Paella Festival 2024 at Hilton Los Cabos: A Five-Star Culinary Showdown by the Beach

­What Is the Paella Festival at Hilton Los Cabos?

The Paella Festival at Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort is one of the most anticipated culinary events in Baja California Sur. Held every spring, this beachfront competition brings together top chefs from around the world to showcase their creativity and skill in crafting the perfect paella.

More than just a competition, the event blends gourmet cuisine with live music, fine wine, and the stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, creating an unparalleled five-star gastronomic experience.

When and Where Was the 2024 Paella Festival Held?

In 2024, the Paella Festival took place on April 14, 2024, at the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort, located along the Tourist Corridor between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas.

The event started at 12:00 PM and continued into the late afternoon, creating a relaxed, elegant environment perfect for savoring every bite while enjoying the warm spring weather and ocean breeze.

Why Is the Paella Festival Held?

The festival celebrates the art of paella, a dish with deep cultural roots in Spain but beloved globally. It’s a tribute to culinary tradition, innovation, and the fusion of flavors that define modern gastronomy.

Additionally, the event supports charitable causes. A portion of the proceeds from the 2024 festival was donated to the Los Cabos Children’s Foundation, helping fund healthcare programs for children in need throughout the Baja California Sur region.

Who Is the Festival For?

• Food Enthusiasts: People who appreciate culinary artistry and authentic flavors.
• Wine Lovers: Premium wine tastings from top Mexican and international vineyards.
• Expats and Locals: Residents of Los Cabos seeking cultural and gastronomic experiences.
• Tourists: Visitors looking for unique, upscale events to enhance their trip.

With a chic yet casual beachfront setting, it’s ideal for anyone who enjoys fine food, beautiful settings, and supporting local causes.

How Much Did Tickets Cost?

In 2024, the ticket pricing was:

• General Admission: $2,200 MXN (approx. $130 USD) per person.
• VIP Admission: $3,500 MXN (approx. $210 USD) — offering reserved seating close to the ocean, access to exclusive wine tastings, and a premium gift bag.

Tickets included unlimited tastings of all paellas, wine pairings, and access to live music performances throughout the day.

Who Participated in 2024?

The 2024 edition saw participation from more than 20 renowned chefs and culinary teams representing a variety of prestigious restaurants and hotels from Mexico and beyond.

Notable participants included:

• Chef Ángel Carbajal — Nicksan Cabo
• Chef Paolo Della Corte — Hilton Los Cabos
• Chef Roger Martín — Flora’s Farm
• Chef Christian Ricci — Sunset Monalisa
• Chef Alejandro Villagómez — Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection
• Chef Lázaro Muñoz — El Farallón at Waldorf Astoria

Each team brought their signature interpretation of paella, incorporating traditional and creative ingredients, from classic seafood blends to more daring versions featuring duck confit and Baja lobster.

Who Won the 2024 Paella Festival?

The 2024 Paella Festival Winner was:

🏆 Chef Ángel Carbajal from Nicksan Cabo,

who impressed the judges with a fusion-style seafood paella featuring fresh Baja oysters, clams, local shrimp, and a unique touch of nopal (cactus), giving a Baja-Mediterranean twist to the classic dish.

Runner-ups included:

• Second Place: Chef Roger Martín — Flora’s Farm (vegetarian paella with organic farm ingredients).
• Third Place: Chef Alejandro Villagómez — Esperanza (traditional Valenciana-style paella).

The panel of judges included a mix of celebrity chefs, restaurateurs, and food critics, ensuring a rigorous and prestigious competition.

Highlights of the Event

• Unlimited Tastings: Guests sampled all the competing paellas.
• Premium Wine Tastings: Featuring labels from Valle de Guadalupe and international vineyards.
• Live Music: Latin jazz and acoustic performances created a relaxed yet festive atmosphere.
• Breathtaking Venue: Oceanfront lawns of Hilton Los Cabos with direct beach access.
• Charity Support: Contributions to local children’s healthcare initiatives.
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Final Thoughts

The Paella Festival at Hilton Los Cabos 2024 once again proved why it’s a must-attend event for anyone passionate about food, culture, and community. With world-class chefs, delicious wines, a stunning beachfront setting, and a cause worth supporting, it offered an unforgettable culinary experience.

If you’re planning to visit Los Cabos next spring, mark your calendar — this is one event you don’t want to miss.

Karla & Erick | Cabo Realty

Karla and Erick Cabo Realty

Thinking of moving to Los Cabos? Karla Andreu, a trusted Century 21 agent, and Erick Flores guide expats, retirees, and families through every step—specializing in Los Cabos’ top beach and golf communities. We offer expert advice, personalized relocation support, and educational content that covers the risks of buying property in Mexico, the pros and cons of living in Cabo, and everything you need to make confident, informed decisions—so you can enjoy a better lifestyle at a lower cost than in the U.S.