The quaint Spanish town of Loreto, situated on the eastern coast of Baja California Sur, surrounded by the Sea of Cortes and the Islands of Loreto. Loreto is easily one of the prettiest towns in Baja California, and there is no wonder why visitors end up staying permanently.

There is much history that follows the once capital of Baja California Sur. Loreto is arguably known for having one of the very first Spanish colonial settlements. Admired for extraordinary sea life along the coast of the Sea of Cortez. Loreto offers a deep connection with wildlife and nature, making it one destination you will want to add to your list. One of my favorite parts of Loreto is the convenience and affordability it offers to all visitors. In this guide, I will give you a breakdown and itinerary for the perfect escape to Loreto, Mexico.

WHAT TO DO IN LORETO

The charming historical center deserves some attention as it is the center of Loreto. Whether you have a few hours for a city tour, or are staying in the center. There is always some action happening.

Spend Time in the Historical Center

Visit the first Mission founded by the Jesuits when first settling in Baja California, Nuestra Señora De Loreto.
Right beside the Mission, you can take a visit to the museum, showcasing the history and collections from the Spanish civilization that once roamed the town.
Stroll through the local shops and vendors for Mexican keepsakes
Enjoy a tasteful meal from one of the local restaurants accompanied with live music usually Thursday-Sunday.
Take a refreshing walk along the Malecon right outside of the city center. Great for sunrise or sunset.

Take a Whale Watching Tour

If you are passing through Loreto during the months of January to March, you cannot miss out on the opportunity to see the blue whales before they migrate down south. The blue whales are known to hang around the large Island of Carmen. The boat tours stop alongside the largest animals on the planet and wait for them to appear from the water. There are many companies in Loreto that offer this tour, all ranging between 100-115 USD.

Boat Around Coronado Island

A MUST do excursion when visiting Loreto. Join a group tour (65 USD) or embark on a private tour to the nearby island. I chose to do a private tour which cost around 80 USD— I found a local fisherman at the marina to take me out for the afternoon.

It was a spectacular sunny day and the water was chilled to the perfect temperature for a dip in the clear blue waters. On the way around Coronado Island you are almost guaranteed to see a group of dolphins, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies as you head around the island. Towards the end of circling the island you will arrive at a white sand beach, with clear turquoise water that is to die for. Here you will be let off to enjoy some lunch and soak up the sun and crystal waters.

Tour Isla Danzante & South Carmen

See two Islands in the Loreto National Marine Park in one day! On this tour you visit beautiful Isla Danzante with its dramatic coastline and fantastic snorkeling. In cooler months there are hiking trails that lead to stunning views of the Marine Park. Next stop Isla Carmen with its fascinating geology and white sandy beaches. Both Islands are unique and well worth the visit. Book this tour here.

Go Diving in the Sea of Cortez

Home to hundreds of tropical fish species, sea turtles, sea lions, dolphins, and whales, it’s the perfect place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Scuba diving is one of the best ways to explore the sea, getting you up close to the bright coral reefs as you swim alongside the marine creatures, and snorkeling is a fun way to see it all while staying at the surface of the water.

Hike the Sierra de la Giganta

The Tabor Canyon is an oasis located in the core of Sierra “La Giganta”, which makes a great hiking connection to the natural environment of the Loreto region. With its incredible landscapes, flora and fauna.

Play Golf

On a stunning, world-class site along the east coast of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula near the historic town of Loreto, Mexico, a crafted TPC Danzante Bay, a multi-themed 18-hole golf course that runs over and through valleys, arroyos, dunes, and foothills of the Loreto Islands.

Road trip to Bahia Concepcion Beaches

Bahía Concepción (Conception Bay) is a bay within a bay on the Sea of Cortez about halfway down the peninsula. About 1.5 hr north of Loreto. This is a very popular spot for American’s and their RV/Motorhomes.

How to get around Loreto

By Bus- check out Aguila for latest routes and prices for traveling throughout Mexico.

By Taxi- Easiest way to get from airport to city center. Most things in Loreto are walking distance. Cost from airport to city center is 21 USD and nearly 15 USD to go around town or back to the airport

By Car- Renting a car is highly recommended as it fairly affordable and easy to get around. The roads are well maintained, the views along the way are spectacular, and you can reach remote places and beaches nearby. (be sure your insurance covers the Baja California area)

Flights to Loreto Mexico

American Airlines- Direct flights from Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)

Alaska Airlines – Alaska Airlines has direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX)

Calafia airlines- connects Loreto airport with a few domestic airports in Mexico, such as La Paz, Tijuana, Hermosillo, Guaymas (Sonora)

Where to Stay in Loreto

HOTEL Posada De La Flores (My top choice)
- Elegant and centrally located in the historical center
Villa del Palmar
- 5 star optional all inclusive resort with golf, spa, and 4 restaurants.
Hotel La Mission
- Luxurious and steps away from the Malecon & Marina
Loreto Bay Golf Resort and Spa
- All-inclusive Luxury Golf Resort and Spa
Loreto 80
- Boutique stay in the heart of historic downtown
Airbnb
- Affordable and centrally located

Where to Eat in Loreto

Orlandos (one of my favorites!)
Casa Carmen (authentic and where the locals go)
Asadero Super Burro (best/cheap tacos)
Palapa (fresh seafood)
Mi Loreto (authentic and in the center)
Alma Del Sur
Giggling Dolphin
Zapata Cantina (for great drinks and live music)

SAFETY IN LORETO

If you are wondering about safety, I was a solo traveling as a female and I felt safe in Loreto the entire time. The relatively secluded town of Loreto makes it one of the safest destinations in Mexico for those who love to travel.

CURRENT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Travelers from the United States can enter Loreto Mexico without proof of full Covid-19 vaccination or testing. Travelers must have a negative COVID-19 test to return back to the United States within 24 hours of departure.
Laboratorios Nuñez provides COVID testing and results within 10 minutes. Cost was $40 USD or 800 MXN.

Please always check for current entry/departure requirements

Why Loreto Mexico is the Perfect Weekend Getaway!