Travel Tips

Loreto is one of the oldest "modern" cities in the Baja. Founded in 1697 by a Jesuit priest, Loreto has been an obscure fishing village for over 300 years. Unlike the other "major" tourist destinations of Mexico, Loreto has until 2000 not been developed.

Loreto has now been "discovered" and a number of major corporations are developing a new kind of vacation resort. A sustainable environment friendly development is under way about 9 KM south of Loreto, located in Nopolo, called Loreto Bay.

This will be home to a number of "low rise" developments. The Loreto Bay development is the first of such developments with clusters of "village homes" in a community designed for easy access.

Village homes in 4-6 home clusters are the majority of the first phase. Homes all have individual walls which makes them "single family dwellings," but with zero lot line, they have the advantage of increased insulation on the common walls thereby helping to reduce energy consumption.

The "Founder's Neighborhood" is 99% complete. A late breaking development is to redesign the main road, "the Paseo" as a meandering path instead of a "high speed" boulevard. This new development makes the entrance to Loreto Bay much more appealing.

The historic town of Loreto is not untouched by this development. The Mexican government has helped renovate much of the historic district as well as many of the streets. Loreto used to have only about 5 paved streets, but now most are asphalt and the main streets are stamped concrete that resemble historic pavers.

Sill the Malecon on the waterfront is home to a 300+ year old fishing industry.

The local birds love the fact that the fishermen will "donate" part of their catch. The harbor is normally crowded with pelicans waiting for "lunch."

The construction in Loreto Bay includes the creation and re-creation of estuary areas that will help increase the marine life. Already some of the mangrove "swamps" that have been planted have seen an increase of marine life which helps keep the water clean.

In addition to the individual homes there is also a hotel to cater to tourists and people interested in building in the area. The Inn at Loreto Bay, formerly known as El Camino Real under the Fonetur governance has been renovated and upgraded.

The restaurant(s) are quite good although like any resort, prices are a bit higher than in "town."

The rooms are comfortable and for a resort community, reasonably priced.

Loreto is not a Cabo. For tourists looking for New York in a warm climate, go to Cabo. If you're looking for relaxation, easy life style, then head for Loreto.