Los Cabos is more than a golf destination. It’s also a cultural Mecca overflowing with history, and most spots can be found by simply walking the historic streets. I’ve already suggested the San Jose’s Art District and how to explore the nooks and crannies of this 300-year-old village and its resident artists, but take some extra time to dip your toes into the cultural experiences available in both San Jose and Cabo San Lucas.

Put on your walking shoes and find your way to the Casa de la Cultura (Cultural Center) on Mijares Boulevard and Obregon Street in San Jose del Cabo. Visitors can watch dance performances, enjoy musical performances and watch other artistic productions. Serving as a refuge of U.S. Citizens during the U.S.-Mexican War of 1847, this building has been preserved in its original state. Now a cultural center for San Jose, this pink, colonial style building offers a small exhibit area and provides a venue for local theatre productions. Call ahead for event schedule.

At the northern end of San Jose del Cabo colonial-era buildings surround the almost 200-year-old Parroquia de San Jose (San Jose Parish Church). Founded by the Jesuit Priest, Nicolas Tamaral in 1730, he ultimately was killed by the local Indians in 1734 for his religious beliefs and anti-polygamy decree. Today, there are many stories, some based on fact and others on legend, about his death.  Regardless, the Mission of San Jose is a testimony of the immense evangelized work in these lands. The present construction, although reconstructed after the hurricane of 1918, preserves the original structure and some of its walls. Its facade emphasizes the mosaic that relates the martyrdom of the Father Tamaral. An important historic place, this church is also a current place of worship.

On San Lucas Street in Cabo San Lucas, you can’t miss another historic church, Iglesia de San Lucas. Established by the Spanish missionary Nicolas Tamaral in 1730, this church’s most notable feature is a large bell in its stone archway. The bell was placed there to commemorate its completion in 1746, and its exterior remains much the same. For those wanting to enjoy mass, the San Lucas Church is the most widely attended in the area.

A lighthouse with a history is located a short walk from El Arco, the famous lover’s Arch.  Just down the beach, visit the El Faro de Cabo Falso (the Lighthouse of the False Cape). Built in 1890, not much remains of this original structure, but the lighthouse sits on a cliff, 500 feet above the water, offering spectacular views. Access the lighthouse by horseback, an ATV or a four-wheel driveLo on your own. Or guided tours are offered by many that also include a stop at a nearby shipwreck and to view sea turtle nesting sites.

History is waiting for you to discover it in Los Cabos with its dramatic desert landscape and crystalline waters.