Perhaps the best way to introduce Baja’s story is by recognizing its historically perplexing identity. Initially believed to be California island, this misconception was long upheld by early maps. Modern anthropologists suggest that this was likely a cartographical error but the fact that it countless expeditions and persisted over centuries makes imagination run wild.
However, when Spain dispatched an expedition specifically to debunk the island theory, the explorers encountered unexpected challenges. Their accounts describe being caught in the powerful tide currents of the Island’s channel, which swept them along down southern tip to Cabo California (what is now known as Cabo San Lucas)—the southernmost tip of what was believed to be the California island.
Here, the journey transcends mere destinations; it’s about rediscovery, the realization that true peace exists nowhere but within oneself. Baja magnetizes the adventurous, luring them with beauty beyond comprehension. It teaches those willing to listen that prosperity isn’t about wealth, but the richness of experiencing each moment—every footprint in the sand carries a story, every ship that has skimmed its waters tells tales of seeking and finding.
Hotel Palmilla stands as a landmark by the Sea of Cortez, epitomizing the allure and mystique of Southern Baja’s coast. Notably, it hosted one of the very first airstrips in all of Southern Baja, setting the stage for it to become a gateway for the glamorous jet-setters of Hollywood. This historical feature enabled secluded yet accessible retreats for those looking to escape the public eye.