Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler Ring in the New Year with Passion and Style in Luxurious Cabo San Lucas
The start of a new year often brings with it renewed hopes, fresh beginnings, and for Hollywood’s elite, often a spectacular getaway to an exclusive, sun-drenched destination. For supermodel Kaia Gerber and acclaimed actor Austin Butler, 2023 kicked off in the most romantic fashion possible: a sun-soaked retreat to the breathtaking shores of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. This idyllic setting, renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opulent resorts, has long been a favorite among celebrities seeking both luxury and a degree of privacy, even if the paparazzi inevitably find their way to capture those coveted holiday moments. Interestingly, the same vibrant city hosted another high-profile couple, Leonardo DiCaprio and Ines de Ramon, just ahead of the New Year’s Eve celebrations, further cementing Cabo’s status as a premier celebrity hotspot for ringing in the new year.
The smitten couple, Kaia Gerber, 21, and Austin Butler, 31, were prominently featured in exclusive photographs obtained by the Daily Mail, which swiftly circulated, offering fans a glimpse into their intimate New Year’s celebrations. The images, which can be viewed here, showcased the pair luxuriating by their resort pool on Sunday, January 1st, effortlessly displaying their sculpted physiques and palpable chemistry. Kaia, a beacon of modern fashion and elegance, donned a chic two-piece swimsuit. Her choice was a striking burnt-orange, square-neck bikini top, paired with sophisticated brown thong bottoms that accentuated her incredibly toned legs and statuesque frame. Austin, equally impressive, opted for simple yet stylish black swimming trunks, allowing his famously chiseled abs to be on full, undeniable display. Their coordinated yet distinct styles perfectly encapsulated the effortless glamour expected of such a prominent Hollywood couple.
A Passionate Display: PDA in Paradise
The Cabo getaway was not just about relaxation; it was a clear demonstration of the deepening affection between Gerber and Butler. At one particularly tender moment captured by photographers, the Elvis actor and Kaia were seen sharing a truly passionate smooch. Leaning over the shimmering pool’s divider, they locked lips in an embrace that spoke volumes of their connection. Kaia’s hands were lovingly entangled in Austin’s characteristically luscious, tousled hair, adding an extra layer of intimacy to the steamy public display of affection. Such moments, openly shared and captured, provide fans with rare insights into the authentic dynamic of their relationship, reinforcing the idea that their bond is both strong and deeply affectionate.
Austin Butler: The Ultimate Instagram Boyfriend
Beyond the romantic embraces, Austin Butler showcased another admirable quality during their Cabo vacation: his dedication as the “ultimate Instagram boyfriend.” Proving himself to be more than just a talented actor, Austin was seen meticulously snapping a series of stunning photos of his girlfriend. With a year already under their belts, their comfort and playfulness with each other were evident as Kaia gracefully stretched out in the pool, posing for her attentive partner. Austin appeared utterly pleased and focused on the sizzling photoshoot, bending down to achieve the perfect angle and composition for Kaia’s pictures. He even stood directly over her at times, ensuring every right angle was captured, highlighting her beauty and the picturesque backdrop. This modern demonstration of affection, where one partner dedicates themselves to capturing the other’s best moments for social media, resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, painting Austin as not just a loving partner but one who understands and supports Kaia’s public image and career as a supermodel.
The carefully curated images, along with the candid shots, offered a fascinating contrast to their previous public appearances. Before jetting off to the warmth of Mexico, Kaia and Austin were observed in a very different setting. Just days before Christmas, they were photographed bundled up for a morning stroll around Los Angeles’ Los Feliz neighborhood. Dressed in comfortable, sporty clothing, they embodied a more casual, everyday celebrity couple vibe. During this outing, they appeared to make a stop at a smoothie shop, with Kaia seen holding a green drink. These contrasting public sightings—from cozy, everyday LA life to glamorous, passionate Cabo—underscore the multifaceted nature of their lives and relationship, showcasing their ability to transition seamlessly between relaxed normalcy and high-profile luxury.
A Timeline of Romance: Kaia and Austin’s Journey
Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler’s relationship began to capture public attention in November 2021. They were initially spotted together attending a yoga session in Los Angeles, a relatively low-key start for two such high-profile figures. This initial sighting hinted at a budding romance, which quickly gained momentum. The following month, their relationship seemed to solidify further as they were seen heading to the Los Angeles International Airport, presumably embarking on a holiday trip together. This early indication of shared travel underscored the seriousness of their developing connection. The couple made their highly anticipated red carpet debut in March 2022, attending W Magazine‘s prestigious annual Best Performances party. On this occasion, they looked utterly smitten by each other, walking hand in hand, offering a clear and official confirmation of their romance to the world. Their public debut was a significant moment, solidifying their status as one of Hollywood’s most captivating new pairings.
This official appearance came approximately four months after Kaia, the daughter of legendary supermodel Cindy Crawford, had split from Euphoria star Jacob Elordi, 25. Prior to her relationship with Elordi, Kaia was in a highly publicized romance with comedian and actor Pete Davidson, now 29. Their relationship, though intense and heavily scrutinized by the media, ended in January 2020 after roughly three months. Austin Butler’s romantic history is equally well-known. He was famously with actress Vanessa Hudgens for a significant nine years before they went their separate ways, also in January 2020. The coincidental timing of both Kaia and Austin ending long-term or high-profile relationships around the same time period added an intriguing layer to the narrative of their eventual pairing.
The Allure of Celebrity Romance and Cabo’s Enduring Charm
The fascination with celebrity couples like Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler is a testament to the enduring appeal of Hollywood romance. Their relationship, built on shared experiences and mutual support, especially as they navigate the demanding worlds of modeling and acting, offers a captivating narrative. Kaia, forging her own path as a supermodel while carrying the legacy of her iconic mother, Cindy Crawford, brings a unique blend of heritage and contemporary influence to her career. Her distinct style and undeniable presence make her a standout in the fashion industry, continually gracing high-fashion runways and campaigns.
Austin Butler, on the other hand, has recently experienced a monumental surge in his career, primarily due to his critically acclaimed portrayal of Elvis Presley in the biopic Elvis. His transformative performance garnered widespread praise, awards nominations, and solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood. The film’s success catapulted him into a new echelon of fame, bringing increased scrutiny but also immense opportunities. The coupling of a rising cinematic star with a celebrated supermodel creates a powerful dynamic, often labeled a “power couple,” whose every move, from red carpet appearances to vacation photos, captures global attention.
Cabo San Lucas, with its stunning natural beauty and luxurious amenities, continues to be a magnet for such high-profile figures. Its appeal lies in its ability to offer both opulent comfort and a relative sense of seclusion, allowing celebrities to unwind and enjoy precious moments away from the relentless demands of their careers. The picturesque backdrop of the Baja California Sur peninsula—with its dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and vibrant marine life—provides an ideal setting for romantic getaways and rejuvenating breaks. The privacy offered by many of its five-star resorts and private villas, combined with world-class dining and leisure activities, makes it an irresistible choice for those seeking to escape the public eye, even if momentarily. The New Year period, in particular, sees an influx of A-listers, all eager to start the year afresh in one of the world’s most beautiful and exclusive destinations.
The choice of Cabo for their New Year’s celebration was not just about luxury; it was a statement. It symbolized a shared desire to begin the new year together in a place that fosters romance and relaxation, away from the daily grind of Los Angeles. The visible affection, from the passionate kiss to Austin’s dedicated role as an “Instagram boyfriend,” highlights the strength and authenticity of their connection. Their ability to blend high-fashion glamor with genuine intimacy makes their relationship all the more engaging for the public. As Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler continue to navigate their individual flourishing careers and their shared journey as a couple, their story remains a compelling narrative in the ever-unfolding drama of Hollywood romance, consistently capturing the hearts and headlines of fans worldwide. Their Cabo escape not only marked a romantic start to 2023 but also underscored their position as one of Tinseltown’s most captivating and stylish pairings.