Todos Santos

Todos Santos is the principle town of the significant art scene in Baja California Sur. It remains a major surfing town, as well as a historical and cultural hub with lots of historical architecture in addition to the resorts community. Many visitors have returned year after year for decades. 

Todos Santos entered into European consciousness in the early 18th century with the beginning of the mission movement that evangelized most of the Californias. The famous Pericú Rebellion took place here in 1734 when Guaicura Indians destroyed the mission buildings and sent the missionaries packing. It took about a year for the Jesuits to come back and this time it was more a military headquarters. 

The town then grew as a sugar hub, and survived on that industry for better than a hundred years. With the closing of the final sugar processing plant in 1974, the era of vacation travel had officially begun. The town was re-discovered by artists who appreciated the exquisite beauty, and made it their own. There are still artists, Mexican and international, who fill out the Todos Santos cultural calendar like few others. In a town of barely 8,000 permanent residents, their presence is noted, and there is always something going on. Some 20 galleries host events, hang shows, and make a living from local and international collectors who come calling. And things go way beyond seashores and mermaid paintings. 

Lobster, shrimp, clams, and every variety of seafood are all complemented by the fact that this was long an avocado and mango producing area. The diet is fantastic and ranges from gourmet to street food. 

Todos Santos is about one hour north from Cabo San Lucas and just a little bit further from La Paz.  Autobuses Águila, ABC, Fradisa, and EcoBaja will all make stops in Todos Santos and staying for a good week without any car makes for a very peaceful and life changing stay.