Ernesto Copell is not content with the mediocrity. Rejecting cookie cutter and monochromatic hotel chains, this visionary Mexican entrepreneur and hotelier has created a group luxury resorts on the Baja Peninsula that are as individualized and colorful as his own personality.

Starting from with next to nothing, Copell, who is strikingly youthful in appearance, vibrant and full of energy, has managed to parlay one hotel into ( number) in just (years). I paid a visit to two of these in Cabo San Lucas: Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach and Pacifica Holistic Resort and Spa and discovered how one mans dream became a reality with no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach

Just a few years ago (how many), the quiet hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean was nothing more than rock, scrub brush, and cacti. Away from the busy and noisy town center of Cabo, the steep terrain was not an ideal place for development. That is to everyone but Coppel who recognized the potential and opportunity for another one of his resorts called Sunset Beach.

After building an arduous, long and winding brick-line road to the location he started in on the hillsides and transforming them into rarified platforms for viewing the ocean. Today, thousands come here to stay in upscale villas terraced along the hillside amidst, waterfalls, lush, and tropical landscaping. The décor is Mexican in style with cedar trim, courtyards, fountains, mosaic tiles and artwork that has been imported from all over the world.

Other amenities include (number) pools at various elevations, casual and fine dining options, tennis courts, a (how many square foot spa) and family activities. Small golf carts are used to transport guests up and down the winding paths as they visit various areas of the property.

With over (how many buildings), Coppel is still building with two large complexes currently under construction at the highest point of the hillside. As I watched the process I thought it was truly amazing how one person could have created such an oasis out of such an inhospitable area.

Aside from the rooms, I found that the staff at Sunset Beach was warm, friendly and professional. They attend to every request with a smile and most speak at least some English. They Mexican people are industrious, hard working and eager to please their guests.

One of my favorite experiences at this resort was having some refreshments at the Lobby Bar with some friends. The views from here overlooking the deep blue Pacific at twilight were beautiful and dramatic. Afterward we went to Frieda’s (named after Freida Callo) for a wonderful meal enhanced by the sounds of a lovely singer accompanied by the piano. Here, the servers bring you everything, from your water to your food in perfect unison with daily specials to tantalize your palate.

Cabo Pacifica Holistic Resort and Spa

The latest incarnation from Ernesto Coppel, Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Holistic Resort and Spa is the newest luxury resort community in Cabo Pacifica. Privately owned by Coppel, when complete, it will include full-time residential homes; fractional ownership houses and villas; parks, lakes and 2 championship golf courses. Additionally, owners will have access to all of the facilities and activities of a luxury hotel.

Each of the Pueblo Bonito properties has its own personality and ‘Holistica’ is meant to create a stress-free environment that soothes the body and soul. Water features are everywhere and is set against sand, cacti and native plants, creating a pleasing contrast between two opposing elements. Dramatic lines, symbols and geometric shapes can be seen throughout the resort, starting with the lobby area which features a windowed dome set above a soothing round shallow cauldron of water. Even the atmosphere is part of the ambiance, as I could distinctly smell the pleasant fragrance of lavender filling the air.

Walking out on the main lobby deck I surveyed the property with the ocean as the far backdrop. A water pool spilled over the terrace into another tank that turned into a waterfall, then ran directly down a channel all the way to the pool area.

The main on-site restaurant is Siempre that serves fresh Mediterranean fare. I spoke to one guest from Scottsdale, AZ who told me that the food at Siempre was better than any five-star restaurant where he had been n Scottsdale or New York for that matter. Skeptical, I tried several dishes and had to agree that the cuisine was exceptional and worthy of my friend’s accolades.

At night, giant amber colored onyx panels illuminate at various points in the resort giving a serene, natural glow to the environment. The sound of the waves rolling into the shore is all that is needed to lull me into a state of bliss.

This is the only property in the Pueblo Bonito Family that does not allow children and so families looking to vacation together would find Sunset Beach or the other two properties in Cabo (Pueblo Bonito Rose or Blanco) better choices.

Whichever one you choose, you will learn why Ernesto Coppell has earned a reputation for developing quality resorts that defy convention and set the standard for all others to follow.