Faces of Mexico - Bahía Kino
by Bill and Dorothy Bell
Bahía Kino is a beachside town on a secluded bay on the Sea of Cortez 117 Kms West of Hermosillo in the State of Sonora. Known as Hermosillo’s beach, Bahía Kino was named after Padre Kino, the benevolent Jesuit priest who rode horseback throughout many parts of Western Mexico and the US establishing Missions. Arriving from Italy in 1681, he soon established more than 20 missions in the region as well as created many of the first maps of the areas.
Saguaro
cactus giants dot the Sonoran desert; a desert that runs directly toward and
meets the brilliant blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. This is rugged country
with distinct contrasts; dry desert with reptiles, insects and thorny plants;
calm wavy waters, soothing winds and desolate beaches.
Bahía Kino is a sleepy village where tourism and specifically RV Tourism is King. There are nine RV parks in the area that offer a variety of settings and services; from rundown small sites to parks with full services like those back home. Stay and find your park with your name on it.
Restaurants
typically serve fresh and abundant seafood that is harvested from the sea just
hours before it hits your plate.
There are a variety of things to do in the area. Many of the seasonal residents have joined the recreational club towards the northern area of town. Here they arrange a number of social activities for members and residents to keep entertained.
The
Museo de los Seris, is a
small but well kept museum that informs travelers about the Seri Indians and
their history. Throughout the town you will see the Seri selling dolls, wicker
baskets and Ironwood carvings.
Did we mention the
magnificent 11 kms of white sandy beaches? Perfect for swimming or long walks
along the water. Pick up shells and stones. Watch amazing birds or waves as they
scoop into shore. There are a variety of water activities for travelers to
enjoy; fishing, skiing,
diving, and sailing. There is a driving range, where you just plow your golf
balls into the desert.
This is a great place to stop for awhile, rest and take stock. Do you want to move on? Or just settle in with the other permanent and semi-permanent residents that have made this area home. Relax and enjoy.