Todos Santos or “All Saints” is an enchanting coastal town located at the base of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains on the Pacific side of Baja California SUR. About an hour’s drive North of Cabo San Lucas, it is a perfect day trip to explore traditional colonial buildings, Mexican artisans and regional cuisine made with local products including organic, Baja sourced ingredients and fresh seafood. The spacious beaches of Playa Cerritos are ideal for relaxing or for surfers looking to catch a wave as it is known as one of the hottest surf spots in all of Baja. Boutique hotels offer charm, serenity and relaxing spa services. Hotel California is a desired stop, mostly due to the correlation with the famous Eagles song, though does not specifically reference this, or any other existing hotel.
Todos Santos is the second largest city in the municipality of La Paz and is also near the Tropic of Cancer, which is a great stop for photo opportunities.
In 2006, the Mexican government categorized Todos Santos with the special designation of being a Pueblo Magico or “magic town” in recognition of its geographical beauty, cultural assets and historical importance. The mission at what is known today as Todos Santos, was originally named the Mission Santa Rosa de las Palmas, founded by Father Jaime Bravo in 1723. It was given the new name of Nuestra Senora del Pilar de la Paz in 1724 and is the most recognized place of worship in town.
Todos Santos flourished as the Baja sugarcane capital during the 19th Century, sustaining eight mills. When the town’s freshwater spring dried up in 1950, only one remained and that last mill closed in 1965. Todos Santos had a revival in the early 1980’s when Highway 19 was paved by the Mexican Government. This brought tourism which also revived surrounding farmlands. The farms now thrive with fresh fruit and vegetables, avocados and a variety of chilies. A continued increase in tourism, along with a real estate development boom has led to growth in galleries, shops, restaurants, hotels and local festivals.
Todos Santos is not to be missed on your next trip to Los Cabos. To learn more, contact an expert today! http://miexperts.com
