The history, arts and culture of Mexico and the Baja peninsula permeate all aspects of life in Loreto Bay.

History & inspiration
The Mission of Our Lady of Loreto, named for Our Lady of Loreto in Italy, is the first of the California missions and the 300-year-old jewel of the town of Loreto. From this original settlement, the mission system spread throughout the peninsula and up along the coast as far north as San Francisco, bringing with it art, culture and religion whose influences can still be found in life in the Baja and California today. Tours of Loreto’s mission and museum and many other beautifully preserved missions are a wonderful way to explore local history and culture.

The art of architecture
You’ll see beautiful architecture throughout Loreto Bay. The old stone walls of the mission in the center of town set the tone. Keep your eye out for the details – the graceful arch of a doorway, the sun-drenched colors of the Baja, the detailed iron-work – all reflect the Spanish colonial origins of Loreto’s inspired architectural style.

Art for all the senses
As you continue to explore Loreto, you’ll find art and culture in unexpected places. The sound of local musicians gathering in the town square on a warm night. The smells from the kitchen of a family-owned restaurant float out into the streets and tempt you to come inside. And, the food! We don’t have enough time to describe all of the artful cuisine of Loreto, but suffice it to say that some of the Baja’s most talented artists choose fresh seafood and spices as the medium in which to express themselves.