Things to do in  Todos Santos

Set against the sweeping backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the 18th-century Our Lady of Pilar Church (Misión de Nuestra Señora del Pilar) is the town’s most notable religious edifice. Originally built by Spanish missionaries and characterized by a yellow facade, an altar surrounded by stained glass, and sweeping views over the ocean, Our Lady of Pilar Church is a Todos Santos must-see.

On a small bay 10 minutes from “downtown” Todos Santos, this heavenly beach is where local fishermen (who keep a yellow chapel on the sand) launch their panga boats—and where hikers take on the Old Port of Todos Santos trail, a roughly 4-mile (6.5-kilometer) out-and-back coastal stunner. Though the beach is serene, the waters can be rough for swimming.

Housed in a lovely brick building on the swankier north side of Todos Santos, this contemporary gallery is a holdover from the ‘90s, before the surf village hit the travel and quirky art-scene map. Visit to say hello to the local artists who run the gallery and to see an eclectic mix of fine art from Baja talents.

Three species of sea turtles lay their eggs along the coast of boho-chic Todos Santos—and are helped in their endeavors by Tortugueros Las Playitas, a renowned sea turtle conservation sanctuary. A thriving organization and hotbed of eco-friendly activity, Las Playitas offers volunteer opportunities in conservation, and helps run a limited number of eco-adventures.

Rampant tourism hasn’t reared its head in Todos Santos, probably the prettiest town in Baja—and this long beach is gloriously free of any development. Reach the beach via La Cachora dirt road for beach days, long-distance whale-watching, gnarly surf breaks, and top-notch strolling and sunset watching. Undertows and heavy breaks make La Cachora dangerous for swimming most of the year.