It seems like more and more people are planning to go to Cancun, Tulum, or Los Cabos this summer, and if you want to see what the fuss is all about, too – great!
All three places promise the summer experience of a lifetime; after all, there’s a reason why people can’t seem to get enough of them.
But if you’re looking for something more intimate and authentic-feeling, it can be hard to find a Mexico destination that fits the bill.
That is, until now!
Featuring pristine beaches, quaint streets that snake along colorful buildings, and breathtaking views, this one town on the Pacific coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula is everything you could want and more, and best of all, it’s just an hour from Los Cabos, so even if you do decide you want to switch things up a bit, the infectious energy of a big tourist hub is just a short drive away.
I must say, though – I have a sneaking suspicion that once you actually get to learn about Todos Santos, you won’t want to make any other plans.
Here’s why:
Small But Mighty: Todos Santos Has It All!
You’d be surprised at how much history, culture, and natural allure you can fit into 14.5 square miles (37.5 square kilometers) of land, but Todos Santos is here to exceed all expectations.
As far as sightseeing opportunities go, the town is unbeatable (yes, even when you compare it to some much better-known hotspots).
Playa La Cachora and Playa Los Cerritos are not only perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and relaxing, but the stark contrast between the deep golden sand and the striking blue waters is a view to behold in and of its own.
Playa La Cachora is not within Todos Santos proper, but is a short drive away.
If you’re more of a hiker, the trails that go through the nearby Sierra de la Laguna mountains promise the most breathtaking views ever, whereas culture seekers out there will fall in love with the Mission of Nuestra Señora del Pilar and Galeria Logan.
Worried About Getting Bored? Don’t.
So, there’s a fine line between a tranquil summer getaway and a boring one, and the good news is that in Todos Santos, you won’t have to cross it.
Sure, you’re coming during the off-season in a tiny beach town, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend your days locked in a hotel room.
Even if you’re not a big fan of surfing (which, by the way, is a huge part of local culture), you can always fill your itinerary with newbie lessons, fun hikes, horseback riding tours, gallery-hopping expeditions, visits to local markets, yoga sessions, and musical numbers at the town plaza.
A Safe Haven
When it comes to hidden gems like this, what they usually lack in high-spirited energy, they more than make up for in safety and tranquility, and Todos Santos doesn’t disappoint on that front, either.
Thanks to the friendly local community and incredibly low crime rates, you can rest assured that your summer here will be a quiet one (and I say that in the best way possible!).
Still, remember that petty crime occurs everywhere, especially in more touristy areas, so it’s always a good idea to take the same safety precautions you’d usually take – stay aware of your surroundings and avoid deserted, dimly lit areas at night.
Take Advantage Of Those Off-Season Prices, But Make Sure To Practice Your Spanish, Too
Another huge advantage that Todos Santos has over its better-known neighbors right now is that its small-town status, combined with the fact that summer is actually the off-season in the region, means that you won’t have to deal with insane prices.
However, there’s still a reason why most travelers choose to come here during the winter months.
For starters, the weather right now can be too hot and humid and, frankly, a bit unpredictable, so you should be open to sudden plan changes.
Secondly, since this isn’t your run-of-the-mill tourist hub, few locals actually speak fluent English, and the ones that do usually only come to the area during the winter months, so make sure to sharpen up on those high school Spanish skills just in case.
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