Loreto sits on the east coast of Mexico's Baja California Sur peninsula. The town faces the Sea of Cortez, a place Jacques Cousteau once called the "world's aquarium" because of its biodiversity. Founded in 1697, Loreto may be a small town, but it has a big stake in the cultural history of the region. Colonial and pre-colonial sites dot the area, for you to explore. Set your sights on the Loreto Bay National Marine Park and witness sunbathing sea lions and the occasional breeching whale. Boat over to Coronado Island and explore the white sand beaches, or spy a spiny lobster while snorkeling. Head into the Sierra de la Giganta mountains to the west and marvel at cave paintings made between 1000 BCE and 1300 CE, a licensed guide can take you into those areas. Venture just outside Loreto and visit the well-preserved baroque Mission San Javier built in the eighteenth century. Reel in a sea bass, yellow tail or a dorado, and then have a local restaurant cook up your day's catch. Enjoy a fresh lime margarita and some coconut shrimp as you look out on the sea at La Picazon Restaurant which is walking distance from Villa Linda Mar.