My Los Cabos with Michael Leckie

The Vancouver architect shares the side of Cabo that most package tourists don't know exists.

Vancouver’s Campos Leckie Studio is an architecture firm/communication depot/branding studio, but, first and foremost, it’s an incubator for the ideas of founders Javier Campos and Michael Leckie. Their take on modernism took them all the way down to the tip of Baja, where for the past few years they’ve been conceiving and constructing some of the most singular, contemporary off-the-grid houses on the entire west coast. So who better to help us suss out the unique, the cool and the singular way down south than Michael Leckie? This is the vibrant Cabo that’s far from the spring breakers and the mega hotels, but is well worth seeking out.1. There’s only one place to stay, and it’s Drift San Jose (pictured above). Located at the edge of the historic town centre, it’s within walking distance to everything.2. With panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez, the rooftop deck at Hotel El Ganzo is the place for those who want to go celeb-spotting. Be sure to check out the glass hot tub/human lobster pot.3. The remote (12 miles from San Jose) desert community of Zacatitos has been a fertile testing ground for our research into off-grid, modernist desert architecture.4. Whether it’s a quick stop for lunch or a late-night open-air dance party, Marinero Borracho in Playita always has a great locals scene.5. Cañon de la Zorra is an oasis in the the desert near Santiago. The short hike in is not for the faint of heart, but there is a small, family-owned restaurant at the trailhead to welcome you with cold beer.