LEGENDARY, LOVELY - LORETO

Already renowned for our expertise in Los Cabos, Earth, Sea and Sky Vacations (ESSV) is proud to announce our expanded offerings in Baja California with the addition of Loreto — an astonishingly beautiful and unique new destination sure to become a favorite among discerning travelers.

Organ Pipe Cactus - Coronado Island

Nestled in a stunning desert landscape between the soaring Sierra de la Giganta mountain range and the cobalt waters of the Sea of Cortez, Loreto offers a perfect embodiment of the Baja of old. For years, few travelers ventured to this magical setting. Visitors today encounter one of Mexico's best-kept secrets – a short 1 ½ hour flight from Los Angeles, this is where colonial Mexico, the mystical desert and the vivid sea merge in otherworldly beauty.

Mission Loreto from hotel

Loreto's Long History

With a fascinating human history, the past echoes through the hillsides, cobblestone streets and pristine coastline of Loreto. The region was home to the oldest human settlement on the Baja Peninsula. The present town of Loreto, founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, is home to the Mission of our Lady of Loreto which marked the beginning of the Spanish El Camino Real.

Mission Architecture

Today, Loreto's storied history continues to charm visitors. The past blurs into the present at Loreto, where the historic Old town architecture, fountains, alluring courtyards and fragrant gardens create an unforgettable snapshot of Baja romance. Fishermen head out into the calm waters in their traditional panga boats, as they've done for generations to harvest the abundant riches of the Sea of Cortez.

Coronado Island

Set in a Pristine Landscape

The magic of Loreto is inextricably tied to its setting in one of the most remarkable locales on the Sea of Cortez. Offshore islands adorn the beautiful waters, shelter marine life and tempt with the promise of isolated coves, bejeweled tide pools and little-visited beaches.

Coronado Island is just a 30-minute boat ride from Loreto and offers a beautiful white sand beach. In the Sea of Cortez, a profusion of marine life delights divers, snorkelers, kayakers and fishermen. Tropical fish, sea turtles and manta rays inhabit the crystal-clear waters – as do various species of whales, pinnipeds and dolphins in numbers unseen elsewhere.

La Mision Tours

Bounties of the Sea

So precious is the marine ecosystem of the region, that the Bay of Loreto National Marine Park was created as a bioregion to promote preservation of the rare and beautiful species found here. Due to the importance of fishing to the region, regulations have been created that balance the need for stewardship with access to the bounties of the sea.

Sunset Manta Jump

And what bounty! When John Steinbeck cruised the waters of the Sea with his marine biologist friend “Doc” Edward Ricketts in the 1940's, the two found a mind-boggling profusion of sea life. Today, fishermen – both local and visitor – continue to revel in the variety of fish. Fishermen head out with experienced panga captains or charters to fight Dorado, tuna, marlin, sailfish, yellowtail, roosterfish, grouper and a host of other species.

Remote and Quiet Vacation Spot

As the fishermen who've loyally been visiting this remote setting for years know, Loreto offers modern visitors a more laid-back version of the Mexico vacation. This is not the Baja of sprawling beach clubs. Select resorts, like beautiful La Mision, offer gracious elegance with awe-inspiring views of the aquamarine sea. Local eco-mindedness has extended to developments which use local materials in their construction.

Fine Restaurants & Properties

In the charming town of Loreto, you'll find cozy restaurants with delicious local cuisine. Golfers can enjoy the beautiful oceanfront golf course. History buffs delight in Loreto's museums and excursions to historic sites like the haunting San Javier Mission, located 22 miles outside of Loreto in a palm-filled valley. The beautiful natural environment invites outdoor exploration or simply daydreaming in the sunshine.

Evening Light

We're excited to bring this destination to our clients and continuing to provide the fine properties and service for which we've become legendary. Our partnership with Loreto Bay, La Mision and the newly formed Loreto Traveler's Bureau will provide world-class accommodations and luxury amenities in a setting of unparalleled beauty. We look forward to expanding our offerings with the upcoming development of the renowned Villa del Palmar and Villa La Estancia properties slated for completion in 2010.

Pilot Whale

Give our resort experts a call at 1-800-745-2226. We think that having it all isn't an unreasonable request. We'll set it all up for you. You can also visit www.cabovillas.com to see the wealth of personal services, lavish properties, and recreational activities we offer in beautiful Los Cabos. ESSV Testimonials