Baja California Sur · Coming soon
Baja Pass is coming to Loreto
Loreto is a historic Pueblo Mágico on the Sea of Cortez — the first capital of the Californias, backed by the dramatic Sierra de la Giganta and fronted by a UNESCO-listed marine park famous for blue whales, island snorkeling, kayaking and world-class sport fishing. It's Baja at its most unspoiled.
The guide
Why visit Loreto
Loreto is where Baja began — founded in 1697 as the first mission and capital of the Californias — and it still feels wonderfully untouched. The Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, protects a string of desert islands teeming with life, while the Sierra de la Giganta rises straight from the sea behind town. For marine life, fishing and old-Mexico atmosphere, few places in Baja compare.
Don't miss
Top things to do in Loreto
The marine park islands
Coronado, Danzante, Carmen and Montserrat — protected desert islands with turquoise coves, sea lions and snorkeling, all a short boat ride from the marina.
Blue & fin whales
From roughly January to March, the Sea of Cortez off Loreto hosts blue whales — the largest animals on Earth — along with fin and humpback whales.
World-class sport fishing
Loreto is legendary for dorado, yellowtail and roosterfish, with calm waters and short runs to the fishing grounds.
Snorkeling & kayaking
Clear, calm water and island coves make Loreto one of the best places in Baja to snorkel, paddle and sea kayak between deserted beaches.
Misión de Loreto
The 1697 stone mission — "head and mother of all the missions" — anchors a walkable historic center of plazas, cafés and galleries.
Sierra de la Giganta
Hike, ride or drive into the rugged mountains behind town for canyon oases, cave paintings and sweeping views over the sea.
Plan ahead
Best time to visit Loreto
October through May brings warm, dry weather and calm seas. Whale season (blue, fin and humpback) peaks January to March, while sport fishing is strongest in the warmer months from late spring through fall. Summers are hot but excellent for water time.
Coming soon
Baja Pass is coming to Loreto.
We're signing Loreto's best restaurants, activities and charters now. Your Baja Pass already unlocks everything live in Los Cabos today — and Loreto joins the same $75 pass, at no extra cost, the moment it launches.
Explore Los Cabos dealsGood to know
Loreto FAQ
Is Loreto worth visiting?
Yes — for its UNESCO marine park, blue whales, superb fishing and unspoiled old-Mexico charm, Loreto is one of Baja California Sur's most special and least-crowded destinations.
What is Loreto known for?
Being the first capital of the Californias and its 1697 mission, plus the Loreto Bay National Marine Park — famous for island snorkeling, blue whales and world-class sport fishing.
When can you see whales in Loreto?
Blue, fin and humpback whales are typically seen from January through March in the Sea of Cortez near Loreto, on guided tours.
Is Baja Pass available in Loreto yet?
Not yet — we're signing Loreto's best restaurants, activities and charters now. Baja Pass is live in Los Cabos today, and Loreto will join the same $75 pass at no extra cost when it launches.
Plan your trip
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