The scenery in Loreto is spectacular, as the rugged Sierra de la Giganta Mountains converge with the bright blue Sea of Cortez. The first mission was founded in Loreto in 1697 by the Jesuit priest Juan Maria Salvatierra, and eventually Loreto became the capital of the Baja region. When Mexico won its independence from Spain in 1821, the new Mexican government ordered all of the missionaries home, and the mission at Loreto was abandoned. A major hurricane in 1829 virtually destroyed the rest of the settlement, and the capital was moved to La Paz. Over a century passed before Loreto was built up again, this time because the government had tapped the area for development to promote tourism. The Trans-Peninsula Highway reached Loreto in 1973, and an international airport was built, along with resorts and golf courses.
Sport fishing reigns supreme here, as the waters are teeming with dorado, sailfish and marlin. There are also plenty of water sports to try, including waterskiing, sailing and windsurfing. Whale watching tours and scuba or snorkeling trips can also be arranged for those wanting to get up close to the wildlife inhabiting these crystal clear waters. Those who wish to stay dry can take a relaxing stroll along the malecon along Calle de la Playa, or visit El Museo de los Misiones, which is located next to La Mision de Nuestra Senora. There you will find religious relics and displays on Baja's history.
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