Breathtaking Puerto Escondido

 




Approaching Puerto Escondido

We left Santa Rosalia on a blustery day with strong winds predicted for the next several days over the northern reaches of Baja.  We headed south, passing Punta Chivato with 5-6 foot seas hitting us broadside as we rounded the point. 


One of Several Mooring Areas with Buoys

Looking through the binoculars, we could see the small dirt runway where we landed with our small plane so many years ago; the area has grown but the runway and small resort look much the same.  We recalled our plane loaded with two adults and two young boys, and the challenge of taking off at Punta Chivato.  Aware that it takes longer to ascend on hot days with a full load, we taxied down one of the two runways to confirm its distance and condition – the runway was shorter than expected with a rise in the approach and mountains at the far end.  The runway seemed the appropriate choice for the wind direction but was far too short; if we had taken off, we surely would have found ourselves in the side of a mountain.  We wisely chose the other runway even though there was a strong crosswind, best to have a long enough runway!  Our thoughts soon drifted back to Got d’ Fever and we continued our 12-hour journey to Isla Coronados, anchoring in the lee of the island at dark. 

Cactus, Mangroves, and Turquoise Waters

As is the routine, we had saved the route from our previous visit to Coronados, enabling us to simply follow the route on our chart-plotter into the bay at night.  Setting the anchor in the dark was a little tricky but doable with lights shining on the foredeck.  Next morning we departed for Puerto Escondido, a short 2-hour journey and tied-up to one of the many mooring balls in the harbor.  

Morning Light on the Sierra Giganta Range

Puerto Escondido must surely be the most spectacular moorage spots in all of Baja.  The cathedral-like Sierra de la Giganta Mountain Range rises steeply above the harbor, hillsides are covered with handsome cactus, and the turquoise waters are lined with mangroves - a combination of unsurpassed beauty.  

Cathedral-like Mountains Bathed in Morning Light

Boaters visiting the area have the option of docking at the government run Fonatur Marina, or can choose from numerous mooring balls located in three different areas of the harbor.  The marina recently expanded its facilities, adding more docks and moorage slips within the last few months.  Building lots, streets, and curbs previously put on hold are once again under construction.  With the breathtaking scenery and the lovely town of Loreto a short commute away, it’s no wonder folks are thinking about moving here in the not too distant future.

New Docks at Fonatur Marina, Escondido



Marina with Mooring Buoys in distance