This week’s Photo of the Week comes to us from Juno Kim of RunawayJuno.com
Seven o’clock in the morning, four of us started hiking to the top of the small hill behind our hotel. We could see the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) from our balcony, but we were determined to watch a great view of the sunrise on our last morning in Baja California Sur. Only after a half an hour walking along the hiking path that was guided by giant cactus and animal bones, we reached the top. The sun was hiding behind the clouds, making the sky more dramatic. The weather had been kind to us, too.
The Sea of Cortez is as calm as a mirror in the morning. The five islands and the cliffs, which were created by the volcanic activities under the sea, were just floating, reflecting the morning sun. You can see Danzante, Carmen, and Coronado in this photo and Catalana and Montserrat are to the east. The Gulf of California is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Created by one of the longest peninsulas in the world, the Gulf of California is considered to be one of the most diverse bodies of water on the planet. The water is always warmer than the open ocean. The northern area of the Gulf usually goes through a colder winter, but is much more stable than the southern area. That’s why this is home to more than 5,000 species including whales and sea turtles.
The islands of Loreto are one of the best places in the world for sea kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. It was named as the third best place for sea kayaking in the world. Danzante and Coronado are well known as one of the finest snorkel destinations. Also it’s easy to travel far from the shore with just a paddleboard. Dolphins and seabirds will visit you in the open ocean if you are lucky.
My visit to Baja California Sur was organized in conjunction with Villa del Palmar at Loreto Resort.
Great photo. Looks like a beautiful place. The ocean looks as flat as a lake. Is this the same ‘Cortez’ as ‘Cortez Bank’ where they surf 70ft waves?
Hi Tom, thanks! It was a great place to watch the Sea of Cortez. I googled it, and it said Cortez Bank is west of San Diego.
Don’t let those calm waters fool you. The Sea can kick up, and BIG, very quickly. I lived in Bahia de los Angeles for six months and have cruised a great deal, mostly in the northern parts. Cortez bank is 100 miles WEST of San Diego . . . in the middle of nowhere.
Juno –
I am currently searching for maps/photos/nastalgia from a childhood treasure spot I use visit (Pete’s Camp, San Felipe, Mexico) several times a year and came across this article featuring your breathtaking pic. Thank You Very Much for Sharing.
I am not really sure the proper way to approach this so I am going to just come out and ask. Would it be possible for me to use your pic for one of my photoshop projects this semester? I would be ecstatic and willing to send you my files for my project so you can see the end result.
Please let me know at your earliest convenience either way so I can get started right away or move on.
Thanks Again,
Angelina