Los Cabos bets on long-term sustainability with regenerative tourism model

Convinced that sustainable tourism is a shared responsibility between travelers—seven in 10 of whom say they want to travel more sustainably, according to reports—industry players, government agencies, and local communities, Los Cabos (Mexico) is going beyond adaptation.

The destination in Baja California is committing to a long-term, structural transformation toward a more conscious, integrated, and regenerative tourism model. That is already taking shape today.

Tourism stakeholders in Los Cabos have united to create a responsible tourism framework. “We aim to develop tourism that restores, amplifies positive impact, and takes co-responsibility for the present and future of this region, which is critical for both the environment and the economy,” said Rodrigo Esponda, managing director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board (FITURCA).

Multiple examples of commitment to the well-being of communities and the protection of the environment

Across the region, hotels, resorts, and tourism businesses are implementing wide-ranging initiatives to reduce environmental impact and support local communities.

Royal Solaris Los Cabos and GR Solaris Lighthouse have for example eliminated single-use plastics, launched recycling and water-saving programs. Both companies are working toward Green Key certification, an international label for environmental excellence in tourism.

The Villa Group participates in community cleanups, donates to hospitals and children’s foundations. It offers scholarships to employees’ children, and has also banned single-use plastics.

Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos has developed programs for sea turtle protection, food donations to animal shelters. It also support local charities that assist children and the elderly.

At Cosecha, the restaurant of the San Cristóbal Hotel, nearly half of all products is grown on-site. Seafood is also sourced directly from local fishermen to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy.

ACRE Resort practices regenerative agriculture through an on-site agro-ecological garden, with low-water landscaping and drip irrigation systems to conserve resources.

Solmar Hotels & Resorts uses reverse osmosis systems to desalinate seawater, treats wastewater for reuse, and participates in municipal turtle conservation programs.

Grand Velas Los Cabos operates its own water treatment and desalination plants, uses solar panels to heat pools, and supports biodiversity initiatives, including sea turtle protection.

Looking at medical care and vocational training

The commitment extends beyond environmental measures. Grupo Pueblo Bonito and the Letty Coppel Foundation combine medical care, nutritional and psychological support. But also community development, vocational training, cultural programs, and environmental protection.

Mexico Giveaways donates a portion of each sale to SHINE. The latter empowers women in San José del Cabo. Such as sewing and embroidery courses, personal development workshops, and life skills training.

Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate promotes properties with sustainable features such as solar power, water-saving technologies, natural materials, green roofs, and smart-home systems.

One&Only Palmilla participates in sea turtle protection and supports La Cana, an organization that helps incarcerated women reintegrate into society through artisanal work.

These efforts align with the broader vision of UN Tourism’s One Planet initiative, which promotes responsible tourism. “As a tourism community, Los Cabos is working to build a renewed sector with responsible tourism as our compass and sustainability as our driving force—benefiting people, the planet, and shared prosperity,” Esponda said.