Baja California Sur Mexico Overview

Baja California Sur is the least populated state in Mexico, with just under 800,000 people recorded in the 2020 census and current estimates putting the population around one million today. Despite its size—more than 73,000 square kilometers, about the size of Ireland—only around five percent of the land is developed, with most of the state remaining desert, mountains, coastline, and communal ejido land. Los Cabos alone accounts for about 40 to 45 percent of the state’s population, now around 400,000 residents, while La Paz is the other major population center. Until 1974, Baja California Sur was a federal territory, and along with Quintana Roo, it was one of the last two regions to officially gain statehood. 

Los Cabos - Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo 

Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, though often grouped together as “Los Cabos,” offer very different experiences. Cabo San Lucas sits against the backdrop of dramatic topography, with the bay, Pedregal’s cliffs, and the iconic Arch at Land’s End creating a panoramic setting that feels lively and dynamic. Its reputation as a party town isn’t wrong—nightlife and tourism are big drivers—but the city is also much more than that. San José del Cabo, on the other hand, carries a more traditional and historic feel. Its walkable downtown, colonial architecture, and cultural scene—especially the popular Thursday Art Walk—make it feel distinctly more “Mexican” in character. Where Cabo San Lucas is fast-paced and international, San José leans toward a slower, more refined lifestyle. 

Pacific Side: Todos Santos, Pescadero, and Cerritos 

On the Pacific side, about a 50-minute drive from Cabo, you find Cerritos, Pescadero, and Todos Santos. Cerritos is best known for its family-friendly swimmable beach and vibrant surf culture. Pescadero offers a rural setting with farms and homes scattered among chili fields and orchards. Todos Santos, designated a Pueblo Mágico, is a historic town with art galleries, boutique hotels, and colonial architecture. Each has its own unique character: Cerritos for surf, Pescadero for its farm-meets-beach charm, and Todos Santos for its cultural depth. 

East Cape 

The East Cape remains one of Baja’s most pristine stretches of coastline. Once considered remote, it has been reshaped by the arrival of Costa Palmas in La Ribera, home to the Four Seasons, Aman, and a marina. The area is famous for turquoise waters, world-class diving at Cabo Pulmo National Park, and strong surfing and kite surfing spots. While Los Barriles is the most established town, much of the coast northward toward El Cardonal remains undeveloped. Access is improving with road paving, but full infrastructure is still limited. For many, the East Cape is reminiscent of the California coast a century ago—vast, rugged, and beautiful. 

La Paz 

La Paz, the state capital, has historically been a more local and national market, but is now seeing more international interest. With new flight connections, stricter density controls than Cabo, and attractions like the malecón, Playa Balandra, and Isla Espíritu Santo, La Paz combines authenticity with natural beauty. Prices are rising, but development is still small-scale compared to Cabo. The city is also significantly hotter than Cabo, sometimes by 5–10°F, but remains appealing for those seeking culture, community, and access to pristine nature. 

La Ventana 

La Ventana, about 40 minutes from La Paz, is world-famous for kite surfing. From November through March, strong winds make it the kite surfing capital of Mexico, attracting international visitors, many from tech-driven backgrounds. Beyond wind sports, La Ventana offers world-class wildlife encounters—whale sharks, giant manta rays, and orcas are common in the waters between the coast and Isla Cerralvo. While development is increasing, it remains a low-key destination, appealing to those seeking adventure and off-grid living. 

Loreto 

Loreto, a six hour drive north of Cabo, is a historic town with deep roots as the first capital of the Californias and home to the first Jesuit mission. The area boasts incredible scenery, with the Loreto Islands Marine Park and the luxury TPC Danzante Bay golf course. Connectivity remains the challenge, with limited flights from U.S. cities. Infrastructure is modest, but the town’s authentic charm, history, and natural setting make it a growing destination for retirees and second-home buyers. 

Mulegé 

Mulegé is a lush oasis town along the Sea of Cortez, surrounded by palm groves and the turquoise waters of Bahía Concepción. Its beauty is often compared to the Maldives. While development is creeping north, Mulegé remains quiet and isolated. Infrastructure improvements, like the road connecting San Ignacio to San Juanico on the Pacific side, may change this in the future. For now, Mulegé is one of Baja’s most pristine gems, attracting those who want natural beauty and a sense of remoteness.

At its core, Baja California Sur is a place that challenges expectations. Beyond the headlines and clichés, it’s a land of wide-open desert, pristine stretches of coastline, and two seas that shape its identity—the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Each town offers something distinct: Cabo San Lucas with its pulse and energy, San José with its cultural charm, Todos Santos with its creative spirit, and La Paz and Loreto with their authenticity and slower pace. Growth is happening, and yes, challenges exist, but the essence of Baja is a lifestyle and community unlike anywhere else. It’s safe, it’s welcoming, and it’s rich with opportunity. For those willing to look deeper, Baja California Sur isn’t just a destination—it’s a place to belong.

For help with real estate in Baja California Sur, reach out to Fletcher Wheaton - fletcher@remexico.com