La Paz is the oldest and largest city in Baja Sur, with over 200,000 people. Hernan Cortez discovered the bay on which La Paz is located over 470 years ago, in the year 1535. Only in recent years has it grown into a major modern city; but, it is unique in that it has not forgotten its cultural roots. La Paz is well situated for getaway enjoyment and is conveniently located for international travel or trips to mainland Mexico via sea or air.
Whether you choose to be in La Paz or some other location in Baja California Sur, full time or part time, there are still very affordable properties for purchase. Even with an estimated 20% increase in both developed and undeveloped resort properties between 2004 and 2006, land is still inexpensive when compared to other warm, ocean/sea-front communities. Many new and affordable home and condominium developments are underway with more on the drawing boards.
Only recently have the attributes of La Paz become recognized as a worldwide vacation and retirement destination. Often called “undiscovered”, that situation is fast changing. La Paz was mentioned in a Money Magazine article on June 9, 2003 as “one of the best retirement places in the world”. Since then, seldom does a week go by without a major newspaper or magazine “discovering” the city and the region. Consequently, there is increased population growth and a rise in real estate prices that always accompanies such growth.
There are many great reasons people choose La Paz! La Paz is the Capitol of Southern Baja and officials work diligently with you to accomplish tasks that require governmental participation. The City of La Paz — “The Peace” — is known for its beautiful, safe bay and for being the most affluent city of the Baja. La Paz has an infrastructure that supports everything from business ventures to retirement, with restaurants, hospitals, transportation networks and an international airport. Business people, tourists and retirees all find La Paz a perfect area for the pursuit of their lifestyle.
La Paz has a glamorous history, from its selection as a safe seaport by the Spanish, the discovery of Black Pearls, sea life that has earned the Sea of Cortez the nickname “Fish Hatcher of the World,” to being the main transportation destination between mainland Mexico and the Baja Peninsula; there simply is no better location than La Paz.
So, how’s the weather? Just Great!! Picture yourself in Scottsdale, Arizona, except: 1) in the summer months, add ocean breezes for that cooling touch; and 2) in the winter, picture almost endless sunshine, with the nights taking on a Mediterranean effect. It can get cooler, so have some warm clothes handy. There is a “rainy season” in late summer and early fall; otherwise, this part of Mexico enjoys sunshine and dry weather most days of the year. It is hard to beat this weather, year-round.
With its great climate, fantastic beaches, friendly services, planned infrastructure, practically non-existent crime rate, zero unemployment and its beautiful surroundings along the Sea of Cortez, La Paz is a magical place. There are many interesting and charming things to see and do here. Perhaps one of the most unique attractions is La Paz’s waterfront walkway, the Malecon. The Malecon is truly one of the most beautiful in all of Mexico, and perhaps the world. Recently, the Malecon has been renovated and now offers a wide pedestrian walkway, adorned with decorative tiles, ornamental wrought iron benches and beautiful palm trees.
Recognizing the enjoyment it provides for local citizens and tourists alike, the city has committed to ongoing enhancement and lengthening of the Malecon. It is anticipated that by the year 2015, this magic walkway will extend along the bay for more than 10 miles. Its visionary design allows this amenity to easily accommodate families or individuals who love walking, biking, roller-blading, running or just sitting on a bench watching the sunsets. The Malecon in La Paz is the city center of activities year around and fast becoming recognized worldwide as a must-see, must-experience attraction.
It is impossible to tire of La Paz. The Museum of Anthropology could be visited many times and one would not absorb all of the history available to enjoy. The museum is full of historic flags, paintings, Mission artifacts and model recreation, ancient examples of arts, crafts, weapons and tools of everyday life from centuries gone by. Perhaps you will find the story of pearls to be of interest. As early as the 16th century, La Paz was the center of the world for the harvesting of black pearls.
There are no high-rise hotels between you and the beach, or Bahia de La Paz’s waters-edge; there are no “hawkers on the street”; there is no massive tourist zone that overburdens the family nature of the city. La Paz is a city that goes on with its traditional Mexican life and you are welcome here! Whether you choose to be in La Paz or some other location in Baja California Sur, full time or part time, there are still very affordable properties for purchase. Even with an estimated 20% increase in both developed and undeveloped resort properties between 2004 and 2006, land is still inexpensive when compared to other warm, ocean/sea-front communities. Many new and affordable home and condominium developments are underway with more on the drawing boards.
Both San Jose del Cabo and La Paz have first-class international airports, making it an easy flight to almost anywhere you want to go. The close proximity to the USA makes living in Baja California Sur an excellent choice for either a vacation or retirement home. Land’s End Realty has what you are looking for! Why don’t you drop us an email; or, even better, give us a call – TODAY!
