Loreto
A historic mission town beside a protected marine park of islands, whales and impossibly blue water.
Six hours north of La Paz, Loreto is Baja California Sur's oldest town and the site of the first Spanish mission in the Californias (1697). Its calm Malecón, cobbled center and the UNESCO-listed Bay of Loreto Marine Park — a nursery for blue and fin whales — make it one of Baja's most rewarding future frontiers. We're expanding here; a full guide is on the way.
Mission town & marine park
Loreto pairs deep history — the 1697 Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto — with the Bay of Loreto National Park, whose islands (Coronado, Danzante, Carmen) shelter turquoise coves, snorkelling and seasonal blue whales. Founded as the future expansion frontier for Trip & Homes.
Best Beaches
A boat trip to white sand and glowing turquoise shallows off Loreto.
Calm, scenic beaches south of town backed by the sierra.
Restaurants
Traditional regional Mexican cooking in the historic center.
Local favorite for grilled seafood and margaritas.
Cafés
A longtime downtown spot for breakfast and coffee.
Bars & Nightlife
Easygoing waterfront drinks at sunset.
Things to Do
Snorkel and beach on Coronado and Danzante islands in the protected bay.
Blue and fin whales frequent these waters — and gray whales are a drive away at Magdalena Bay (season).
Visit the 1697 mission and stroll the cobbled historic center and Malecón.
Restaurants, cafés, beaches, essentials and more around Loreto — live from Google, tap any place for hours and reviews.
- Loreto has its own international airport (LTO), 10 minutes from town.
- The marine park requires a small permit/bracelet — operators handle it.
- It's remote and tranquil — plan boat trips ahead in high season.
Know Before You Go
November to May for comfortable weather, calm seas and whale season.
Warm and dry, with hot summers and mild, sunny winters — prime for island trips and whales.
Fly into Loreto (LTO), 10 minutes away, or drive ~6 hours north of La Paz. A car helps for beaches south of town.
A very safe, quiet town. Standard boating and sun precautions apply on the water.
Suggested itineraries
- MorningIsland boat trip
Snorkel and beach at Isla Coronado in the marine park.
- AfternoonMission & Malecón
The 1697 mission, historic center and a waterfront stroll.
- EveningSeafood dinner
Grilled catch and margaritas downtown.
Experiences nearby
Loreto — good to know
Stays across Baja
More of Baja California Sur
Make Loreto yours.
Handpicked homes and curated experiences, hosted by a local team who knows every corner of the peninsula.