Facts about Loreto

Location: 26°00N 111°21′W
Population >5,200 in 2002
Distance to US: 710 miles

Juan María de Salvatierra founded the Lady of Loreto Mission in 1697, the first permanent settlement in Baja. Loreto was the first capital city for Baja California Sur.

Airport: Loreto International Airport (LTO)
Alaska Airlines
Aero Mexico
Aero California

Bus Service to La Paz or Cabo: Aguila, ABC hourly, about $10USD

Taxis: From Puerto Escondido to Loreto as much as $50. In-town $3-$10.

Express Services:
DHL
Estafeta

Banking: Major Mx Banks

Industries: Fishing, tourism

Historical Industries:

Seasonal Events: Loreto Fest early May

Gringo Community: About 2500, seasonal

Weather: Climatology
 

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Loreto Score Sheet

Attributes:

Loreto is the oldest continuous settlement in Baja California Sur. The central plaza and presidio are fine examples of Baja architecture. Located between Guerrero Negro and La Paz on the Sea of Cortez, it is a rapidly growing community with both full and part time residents. Loreto makes a good lunch break from drivers on Highway 1. Loreto is promoting itself as a tranquil retirement and vacation community. Golf is available.

Accommodations - Bed and Breakfasts and boutique hotels abound. Nopolo resort area and golf course is more polished.

Dining: A variety of restaurants offer a variety cuisine along with those offering traditional Mexican fair, carne and seafood. As a whole, it's an informal dining atmosphere.

Shopping - Art galleries, ceramics, leather, hand-made clothing and tourist items. Groceries available from small markets and two larger markets in El Centro.

Fishing: Open Panga sport fishing can be outstanding in this area. One of the first areas in the Sea of Cortez to warm up in the summer time.

Medical Facilities - Modern facilities available, a new hospital is in the works.

Cultural - Open air concerts in the plaza, seasonal art and food fairs, reggae fest and surf contest.

The big Cruiser's Event - Loreto Fest is the end of April or early May.