Cabo is one of the most fun vacations you’ll have in Mexico – heck, maybe all of North America.
My trip there was such a blast I came back home with 2 broken toes. Who needs souvenirs anyway?
Don’t worry; you should feel worse for the lounge chairs that got in my way after one too many Mai Tais (Ahh, the one downside to all-inclusives!).
While paying up front for endless food and drinks seems like Heaven on Earth, Cabo can draw a crowd and drain your bank account before you can even order your first round of margs and tacos.
The ladder has been an issue for quite some time, with sky-high nightly resort rates often running deep into the hundreds.
So much so many Cabo loyalists have begun to check out what’s beyond the city limits in search of similar scenery, less crowds, and more savings and culture, such La Paz and Todos Santos.
According to Thrillist, there’s another unspoiled Baja escape to consider, especially now that it’s more accessible than ever with new direct flights.
Loreto: Baja’s Lesser Known Blissful Paradise
Both La Paz and Todos Santos have each become trendy beach getaways in their own right with luxe hotels and easily immersible culture unlike Cabo’s curated vacations in pricey resorts.
That being said, you don’t have to venture all the way to the southernmost point of Baja; you can visit Loreto instead.
This seaside city has flown under the radar far too long, but it’s now easier to reach than ever before with direct flights from Alaska Airlines and American Airlines.
Here, you’ll find stunning coastlines, but honestly, they’re nothing like Cabo’s beaches because they aren’t packed with hordes of fellow vacationers!
Some spots you could easily have all to yourself or with a handful other locals as Loreto still remains relatively unknown to the ‘average Joe’ or ‘Jane’ traveler.
Loreto is a place you visit to unwind away from life’s stresses back home and not add more stress to your life with Cabo’s obnoxious partiers – and yes, I’ve been a guilty contributor to that.
Now that I’m well into my 30s, Loreto is a lot more appealing. The same way you go from pulling all-nighters to gradually discovering ‘happy hours’ are more your jam; it’s the same comparing Cabo to Loreto.
Coronado Island Is A Must!
Loreto is home to gleaming turquoise waters no matter which beach find yourself.
There are some stunners in and around town, especially with the towering Sierra de la Giganta mountain as your backdrop.
While many locals and tourists in on Loreto’s secret may recommend a mixed bag of Playa Ligui, Playa Nopolo, and Playa Danzante, it’s the fabulous Isla de Coronado that’s a must.
Boasting scenic hiking trails, epic views, and the type of white sand you want to bottle up and bring back home, there’s no prettier place on this side of Baja.
Reaching Coronado Island is super easy. Just hop aboard one of the many operators who will take you there.
That being said, since this isn’t a touristy spot, it’s always best to do a little research to make sure they’re reputable.
I recommend Loreto Sea and Land Tours, holding an impressive 4.9 rating on Google and affordable rates to Loreto’s little known slice of paradise.
To be fair, Thrillist backs me up on this as their top recommendation is Loreto Bay National Park, a protected region encompassing numerous islands including Coronado – perfect for hiking, snorkeling, wildlife spotting, or simply lounging in the Baja sun.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss this unique attraction! Go on day hike to check out local cave paintings from the area’s indigenous people. Guides speak english and provide transportation and lunch.
Affordable Luxury
If you thought Cabo was the only beach getaway with all-inclusives, think again!
Just watch those pesky lounge chairs…
Vacationers have grand resorts such as Villa Del Palmar at their fingertips to splurge on the ultimate relaxing resort far less costly than many of Cabo’s premiere properties.
For even more savings, you’re still not sacrificing your experience. Check out 4-star Hotel La Misión de Loreto located near some of the city’s most photo-worthy colonial buildings.
Loreto served as Baja’s first capital city and is now a designated pueblo magico, after all.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.