Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Share the sand with celebs at the area's newest resort From the April 22, 2002 Issue of New York Don't be surprised to find Cameron Diaz beside you on the beach or Russell Crowe at the next table during lunch. This year's Academy Award presenters all received trips to Cabo San Lucas's new Esperanza resort in their Oscar-night gift baskets. (Hey, it could happen!) Set up like a remote Mexican village, Esperanza's casitas are scattered around two private coves. Every bedroom -- and bathroom -- has a view of the Sea of Cortez, and many have private plunge pools or outdoor Jacuzzis. Play golf on one of five championship courses, go deep-sea fishing, or poke around Todos Santos, a flourishing artists' colony one hour north. But we recommend having the resort's gourmet market pack you a picnic for the beach, or just lying in the hammock on your balcony, watching the whales go by. -- TARA MANDY Details Esperanza (doubles from $550; 866-311-2226 or aubergeresorts.com). Fly Continental (800-525-0280) from La Guardia to San Jose del Cabo (with a connection in Houston), or take American Airlines (800-433-7300) and connect in Dallas; the hotel offers a free shuttle from the airport.       Photograph: Esperanza