Imagine a pod of dolphins racing around your catamaran, crystal waters rushing by as you sail towards the remarkable white cliffed la Isla Carmen stretching across the horizon. After a day at sea, you wind down with traditionally-made chocolate clams, mezcal, and a stunning sunset.
Situated along the Sea of Cortez, aka the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find Loreto, an idyllic getaway in Baja California Sur. With its sparkling blue waters, delicious local food, and top-notch adventure activities, Loreto is a dreamy escape seemingly undiscovered by rowdy tourists. It offers the chance to connect with culture, slow down in nature, and relax in the ocean breeze.
Designated a Pueblo Magico (Magical Town) by the Mexican Government, Loreto is known for its cultural significance in Mexico. It is a place that is ‘magical’ because it holds on to and celebrates the nature and culture of Mexico.
So how to you explore loreto? Look no further.
Do
ABT Sailing offers an incredible day trip that’s the perfect way to experience the Sea of Cortez. The tour includes breakfast, a hot lunch, unlimited beer, snacks, and soft drinks. Depending on the time of year, you may see whales and dolphins along the way. During the trip, you’ll stop in a secluded bay in Loreto Bay National Park for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and hiking along the shore. Back on the catamaran, enjoy the flush toilets and sun on the boat deck, or relax in the different sitting areas.
Designed by Rees Jones, TPC Danzante Bay makes even non-golfers want to book a tee time. The 18-hole course is home to striking views of Loreto, the surrounding mountain range, and the Sea of Cortez. The course hosts a range of incredible holes, like hole 17, which sits on a peninsula surrounded by stunning water. Part of the TPC network, the course is a destination itself. Voted Mexico’s Best Golf Course by the World Golf Awards in 2022, it’s one for the bucket list.
See the Missions
Nestled in the Sierra de la Giganticas, San Javier Mission is a 1-hour drive from Loreto. Built by Jesuit missionaries around 1699, the Mission is incredibly well-preserved today. Tours allow visitors to explore its ancient walls and controversial history. Located behind the Mission is a short path to a 300-year-old Olive Tree rumored to be the oldest Olive Tree in Baja —if not the Western Hemisphere.
Misión Nuestra Señora de Loreto is located in downtown Loreto and is the first of the Jesuit missions established in the Californias. Built in 1697, this historic Mission is a great place to stop for a tour through the museum.
Eat
Chocolate Clams at Oasis
When in Loreto, order the chocolate clams. Oasis Restaurant prepares Almejas Tatemada, or charred clams, in the traditional way on Saturday evenings. Half-buried in a fire pit, covered with romerillo, and then lit on fire, the clams cook for about 45 minutes. Then they are pulled out of the ground and served with fresh tortillas. The clams are said to be silky smooth and have a unique flavor from the romerillo.
Breakfast at Orlando’s
Orlando’s is a colorful Mexican restaurant, and breakfast there is delicious. They open early, which makes it a perfect place to grab a meal before a day of exploring the water or Missions. It’s affordable and easy to get to from most downtown hotel locations.
Asadero Super Burro for late-night eats
You’ll find tasty, traditional, no-fuss Mexican food at Adasero Super Burro. Order a Papas Rellenas (Stuffed Potato), a Volcan, and a beer. Asadero Super Burro is a local gem, and it’s open late! The portions are large, but don’t let that stop you from ordering more than one thing.
Danzante for Steak and Seafood
This fine dining restaurant is at Villa del Palmar and offers guests a beautiful view with their meal. Order a Kobe beef steak or the catch of the day. Finish your meal with Goat Cheesecake. Please note, this restaurant has a dress code!
Stay:
This luxury resort has everything you need, incredible restaurants, beach access, world-class golf, yoga classes, a spa, five pools, a nightclub, entertainment, a tennis court, and a fitness center. The rooms are spacious and have a kitchenette. You can also book a penthouse with three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private hot tub. Book a room here if you want luxury and that all-inclusive feel.
This hotel has mountain and ocean view rooms, a sparkling pool, and a mesquite bar & pizza grill. The rooms are beautiful, clean, and luxurious. Book an ocean-view room to gaze at the Sea of Cortez on your balcony. Across the street from the Malecon and walking distance away from the town center, its location and amenities are top-notch.
Head to Loreto for a magical vacation but be warned you’ll think about it all the time once you’ve left
The Great Big Wonder 
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