Baja California Sur stretches nearly 1,000 miles from the U.S. border to the tip of Cabo San Lucas. Among its most historic towns is Loreto, the earliest settlement in Baja California Sur. Today, Loreto remains a charming beachside escape with a slower pace and an authentic feel, offering a peaceful alternative to more commercialized destinations like Cabo.
Loreto offers the ideal mix of adventure and tranquility. Set along the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez, this quaint fishing village is known for its calm beaches, world-class golf, and outdoor activities. Whether fishing, whale watching, snorkeling with marine life, or kayaking, Loreto invites visitors to explore its diverse landscape and storied past, just a quick 1.5-hour flight from Phoenix.
Where to Stay
Hotel Posada de las Flores is a small boutique hotel in the heart of Loreto, located on the picturesque main square. With 15 suites, the hotel is designed to provide a true sense of traditional Mexican hospitality. Each suite features artisanal colonial Mexican decor, handcrafted wood furniture, talavera tile accents, premium linens, and stunning views of the plaza below. The hotel’s architecture features spiral staircases, a centerpiece fountain, and oversized wood doors, reflecting the charm of old Mexico. The rooftop terrace, Chicura Lounge and Bar, offers a relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind and swim on the rooftop pool while enjoying the best views of the historic mission and the Sierra de la Giganta mountains.
Hacienda Suites in Loreto is a charming, family-run hotel that captures the essence of traditional Mexican haciendas while offering modern comfort and natural beauty. At the heart of the property is a pool surrounded by blooming bougainvilleas and colonial archways, with a poolside bar where guests can sip margaritas under the sun. Each night’s stay includes accommodations for two adults and two children under 12, along with a pair of complimentary breakfasts. While this hotel is set slightly outside the downtown area, it’s conveniently located just a four-minute drive or a 15-minute walk to the heart of Loreto.
Where to Dine
Serrano Wine, Seafood & Grill brings the flavors of Cabo’s top-rated steakhouse to Loreto, offering premium steaks and fresh seafood cooked to perfection over mesquite firewood. Led by Chef Rafael Ramirez, this inviting outdoor restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening or a relaxed family dinner. Guests can enjoy expertly prepared dishes such as grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, raw seafood, and top-quality cuts of steak, all complemented by an extensive wine list and the restaurant’s signature mango margarita, arguably one of the best you’ll ever taste.
Bajamar blends bold Mexican flavors with the natural beauty of southern Baja. Guests can enjoy ocean views from the outdoor patio or indoor seating surrounded by colorful murals. The seafood-focused menu features hot and cold dishes, including breaded fish, garlic shrimp, tuna or shrimp burgers, quesadillas, and tacos filled with shrimp, fish, or octopus. Cold seafood options include tuna sashimi topped with red onion, cucumber, soy sauce, sesame, and avocado; ceviches made with tomato, lime juice, and mitotera; and a variety of tostadas. A standout on the menu is the aguachiles, a bold mix of raw and cooked shrimp, scallops, octopus, cucumber, red onion, chiltepin, mitotera sauce, avocado, and serrano pepper, delivering a true taste of Baja’s coastal cuisine.
El Zopilote Brewing Company is a local favorite known for its laidback atmosphere. Nestled beneath a canopy of trees and twinkling lights, the indoor-outdoor restaurant offers casual brewpub favorites with a Mexican twist. Menu favorites include stone oven pizza, burgers, tacos, salads, chile relleno, and beer-battered fish and chips. Guests can enjoy an extensive selection of craft beers inspired by the brewery’s early days of traveling to Los Cabos to collect beer, which led to its name, “El Zopilote” (The Vulture). Live music on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday nights add to the lively vibe. Be sure to end your meal with the signature 1697 orange cake, a house favorite since 2006, served with a warm orange sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Los Olivos at La Mision Hotel offers a refined dining experience with stunning oceanfront views and distinctive Baja cuisine. Los Olivos serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring a fusion of authentic Mexican flavors and fresh seafood caught daily from the Sea of Cortez. Each dinner begins with a flavorful olive tapenade, setting the tone for a memorable meal. Highlights include prime steaks, pasta, salads, soups, and an array of fresh seafood. Beautifully plated dishes such as the crusted cabrilla fillet, breaded with walnut, almond, sesame, coconut and pistachio, served on roasted pineapple with poached asparagus and jalapeno sauce, showcase the restaurant’s commitment to bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
Things to Do
Experience luxury sailing at its finest with Luxury Baja Sailing, offering catamaran cruises through the waters of the Sea of Cortez. Guests can choose from various packages, including sunrise and sunset, half-day, full-day, and overnight excursions. Each trip is designed for relaxation, with the option to swim, snorkel, hike, or simply take in the stunning scenery. Be on the lookout for sealife like dolphins and jumping Mobula rays. Onboard amenities include shaded lounges, a kitchen and bathroom, tanning nets at the front of the boat, and attentive staff who prepare and serve you food and drinks. Guests are treated to unlimited beverages, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic, as well as fresh snacks like chips, salsa, and guacamole, along with a meal, depending on the package chosen. Luxury Baja Sailing delivers an unparalleled sailing experience in one of Mexico’s most stunning coastal regions.
Rafa Murillo Tours offers an unforgettable boat tour around Isla Coronado, showcasing the island’s vibrant marine life and natural beauty. The boat features a light canopy for partial shade as you cruise through the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. Throughout the tour, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea lions, turtles, crabs, sardines, and a variety of birds like the yellow-footed gull, American oystercatchers, and even the iconic blue-footed booby. When the tour stops near the sea lions, guests can jump into the water and snorkel alongside them in their natural habitat. Midway through the adventure, the boat pulls up to a picturesque beach where guests can enjoy lunch, hunt for seashells, and relax on the shore. With its mix of sea life, scenic landscapes, and guided exploration, this tour is a perfect way to experience the natural wonders of Isla Coronado (booking via WhatsApp: +526131048854).
In the heart of Loreto’s town square is the historic Our Lady of Loreto Mission. Still open to the public and used for daily services, this church is the cornerstone of the region’s history. Architecturally, The Mission blends Spanish colonial and indigenous styles. Built with locally sourced stone, wood, and adobe, it features a simple yet elegant design with arched doorways and a bell tower. Visitors will find beautifully preserved altarpieces, religious artwork, and wooden beams inside. Today, the Our Lady of Loreto Mission remains a treasured landmark that continues to connect visitors with the rich heritage of Baja California.