Why Santa Rosalia Should Be on Your Baja Sur Bucket List
One of the three Magical Towns (Pueblo Magico) of Baja California Sur, Santa Rosalia, is a place full of attractions with a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century.
Its development began with the discovery of important mineral deposits in 1885, specifically copper.
The French company “Compagnie du Boleo” was responsible for the exploitation of these resources and played a crucial role in the founding and growth of the city.
As a result, the population grew significantly, with workers and their families arriving to take advantage of the job opportunities offered by the mining industry.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Santa Rosalia is its architecture and urban design, which reflect the French influence.
Over time, the extraction of copper and other minerals continued to be the economic engine of the region, but there were also periods of decline in the industry that affected the stability of Santa Rosalia.
However, the community persisted and diversified its economic activities, opening also to tourism due to its rich history and natural attractions, such as beautiful beaches and landscapes.
5 Top Attractions in Santa Rosalia, Baja California Sur
These are the most popular things to do and see in Santa Rosalia and its surroundings. I’m sure you will love more than one!
1. Santa Barbara Church
The emblematic church of Santa Rosalia, a unique Catholic temple, was designed by the renowned engineer Gustave Eiffel.
Yes, the same guy known for creating the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris.
This magnificent church was first presented at the Paris Universal Exposition of 1889 and later acquired by the French mining company El Boleo.
Today, this architectural jewel is located in Santa Rosalia and stands out for its impressive collection of stained glass windows and religious images, which certainly deserve to be admired.
A source of local pride, the Santa Rosalia church attracts visitors from far and wide to marvel at its historical and artistic splendor.
2. Mining History Museum
The Mining History Museum captures the essence of the town’s flourishing period.
You can marvel at the furniture, equipment, and pieces from the beginning of the 20th century, which will transport you to the era of mining splendor.
Among the fascinating exhibits, “El Trenecito” stands out, a locomotive that was widely used in the mines and is now part of the historical heritage of the place.
3. El Boleo Bakery in Santa Rosalia, Mexico
Discover the historic El Boleo Bakery, part of the essence of Santa Rosalia, Baja California Sur.
With a history dating back to 1901, this bakery bears the same name as the French company that once exploited the copper deposits in the region.
Since then, its traditional ovens have worked tirelessly to provide locals and visitors with exquisite French bread.
At El Boleo, you will find a variety of delicacies for all tastes, from bolillos and conchitas to empanadas, teleras, and virotes, both sweet and savory.
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If you visit Santa Rosalia, you can’t miss the opportunity to try the delicious bread that this historic bakery has to offer.
Delight your palate with authentic French bread and be part of the tradition that has endured throughout the years in this Pueblo Magico.
4. San Marcos Island
San Marcos Island is a wonderful attraction a little further from the Pueblo Magico of Santa Rosalia.
Discover the active and huge gypsum mines near Santa Rosalia, just 30 kilometers south.
They will take you to the small town of San Bruno, home to a population of mine workers.
For expert divers, the surrounding waters offer an exciting adventure with reef shoals and diverse marine species, such as dogfish and sharks.
5. Tres Virgenes Volcano
Tres Virgenes is one of the three components of the volcanic complex, along with the Azufre and El Viejo volcanoes, about 32 kilometers north of Santa Rosalia, Baja California Sur.
Mountaineers and alpinists consider it their favorite volcano because of the challenges it offers, as it rises 2,055 meters above sea level.
From its summit, you can enjoy sweeping views of the splendid Sea of Cortés, while its south face features an impressive crater.
Getting to Santa Rosalia, Baja California Sur
To get to the Magical Town of Santa Rosalia is almost an odyssey since the closest airport is in the other famous Pueblo Magico of Loreto, that said, the best way to get there is to fly to Loreto from the border city of Tijuana.
- The distance by road from Tijuana to Santa Rosalia is about 920 km (12-hour drive approx).
- The distance by road from Loreto to Santa Rosalia is about 240 km (2.5-hour drive approx).
Once you are in Loreto, you can rent a car, take the bus, or ask for a cab to take you.
If you go by car, you have to head north and take the Santa Rosalia-Loreto Highway, also known as the “Transpeninsular Highway,” from here, just follow to the Magical Town of Santa Rosalia.
Where to eat?
El Muelle Restaurant will delight your palate with a variety of exquisite seafood dishes.
Among the outstanding options are fish a la veracruzana, Baja-style fish tacos, refreshing seafood cocktails, and other alternatives such as their signature pizza.
Tonkas Grill Restaurant
If burgers and steaks are more your thing, this is the place to go!
Although its menu is not very extensive, you will find yummy burgers, steaks, salads, snacks, and craft beer on tap.
Santa Rosalia Lodging
El Morro Hotel offers guests a relaxing and cozy experience, with breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez.
With a privileged location, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the region, as well as explore nearby attractions such as historic copper mines and mountain scenery.
You can find a single room for two people and a double room with two beds at.
Hotel Las Casitas
Hotel Las Casitas is a charming lodging in the municipality of Santa Rosalia, Baja California Sur.
This cozy hotel offers a welcoming and relaxing experience for its guests.
Las Casitas is characterized by its warm and homey atmosphere, with comfortable and well-equipped rooms that provide all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay.
Santa Rosalia, Baja California Sur: Final thoughts
Santa Rosalia may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of Baja Sur, but that’s precisely what makes it so special.
This charming Magical Town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is hard to find anywhere else.
Whether you’re drawn to its French colonial architecture, fascinated by its mining history, or simply want to experience a quieter, less-touristy side of Baja Sur, Santa Rosalia has something to offer every traveler.
Add it to your Baja Sur bucket list, and you’ll discover a hidden gem that will leave a lasting impression.
