Cabo for caballeros: go fish on a perfectly prepared vacation

Men's Fitness, Nov, 2004 by Tyler Gray

When you've outgrown those noggin'-throbbing spring breaks in Mexico and actually want to remember your vacation, head to the Esperanza resort in Cabo San Lucas. Its awe-inspiring 17 acres are laden with private pools, hammocks, and waterfalls--perfect for sharing with a local mamacita or a few of your amigos.

Tee off your trip on one of the five desert-oasis-style 18-hole golf courses in the Cabo area. Our favorite: the challenging Cabo del Sol, designed by pros Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf and known as the Mexican Pebble Beach.

For ocean adventures, book day trips through the resort to surfing, snorkeling, and ocean-kayaking destinations, starting from about $50. Or power out into the Pacific or Sea of Cortez for legendary sport fishing. When you return from epic battles with marlin, sailfish, tuna, dorado, wahoo, and roosterfish, turn over the catch to Esperanza's chef, who will whip up your mighty conquest for, din-din.

If you fancy some local libations, Esperanza teaches you how to savor its finest tequila stock in its tasting classes. Master tequilero Javier Valdivia will explain how the Blue Agave Tequilana Weber plant is transformed into sweet alcoholic nectar. After your introduction to tequila, you can partake of samples of 100 top-shelf varieties.

Before indulging in the nightlife, treat yourself to a skin-reviving spa treatment. Relax--Esperanza makes exfoliation acceptable with the male-friendly "Corona Facial." With a new sheen, reel in the ladies by pointing out the breathtaking vistas and sharing your amazing fish tales from the afternoon! On second thought, just stick with the vistas.

Seasonal, ocean-view rates from $575 per night@ esperanzaresort.com.