LORETO, BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR (May 30, 2023) – Travelers looking for the ultimate summer getaway where sand, sun, and serenity are guaranteed, should look no further than Loreto, on the east coast of Baja California Sur. This charming beach town is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a remote, but easily accessible, summer escape. With no crowds, blue skies, and the striking turquoise waters of the Gulf of California, Loreto deserves a top place on any summer getaway list.
Just off the coast of Loreto lies the Bay of Loreto National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with five main islands – Isla Coronados, Isla del Carmen, Isla Danzante, Isla Montserrat, and Isla de Santa Catalina – just a quick boat ride away from town. The sparkling Bay of Loreto and its inhabiting islands are the perfect domain for classic summer activities like fishing, diving, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Beach lovers particularly can look to Isla Coronados and Isla del Carmen, where intimate coves and hidden beaches will delight those looking to bask in the summer sun and discover hidden pockets of beauty. Whether looking to embark on aquatic adventures or simply relax in the rays of the sun – the Islands of Loreto check the classic summer fun list. Isla Coronados is a towering volcanic island that at its highest point stands 1,000 feet above sea level. One of the most well-known beaches in the bay, a crescent-shaped cove with picturesque white sand and calm, crystal-clear waters, is situated on this striking island. The inlet’s shallow and tranquil water is the perfect summer setting for swimming and water sports of all kinds and is especially popular for families.
For those in search of seclusion, Isla del Carmen is the ultimate spot to find solitude with nature. The largest island in the bay, Isla del Carmen has countless breathtaking domains where adventure travelers can take in views of tall colorful cliffs and hunt for marine fossils along white sand, red pebble, and smooth cobble beaches.
Travelers in Loreto can get to each island via a short panga ride operated by accessible local guides located in marina just off the malecon. For those looking to explore the bay, chartering a sailboat, or going on a catered catamaran tour provide luxurious options for an aquatic journey with fresh food and beverages onboard.
On land, visitors can experience summer in the historic and quaint town of Loreto with its distinct laidback charm and rich cultural heritage. The town’s beaches are also worth checking out, like Playa Oasis, a black volcanic sand beach offering a captivating view of the bay, not-to-be-missed at sundown or sunset.
Summer is also the best time to try the legendary Loreto dish, Almejas Tatemadas or “Chocolate Clams,” known for their rich, chocolate-brown shell color. Locals prepare their “Chocolate Clams” in a vibrant local ritual, where the clams are charred in the sand under a large fire. Visitors to Loreto during the first Saturday of June can also attend the Almeja Chocolata Gastronomic Festival, a once-a-year, larger festival consisting of a full two days of specialized cooks from Baja California Sur showing off their own renditions of “Chocolate Clams.”
Loreto’s small-town feel and welcoming quality is echoed by its locally owned hotels. Located on the central plaza, Hotel 1697 and Posada de las Flores offer boutique accommodations with unique styles – with Hotel 1697 providing an upscale modern yet intimate setting, and Posada de las Flores, a sophisticated enclave, elevated by antique colonial-inspired architecture. Visitors seeking a waterfront experience can lodge at the more traditional La Mision hotel, with a contemporary European meets Mexican hacienda style. Thanks to the small-scale, easy-to-navigate streets of Loreto, these hotels are no more than a five-minute walk from each other and all the notable restaurants, shops, museums, and attractions in town.
The best part of an escape to this “remote destination” is how easy it is to get to. Alaska Airlines offers nonstop flights from Los Angeles (LAX); American Airlines offers non stops from Phoenix (PHX) and Dallas (DFW) that can also connect travelers across the US; and travelers from Orange County and San Diego, can make the super easy trip across the border using the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) terminal to depart from the Tijuana International Airport (TIJ).
