1. Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto
An all-inclusive, family-friendly resort, Villa del Palmar is a hideaway far removed from the hectic pace and hubbub of the modern world. The resort has high-speed internet access and lots of activities, but the world-weary are advised to set aside their devices. This is a place to let your hair down, take a carefree stroll on the beach and deeply inhale the rich sea air. Reconnecting with nature is the best way to refresh yourself and completely relax—the ultimate luxury.
2. Weather
Situated just above the Tropic of Cancer, Loreto enjoys a mild, Mediterranean-style climate, with upwards of 320 days of sunshine plus cooling sea breezes. The subtropical weather is ideal for golf year-round, especially from November through April, when humidity is low, rainfall is rare and daytime temps are in the 70s.
3. Golf Course
An unforgettable test of golf draped across a spectacular site, TPC Danzante is an aesthetic tour de force with a rare topographic blend of desert, mountains and coastal dunes. The multi-themed course takes players through a variety of settings, from steep-walled canyons and meandering arroyos to rolling foothills. Holes serve up views of the mountains, sea and offshore islands. Insider tip: savor the experience. Choose not to keep score one day. And be sure to pause on the tee of the par-3 17th hole, an absolute stunner with a jaw-dropping ocean view.
4. Versatility
Built by designer Rees Jones for maximum enjoyment by golfers at all ability levels, TPC Danzante Bay offers six sets of tees ranging from 7,237 yards (Black) to 4,916 yards (Red), par 72. For better players, there’s a set of Mix tees that combine 12 Black, four Gold and two Blue tees to offer a very stout test at 6,934 yards (par 72).
5. Sustainability
A versatile course that complements the site’s habitat, TPC Danzante Bay co-exists in harmony with nature. The facility utilizes two strains of Paspalum, a salt-tolerant, disease-resistant turfgrass that uses a fraction of the chemicals and fertilizers required by normal grasses. Water drawn from a reverse-osmosis plant is used to irrigate the turfgrass. According to visionary owner Owen Perry, “Being located in a protected marine park, we adhere to stringent environmental rules and we gladly accept the challenge” of keeping Danzante Bay and the Islands of Loreto pristine.
6. Sabila Spa
A sanctuary of serenity, the resort’s 39,000-square-foot Sabila Spa offers treatments that combine healing traditions and modern innovations. This feel-good retreat features private treatment cabins, a beauty salon, a hydrotherapy circuit, aromatherapy rituals, facials, body scrubs and exfoliators, and an array of full body massages (including an 80-minute Golf Massage). Sabila Spa’s treatments are designed to balance your body, quiet your mind and induce a harmonious state of well-being.
7. Access
Loreto is a four-hour drive from La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, but most vacationers arrive by air. Several carriers offer regularly scheduled flights to Loreto from Tijuana (Volaris), Los Angeles and San Francisco (Alaska Airlines), Phoenix and Dallas (American Airlines), and Calgary (WestJet). Loreto International Airport (LTO) is 15 minutes from TPC Danzante Bay and the resort. ‘Hotel + Flight’ promotions invite travelers to book a vacation package directly with Villa del Palmar for additional savings.
8. Bay of Loreto National Marine Park
Covering 800 square miles in the Sea of Cortes, the park consists of the marine ecosystem, five main islands of volcanic origin, dozens of tiny islets and countless squibs of rock. The park is a fixture on UNESCO’s list of protected World Heritage Sites. Known for its sandy beaches, sea cliffs and submarine canyons, this biologically diverse preserve has thriving populations of sea lions, dolphins and other marine mammals–plus hundreds of species of fish. It’s a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers as well as kayakers and paddle-boarders.
9. Sierra de la Giganta
This spectacular mountain range dominates the landscape on the Baja’s East Cape. Within these rugged mountains are unmarked trails (for adventurous hikers) and caves once inhabited by early settlers (the Guaycura), who left behind paintings and petroglyphs. Novice explorers can hike the resort’s marked trails to experience soaring volcanic pinnacles, buttes and towers. The best time to hike is late afternoon, when the setting sun turns the mountains shades of ochre and burnt orange.
10. Loreto
Founded in 1697 by Jesuit missionaries, this ‘Pueblo Magico,’ located 20 minutes from the resort, is a small quiet town with quaint cobblestone streets leading to colonial-era buildings. The town’s informal seafood restaurants are excellent. Loreto’s Malecon, a seaside promenade, is best enjoyed at sunset, when bright fuschias, rosy pinks and vibrant purples flood the western sky.
11. Language
Familiarize yourself with a few basic Spanish words and phrases prior to arrival or, better yet, brush off your high school Spanish. Even if you’re rusty, any well-meaning attempt to speak Spanish will be appreciated by the golf and resort staff.
12. Night Sky
The region’s most welcome surprise is the exquisite beauty of Loreto’s night skies. The virtual absence of artificial light results in inky black skies paved with stars. On a typically clear night, the Milky Way really looks milky. In an ever-developing world, these kinds of primordial views are exceedingly rare. Perennial meteorite showers generally occur in August and November, though shooting stars can be seen year-round.
FAQs About Visiting TPC Danzante Bay and Loreto
What is the best time of year to play golf at TPC Danzante Bay?
The best months for golf in Loreto are November through April, when temperatures are mild, humidity is low, and rainfall is minimal.
How do I get to TPC Danzante Bay?
Most visitors arrive via Loreto International Airport (LTO), located 30 minutes from the resort. Direct flights are available from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix, Dallas, Tijuana, and Calgary.
Is TPC Danzante Bay beginner-friendly?
Yes. TPC Danzante Bay was designed for maximum playability, offering a layout that golfers of all experience levels can enjoy.
What amenities does Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto offer?
Guests enjoy multiple restaurants, spacious suites, Sábila Spa, pools, beach access, water activities, and golf at Mexico’s only TPC course.
What activities can I enjoy besides golf?
Visitors can explore snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, whale watching (January-March), stargazing, and cultural experiences in downtown Loreto.
Is Loreto a safe destination for travelers?
Yes. Loreto is widely considered one of the safest towns in Baja California Sur, known for its peaceful atmosphere and welcoming community.
What is the Loreto Bay National Marine Park?
Loreto Bay National Marine Park is part of the Gulf of California’s protected islands and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park encompasses five main islands—Coronados, Carmen, Danzante, Montserrat, and Santa Catalina—each surrounded by calm turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and striking volcanic landscapes. It is one of Mexico’s most extraordinary regions for nature lovers, marine exploration, and eco-adventure.
Are there Hotel + Flight packages available?
Yes. Villa del Palmar regularly offers Hotel + Flight promotions where travelers can bundle their stay and airfare for additional savings.
