Panama City Beach: Not Just for College Spring Break

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Loreto Bay sits 700 miles south of San Diego on the Baja peninsula’s east coast, and operates as the hub of the central Baja region. For more information, see www.loretobay.com

Where to Stay:
The Inn at Loreto Bay (866.850.0333; www.innatloretobay.com/hotel) is located just five miles from the airport and six miles from the center of town, right on the beach of the Sea of Cortes. It forms the nexus of the Villages at Loreto Bay, which will be built over the next dozen years. Rates through May 15 start at $135, down to $115 between May 16 to September 4, and fall to a cool $95 in the fall/winter season, between September 5 and December 20. Starting December 21, 2007, the new starting rate settles at $145.

Posada de las Flores (619.378.0103; www.posadadelasflores.com) offers lodging in the historic city center, with a lovely view of the historic mission and a rooftop pool.Rates between January 6 and July 14, as well as September 1 and December 20, range from $150 for a standard room to $250 for a luxury suite. The slightly higher rate of $180 for a standard and $290 for a suite is offered between July 15 and August 31, as well as over the Christmas season, from December 21 to January 4.

When to Go:
Loreto, amazingly, only has an average of five days rain or fog annually, with the median temperature resting at approximately 80° F. Winter temperatures range from the low 60s to upper 70s, while in summer, thermometers can reach the high 90s. In short, there is no bad time to visit. But for the best whale-watching experiences, January through March are ideal, while weather is practically perfect in October and November, and April and May.

How to Get There:
From the West Coast, travel is easy, with direct flights on Delta Airline leaving Los Angeles daily. Alaska Airlines runs flights from L.A. once daily, Thursday through Sunday, as well as regular flights from Phoenix, Tucson, Hermosillo, and Mexico City. AeroMexico offers direct flights from San Diego, as well as one-stop flights from Phoenix. Those looking for a slower, more adventuresome trip can hop in their car; the 18-hour road journey should offer perfect excuse for some seaside camping. East Coasters should rejoice come June 7, when Continental launches direct flights from Houston to Loreto Bay.