When it comes to luxury resorts, Los Cabos is one of the most competitive places in the world.
The idyllic stretch of coastline is favored by high-net-worth individuals, who come not only for the guaranteed sunshine but the array of hotels available. Needless to say, it takes something special to make an impression here, but that’s exactly what Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal does.
Carved into the cliffside and offering its own stretch of prime Baja California coastline, this stunning resort brings out the very best of Los Cabos. To celebrate its partnership with Elite Suites, we spoke to the hotel’s director of operations, Libia Ronco, about what sets the resort apart.
What attracted you to a career in hospitality and to your position at the hotel?
My father’s advice — that I should be happy and love whatever I choose to do — became my guiding principle. After earning my MBA in hotel business from Universidad de las Américas Puebla, I began my hospitality journey as an apprentice at The Ritz-Carlton, Cancún. That property became my classroom: I returned after graduation as a housekeeping coordinator and, within a year, was promoted to manager. Eight years with the company took me from Jamaica to Las Vegas, sharpening my skills and deepening my commitment to exceptional service. When my mentor invited me in 2008 to join the opening team of Capella Pedregal in Los Cabos, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to apply everything I’d learned — and to put down roots back in Mexico.
What is a typical day like for you? Any routines or rituals that help you stay on top of things?
Each morning, I make it a priority to stroll through the lobby and greet as many guests and team members as I can. I take a moment to inhale the gentle ocean breeze and appreciate the stunning view. These simple pleasures energize me for the day ahead. I dedicate a lot of time to connecting with both future and returning guests, helping them plan their stays, and directing the appropriate teams to follow up on their needs. I also carve out time to personally welcome a few guests as they arrive, ensuring they feel at home right from the start. In addition to guest relations, I analyze the operational and financial performance of my areas, strategizing ways to enhance results whenever necessary. I’m always planning ahead—whether it’s updating decorations across the property, organizing events for special holidays, or brainstorming unique amenities to surprise our guests. My strong organizational skills and ability to multitask allow me to stay on top of everything. For me, my role at the resort strikes the perfect balance; I get to care for our guests while collaborating closely with many of our wonderful team members.
Tell us about a defining moment in your role, such as a memorable guest experience or a challenging period.
Being part of Pedregal’s evolution — from opening Capella Pedregal to reopening the Resort at Pedregal (where I was promoted to director of rooms), and finally the transition to Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal — has been both the greatest challenge and the proudest achievement of my career. Each phase required developing and inspiring teams, upholding unwavering standards of service, and reimagining our guest experience. Seeing our associates embrace change, grow professionally, and deliver unforgettable moments for our guests reminds me every day why I chose this path — and why I’m committed to continuing our journey here for many more years.
What defines true luxury in hospitality today, and how does your hotel embody that?
True luxury today is measured not by extravagance but by the depth of genuine care. At Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, it is our Pedregal People who transform a stay into a profoundly personal experience. From the moment guests arrive, each team member learns their name and anticipates their preferences—often before a request is even made. Housekeeping elevates comfort through thoughtful details, while our concierge crafts seamless experiences. Whether it’s a handwritten welcome note in your suite, a warm greeting in the lobby, or a spontaneous serenade to celebrate a special occasion, these sincere gestures convey profound hospitality. It is this unwavering dedication to authentic, individualized service that defines true luxury at Pedregal.
What principles help you and your team maintain flawless five-star service?
We live by three guiding principles: anticipation, consistency, and genuine warmth. Anticipation means understanding needs before they’re voiced; consistency ensures every interaction reflects our brand promise; warmth transforms service into heartfelt hospitality. Continuous training, cross‑departmental collaboration, and daily “moments of recognition” keep these principles front and center.
All about the hotel
How does your location inspire the guest experience here?
Our location in Los Cabos is nothing short of inspiring. Nestled on a dramatic cliffside with sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez, the natural beauty and unique character of Baja California form the heartbeat of the guest experience. The vibrant colors of the desert, the ever-changing light over the ocean, and the region’s rich cultural tapestry all come together to create an environment that feels both timeless and contemporary. Every element—from the architecture to the service—reflects the spirit of this special place, allowing guests to connect with the authentic essence of Baja.
What experiences would you recommend if a guest stayed for just 24 hours?
If you only have one day with us, I recommend beginning with a rejuvenating yoga session at La Palapa, where you can soak in the breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs as the day unfolds. After yoga, head to Don Manuel’s for breakfast and indulge in their signature French toast—a dish that captures the perfect balance of local flavor and refined technique. Midday, make your way to our beach club for lunch, where you can savor fresh, vibrant dishes in a relaxed, sunlit setting right on the water. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience, allowing your body and mind to fully unwind. To cap off your 24 hours, choose between a private dinner on the beach—an intimate setting under the stars with personalized service—or the unforgettable Farallon experience, where culinary excellence meets the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific. Each of these experiences is designed to offer you a taste of what makes our property unique.
What unique experience does your hotel offer that no one else can replicate?
Nestled in an awe-inspiring natural setting, our resort offers an unparalleled experience. At the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, we excel at blending stunning cliffside views with thoughtfully curated experiences and personalized service, making every stay uniquely memorable. Whether you’re joining us for a spontaneous sunset celebration on the beach or diving into the rich local art and cuisine, our guests relish the exclusivity and deep connection to the area that can’t be found anywhere else. With genuine Mexican hospitality at the forefront, we ensure that each moment is exceptional, leaving you with cherished memories to take home.
All about the suite
What separates this suite from anything else on offer in the region?
Our Three Bedroom Beachfront Presidential Suite stands alone in Los Cabos as the region’s only true ocean front sanctuary designed for both grand celebration and intimate relaxation. Just steps from your private infinity pool and dedicated beach access, this 4,100 square-foot residence seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living — the sights, sounds, and scents of the Pacific infusing every moment. Two spacious master bedroom suites and a double queen bedroom each offer sitting areas, spa-quality marble bathrooms, and handcrafted Mexican touches. Expansive living and dining spaces flow onto generous patios and a lush lawn, perfect for hosting everything from family gatherings to sunset soirées. With a personal butler on call, exclusive welcome premium tequila, and daily guacamole with Mexican beer, no other suite in the region combines this scale of beachfront privacy, authentic design, and bespoke service.
How does the suite’s design reflect the essence of your hotel?
The Presidential Suite’s design directly embodies Pedregal’s philosophy — to immerse guests in an elegant yet authentically Mexican coastal sanctuary. Every detail, from the handcrafted wood furnishings and traditional Mexican tile accents to the seamless indoor and outdoor living spaces, reflects our commitment to celebrating local culture and the natural beauty of Los Cabos. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls dissolve the boundary between suite and sea, allowing the sights, sounds, and scents of the Pacific to become part of the décor. Generous terraces, a private infinity pool, and lush lawn spaces embody our belief that luxury is found in connection. The result is a home-like retreat that captures the resort’s spirit of refined hospitality, thoughtful craftsmanship, and effortless beachfront serenity.
Is there an extravagant feature in the suite that guests rave about?
Without question, it’s the private infinity pool that guests rave about most. Perched just steps from the suite’s living room, the pool appears to merge seamlessly with the Pacific — creating the sensation of floating between sea and sky. Paired with private beach access and expansive lawn and terrace areas, it transforms every moment into an unforgettable, immersive connection with the ocean. Guests often tell us that simply lounging poolside, listening to the waves and feeling the gentle sea breeze, becomes the highlight of their entire stay.
What bespoke services are exclusive to guests booking the suite?
Guests who reserve our Three Bedroom Beachfront Presidential Suite enjoy a level of personalization found nowhere else in Los Cabos. Chief among these bespoke services is a personal butler available 24/7 to orchestrate every detail of your stay — from arranging private beach waiter service (complete with chaise lounges, towels, sunscreen, and refreshing amenities) to curating custom dining experiences in suite or on your terrace. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a premium tequila amenity, and each afternoon, we deliver freshly made guacamole with Mexican beer. Your stay also includes guaranteed priority seating at all resort restaurants, complimentary access to the airport VIP lounge, and full use of our Waldorf Astoria Spa’s lounge and wet areas. Additional exclusive touches — nightly turndown with a signature amenity, complimentary packing/unpacking and shoe shine service, binoculars for whale watching, and bespoke in-suite menus (including private chef and bonfire experiences) — ensure every moment is tailored precisely to your preferences.