The Islands of Loreto and Sea of Cortez

Island-Loreto

Located in Mexico’s beautiful Baja California Sur on the Sea of Cortes side, Loreto boasts 300 years’ worth of rich heritage and largely untouched natural splendor.

With its host of unique historical experiences and active endeavors, Loreto is a must-visit for any elite adventurer.

Lorento

Mission Loreto

Situated along Baja California Sur’s eastern coast, Loreto is an oasis of laid-back, oldworld Mexican charm.

The town’s landscape shifts from the stunning Sea of Cortez on the east to the dramatic Sierra la Giganta Mountains on the west, which translates to a diverse range of ecological and historical experiences for intrepid elite travelers.

Loreto’s remote location and intimate village setting attract those looking for a true getaway. Despite its status as the oldest human settlement on the peninsula, dating back over 300 years, today Loreto is a modern escape that offers plenty of luxury amenities like marinas, resorts, fine dining and an 18-hole oceanfront golf course. Some of the world’s greatest sportfishing can be found just minutes offshore, while five deserted islands offer miles of breathtaking natural beauty. History buffs will love strolling Loreto’s town square, home to the well-preserved Misson of Our Lady Loreto and its onsite museum. Slightly off the beaten path but surprisingly accessible, Loreto is one of Mexico’s hidden treasures, whether you’re looking for action and adventure or pampering and relaxation. It’s no surprise that this charming locale is quickly becoming a favorite amongst VIPs from around the world.

The Lorento National Marine Park

Sea Of Cortes

Situated just off Loreto’s coastline in Loreto Bay are a total of five deserted islands—Coronado, Del Carmen, Danzante, Montserrate and Santa Catalina—all of which are protected as part of the Loreto National Marine Park, and each offering aquatic activities, hiking and beach fun.

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The park is also teeming with mother-of-pearl, coral, blue whales, dolphins and sea lions, making this an excellent place to witness some of the world’s most amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Contact one of Loreto’s sea kayaking tour operators, who will help you plan an unforgettable itinerary that includes two to five hours of kayaking through the Sea of Cortez, offering daily guided snorkeling and hiking trips. You can even add on a day of whale-watching for a jaw-dropping experience you won’t soon forget.

Loreto sits at the tip of a 100-mile-long stretch of sea that is home to an unmatched diversity of marine life—including more than 800 species of fish, unique to Baja California Sur’s surrounding waters. It is one of the few locations in the entire world where divers can get up close and personal with an awe-inspiring, six-foot long Humboldt squid, a resident of these waters from the late summer into the fall.

Fishing in Lorento

Fishing

World-class sportfishing is another one of the region’s top draws. Enthusiasts will find an enticing range of highlyprized game fish like yellowtail, dorado, marlin and sailfish, all native to the region.

Serious about hooking one of these heavyweights? Know when to go. Experts say Loreto has two distinct fishing seasons: In the summer months (and peaking in July), you’re almost guaranteed a catch during the famous annual dorado fishing run, while mid-November through April is the peak time for yellowtail. Loreto has a wide selection of local, family-run tour operators—many of whom have been fishing these waters for decades—who can help you plan a panga charter or professionally-guided expedition to score the perfect catch.

Baja’s Cave Paintings

Ancient Art Works

The region of Baja California Sur is the home of more than 100 (that have been discovered so far) prehistoric works of art.

These majestic cave paintings include floor-to-ceiling, multi-layered red and black monos (or human figures), as well as depictions of creatures such as birds, deer, big-horned sheep, rabbits, turtles, fish, sea mammals and other wildlife that shared the dramatic mountains and turquoise waters along the coast. These primitive works are considered a national and historical treasure, and in order to preserve their beauty, visitors are only permitted access to these areas when accompanied by an official guide.