by Isabelle Gagnon
When I first arrived in Los Cabos in February 2007, the sunny breeze melted away the harsh -100°C Canadian winter I had left behind. The stunning desert mountains, the vibrant blues of the Sea of Cortez, and the warm, welcoming community made me feel at home immediately.
That same year, before turning 50, I made a bold decision to permanently move to Los Cabos and begin a new career as a Health and Wellness Coach. At the time, wellness wasn’t as mainstream as it is today. Over the years, Los Cabos has transformed into a hub for wellness tourism and healthy living, making it an ideal destination for those seeking balance and vitality.
Let’s explore how the natural elements and community in Los Cabos create the perfect environment for a wellness lifestyle.
The Sea: Healing and Invigorating
The Sea of Cortez offers endless opportunities for physical and mental rejuvenation. Immersing in saltwater is known to relieve stress, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. Safe beaches like Palmilla Beach, Medano Beach, and Costa Azul Beach make swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding accessible for visitors and locals alike.
At Palmilla Beach, I start my mornings with deep-sea water running and swimming alongside local triathletes, who train here regularly. Surfing enthusiasts can head to Zipper’s or The Rock, while beginners can take lessons from Manny and his team.
The Beach: Grounding and Energizing
Walking barefoot along the soft sands of Los Cabos is a grounding experience, especially during the magical moments of dawn and dusk. This region is famous for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, offering the perfect backdrop for beach activities like sunrise yoga, breathwork sessions, and full moon celebrations.
The Mountains: A Desert Paradise
Beyond the coastline, Los Cabos is surrounded by desert mountains, offering countless trails for hiking, biking, and quiet reflection. Mountain biking has grown in popularity, with designated trails catering to all skill levels.
One of my favorite activities is a day trip to the Santa Rita Hot Springs, nestled in the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere. This natural gem offers warm springs and ice-cold pools, creating a rejuvenating experience for the body and soul.
The Bountiful Soil: Organic Living
The unique microclimate of Los Cabos supports a thriving organic farming culture. During the high season (November to late spring), local markets overflow with fresh produce, including heirloom tomatoes, kale, and Swiss chard. The San José Organic Market, the region’s first, remains a favorite spot for fresh food, live music, and community connections.
Living Well in Los Cabos
Living well in Los Cabos goes beyond fitness and nutrition. The community emphasizes family values, gratitude, and resilience, all of which are integral to wellness. With a growing number of fitness centers, chiropractors, and healing practitioners, as well as access to specialty health foods, achieving a balanced lifestyle is more attainable than ever.
For me, wellness in Los Cabos is more than just a career—it’s a way of life shaped by the inspiring culture and natural beauty of this region. Whether you’re visiting or planning to stay, Los Cabos offers an abundance of opportunities to live a healthier, happier life.
Isabelle Gagnon is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach and Therapeutic Lifestyle Educator located in San Jose del Cabo.
e-mail: i.healthcoach@gmail.com
Instagram: @ihealthcoach
