visitors with Loreto's surrounding landscapes.

FEATURES

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WHERE TO OPEN YOUR LAPTOP Coworking spaces and cafés in Los Cabos with the right mix of calm, comfort, and signal.

WORK-FRIENDLY CAFÉS Doce Cuarenta – Cabo San Lucas Located next to Plaza Pioneros, this creative favorite serves locally roasted coffee in an airy, minimalist space. Reliable Wi-Fi and quiet tables make it a go-to for working mornings. Cabo Coffee Company – Cabo San Lucas One of Los Cabos' original roasters, with locations downtown and at Plaza Nova, El Tezal. The espresso's consistent, the team is friendly, and the setting is relaxed. Café Saturno – Cabo San Lucas Located in the new Plaza Naranjo, Saturno offers good Wi-Fi, strong coffee, and quiet focus. Its early hours, and elegant, inviting design makes it ideal for remote work. Café Trueno – Cabo San Lucas Located in downtown Cabo San Lucas, Trueno combines warm interiors, excellent espresso, and attentive service. It's a favorite among locals who mix work and conversation in equal measure. La Wine Shop – Los Cabos Part café, part concept store, with locations just outside San Jose and Cabo San Lucas. It pairs specialty coffee with natural wines in a calm, design-minded setting. Ideal for quiet mornings or informal meetings.

COWORKING SPACES T1ME&CO – Cabo San Lucas Located near Sunrock Hotel and The Cape, this coworking hub features a combination of outdoor terraces and open desks in a clean, minimalist setting. Ergonomic seating, fast internet, and a wellness-first menu make it ideal for focused workdays. Koral Desk – Los Cabos Corridor A bright workspace overlooking the sea, midway between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose. Flexible memberships, reliable internet, and a sense of calm between meetings. Colab – San Jose del Cabo Design-forward and communityminded, Colab offers shared tables and private offices within walking distance of galleries, cafés, and the historic downtown area.

DAYS BY THE SEA The beaches of Baja California Sur define much of its rhythm and character. Each one offers something distinct: places to swim, surf, explore, or pause and take in the changing light.

Looking for surf breaks? Scan the QR.

LOS CABOS Los Cabos is home to many of Baja’s most accessible and swimmable beaches. Calm bays, soft sand, and clear water invite long swims, while others are better for quiet walks and wide views. Lovers' and Divorce Beach Located at the Land's End rock formations, these iconic twin beaches are accessible only by water taxi from Cabo's marina. Lover's Beach faces the calmer Sea of Cortez, while Divorce Beach opens to the rough Pacific. El Medano The main beach in Cabo San Lucas is one of the most active in the region. Its long stretch of swimmable water is lined with restaurants, beach clubs, and water sports operators. From quiet mornings to lively afternoons with music and activity, El Medano offers something for everyone. Las Viudas A lesser-known spot along the Corridor, Las Viudas features dramatic rock formations and tide pools that attract photographers and explorers. While the surf is too strong for swimming, it's a striking place to enjoy the coastline's raw beauty. Santa Maria A horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by rocky cliffs. The marine sanctuary here attracts a variety of colorful fish, and its sheltered waters make it a favorite destination for families and kayakers.

Chileno Bay A Blue Flag-certified beach between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Its calm waters and coral formations make it one of the area's best spots for snorkeling and swimming.

EAST CAPE

Palmilla A favorite among locals, this protected bay on the outskirts of San Jose offers calm waters and a family-friendly setting. Palmilla's soft sand and gentle surf also make it one of the most swimmable beaches in the region.

The East Cape stretches for miles north toward La Paz, but the beaches listed here are the ones easiest to reach from San Jose del Cabo. Known for surf breaks, clear water, and open views, they offer a quiet contrast to the area's resort life. Nine Palms Beach A world-class surf break with a laid-back atmosphere. The long right-hand wave attracts both surfers and spectators, especially in the morning when the winds are calm.

Costa Azul A hub for surf enthusiasts, with consistent breaks and a lively atmosphere near San Jose. The beach's access to cafés and surf schools makes it a convenient choice for beginners and experienced surfers.

Shipwrecks Beach Remote and scenic, this beach is a favorite for off-road travelers and surf seekers. The dirt road leading to the beach creates a distinctive sense of isolation, and the views of the Sea of Cortez are unmatched.

Veleros and El Ganzo Beach Located next to the Puerto Los Cabos Marina, this is one of the few swimmable spots in the area. Visitors can freely walk in with their own umbrellas or reserve a spot at the Veleros Beach Club. Two man-made rock barriers frame the bay, providing shelter for the waters.

La Fortuna Beach A tranquil stretch of clear waters meets untouched desert. The surf can be moderate, making it suitable for both swimming and paddleboarding when conditions are calm.

Beaches of La Paz Photo: Josh Withers Instagram: @hellojoshwithers

TODOS SANTOS / PESCADERO / CERRITOS The Pacific side feels raw and untamed, with strong currents and expansive views. Most beaches are best for walking or watching waves, though Cerritos stands out as a safe swimming spot. Sunsets here are unforgettable — the sun drops straight into the sea. Las Palmas Tucked south of Todos Santos, Las Palmas feels like one of the area's quiet secrets. The path to reach it winds through a hidden palm oasis, fed by an underground spring. San Pedrito Known for its consistent surf and quieter setting, San Pedrito in El Pescadero draws experienced surfers and sunset watchers. Access is by a short dirt road from Pescadero. Perfect for long meditative walks. Cerritos A favorite for beginners and longboarders, Cerritos offers reliable waves and surf schools year-round. The scene is relaxed, with cafés and small beach bars.

LA PAZ

LORETO

La Paz is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Shallow turquoise water and soft white sand make them perfect for swimming or wading with children, while reddish hills frame the city's luminous coastline.

Loreto's coastline brings sea and mountains within sight of each other. Calm, life-filled waters surround volcanic islands, while the Sierra de la Giganta rises just beyond the bay, creating one of Baja Sur's most dramatic landscapes.

Balandra Famous for its turquoise lagoon and shallow bay, Balandra remains one of Baja's most photographed natural sites. Ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, it is protected as a natural area with limited daily access to preserve its beauty.

Nopolo Beach A wide, family-friendly beach just south of Loreto, lined with palms and calm water ideal for paddleboarding. Locals jog the shoreline at sunrise as the islands glow pink across the bay.

Tecolote Located just beyond Balandra, Tecolote offers restaurants, beach bars, and boat rentals for day trips to Isla Espiritu Santo. Its gentle waves and long shore make it perfect for families and groups. El Coromuel One of the closest beaches to downtown La Paz. Recently renovated with piers and shaded palapas, it's popular among locals for early morning swims and evening walks.

Juncalito Beach Juncalito, cherished for its simplicity, is where Loreto residents go to relax. Campers and day visitors set up along the sandy shore, facing the unbroken horizon. The shallow waters stretch far into the sea, creating a sense of infinite calm. Ensenada Blanca Ensenada Blanca, where the resort Villa del Palmar is located, offers a secluded stretch of white sand bordered by turquoise waters. Often used as a launching point for snorkeling or kayaking trips, it embodies the serenity that defines Loreto.

THE BAJA GUIDE

GIVE BACK:

WAYS TO SUPPORT BAJA SUR Nonprofits across Baja Sur strengthen community, health, education, and conservation through direct, local impact. Amigos de los Niños – Los Cabos Provides specialized medical care for children in vulnerable situations, including cardiology, dental surgery, audiology, and vision support. The program connects families with medical teams that deliver treatment without financial barriers. How to get involved: Donate, participate in fundraising events, or offer professional support. Casa Ramé – Los Cabos Dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities through therapeutic programs, education, and family support. How to get involved: Contribute to program growth or volunteer at community activities. Cero Basura BCS – Todos Santos, Pescadero, Cerritos An initiative focused on diverting hazardous waste from landfills and converting it into productive uses, this organization empowers the peninsula’s communities through education, recycling programs, and local stewardship. How to get involved: Donate to waste-reduction programs, volunteer at compost or recycling initiatives, or adopt sustainable habits in your home or business. Corazón de Niño – La Paz Supports children with congenital heart conditions by coordinating diagnosis, surgery logistics, and long-term recovery assistance for families across Baja Sur How to get involved: Sponsor medical care, attend benefit events, or assist families during treatment.

Eco-Alianza Loreto – Loreto Protects the marine ecosystem of Loreto Bay through community education, scientific research, and conservation initiatives focused on long-term ocean health.

PET Los Cabos – Los Cabos An animal-welfare nonprofit focused on responsible pet ownership, accessible spay/neuter campaigns, adoptions, and fostering in the Los Cabos region.

How to get involved: Join educational programs, support research, or donate to preservation efforts.

How to get involved: Adopt a pet, volunteer for campaigns or runs, donate to support care and transport programs.

Environmental Defense Fund – La Paz Advances sustainable fisheries and ocean policy across the peninsula, collaborating with coastal communities, researchers, and environmental leaders.

Red Autismo – Los Cabos Supports children with Autism Spectrum Disorder through individualized therapies focused on communication, social development, and inclusive education.

How to get involved: Support initiatives, engage with advocacy efforts, or adopt sustainable travel practices.

How to get involved: Donate to therapy programs or volunteer with academic or clinical skills.

Fundación Sarahuaro – Los Cabos Promotes community development, education, and resource management programs designed to strengthen families and expand economic opportunity. How to get involved: Volunteer, collaborate on sustainability initiatives, or offer financial support. International Community Foundation – La Paz & Loreto A grant-making organization connecting donors with environmental and social programs, amplifying local impact through long-term partnerships. How to get involved: Donate to targeted initiatives or partner through philanthropic strategy. Padrino Children’s Foundation – Todos Santos Provides access to medical care, mental health services, and holistic support for children and families in the Todos Santos corridor. How to get involved: Sponsor care programs or volunteer specialized expertise.

Shriners San José del Cabo – Los Cabos Helps children requiring specialized surgery or advanced medical treatment by coordinating transportation, lodging, and family care. How to get involved: Support travel funding, contribute lodging or services, or assist with logistics. Sinades A.C. – El Pescadero Environmental education with a hands-on approach. Programs teach recycling, gardening, and sustainable habits that cultivate responsible young citizens. How to get involved: Volunteer in school workshops or provide materials and resources. VIFAC Los Cabos – Los Cabos Offers shelter and support to pregnant women in vulnerable circumstances, helping mothers and children build stable futures. How to get involved: Donate supplies, volunteer time, or support vocational training.

WINTER 2026

HOW TO GET PESOS IN BAJA WITHOUT THE TOURIST MARKUP international fees, the overall cost is typically more favorable than hotel desks or exchange houses.

Visitors from the U.S. and Canada are accustomed to a card-first economy, where cafés, stadiums, and even small shops often operate cash-free. Baja works differently. Taxis, tips, food stands, and local businesses prefer cash, and pesos almost always stretch farther than dollars. Cards are accepted in most places, but relying on them alone can cost you more than needed. So, how do you get pesos without absorbing the tourist premium? Don't Bring Pesos from Home Ordering pesos from your bank before the trip seems convenient, but it rarely delivers value. U.S. and Canadian banks apply weaker rates and add service charges, leaving you with limited flexibility and less money on arrival. It's nearly always cheaper to wait and convert in Mexico through banks, ATMs, or exchange houses. Banks: Best Rates, More Effort Local banks — Banorte, Santander, BBVA, Banco Azteca — offer some of the strongest exchange rates in town. The trade-off is logistics. Lines are standard, opening hours are short, passports are required, and daily limits apply for exchanging physical dollars. If you want a benchmark before heading out, check the Banco de México reference rate online. It won't match what you see on the street, but it helps you gauge fairness. ATMs Inside Banks: The Sweet Spot for Travelers For most visitors, the most practical solution is to withdraw pesos from ATMs inside bank branches. Rates are generally close to bank-counter levels, and transactions are fast, secure, and paperwork-free. Withdrawals come directly from your home account at the bank's rate. Even with small

Exchange Houses: Quick but Variable Exchange houses, known as casas de cambio in Spanish, are typical, but the quality varies significantly. Some offer competitive rates, while others charge a steep premium. Be prepared for long lines and more basic facilities compared to banks. They are suitable for small amounts or emergencies, but not recommended for large conversions. Resort Desks: Convenient but Costly Hotel exchange desks are the most effortless option, but convenience carries a steep markup. They help grab enough cash for a tip or a taxi, nothing more. Airport Exchanges: A Short-Term Fix Counters at the airport offer reliability when everything else is closed, but the rates are among the weakest. They're fine for a coffee and a ride into town before switching to better options. Paying with U.S. and Canadian Cards Cards are widely accepted at hotels, major restaurants, and retail, and they work well for larger transactions. But taxis, independent shops, street food, and many service providers still operate on a cash-only basis. Foreign transaction fees can also reduce the convenience. The Bottom Line Baja, especially Los Cabos, accepts dollars and cards, but pesos run daily life. Carrying them improves both pricing and interaction: negotiating a ride, tipping well, or buying tacos on the beach. You don't need to memorize rates; just choose where you convert. ATMs inside banks provide the strongest balance between value and ease; banks deliver the best rates if you have time; exchange houses solve last-minute needs. With pesos in your pocket, you move through Baja on local terms and every exchange feels smoother.

FEATURES

View of Cabo San Lucas Photo: Zetong Li

EATING LIKE A LOCAL IN CABO

Cabo San Lucas has restaurants for every taste, from polished resort dining rooms to relaxed neighborhood spots where people gather without reservations or dress codes. Resort kitchens deliver the views and special-occasion dinners Cabo is known for. But stepping outside them once in a while shows a different side of the city, the places locals choose on ordinary days. A few blocks from Medano Beach, Tacos Gardenias has been part of the community for decades. Families, workers, and beachgoers drift in throughout the day for shrimp and fish tacos, cochinita pibil, and the shrimp molcajete that regulars often recommend. People stay as long as they want; it's the kind of place that feels familiar even on a first visit.

WINTER 2026

Down on the marina, Sancho's Bar carries a louder, more social rhythm. Breakfast starts early, screens run sports throughout the day, and boats pass just outside the patio. Cajun-style seafood and Tex-Mex plates land steadily as the afternoon turns into night. Friends meet there without planning ahead, and time tends to slip by easily. As evening builds, downtown pulls crowds toward Tacos Guss, known for pastor, carnitas, birria, and a steady late-night pace. Open grills, fast plates, and tables packed close together keep the place moving. Workers coming off shift sit beside visitors leaving the bars, and the mix feels effortless. A short walk away, Mariscos Mazatlan shifts the pace. It's a classic northwestern Mexican seafood house: cold beer, fresh ceviche, and shrimp cocktails dressed with lime and chili. Some evenings, a Mariachi group moves between tables, and the atmosphere turns celebratory without much notice. When hours run late, Taqueria El Paisa is still lit. It began as a street stand and still feels like one: meat on the grill, tortillas stacking high, conversations rising and falling around the counter. Al pastor and carne asada drive the constant flow of people drifting in at every hour.

R E A L

Close to downtown, Los Claros remains a reliable daytime stop, best known for fried fish tacos. Crisp batter, fresh tortillas, and a long condiment bar let everyone build their own version. Sunlight fills the room, and families, regulars, and workers cycle through steadily. Las Guacamayas shifts the tone into something louder. Murals, live music, and molcajetes designed for sharing give the restaurant a celebratory feel every day. Stuffed potatoes and sizzling platters land at the center of the table, and the energy builds fast around them. For comfort food with no pretense, Frankie's has become a straightforward favorite. It's a casual burger joint with air conditioning, comfortable seating, and some of the better fries in town. The menu is simple: smash burgers, fast-food style, done well. Easy place to settle in after the beach or between errands, with nothing over-styled or complicated. And then there's Cabo Wabo Cantina, famous for its nightlife and live music, often overlooked for breakfast. It opens at 9 a.m. daily, serving a solid morning menu long before the evening crowds arrive. People drop in for eggs, chilaquiles, and coffee without the party atmosphere that fills the place after dark. A different side of a venue most people think they already know.

E S T A T E

Cerritos and Pescadero share the same stretch of Baja's Pacific coast, yet offer distinct ways of living. Serenity at Cerritos sits near the surf, designed for comfort and connection. Casa Solito, in the quiet of Pescadero, offers space and privacy. Each reflects a different pace of life in this part of Baja. Lindsey Mitchell +1 406 860 4326 lindsey@emeyagroup.com María Ayala 624 157 6336 majoayala@emeyagroup.com

Serenity at Cerritos

Casa Solito

Serenity at Cerritos is a boutique development of 15 residences steps from the beach. This three-bedroom penthouse combines privacy, generous outdoor space, and reﬁned ﬁnishes with easy access to one of Baja's most active communities.

In Pescadero, Casa Solito is a pre-construction home surrounded by fields and ocean light. With five bedrooms, a lock-off suite, and outdoor spaces including a rooftop deck and heated pool, it's designed for comfort, privacy, and flexibility.

$1,085,000 USD | $20,220,928 MXN

$2,600,000 USD | $48,344,400 MXN

Property ID: #25-942

Property ID: #25-3724

Conversion to pesos subject to change. The information shown in pesos is solely based on the official conversion on the date these ads were submitted. The offered price is in dollars (U.S. currency), and in accordance with Article 8 of the Monetary Law, the real price will be that of pesos resulting from the official exchange rate on the date payment is due. In accordance with NOM 247, prices shown in dollars can be converted into pesos by accessing the following link and performing the corresponding arithmetic multiplication based on the current exchange rate: www.banxico.org.mx. Prices subject to change.

WINTER 2026

FROM BOOM TO BLUEPRINT: WHAT'S NEXT FOR LOS CABOS REAL ESTATE After a decade of near-constant expansion, real estate in Los Cabos is catching its breath. The pandemic-era surge, when remote work, lifestyle migration, and speculative enthusiasm converged, igniting an unprecedented rise in demand, has given way to a calmer rhythm. Sales have cooled, price growth has leveled off, and developers are reevaluating what kind of communities the region actually needs.

Nowhere is that transition clearer than in San Jose del Cabo. Often overshadowed by Cabo San Lucas (its faster-moving twin city), San Jose has evolved into a laboratory for a more deliberate model of growth: slower, better planned, and oriented toward long-term livability rather than quick turnover. Marco Klein, a broker with over twenty-five years of experience in the region, has witnessed these cycles unfold since the 1990s. He believes today's moment marks a healthy correction rather than a downturn: "Every market needs time to breathe.” In that pause, new patterns emerge of how land is managed, how buyers behave, and how developers adapt. The question shaping real estate in Los Cabos in 2026 is no longer how fast Los Cabos can grow, but how wisely. In that respect, San Jose's measured approach may offer the clearest glimpse into the region's future. A Tale of Two Cities The contrast between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo explains much about how the region is evolving. Both share the same coastline and tourist appeal. Yet, their development pattern and the logic behind them could hardly be more different. 23

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

Markets are like a heartbeat. You can't have growth without the resting phases in between. In Cabo San Lucas, growth has radiated outward from the marina into the hillside neighborhood of El Tezal. The land there once belonged to an ejido, or communal agrarian trust. It was gradually privatized and sold to individual developers. The result was a surge of construction: gated communities, low-rise condominiums, and small apartment complexes competing for the same buyers. For a while, demand justified the pace. However, as inventory increased, so did the strain on infrastructure. Water became inconsistent, access roads congested, and projects began to cannibalize one another. Across the corridor, San Jose del Cabo took a slower, more centralized path. Much of its land remained under a single title, managed by a single company that oversaw the former ejido's transition to private property. This concentration curbed speculation but made possible something rare in Mexican resort towns: coherent urban planning. Instead of dozens of uncoordinated subdivisions, parcels were released in phases, each with defined zoning, density, and service connections in place. Marco explains the difference: "In San Jose, you don't have twenty developers competing on the same street. Each project knows its place in the master plan." The result is a landscape that grows intentionally rather than by chance. Along Boulevard Forjadores, that design is becoming visible. Clusters of midrise condominiums framed by schools, markets, and sports fields. It's a quieter rhythm, one that hints at long-term coherence: a city expanding with a sense of order rather than urgency.

View of Puerto Los Cabos marina with the San Jose estuary Photo: Alejandro Méndez Martínez de Escobar Instagram: @alex.fpv2

WINTER 2026

Purpose-Built Living The new projects emerging around San Jose aren't chasing speculative returns; they're responding to a demographic shift. After years of catering mainly to seasonal owners, developers are discovering a growing audience of full-time residents: professionals, families, and retirees who want the infrastructure of a real city rather than the amenities of a resort. Marco estimates that roughly 7,000 people living in San Jose could afford to buy if the right kind of housing existed: units that balance quality with attainability, designed for permanence instead of quick resale. That realization is quietly reshaping how projects are financed, built, and marketed. Developers are scaling down footprints, adding practical amenities like co-working spaces and fitness areas, and keeping HOA costs within reach. The focus has shifted from maximizing absorption to ensuring long-term satisfaction. A case in point is Vitai, a community represented by Klein Real Estate. Located just off Boulevard Forjadores, it offers mid-market pricing, supported by solid infrastructure, including completed water and power connections before the start of presales. The design incorporates over twenty amenities while maintaining a manageable cost structure, aiming to serve families who plan to live there year-round. "People want to know they can move in and have everything working," says Marco. "That's what makes the difference now." Vitai is less about chasing appreciation than about building confidence, a signal that Los Cabos' next growth phase will be measured by reliability as much as by return on investment. Cycles and Strategy To understand how professionals like Marco Klein read the current moment, it helps to think in cycles. Real estate in Los Cabos, he says, has always moved in waves, each surge of enthusiasm followed by a pause that tests conviction. The pandemic boom was no exception: "People get nervous when the market slows, but that's when the best opportunities appear." The pattern is familiar to long-term investors: when demand cools, prices stabilize, and financing becomes more flexible. Those who enter then build equity that lasts through the next expansion. "Markets are like a heartbeat. You can't have growth without the resting phases in between." That cyclical perspective helps explain why Cabo continues to attract experienced investors, even during quieter periods. The fundamentals remain solid: a dollar-friendly, growing economy that protects value, strong rental yields driven by tourism, and a relative sense of safety rare among Mexico's coastal regions. Add to that the expansion of direct flights and digital infrastructure, and the slowdown looks Hear it in less like contraction than context. consolidation. Scan to watch the interview.

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

A DIFFERENT PACE: GOLF IN LORETO

In Baja California Sur, most golfers fly directly into Los Cabos. However, 320 miles to the north, the historic town of Loreto, which has its own international airport, offers a quieter and more spacious golfing experience with less hustle and bustle.

TPC Danzante Bay and Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto Photo courtesy of REmexico Real Estate

You come here, and your time with people matters more. Nobody's rushing you. It's just you, the land, and the game. At the center of Loreto lies TPC Danzante Bay, situated between the Sierra de la Giganta and the Sea of Cortez. This course has been awarded the title of the best golf course in Latin America by the World Golf Awards, and it embodies a slower, more grounded way of life. We spoke with Danny Garcia, Senior Head Golf Professional at Danzante Bay, about what makes the course and the destination stand out. Designed by Rees Jones and opened in 2017, the course winds through desert valleys, climbs into the foothills, and arcs back toward the sea. "Every hole is an experience," Danny says. "Every hole has a different view, a different rhythm." The course begins in the desert, then slowly ascends into the mountains before pivoting toward the coastline. Hole 17, the signature par-3, clings to a cliffside with open ocean on one side and sheer rock behind. "We have desert, valleys, mountains, and the ocean. Not many courses in the world can claim that." TPC Danzante Bay isn't just a technical achievement: it reflects the pace of Loreto itself. No crowds, no sales pitches, no nightlife competing for attention. Just the rhythm of your swing and the sound of the sea. "You come here, and your time with people matters more. Nobody's rushing you. It's just you, the land, and the game." The course is part of the larger Danzante Bay community, which includes Villa del Palmar resort and a growing number of residences. Homeowners often become members, forming the nucleus of a relaxed but passionate golf culture. "Everyone who buys in ends up playing. Some live here fulltime, some come and go, but golf is part of their routine." What sticks with most visitors is how the course frames the landscape. "The Sierra de la Giganta range is all around you. Some of your shots go into the hills. Others go toward the sea. People stop to take pictures on every hole." For Danny, Hole 17 holds a personal value. "The first time I played it, I made birdie," he says. "That's when I decided to stay and work here. It was a sign."

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

UNDERSTANDING EJIDO LAND IN BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR

View of Cerritos and El Pescadero Photo: Josh Withers Instagram: @hellojoshwithers

As you drive along Baja's Pacific coast, you may notice names like "Ejido Plutarco Elias Calles" on highway signs. However, many visitors may not understand what the term "ejido" means. The concept frequently arises in real estate, particularly in areas like Baja California Sur, where large tracts of land are part of this communal land system. "For people unfamiliar with it, it helps to think of an 'ejido' as something like a farmers' cooperative," says realtor Karina Christensen, who represents properties across the Pacific corridor, including Rancho 82 in Elias Calles. "The land was granted to local families after the Mexican Revolution so they could live off it collectively. Everyone used it, but no one could sell it." That collective arrangement shaped much of rural Mexico through the twentieth century.

Each "ejido" managed its farmland, grazing areas, and home sites jointly. Ownership remained communal. What individuals held were use rights, not titles. Then, in the 1990s, constitutional reforms allowed "ejidos" to subdivide and regularize their parcels. Once registered with the National Agrarian Registry (RAN), those lots could be titled and sold as private property.

Still, the path from communal to private ownership is well established. For foreigners, another layer applies: the "fideicomiso," or bank trust. Because coastal land lies within Mexico's restricted zone, the title is held in trust by a Mexican bank on behalf of the buyer. It's not a lease. The owner retains full rights to sell, build, or transfer.

"The key," Karina explains, "is documentation. If the assembly wasn't properly held or the registration never happened, the title isn't valid. And that's where problems arise."

"Once you understand how it works," Karina notes, "it's perfectly straightforward. It's simply how property ownership functions in Baja."

Today, vast areas of land in Baja California Sur encompass land that was once, or remains, "ejido." Many parcels have already completed the legal conversion, and any property listed on the region's MLS must carry a clean, registered title. Buyers still need a closing attorney to verify the paperwork. 28

Go deeper. Scan to watch the interview.

WINTER 2026

Rancho 82

T H E BA JA YO U’ V E BEEN D R EA MI N G O F

Rancho 82 is an extraordinary 2.4-acre oceanfront property in Elias Calles with 190 feet of Paciﬁc frontage, two Mexican-style homes, and ﬁve titled lots with room to grow. With direct beach access, sweeping views, and easy reach to Todos Santos, Pescadero, Cerritos, and Cabo, it's an ideal setting for a family compound, boutique retreat, or oceanfront villas.

$2,450,000 USD $45,570,000 MXN Property ID: #25-4507

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Casa Bohemia Casa Bohemia is a custom Santa Fe–style home in Todos Santos, built as a private compound for inspired living. A single-level primary residence and three guest casitas surround a resort-style pool and lush gardens, blending artistry, tranquility, and seamless indoor-outdoor living with ocean views. Minutes from town and the beach.

$1,950,000 USD $36,270,000 MXN Property ID#: 25-5011 Conversion to pesos subject to change. The information shown in pesos is solely based on the official conversion on the date these ads were submitted. The offered price is in dollars (U.S. currency), and in accordance with Article 8 of the Monetary Law, the real price will be that of pesos resulting from the official exchange rate on the date payment is due. In accordance with NOM 247, prices shown in dollars can be converted into pesos by accessing the following link and performing the corresponding arithmetic multiplication based on the current exchange rate: www.banxico.org.mx. Prices subject to change.

LIFESTYLE & HOSPITALITY

THE WILD STILL LIVES HERE: RETHINKING ADVENTURE IN A CHANGING CABO Driving through El Tezal in the outskirts of Cabo San Lucas at dusk, you don't expect to see a fox. Yet one crosses the road, tail high, unhurried, before disappearing into the brush beyond the new houses. The moment lasts a heartbeat, but it underscores a truth: wilderness and city now share the same space. Los Cabos has grown faster than almost any region in Mexico. Roads cut through once-silent arroyos; towers rise where the desert used to breathe. Adventure here was once defined by remoteness. Now it unfolds beside construction sites and paved trails. Visitors still come for open horizons, but each season the horizon moves farther away. The question is not whether development

should continue — it will — but whether tourism can exist without consuming the landscapes that give it meaning. Defining Responsible Tourism For Leon Robles, founder of Wild Canyon Adventures, an adventure park located in an unspoiled piece of land along the Los Cabos Tourist Corridor, responsibility begins with accepting that every visitor leaves a mark. "To not affect nature, we'd have to not exist," he says. "The goal is to affect it as little as possible." He distinguishes between ecotourism, which focuses on experiencing nature, and responsible tourism, which shapes how one undertakes that experience. In his park,

materials are chosen for low impact, new trails are avoided, and every cardón cactus and arroyo is mapped before work begins. The idea is to offer access without erasing what's being accessed. The distinction matters in a place like Los Cabos, where record tourism has collided with ecological limits. Growth fuels hotels and creates jobs, but it also strains water, waste, and land resources. Responsibility here is not a slogan or a trend; it's the discipline of operating in a place whose environment can no longer afford carelessness.

Exploring the canyon on horseback Photo: Wild Canyon Adventures Instagram: @wildcanyon 30

A Canyon, a Sanctuary Wild Canyon spans 600 hectares of desert carved by an ancient riverbed. It's a pocket of wilderness within the tourist corridor. Only about twelve hectares are built upon; the rest remains untouched, a mix of palms, mesquite, and arroyos. Leon says each tree and cactus was surveyed before construction began, and motorized routes follow pre-existing ranch trails. The park's most unexpected feature is an animal sanctuary, created after Leon was asked to adopt animals left behind by a closed Mexico City zoo. He secured permits, built enclosures through an environmental management program, and turned the project into both a refuge and a classroom. Visitors, especially children, feed parrots and tortoises while learning that every species there was rescued. "It's not about seeing them behind a cage," Leon says. "It's about giving them a life and helping visitors understand their value." In a destination that often equates adventure with spectacle, Wild Canyon suggests another form: experience that teaches rather than consumes. The Cost of Growth Beyond the canyon, the view changes quickly. The corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is now a line of construction cranes, its hills carved for villas and golf courses. Each new project narrows the wild corridors where foxes, deer, and lizards once moved freely. "They're still here," Leon says, "but it's us who invaded their space." From the air, the cost is visible. Leon, a frequent paraglider, has seen the coastline darken with outflows from hotels and settlements. "We're damaging the sea," he says. "There's no proper treatment plant in San Lucas or San Jose." Discolored water, fewer fish, and the pipes that empty into the surf tell the same story. The Path Forward Leon argues that growth must come with obligations: wastewater treatment, proper land use, and investment in public infrastructure, not just resorts. "Baja California Sur's value to the world is its unique and vast biodiversity. That's what we cannot compromise." He points to Cabo Pulmo as proof that recovery is possible. This reef was once overfished, but now thrives as Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Extending that success inland, he says, would require more than rules: it would mean a cultural shift in how people relate to place. The wild, in his view, isn't a backdrop for tourism but a living system that demands reciprocity. Driving back through the corridor at night, city lights spill across the sand. Somewhere beyond them, the fox moves unseen through the dry riverbed. Its presence is a reminder and a measure: the wild endures, but only as long as those who profit from it remember it exists.

LIFESTYLE & HOSPITALITY

ON THE WHALES' TERMS Every winter, the waters off Baja California Sur come alive with movement. A mist of breath rises over the Pacific, a fluke breaks the surface, and for a moment the distance between human and whale collapses into pure wonder. Los Cabos is one of the world's great stages for this spectacle, home mostly to humpbacks that migrate thousands of miles from Alaska and British Columbia to breed and give birth in warmer seas. Whale watching here feels elemental, the meeting of two species bound by curiosity. Yet behind every encounter lies a question: how do we witness such power without turning it into performance? A Geography of Giants The whales' return defines Baja's calendar. From December to April, humpbacks rule the southern corridor, breaching in the deep blue between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Farther north, gray whales fill the quiet Pacific lagoons of San Ignacio, Ojo de Liebre, and Magdalena Bay, nursing their calves in calm, shallow waters. On the Sea of Cortez side, Loreto Bay becomes a stage for blues and fins — immense, slow, deliberate — feeding in what locals call "the blue triangle." Each region has shaped its own rhythm of coexistence. Magdalena Bay's fishermen turn to guiding. Loreto's small-town captains built a code of conduct known worldwide. Cabo's operators navigate heavier traffic and blend tourism with regulatory discipline. Together, they form an archipelago of practice that keeps whale watching from becoming another extractive industry. Cabo's Rules of the Sea For Jose Manuel Ochoa, owner of Cabo Sails, responsibility begins before the boat leaves the dock. "It's an organized, regulated activity," he says. "We have a national standard, a law called NOM-131, that sets the distances, the speeds, and the number of boats allowed near a whale." Each season, the environmental authority issues a limited number of permits. Only vessels flying a specific flag are certified to operate. "Maybe a third of the boats have it," Jose admits. "The rest, they just go out anyway." Enforcement is the challenge: budget cuts have left inspectors without fuel or patrol crews. But a new marine protected area — expanding the Cabo San Lucas Bay reserve — could change that. The update will bring almost every whale-watching zone inside official boundaries for the first time. Still, rules matter only when people believe in them. "We don't do it just to comply," Jose says. "We do it to care." That difference — between regulation and conviction — may decide whether Cabo's whale watching matures into a sustainable model or drifts toward chaos.

WINTER 2026

Mother humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) and her calf off Cabo San Lucas Photo: Cabo Adventures / Instagram: @cabo_adventures

Captain Tavo has spent a lifetime on the waters of the Sea of Cortez. However, this is the first photograph he has shared alongside orcas — powerful apex predators from the dolphin family, not whales. It was a moment of pure gratitude: dressed in jeans, with no fins, he experienced the joy of being exactly where he belongs. Photo: Tanner Mansell Instagram: @tannerunderwater

LIFESTYLE & HOSPITALITY

Loreto's Quiet Revolution On the Sea of Cortez side, 320 miles north of Cabo, Maria Najera runs Whales of Loreto, where the world's largest animal, the blue whale, visits each winter. Her town pioneered what's now called avistamiento pasivo, or passive watching.

Whales depend on sound, reducing engine noise is as important as maintaining space for them.

"It started here," she says. "Before, when a whale spouted, everyone rushed toward it. The whale reacted and left." Working with scientists, Loreto's guides studied whale behavior. They developed new habits: keeping engines in neutral at 100 meters and watching the animal's rhythm before deciding whether to move.

As climate change and vessel noise reshape migration, adaptation is essential: fewer boats, shorter viewing times, and even higher fees if that funds protection. "When managed thoughtfully," he adds, "whale watching remains both a conservation tool and a sustainable livelihood."

"We count the spouts," she explains. "If she's feeding, we wait. If she's traveling, we let her pass." The method transformed encounters. "We've had two whales swim right beside us," Maria recalls. "Because the engine was off, they kept feeding. They decided to come close."

The Visitor's Responsibility Travelers may not control policy, but they control participation. Choosing an operator is a vote for either stewardship or spectacle.

Passive watching wasn't just a scientific success. It became a cultural export. Similar programs now operate as far away as Monterey Bay. Loreto proved that patience can bring proximity, and that restraint can be its own form of intimacy.

"The first thing you should look for is the flag," Jose says again. "If the boat doesn't have it, it's not authorized." Beyond paperwork, ethics show in behavior: small groups, quiet decks, guides who explain the rules before departure. The opposite — loud music, engines chasing flukes — signals indifference disguised as adventure.

The Science of Stewardship Science travels slowly in Baja, by panga, notebook, and trust. For more than fifteen years, the Oceanic Society has collaborated with local cooperatives and guides to integrate conservation with local livelihoods. "Responsible whale watching," says Wayne Sentman, VP of Conservation Travel Programs, "is rooted in respect for the whales, the communities, and the ecosystems that sustain both."

"Most people want to do it right," says Beth Koopmann, from Cabo Adventures, a Cabo-based operator. "But some come expecting a show. They think they're buying a guarantee." Education, she argues, turns curiosity into care. When travelers understand why a captain cuts the engine or drifts away, frustration becomes awe.

That respect has structure. In San Ignacio Lagoon, 400 miles north of Cabo, operators rotate turns on the water and give whales rest periods between visits. The model, built on local ownership, ensures that tourism income stays in the community while encounters remain limited and meaningful.

And as Maria reminds us, patience pays off: "When we wait quietly, the whales decide to come."

Distance, patience, and silence define the craft. Captains learn to read whale behavior: when to cut the engine, when to move on, when not to follow. Because whales depend on sound, reducing engine noise is as important as maintaining space for them. "It's best when all these practices work together," Sentman says, "in the hands of people who know the sea."

Listening to the Sea’s Giants Every winter, Baja fills with the sound of breathing. It is a pulse that connects science, livelihood, and wonder. From the gray whales of Magdalena Bay to the blues of Loreto and the humpbacks of Cabo, each species follows its own script, written long before tourism arrived. To watch them responsibly is to accept that nature keeps the pace. Operators like Maria, Jose, and Beth, the ejidos of San Ignacio, and researchers such as Wayne all work toward the same truth: conservation succeeds only when it's lived daily, on the water.

Whale watching remains both a conservation tool and a sustainable livelihood.

The measure of a good whale-watching season isn't how many whales are seen, but how many return. And if they keep coming back to these lagoons, these channels, this coast, it means Baja is still listening. 36

WINTER WINTER 2026 2026

TIJUANA

MEXICALI

ENSENADA

Bahia de las Animas

Punta Ballena

RESERVA DE BIOSFERA EL VIZCAINO

Guerrero Negro

Desierto de vizcaino RESERVA DE BIOSFERA EL VIZCAINO

SANTA ROSALIA

WHALES MOST COMMONLY SEEN IN BAJA SUR

Puerto San Carlos

MULEGE

Laguna San Ignacio

LORETO

Most Common to See Gray Whale Eschrichtius robustus Humpback Whale Megaptera novaeangliae

Puerto Adolfo Lopez Mateos

Blue Whale Balaenoptera musculus

Ciudad Constitucion Puerto San Carlos

Orca (Killer Whale) Orcinus orca

BAHIA MAGDALENA

Rare Sightings Fin Whale Balaenoptera physalus

Puerto Chale

LA PAZ LA VENTANA

Bryde’s Whale Balaenoptera brydei

EL TRIUNFO

Sperm Whale Physeter macrocephalus

LOS BARRILES LA RIBERA TODOS SANTOS

Minke Whale Balaenoptera acutorostrata

EL PESCADERO CERRITOS

NOTE: Orcas are dolphins (toothed cetaceans), not baleen whales.

CABO PULMO

MIGRINO

CABO SAN LUCAS

LIFESTYLE & HOSPITALITY

THE SCIENCE OF LIVING WELL By Dr. Kirk Sanford, Founder of Longevity Medical Institute

In Los Cabos, a new approach to medicine is reshaping how we think about aging and health. At Longevity Medical Institute, the focus is not on waiting for problems to appear but on understanding the body deeply and keeping it performing at its best.

to live longer, but how to maintain the quality, independence, and purpose that make those added years meaningful.

At Longevity Medical Institute, that philosophy becomes measurable practice. Each patient begins with an in-depth evaluation For decades, conventional medicine has that includes full-body MRI imaging, concentrated on managing disease: reacting comprehensive biomarker testing through when symptoms arise. Regenerative medicine our in-house clinical lab, and advanced changes that model by identifying and cardiovascular and metabolic screening. This repairing imbalances before they become data builds a complete picture of how the body illness. The goal is to preserve vitality and functions and reveals what needs attention. extend the years of life lived in strength, By grounding every protocol in measurable clarity, and confidence. evidence, we ensure that each decision — whether nutritional, hormonal, or cellular — is As lifespans continue to expand across the based on knowledge, not assumption. developed world, this distinction becomes more than theoretical. People are reaching What sets Longevity Medical Institute apart their nineties in greater numbers than ever from traditional wellness or stem-cell clinics before. The challenge is no longer simply how is the combination of medical depth, safety,

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The purpose is not to reverse time but to sustain vitality, energy, and performance through every decade of life. and transparency. We operate the region's only COFEPRISlicensed stem-cell facility and ISO-certified biotechnology laboratory, ensuring the highest standards for every treatment. Each program follows strict medical protocols, and every patient understands the science and purpose behind their personalized care. Twelve physicians and specialists work together as a team under one roof, combining expertise in regenerative medicine, cardiology, dermatology, and aesthetics. This level of integration allows for fully personalized programs that address the body as a complete system rather than as a collection of symptoms. When a cardiologist, dermatologist, and regenerative medicine specialist can review the same data set together, the result is precision medicine that truly reflects the complexity of human health. Programs may include stem-cell and exosome therapy, peptide and nutraceutical infusions, red-light therapy, or hyperbaric oxygen sessions, each contributing to the body's natural capacity for repair and renewal. The purpose is not to reverse time but to sustain vitality, energy, and performance through every decade of life. Longevity Medical Institute's approach honors what the body already knows how to do (heal, adapt, and restore balance) by giving it the tools and environment to succeed. Set against the backdrop of San Jose del Cabo, where the desert and sea meet in one of the world's most unique environments, the surroundings mirror the clinic's philosophy: calm, restorative, and rooted in balance. Many patients describe their experience not simply as treatment but as transformation. It is a return to feeling strong, clear, and in control of their health. The setting itself reinforces the principle that regeneration depends as much on mindset and environment as on science. The goal is not to live forever. It's to live better, longer. That principle defines Longevity Medical Institute's vision for the future of medicine, where evidence, environment, and mindset converge to help people truly live well. In that convergence lies a new definition of health, measured not only in years, but in the strength and clarity with which we live them.

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BETWEEN THE SIERRAS: LIFE IN THE HEART OF BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR

Photography and words by Nathalia Collins @nathaliacollins nathaliacollinsphotography.pixieset.com

Among the arid mountains and silent valleys of Baja California Sur, three forces sustain life: water, faith, and work. They are the threads that, woven together through generations, have shaped the identity of the peninsula. In the Sierra de la Giganta and the Sierra de Guadalupe, some 350 miles north of San Jose del Cabo, the landscape defines existence, molding a way of life that endures, adapts, and flourishes. Freshwater is perhaps the most precious miracle of this peninsula. It rises from the earth, carves its way through canyons, and gives life to everything it touches. Around the springs, oases form: temples where the desert breathes. In a region where rain is a rare gift, every stream and every spring becomes a center of life and connection; a reminder that here, water is not only sought, but also prayed for. At the foot of the Sierra de la Giganta, a stream of freshwater descends toward the sea. This kind of oasis represents one of the desert’s most precious treasures: water. The date palms, introduced by Jesuit missionaries in the early eighteenth century, still grow today as living proof that life persists even in the most inhospitable places. Scarce and sacred, water is the thread that ties communities to their surroundings, reminding us that in Baja California Sur, every oasis is a miracle that sustains existence.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

FAITH TOOK ROOT in the peninsula alongside the plants brought by Jesuit missionaries. They built temples among the mountains and sowed hope amid aridity. Their task was not easy. Distance, drought, and solitude tested their purpose. Yet conviction held firm, transformed, and became an inheritance. Today, among old church bells and mountain villages, that same faith lives on in those who trust each year that the rains will return, that the water will find its way. A devotion not only spoken in prayer but carried out through work. Founded in 1699 and built between 1744 and 1758, the Jesuit Mission of San Francisco Javier de ViggéBiaundó is considered the architectural jewel of the Californias. Its stone façade, bathed in the light of sunset, preserves the memory of those who came to plant beliefs and the promise of a possible future. Jesuit missionaries and Indigenous peoples, with ingenuity and hope, learned to tame the desert. Surrounded by orchards and centuries-old olive trees, San Javier stands as a symbol of the union between spirituality and labor, a refuge of centuries, of stories, prayers, and hands that shaped the desert into a place fit to live.

At the foot of the Sierra de la Giganta, Baja California Sur

Mission of San Francisco Javier de Viggé-Biaundó, Loreto

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THE SAME SPIRIT ENDURES not only in stone and story but in the hands of those who keep the sierras alive today. In the stillness of dawn, Doña Luz milks her goats with the serenity of someone who knows the rhythm of her surroundings. Mountain life endures through this intimate bond between human and land. Yet such closeness to nature also comes at a price. The presence of the puma is constant, a silent challenge that sometimes breaks that fragile balance, taking a goat from the corral. There is little the ranchers can do. They have learned to accept adversity as part of the same cycle that sustains them, for in the sierras, everything that gives life also claims it. In their corrals, goats symbolize independence and resilience. From their milk come cheese, jocoque, and dulce de leche, ancestral traditions that nourish and sustain the families of the sierras. Their daily tasks become acts of gratitude, silent prayers to the desert that gives, takes, and teaches how to live with only what is necessary. In this meeting of water, faith, and work, Baja California Sur reveals its true beauty, not only in its majestic landscapes but in the quiet stories that rise from its soil. Here, the landscape is not conquered; it is honored. And in that daily act of reverence, of those who care for the water, trust in the rain, and begin their day milking goats among the mountains, beats the soul of the peninsula.

Sierra de Guadalupe

TURNING SUNLIGHT INTO POWER: BAJA SUR'S LONG PATH TO ENERGY SECURITY Baja California Sur enjoys some of the most consistent sunlight on the planet. Yet, it remains one of Mexico's most energy-constrained regions. The contradiction is striking: abundant sun, but costly and unreliable electricity. Residents and businesses experience it daily. ACs strain through the summer heat, and blackouts still occur in peak demand months. Electricity bills are often among the highest in the country. The challenge is structural. The state operates as an isolated grid, producing all its power locally with limited capacity to store or distribute it efficiently. Sunlight is plentiful, but the infrastructure to harness it remains incomplete, a gap that continues to shape life and growth across the southern half of the peninsula. An Island Grid Built on Fossil Fuel

Unlike the other states in Mexico, Baja California Sur has no high-voltage connection to the national grid. That independence comes with a cost. Most electricity still comes from oilfired plants near La Paz, powered by imported fuel that is expensive to transport and polluting to burn. During the summer, when air conditioners push usage to the limit, the lack of backup from the national grid increases the likelihood of blackouts. Solar and wind projects have begun to appear, but they remain small compared with local demand. "CFE has to constantly adjust," explains David Ochoa of Cabo Green Power, a Los Cabos company with a decade of experience installing solar panels, inverters,

and batteries in Baja. "When solar peaks, they pull production down; when it drops, they push it up again." Without large-scale storage or modernized transmission, balancing the system is an ongoing struggle.

"They want to know their home will keep running even if the grid fails."

For now, Baja Sur's grid keeps the lights on. But only through constant effort, costly fuel, and reliance on technology from another era.

Small projects in La Paz, Los Cabos, and Todos Santos are showing that solar can lower costs and stabilize the grid. The challenge now is scale. How to move from isolated rooftops to a coordinated energy model that reflects the region's potential rather than its limitations.

Solar Energy's Slow Rise

A Turning Point in National Policy

Given its sunlight and thriving tourism industry, Baja California Sur should be leading Mexico's solar revolution. Instead, progress has been uneven, shaped by regulation, infrastructure limits, and high upfront costs. The state remains the only one in Mexico where net metering is essentially prohibited, preventing residents and businesses from selling excess power back to the grid. That rule has slowed adoption and forced many homeowners to install off-grid or hybrid systems with batteries, which can double installation costs. Even so, interest is rising. "People want peace of mind," says David.

Mexico's energy priorities are beginning to shift. After years of favoring fossil fuels and limiting private renewable projects, the administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum has pledged to expand clean generation nationwide. A scientist by training,

Why isn’t solar everywhere yet? Scan to read.

Shienbaum was a member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize with the organization for its work on climate change. She has announced an ambitious plan to modernize the grid and develop new renewable plants. For Baja California Sur, that policy shift could be decisive. The federal government has selected the state for Mexico's first thermosolar projects. This technology stores solar heat to generate power after sunset. The timeline for these plants is unclear, but if successful, they could reduce dependence on imported fuel and prove that isolated grids can run on renewable energy. What Change Could Mean for Households

For most residents, progress in the energy system will be measured in everyday terms: cooler homes in summer, fewer blackouts, and more predictable bills. Businesses and hotels could finally plan ahead without the constant risk of outages during peak tourist months. Installers are already seeing the shift. Demand is growing for hybrid systems that combine solar panels, batteries, and grid power. "People are investing for stability," says David. "They want to know their homes can function, no matter what happens with the grid." If thermosolar plants and new storage projects move forward, Baja California Sur could begin to replace costly fuel oil with sunlight that works day and night. It won't happen overnight, but the direction is clear, and increasingly within reach.

Free energy from the sun Modern solar solutions for Baja California Sur. Clean, aesthetic installations for every energy need.

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LAS VEREDAS DEL AGUA: A PARK FOR THE FUTURE OF TODOS SANTOS Across the southern spine of the Baja California peninsula, water is the rarest form of wealth. It appears quietly through canyons and palm groves, gathering in shallow basins that make life in the desert possible. Todos Santos is one of those improbable places: a town sustained by an oasis where the Río La Reforma meets the coastal lagoon of La Poza. From the hills, the view still startles: a thin green corridor of palms and orchards framed by dry mountains. That green is shrinking. According to a 2020 study by the University of Baja California Sur, the oasis has lost more than half of its surface in less than two decades. The lagoon has retreated by nearly two-thirds. For a community whose history and identity depend on water, these numbers are not abstractions. They measure the slow unraveling of a place that once sustained itself through collective care. As fields dry and access narrows behind fences, a question rises: how can life in the desert endure without the cooperation that made it possible in the first place? Few landscapes embody cooperation like an oasis. They exist only where nature and human effort meet, where water is not simply found but managed. Across the world, from the date-palm valleys of North Africa to the terraced orchards of Elche in Spain, oases are living records of communities that learned to turn scarcity into continuity. In the Americas, true oases are extremely rare, primarily found along the Baja California Peninsula, where groundwater meets the sea and the desert briefly softens. These oases form a chain of green valleys along the desert's spine, all fed by groundwater descending from the mountains. One of the most notable oases is Todos Santos. For centuries, its palm trees, fruit trees, and irrigation channels — the acequias misionales introduced during the Jesuit period — have supported a way of life built on mutual dependence. The system worked because it relied on trust. Water was distributed by agreement, fields were rotated with the seasons, and neighbors shared the work of cleaning canals and repairing gates. Every action reaffirmed the same understanding: survival depended on care. That order began to falter when pipes replaced open

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channels, when farmland was divided, and when access to the river narrowed behind private boundaries. The loss was not only ecological but cultural: the erosion of the public agreement that had allowed the oasis to exist. When landscape architect Teresa Egea arrived in Todos Santos in 2017, she saw more than an endangered ecosystem. Beneath the neglect, she recognized the outline of a system that still worked: the river, the orchards, the logic of shade and flow that had once made the valley self-sustaining. Her response became a project called Las Veredas del Agua, a proposal to recover the 5.2-square-kilometer oasis as a public park. Recognized with an Honorable Mention at the 2024 Latin American Landscape Architecture Biennial, the plan traces the course of the Río La Reforma down to La Poza lagoon, reopening the paths that once connected the town to its water.

Rather than preserve the oasis as a static landscape, the project seeks to reactivate it. It combines ecological restoration, traditional agriculture, and sustainable mobility in a single continuous design. The goal is not only to protect the river but to make it usable again for walking, cycling, cultivation, and recreation.

The benefits go beyond ecology. Restoring the river and its vegetation would reduce flooding and fire risk, protect the aquifer that supplies the town, and reopen the green corridor that once united its neighborhoods. The same ground that once grew food could now cultivate connection.

At its heart lies governance. The park would be managed through collaboration among the community, the private sector, academia, and local authorities. It's an updated version of the old public agreement that once distributed water and responsibility equally. In this vision, architecture becomes mediation: a way to reconcile growth with memory, and to turn design into a tool for coexistence.

If realized, the park would mark more than preservation; it would represent continuity. Todos Santos would have translated an old practice of cooperation into a modern framework, an understanding that progress and preservation need not be mutually exclusive.

The idea behind Las Veredas del Agua is both modest and profound. A landscape survives only when it is cared for in common. By turning the oasis into a public park, the project proposes to rebuild that shared responsibility.

In a desert where every drop counts, Las Veredas del Agua is more than a conservation plan; it is a way of life. It is an invitation to remember that life here has always depended on a simple truth: water binds a community only when it belongs to everyone.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

PADRINO FOUNDATION:

CLOSING THE HEALTHCARE GAP FOR CHILDREN IN BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR By Rian Chandler-Dovis

When my family first moved to Mexico from the U.S., healthcare was one of the first systems we tried to understand in our new home. Mexico has a national health system, and we were reassured to know that public care (IMSS) existed as a safety net. While many families choose private care when they can afford it, IMSS provides an essential backstop. We took comfort in the idea that our neighbors had access to the care they needed. As we became more engaged in our community, the reality proved more complicated. Despite the existence of public care, thousands of children in our region still lack access to even the most basic medical services. For families in more remote areas of Baja California Sur, including Todos Santos and

Pescadero, there is often no pediatrician available for many miles. Seeing a doctor can mean hours of travel to IMSS offices in La Paz or Los Cabos, usually resulting in costs families cannot manage. And for children with chronic or complex medical needs, many essential services aren't available through public care at all. This is the gap the Padrino Foundation was created to close. Padrino is a nonprofit clinic in Todos Santos that provides direct medical care to children and families who might otherwise fall through the cracks. The mission is simple: ensure that every child, regardless of income or geography, receives the care they need to survive, grow, and thrive. What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a model of community-driven impact.

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Today, Padrino serves more than 400 children each year and provides roughly 85% of pediatric services in Todos Santos. The clinic has become a stabilizing force for families in need and has raised more than half of its US$1.5 million goal to expand into a new state-of-the-art facility that will meet increasing demand. But expanding Padrino's reach comes with challenges beyond its medical work. In Mexico, formal philanthropy has not developed as it has in the U.S. or Canada. Giving tends to be personal: through family, church, or direct community relationships. At a national level, people often look to the government to meet social needs, and many foundations struggle with public trust. As a result, organizations like Padrino face a dual challenge: meeting urgent healthcare needs while also building local support in a culture that often meets nonprofits with skepticism.

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Today, many of Padrino's most active board members and donors are immigrants from the U.S. and Canada. To build a world-class clinic for children in need, the organization must broaden its support among Mexican nationals and across Baja California Sur, especially in Los Cabos. Yet within that challenge lies an opportunity. When the profound generosity and community orientation of Mexican culture meet the immigrant mindset that values donor-funded systemic solutions, something powerful happens. Health is foundational. Without it, a child cannot learn, cannot participate, cannot grow into a contributing member of their community. Across cultures and borders, that reality holds. And when we focus on the essential needs, we create space for people of all backgrounds to come together around shared purpose. Padrino is built with impact in mind. The organization operates intentionally lean, minimizing administrative costs to ensure resources go directly to care. It has recruited specialists from across Mexico and international advisors to support its growth. And the influence of its model is spreading: through partnerships with groups like the Los Cabos Children’s Foundation, Padrino’s community-based approach is being adapted across BCS and beyond. What’s being built is not only a clinic serving hundreds of children in Todos Santos, but a framework that could eventually reach thousands across the peninsula and, potentially, across Mexico. For those of us who call Baja home, the question is simple: how do we contribute to our community and ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive? Padrino offers a tangible answer. This new clinic is rising in our backyard, and it represents more than walls and equipment. It shows what is possible when a diverse community rallies around a shared goal: rooted in respect, driven by impact, and powered by collaboration. To learn more, please visit www.padrinocf.org.

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Destino Magazine | Winter 2026