Todos Santos

Introducing Todos Santos

This quiet dusty town, well, ain’t what she used to be. Todos Santos has witnessed an invasion from the north as well-heeled New Mexico artists, organic farmers and even some Hollywood types have snapped up property and put down roots. Locals and tourists alike all say, ‘I’m lucky I got to see this place two years ago.’ Change is happening that fast, and environmental protection laws mean little when so much money can change hands. The sea turtle and surfing beach Los Cerritos has been slated for development: hotels, houses, condos and bars are already going up and it’s unlikely anyone will turn off the lights each spring during egg-laying season.

Todos Santos’ newfound prosperity does not reflect its history. Founded in 1723, but nearly destroyed by the Pericú rebellion in 1734, Misión Santa Rosa de Todos los Santos limped along until its abandonment in 1840. In the late 19th century Todos Santos became a prosperous sugar town with several brick trapiches (mills), but depleted aquifers have nearly eliminated this thirsty industry.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009