Loreto, Mexico
Loreto: Falling in Love with Mexico
In 1697, California’s first settlement was established on the land that is now Loreto. For the next 133 years, while under Spanish rule, Loreto would be the capital of both Alta and Baja California. Loreto became a resort in the 1970’s when the government was seeking land to turn into a prime beach destination. However, the area did not begin to thrive until 1989 when Aero California began to fly into a local airport.
Loreto is a coastal city located on the Baja peninsula’s east coast. It is surrounded by the Sierra Gigante (Mountain of the Giant) and faces the Sea of Cortez. Today, Loreto, with a population of 11,000 has the second largest population on the Baja peninsula’s east coast. The cities clean white sand beaches and calm waters make it the perfect location for resting on the beach or engaging in water sports.
Divers and snorkelers will want to join one of the many diving tours offered by the Dolphin Dive Center. The Center’s panga boats drop divers off at locations where they can swim with dolphins, sea lions and whales. The Dolphin Center also offers diving lessons. The Loreto Bay National Marine Park is one of Loreto’s most popular attractions. The nature conservancy, which covers almost 500,000 acres, was established to protect the fish, sea life and waters north and south of Loreto. Although commercial fishing is not permitted in the area sports fishing is.
Loreto’s visitors will also want to visit the missions of Our Lady of Loreto and San Javier. The mission of San Javier built in 1699 is said to be the best-preserved mission on the peninsula. The mission of Our Lady of Loreto is located at the start of “the royal road” which is the route that the Spanish missions took. The road ends in Sonoma, California. Loreto has many campsites and there are companies that offer kayaking tours. Loreto is also home to The Loreto Golf Course, which is a par 72 course that features 18 holes and has two artificial lakes. Tennis players will want to visit The Loreto Tennis Center, which has eight courts and a stadium.
Loreto is often referred to, as “a sleepy fishing village” so there is not a great deal of nightlife. However, there are bars, clubs, discos and coffee shops, which are mostly frequented by tourists. All of the clubs come alive on the weekends. There is also a live show every Friday on the plaza, which features singing and dancing by local artists. There is truly something for everyone to do in Loreto.