If you like venturing off the beaten path and having authentic cultural experiences, then a trip to Loreto, Mexico might be your perfect getaway. There is a lot of historical architecture in and around Loreto. The city was founded in 1697 and it was the original capital of California until 1777 when the capital was moved to Monterey, California. Loreto continued to be the capital of Baja California until 1829. Situated on the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula, Loreto has a picturesque town with rich history and vibrant culture, many breathtaking landscapes and swimmable beaches. It’s not far from Los Cabos, but it’s a world apart. There aren’t many all-inclusive hotels in Loreto. Instead, you’ll find authentic restaurants and accommodations that provide a taste of the local culture. This article offers a complete guide to exploring the alluring destination of Loreto, Mexico.
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Where is Loreto, Mexico Located?
Loreto is located on the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico. It is situated in the state of Baja California Sur, along the shores of the Sea of Cortez (also known as the Gulf of California). The town of Loreto is approximately 350 kilometers (about 220 miles) north of the state capital of La Paz and it’s approximately 1,000 kilometers (about 620 miles) south of the United States-Mexico border.
Map of Loreto, Mexico
Is Loreto Safe?
Loreto is considered a safe destination for travelers. The city has low crime levels. There are not many instances of serious crime or even petty crimes. As with any destination, you should be cautious by putting valuables, passports and other important documents in your hotel safe. You should also be careful when you’re out late at night, especially when drinking at bars. Always keep an eye on your beverages and your personal effects.
Whale Season – Best Times to Visit Loreto, Mexico
Loreto is a four-season destination, but for those traveling from northerly destinations, winter is the most popular time to visit. Loreto has lovely swimmable beaches and warm temperatures that offer a nice escape from snow and ice. It’s also a popular destination with families during the Christmas school break. Winter is also the time that whales migrate to Loreto and visitors may be able to see humpback, grey, blue, and orca whales. The blue whale is the largest mammal in the world and Loreto is one of the places where you can see these incredible creatures. If whale watching is your goal, you’ll want to visit from December through March to see these majestic creatures. If you want warm balmy weather and lower prices, consider visiting in the shoulder season from October through early December.
Is There a Hurricane Season in Loreto, Mexico?
The chances of a hurricane or a tropical storm occurring in Loreto are slim. Since 1948, only four hurricanes and four tropical storms have made their way to the northern state of Baja California. Such storms are more prevalent in other parts of Mexico. That said, the hurricane season runs from July to the end of November in Mexico with September and October being the most prevalent months for hurricanes and tropical storms.
What You Should Know About Car Rentals in Loreto, Mexico
A car rental can be useful if you want to explore San Javier Mission, Puerto Escondido, Loreto Bay and other sites around the city of Loreto. Car rentals can be picked up at the Loreto airport and reserved through Thrifty, Alamo, National, Enterprise, and Expedia as well as some other sites. Be aware that car rental insurance is mandatory in Mexico, so you may end up paying more for the rental than what you expect when you book a rental without including the insurance. If you get into a car accident while in Mexico, authorities can legally arrest you, impound the car and detain you until money matters are settled. The mandatory car rental insurance prevents that from happening by providing “proof of financial responsibility” to ensure that damages during an accident can be paid. It’s better to pay more for the rental overall and include the insurance than to risk renting a vehicle without it. The driving and the roads in and around Loreto are reasonably good. Having a vehicle rental provides more freedom to explore.
Where to Stay in Loreto, Mexico
There are many options when it comes to accommodations in Loreto and prices vary depending upon the season of travel and the luxury level of the hotel. Unlike some Mexican destinations, you won’t find a lot of all-inclusive hotels. While all-inclusive hotels provide some convenience, staying at a more traditional hotel and dining out at a variety of local restaurants lets you take in more of the local culture. Here are a few of the properties we recommend:
Villa del Palmar Loreto – This property can be booked as all-inclusive or without food included. Most rooms have kitchens, so you can choose to cook for yourself and there is a mini-mart onsite if you need grocery items. In terms of all-inclusive properties, this is the only one in Loreto. The property is on a private beach, and it has many amenities including three restaurants, three bars, a health club, a spa, a pool, tennis courts, a giftshop, free parking and more. The property has one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom suites that can hold up to eight people.
Hotel Posada de las Flores Loreto – This is the hotel where we stayed on our recent visit to Loreto. It’s an older hotel right in the centre of town and though it isn’t fancy, it’s clean and comfortable. There’s an onsite restaurant, a bar and a small swimming pool on the roof. The biggest advantage to this hotel is that it is walking distance to restaurants, shops and the marina. The biggest downside is its close proximity to the church and its ringing bells. When we were there, the bells went off during the night and very early in the morning. You may want earplugs to prevent the bells from disturbing your sleep. Other than that, we loved it.
La Mision Loreto Hotel – This hotel is located right across the street from the malacon and beach area some rooms have ocean views. The onsite restaurant is very good, and the hotel is walking distance to the marina, the beach, the central square of Loreto and many restaurants and bars. This property has a pool, a hot tub, and a spa.
Posada del Cortes Hotel – This hotel is a short walk from the central square, the beach and the marina and it includes a continental breakfast. It’s quiet and comfortable and it has an onsite spa.
Fun Things to Do in Loreto, Mexico
- Walk or cycle along the Malecon, enjoying the ocean breezes and the views.
- Enjoy fantastic Mexican food.
- Go horseback riding.
- Enjoy the beach.
- Take a boat tour.
- Visit Rancho Viejo.
- Visit San Javier Mission.
- Tour Concepción Bay
- Enjoy a hiking tour to ancient cave paintings.
- Enjoy a massage or facial.
- Stroll around the central plaza.
- Snorkel with sealions.
- Cruise to Coronado Island
Best Beaches in Loreto
There are a lot of wonderful beaches in and around Loreto. Here are three of my favourites
- La Darsena Beach is closest to downtown Loreto and is popular with locals and visitors alike. The sand is soft, the waves are gentle and there are shady palapas to relax under. It’s a great beach for families with young children. Since it’s close to downtown, it’s convenient to pop into a restaurant for food or a shop for drinks, snacks and beach toys.
- Honeymoon Beach on Danzante Island – Some of the best Loreto Mexico beaches are only accessible by boat. Out on the islands, you can discover clear waters and panoramic views of the land and sea. You can walk along the white sands or dive into the turquoise sea at Honeymoon Beach on Danzante Island. It’s one of the most gorgeous Baja California beaches, but it is a small beach. If you’re planning on going with kids who want to run around or if you’re looking for a place to stroll, you might want to spend the day at one of the other Loreto Mexico beaches. However, for incredible photos, a secluded spot to relax, and sparkling water to swim in, Honeymoon Beach on Danzante Island is just a boat ride away.
- Coronado Island Beach – The Islands of Loreto rise majestically out of the sea, and after taking a short boat ride, you can explore the beaches on Coronado Island. The natural curves of this island create calm bays where the water is smooth and crystal clear. Snorkel along the calm shore, or stretch out in the sand. Most tours to the island provide water, snacks, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the area.
Best restaurants in Loreto, Mexico
One advantage to staying at a property that is not all-inclusive is that it provides the opportunity to enjoy local food at many different restaurants. Loreto has many wonderful restaurants to enjoy – especially if you like fresh seafood and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Los Olivos Restaurant : If you’re interested in fine dining, Los Olivos Restaurant at La Mission Loreto is the place to go. This elegant waterfront restaurant features nouveau Baja cuisine, a fusion of authentic Mexican cuisine and North American-style food. You’ll find U.S. prime steaks and fresh seafood.
Mi Loreto Restaurant: There’s a tree growing in the middle of the dining room of this Mexican restaurant, which makes it feel a little like a treehouse. Try authentic Mexican cuisine at this restaurant – chips and salsa, mole, enchiladas and more.
Raíz Creative Cuisine & Bar: This restaurant at Posada de Las Flores Hotel has indoor dining and outdoor dining right in the city’s picturesque historic town square. Classic Mexican cuisine is served with a selection of the best Baja California wines and handcrafted cocktails. It’s a good place to get your Marguerita on.
Zopilote Brewing & Co.: Craft beer and pizza are the specialties at this Loreto restaurant, but you can also order tacos and other snack foods here. There are several brews on tap, and you can enjoy them at a table right in the main square of town.
Bajamar Restaurant: This waterfront restaurant has fantastic seafood dishes – in dishes like shrimp ceviche, sashimi tostados, fish tacos, shrimp tacos and quesadillas and more.
Asadero el Super Burro: If you like burritos, this is a great place to get them. The super burro is a large beef burrito. The papa rellena a stuffed potato, beef, cheese and more. You can also buy tacos at this great little spot.
Orlando’s Restaurant: In 2010, Orlando opened a small food stand. It quickly grew into a restaurant that is one of the most popular in town. This is the place to go for authentic Mexican food and great seafood. The sizzling fajitas are great, and they offer combo plates if you can’t decide on just one dish.
Related: Check out our post on how to find the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta.
Chocolate Clams – The Food You Must Eat in Loreto
Chocolate clams are a rare treat and a specialty in Loreto. Sadly, they don’t taste like chocolate. The name comes from the rich chocolate color of the shells. But if you’re more into savory than sweet, these local clams are a must-try food when you are in Loreto. They come straight from the bay to the table and they are delicious and unique to this region. The clam meat is tender and delicious and prepared in a variety of dishes available at local restaurants.
Where to Try Chocolate Clams in Loreto
Every Saturday from 5 to 10 pm, Hotel Oasis hosts a tatemada clam bake. It’s a buffet dinner and if you come early, you can even watch them bake the clams at the beach. It’s a lovely beachfront buffet dining experience and chocolate clams are a highlight of the menu.
Getting to Loreto, Mexico
There is an international airport in Loreto. Westjet offers direct flights from Calgary to Loreto. Alaska Airlines flies direct from Los Angeles and San Francisco and American Airlines flies direct from Phoenix and Dallas. There are also two Mexican carriers with service from several cities in Mexico.
Why You Should Visit Loreto, Mexico
We loved our visit to Loreto, Mexico. It’s an authentic destination and you really feel the culture of this place in a way you don’t in other Mexican beach destinations – especially when you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort. Dining at local restaurants and enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine made the trip special. Exploring Loreto Bay National Marine Park where we swam with sea lions and visited Coronado Island was a special experience. We loved exploring the countryside, visiting San Javier Mission, and hiking to some ancient pictographs. Loreto is not your typical Mexican beach destination, but that’s what we liked about it. We’d go back again in a heartbeat.
Related: Read our post about hiking to the world’s highest natural lighthouse in El Faro, Mazatlan.
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