At one time the Baja area of Mexico was a hot spot for those seeking a meaningful escape from daily life, particularly Cabo San Lucas, at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. Over the last 30-40 years, however, this area has grown to become a major tourist destination, offering a cornucopia of outdoor activities and a robust party scene.
But a six-hour drive away on the coast of the Sea of Cortez is Loreto, a perfect place to ditch the cellphone, kick back, and leave the big crowds behind.
Founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, Loreto is a small town on the east coast of the peninsula, with a charming plaza and boardwalk, historic buildings such as the Loreto Mission and Mission Museum, and a few resorts dotted along the coastline.
I was told the best way to fully appreciate Loreto is by getting out onto the water, and that’s precisely what I did. On a boat adventure on the Sea of Cortez along with several other people, I marvelled at the starkness of the Sierra de la Giganta mountains rising sharply from the water’s edge, contrasting desert and water in a visually striking manner.
Renowned undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau described the Sea of Cortez as the “aquarium of the world.” Over 900 types of fish inhabit the azure blue water along with whales, sea lions, and dolphins. Most boat tours usually involve a stopover at one of the nearby islands. The snorkelling is sensational, and I found that having the opportunity to have my “own” island for a few hours provided a lovely respite.
