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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VISIT BAJA SUR Family Fun in Baja California Sur e historic town of Loreto provides adventures for everyone L OCATED ON THE EASTERN COAST OF Baja California Sur, Loreto is known for its natural beauty, authentic vibe, and abundance of outdoor activities. An ecologically rich region, Loreto is home to several national parks including the colossal Sierra de la Giganta mountain range and the sparkling and serene Bay of Loreto National Marine Park. e charming town has an equally rich cultural heritage, featuring numerous accessible historic landmarks and museums dating back to the 17th century. Popular activities in Loreto include snorkeling and scuba diving on guided tours in the tranquil and turquoise waters of the Gulf of California, teeming with local wildlife including many species of whales, dolphins, and sea lions, and kayaking in the Bay of Loreto National Marine Park. Tour operators such as Vive Loreto Tours offer personalized guidance in adventures of all kinds, while the newly popular ABT Sailing offers more upscale excursions around the bay in a luxurious catered catamaran. On land, Loreto's picturesque landscape is accessible via hiking and biking in the nearby mountains and deserts, also overseen by trusty local tour guides at Loreto Sea and Land Tours. Back in town and steps away from the main plaza is the historic Mision Loreto (founded in 1697 and photographed above) and its connecting museum, Museo de las Misiones de Baja California. A working church, the mission is a still a vibrant part of the community, while the museum engages parents and children alike with Loreto's fascinating origin and Baja California Sur's distinctive history. After fun in the sun, enjoy a peaceful retreat at any of Loreto's charming boutique hotels within short walking distance of the main plaza. e centrally located waterfront Hotel La Mision provides a classic upscale hotel experience featuring views of the Bay of Loreto, a courtyard pool, and family friendly dining. Set along the Malecón (boardwalk), guests can stroll the walkway to take in spectacular sunsets. In the center of town, Hotel 1697 offers a particularly authentic and local experience. With only eight guest rooms, a central pool, and communal outdoor kitchen, Hotel 1697 is minutes away from all the town's attractions. About a 30-minute drive south, Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto offers a magical escape that encompasses impressive architecture, beautiful landscaping, a secluded beach, warm hospitality, first-rate service, and spacious accommodations that exemplify luxury. Direct flights to Loreto are available from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines. Another convenient option for Southern California travelers is the Mexican airline Volaris, which departs from Tijuana International Airport, easily accessed via the Cross Border Xpress in Otay Mesa on the U.S. side of the border. visitbajasur.travel MIA PARK detour destinations ranchandcoast.com 62 MAY 2023 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE