If you punch links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Here’s what you oughta know to plan a trip to Loreto, Mexico.

But Loreto is more than just the serene seaside town you’ve been dreaming of.

City Hall on Plaza Benito Juarez in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Loreto was the first Spanish colonial city in Baja and the original capitol of all of California. According to some sources the oldest inhabited area of the Baja Peninsula.

City Hall in Loreto, Mexico.Credit:VWPics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Best Things to Do

Emily_M_Wilson/Getty Images

Go whale watching.

Plan a wellness trip.

In Loreto, the vibe is much more low-key and affordable but no less inspiring.

Hotel room

Guest room in Hotel Posada de Las Flores.Courtesy of Hotel Posada de las Flores

The space also has a bakery and glamping accommodations for multi-day retreats.

Go diving.

Visit historic missions.

San Javier Mission in Loreto

The San Francisco Mission near Loreto, Mexico.Emily_M_Wilson/Getty Images

Hike Tabor Canyon.

Though not a challenging route, it’s best to take a guided excursion with Wild Loreto.

This local company has been running private and small-group treks and other adventurous excursions in the area for years.

A woman walking through a plaza

Eateries in Loreto, Mexico.Andrew Peacock/Getty Images

Most visitors choose to stay in this part of town.

These uninhabited islands teem with such biodiversity that they are included in the region’s UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Even during this relatively busy season in Loreto, the town remains laid-back and lovely.

Fair morning on the southern point of Carmen Island. View of the Sierra de la Giganta on the mainland across the water. Loreto Bay National Marine Park. Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Carmen Island in Loreto Bay Naitonal Marine Park.CampPhoto/Getty Images

Divers will enjoy the best water temperatures and highest visibility between June and November.

Alaska Airlines offers seasonal daily flights from Los Angeles and with lesser frequency from San Francisco and San Diego.

American Airlines offers direct flights from Phoenix and Dallas, while WestJet offers direct flights from Calgary.

Woman walking on a beach

A beach in Loreto, Mexico.Andrew Peacock/Getty Images

Loreto is a magical town located in Baja California Sur.

Aerial view of Loreto, Mexico.Arturo Peña Romano Medina/Getty Images