Baja California Sur tourism growth remains strong as nearly two million visitors arrive in early 2025, driven by safety measures and solid hotel occupancy rates.
Baja California Sur has seen Baja California Sur tourism growth gather pace in the first half of 2025, drawing nearly two million visitors despite isolated reports of violence. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Economy (SETUE), 1,980,700 passengers arrived by air, land, or sea between January and May. Los Cabos led the way with 1,680,900 travelers, followed by La Paz at 257,000 and Loreto with 43,700 guests.
Tourists like Jesús from the Riviera Maya say they choose Baja California Sur because it feels safe. “We saw soldiers patrolling and that made us feel secure. You don’t see that everywhere,” he says. Sightings of security personnel at beaches and hotels have bolstered visitors’ confidence and kept cancellation rates low.
In Los Cabos, the executive president of the Hotel Association, Lilzi Orcí, reports no major booking drop-offs. She expects the summer season to finish with 70 percent occupancy, matching the annual average. The municipality offers 185 hotels and 21,700 rooms, a capacity that supports steady visitor numbers even during peak months.
Orcí credits close coordination between hoteliers and security authorities for keeping both guests and staff informed. “Regular security meetings have let us share updates on any precautions. So far, we haven’t had any incidents that harm the destination’s image or visitor flow.”
La Paz and Loreto also report solid figures. In La Paz, local hotels maintained average occupancy above 65 percent in May, fueled by domestic travelers seeking quieter beaches. Loreto, known for its marine park and historic sites, saw a 12 percent rise in visitor numbers compared to the same period in 2024. Tour operators point to new flight connections and targeted marketing campaigns as key drivers.
SETUE officials note that tourism represents a significant share of the state’s economy. Beyond room rates, visitors spend on dining, tours, transportation, and local crafts. The arrival of nearly two million passengers has created over 100 direct and indirect jobs in hospitality, transport, and service sectors.
While authorities acknowledge a handful of violent incidents in isolated areas, they stress that these events have not spread to main tourist zones. State authorities continue to sharpen their response plans. Security forces patrol highways and popular sites, and local businesses maintain close ties with law enforcement to report any concerns immediately.
Industry leaders see a resilient outlook for Baja California Sur. With ongoing investments in infrastructure—such as expanded airport facilities in Los Cabos and upgraded highway signage—tourism growth shows no sign of slowing. Marketing campaigns in the United States, Canada, and Europe are set to roll out in late summer, targeting travelers looking for both adventure and security.
As Mexico’s sunniest state consolidates its appeal, travelers can expect quality experiences on its beaches, in its historic towns, and across its island-dotted seas. With safety measures in place and occupancy rates holding firm, Baja California Sur remains a top pick for national and international tourists alike.
