Introducing Puerta Cortes, Mexico’s Best Kept Secret

Introducing Mexico’s best-kept secret, a destination where desert and sea come together that’s quietly evolving with the opening of a new landmark: Puerta Cortés.

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of La Paz, the 550-acre eco-friendly complex of Puerta Cortés renowned as being surrounded by “the aquarium of the world” by underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau, just opened its first upscale hotel property: Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortés, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury collection.

With the recent debut, Puerta Cortés is stepping onto the stage, offering seasoned travelers looking for a resort that isn’t oversaturated with tourists travelers an option to vacation in an exclusive enclave where ecotourism and dining options abound.

Below are the standout attractions showcasing why Puerta Cortés demands attention:

• Completely Renovated Hotel – Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Puerta Cortes, the completely renovated Hotel Indigo is the first upscale hotel to open in the complex. With 115 meticulously designed rooms and suites, each space reflects a commitment to preserving authenticity while offering modern comfort. Guests are invited to indulge in a myriad of amenities, including in-house restaurants Barco and Cardón, the relaxing Espiritu Spa, fully equipped gym and wellness programming, outdoor pool and exclusive access to the Puerto Beach Club and El Cortes Golf Club.

• Golf – Puerta Cortés’ crown jewel is Mexico’s only Gary Player Signature golf course. Gary Player is one of “The Big Three” of golf, along with Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. The El Cortés Golf Club received a Certificate of Environmental Excellence from the Profepa for how they irrigate the golf course in an eco-friendly and sustainable way. Golfers can play 18 holes with unparalleled views of the Sea of Cortez.

• Exclusive beach club – Guests are granted access to the exclusive offerings of the Puerto Beach Club, a sanctuary meticulously designed for unwinding complete with a private beach and infinity pool. They can savor an array of amenities, from enjoying fresh seafood and tropical cocktails to indulging in beachside massages and partaking in thrilling water sports such as swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, or catamaran tours.

• Ecotourism – Ecotourists will love the opportunity to visit the sea lions colony at Los Islotes, swim with whale sharks, and catch a glimpse of a variety of marine life, such as dolphins, orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales, as they sail in the Sea of Cortes. Nestled along the captivating shores of Baja California Sur, Puerta Cortés beckons travelers with its untouched beauty and serene ambiance, earning it the moniker of the “aquarium of the world” by French aquatic explorer Jacques Cousteau as it hosts hundreds of fish species, along with a third of the world’s marine animals. Those who prefer not to get wet can sunbathe in one of the private coves of Isla Espiritu Santo and explore the island’s natural flora.

• Dining – Puerta Cortés in Baja California Sur offers a delectable array of coastal and regional flavors, with fresh seafood taking center stage. Indulge in succulent fish such as snapper and tuna, along with shellfish like shrimp and lobster, prepared in dishes like ceviche, fish tacos, and seafood stews. Baja cuisine shines through with specialties such as shrimp enchiladas and machaca tacos, while Mexican street food delights with offerings like tacos al pastor and elotes. Regional ingredients like tomatoes, chilies, and avocados feature prominently, as well as refreshing flavors of fresh fruit and juices, including aguas frescas. These gastronomic offerings can be savored at the restaurants around Puerta Cortes such as the high-end waterfront Mosaic, the relaxing Beach Club, as well as at Hotel Indigo’s in-house restaurants Barco and Cardon.

• Sustainable Efforts – Puerta Cortés stands as a beacon of sustainability, weaving eco-conscious practices into every facet of its operations. Through innovative initiatives such as a cutting-edge desalination plant, solar panels generating nearly half of the complex’s energy, and water-saving devices in every bathroom, Puerta Cortés minimizes its environmental footprint. Further commitments include a comprehensive wastewater treatment system, repurposing treated water for irrigation, and an urban waste management program diverting recyclables and repurposing organic waste. Transitioning to biodegradable materials and electric transportation, the complex tackles plastic pollution head-on. Dedicated to preserving biodiversity, Puerta Cortés safeguards endemic species and collaborates with authorities to rescue and rehabilitate injured wildlife. By sourcing sustainably from aquaculture and engaging with local NGOs, Puerta Cortés not only protects its ecosystem but also uplifts and empowers its community for a brighter, more sustainable future.