.svg){kind=icon}
Loreto Bay is just south of the historical town of Loreto in Baja California Sur. Turning into the community from the Transpeninsular Highway leads you into a colorful world of pristine walkways, secluded gathering spaces, and carefully planned townhomes. There are also a handful of charming restaurants, shops, galleries, a golf course, plus community pools.
Part of the Nopoló area near Loreto, the corridor stretching from here to Puerto Escondido boasts some of the most spectacular beaches under the majestic Giganta mountain range. It is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply to relax in nature.
There’s a quaint aura surrounding the desert palette paintbrush homes in Loreto Bay, which has become a popular spot for expats from the U.S. and Canada in particular. It’s also a hidden treasure for people from across Mexico with easy flights to the area from major hubs.
All Paths lead to the Beach
After parking along the main Paseo through the area known as “the Villages of Loreto Bay”, paths lead back into a myriad of intriguingly bright homes for an inviting vacation stay. There’s a slight air of traditional Mexican pueblo style mixed with comfortable private luxury.
It’s common to see saltillo tiles combined with colorful Talavera, wooden roof beams paired with cantera stone fountains. Carefully refined walls around each home give way to inner courtyards with stairs leading up to large terraces showcasing the sea, mountains, and recessed lagoons. As the only parking is on the Paseo, it is also common to find bicycles within the patios and bike racks near the small plazas across the village-esque surroundings.
Stepping out of the private courtyards into the community spaces, one is faced with a maze of decisions. Carefully manicured paths wind between homes and eastward toward small dunes hugging the beach and the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez. However, it’s nice to just start walking and see which path leads where.
The walkway across from Casago on the Paseo leads to the lap pool after lingering past small plazas; the subtle ramp behind the Wine Celler directs to a pathway toward a large curving pool with its own mini-island and jacuzzi.
All pathways east lead to the beach, in fact it’s about a 15-minute walk max from just about anywhere in Loreto Bay to the sandy shore. If you’re really a walker, look into hiking up Nopolo Rock at the southern end of the bay. A trail straight from the golf course leads its way up to the top, offering stunning views of the bay.
Convenient Wining & Dining
In both the neighborhoods of Founders and Agua Viva in Loreto Bay you’ll easily come across a variety of dishes to tempt the palate. While there’s no delivery service, you can order take-out from just about any of the selection of restaurants, and each has inviting spaces tucked into equally colorful façades along the Paseo. There are also a few mini markets along the Paseo, including Pedro’s general store near the Agua Viva plaza and the popular Pedro’s Place restaurant grill.
As is true along Baja California Sur, as summer starts to heat up some of the shops in Loreto Bay take a short break – particularly in August and September – welcoming residents and guests back again come Fall. However, a number of stalwarts persist through it all, so you’ll surely find great places to dine any time of the year.
Founders
As one of the first parts of Loreto Bay, hence the name, the Founders neighborhood houses several popular eateries along with a community center, library, and community supervisor’s office.
Next to the Wine Celler, which is a cool combination of tapas and sports bar, the Cactus liquor store is worth a visit. Newer to the area, the Ocotillo restaurant has a fine selection from some of Mexico’s best wineries to go with their creative international “Baja-Sur fusion” cuisine – serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner (closed Mondays) – be sure to ask for their live music nights. The Dos Lobos art gallery provides a traditional breakfast menu in the a.m. and a great coffee bar, and by night transforms to serve Japanese fare. Be sure to also look for a hint of Europe at Le Bistro showcasing local ingredients, as well as tempting coffee and treats at La Sirena Baja café once the community is in full season.
Agua Viva
The Agua Viva neighborhood in Loreto Bay has a small plaza with a variety of dining options, including Claudia’s Margaritas near the golf club house. As mentioned, Pedro’s Place Restaurant Grill can also be found in Agua Viva, where we hear the real treat is to get to know Pedro and his margaritas. This part of Loreto Bay is also home to Pan que Pan bistro & bakery, Asian fusion Baja Salads & Bowls, as well as breakfast and lunch options Nectar de Loreto and Señora Delicias. About a block north of the plaza is the more fine-dining Mediterranean and craft cocktails of Gastroteca Azul.
TIP: There are also private chefs that can come to your own home away from home to prepare magnificent meals. Ask the Casago concierge office to help arrange a spectacular dining experience!
Book your Loreto Bay adventure!
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, foodie, golfer, or simply enjoy soaking in the Baja California Sur sun in a relaxed atmosphere, the Villages at Loreto Bay provide inviting communities to explore. Book your Loreto Bay adventure with Casago and let our experts ensure a perfect stay.
