Marlin, Roosterfish, and Good Times at Bahía de los Sueños!


As is the case with many first time Bahía de los Sueños visitors, Lisa and Rowin did not realize how captivating their experience would be.   After staying at a time share in La Paz for a few days, they ended up discovering the beautiful Bay of Dreams.  Locals in La Paz had recommended Bahía de los Sueños to them as the premier fishing destination in the area.

Lisa's first Marlin!

Motivated to find out more about the local’s recommendation and have a wonderful fishing experience, Lisa and Rowin rented a car and made the scenic 45 minute drive to Bahía de los Sueños.  They found restaurant 1535 located on the beach at the far end of the bay.  They were impressed with the English speaking skills of the staff at 1535, and enjoyed the excellent food and reasonable prices.

 
While enjoying lunch at 1535, Lisa and Rowin learned about Gran Sueno, world class resort hotel at Bahía de los Sueños.  Captivated by the beauty, they decided to spend the evening.  Lisa commented, “The resort was exceptional . . . What a stroke of luck!  The physical structure, amenities, food service, everything was impeccable!”

They awoke the next morning, and embarked on a fishing experience unlike any they had ever had before.  Lisa caught her first Marlin, and Rowin caught his first Roosterfish.  After a great day of fishing, they met up with Tony and Robert, a couple of Americans who had introduced them to the boat captain they had used the day before.  They all enjoyed dinner, drinks, and laughter while sharing fish stories and gazing out upon the bay.

Rowin's first Roosterfish!

Lisa reflected on her trip: “The fishing, people, scenery, and atmosphere were amazing.  Bahía de los Sueños is a beautiful place to stay and not one hair out of place.  White sandy beaches with all the water toys: kayaks, stand up boards, etc.  The resort has an amazing infinity pool, private Jacuzzis, private theatre, game room, and much more!  To sum it up, the whole trip was just perfect!”

In addition to world class fishing adventures, visitors at Bahía de los Sueños can take advantage of unique opportunities such as world class golfing, whale watching, spa treatments, snorkeling with whale sharks, spearfishing, snorkeling with a colony of sea lions, scuba diving, kayaking, sailboarding, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing, waverunner riding, hiking, bird watching, tide pool exploring, or a day cruise to Jacques Cousteau Island.

Are you ready to join the Lifestyle at Bahía de los Sueños?

For more information about world class fishing or other lifestyle activities at Bahía de los Sueños, contact me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com or (310) 402-2209 ext 4161.

Fishing, Guest Book, Living in the Baja | No Comments » July 25th, 2010

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Colorado Golf Writer Entranced by the Beauty at Bahía de los Sueños!


Jake Kubie, associate editor for Colorado AvidGolfer, had the look of wonder and delight as I met him here at Bahía de los Sueños for his first visit recently.  A fan of the Doak minimalist philosophy, Jake had been anticipating the opportunity to play our unique and challenging course for several months.  After giving him some background information on the history of the bay and our development, we headed off to the stunning elevated #1 tee box perched above the sand dunes overlooking beautiful Bahía de los Sueños.

 
There are several unavoidable “time delays” for golfers becoming entranced by the beauty at Bahía de los Sueños, and arriving at the tee box on hole #1 is no exception.  This tee box location is perched above the sand dunes and the calm aqua blue waters of the Sea of Cortez; one cannot help but to gaze out in amazement and appreciation at the “Bay of Dreams” when standing here.   Visitors in general are stricken by the bay’s warmth and beauty, and the impressions put upon them often change their lives.  Jake and I were no exception to this rule.  Although we were excited to start our round of golf, we could not help being captivated by such a magical setting.

 

After teeing off down the middle of the fairway  towards the beautiful Laguna Sierra Mountains, Jake immediately recognized the design trademarks responsible for Tom Doak’s reputation as an elite golf course designer.  Doak is known for a minimalist philosophy creating golf courses that flow with the existing topography.  Characteristics of his courses include natural bunkers seamlessly woven into the playing surface, visually arresting greens and fairways; greens with interesting and challenging slope dimensions, and the utilization of indigenous botanical features which aim to promote the natural beauty of the surrounding land.   His design approach is very simplistic, and this is very appealing to many golfers.  Jake commented on this as we were playing, “More and more people want to have an outdoor experience with minimal man-made visual interferences when they play golf.  Otherwise, you feel as if you are in the city.”  There are no rakes left in the sand traps at Bahía de los Sueños, they are kept on the carts.  The cart paths are a natural color, and hidden from view when on the course.


Jake, a former collegiate golfer at the University of Denver, was impressed with the multitude of views of the Sea of Cortez from the majority of course.  On hole #14, he commented, “I have never played on a course with a green so close to the ocean.”   Jake was again mesmerized as he looked out upon the “Bay of Dreams.”  He dropped his putter and started walking toward the beach.  He asked me about the snorkeling here at Bahía de los Sueños, and if it was as magnificent as he thought it might be.  I told him it was awesome.  We also talked about kite-boarding, fishing, scuba diving, horse-back riding, and the multitude of activities available here at Bahía de los Sueños.

After finishing off at the beautiful ocean 18th hole green, we headed back to the train room at the Gran Sueno Hotel.  Reflecting on his golf experience, Jake vowed to make a visit to Bahía de los Sueños an annual occurrence.  I parted, and thanked Jake his enthusiasm for our wonderful course, beautiful bay, and development vision.  As I was leaving, I looked back and saw Jake heading to the white sandy beach; he was again captivated by “The Bay of Dreams”.

 

Jake Kubie with Colorado AvidGolfer

For more information about the golf experience, latest news, or the resort at Bahía de los Sueños, contact me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com or (310) 402-2209 ext 4161.

"Now on the tee...", Living in the Baja, Tom Doak Golf | No Comments » July 22nd, 2010

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Riding Horses with Raul at Bahía de los Sueños!


Raul Uzeta, equestrian director with the world class Gran Seuño Resort Hotel located at Bahía de los Sueños, smiled as I entered the equestrian grounds this past Wednesday for the first horse riding lesson of my life.  His gentle look and calm demeanor seemed to reflect the aura people exhibit when they visit or live at Bahía de los Sueños.  The white sandy beaches, aqua blue waters, and backdrop of the beautiful Laguna Sierra Mountains change people lives, and Raul Uzeta is no exception.  His reception gave me an unspoken vote of confidence.  From this point forward, I knew I was in for a fun, memorable, and safe horse riding experience at Bahía de los Sueños.

 
The first impression Raul gave me was important, as my only previous memory of being high atop a four-legged creature was when I was unwillingly hoisted upon a pony for a photo shoot at the age of four.  I remember that I was encouraged to smile at the time, yet my sole interest was having an adult put me back on solid ground.  As a child, I was quite content watching ponies and horses on television, or from a distance at the fairgrounds.

There are a total of five amazing horses at Bahía de los Sueños, and I had the opportunity to ride Vikina, a beautiful seven year old mare.  Raul said that while all of the horses are trained well, Vikina is especially trusting and gentle.  He mentioned that she is very good at obeying instructions, even when her instincts may tell her otherwise.  He stressed that Vikina’s manners and adaptation to being a gentle and well-mannered horse are the exception to the rule considering her young age.

 
Having a good understanding of the way horses think and behave is very important prior to riding them out in the open, says Raul.  In nature, he explained, horses are inclined to take on more of a “group” type behavior.  An example, he said, is if one horse decides to run fast, the others will want to follow suit.  He mentioned that in nature, horses have many predators, both large and small.  Consequently, he said they have a tendency to be frightened easily, and react very quickly if they feel they are in danger.  This is important to recognize, he stressed, because they have triple the strength and reaction speed when they are outside the training facility.  Prior to guiding visitors along the beach or foothills of the Laguna Sierra Mountains, he strives to make sure they are in solid command of the horse they are riding, and he wants to make sure they also have a clear understanding of horses’ natural tendencies when riding in the open.

 

 

As my lesson started, Raul showed me the correct position one should assume while being in the saddle.  He explained that there are two types of riding:  English and western.  We would be riding the western style, which meant keeping your seat in the saddle more.  He mentioned that keeping balanced with your weight centered over the horse at all times is very important.  Raul instructed me how to command Vikina to move forward, trot, gallup, stop, and turn.  We started slow, and I was able to gain more confidence as the lesson progressed.  With a little kick and a ‘kiss’, Vikina would move forward for me.  When I ‘kissed’ louder, and kicked a little harder, she would progress from a trot to a gallop.  Raul explained that horses will not respect and obey without clear and consistent commands.  I could tell that Vikina’s confidence in me grew as she became familiar with my voice, and understood that I was in control of her.

 

 

By the end of the lesson, I was grinning and feeling comfortable with riding and commanding Vikina.  Raul said I did well, yet I knew that his horse training and student instruction expertise was paramount in my successful, educational, and fun riding lesson.  Having never spent much time around horses, this experience was a real treat.
Perhaps the most gratifying part of the morning was when I was able to spend a few minutes with Vikina after the lesson.  By this time, she knew my voice well, and recognized me.  I was able to pet her, and thank her for the ride.  We bonded, and at that moment I instantly understood why people like Raul would choose to make horses a part of their everyday lives.

In conjunction with the opportunity to use the equestrian facility, there are many other opportunities for an exciting lifestyle at Bahía de los Sueños including world class golfing, whale watching, spa treatments, snorkeling with whale sharks, sport fishing, spearfishing, snorkeling with a colony of sea lions, scuba diving, kayaking, sailboarding, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing, waverunner riding, hiking, bird watching, tide pool exploring, or a day cruise to Jacques Cousteau Island

If you are interested in visiting Gran Sueño at Bahía de los Sueños, meeting Raul, and learning more about the equestrian facility or other activities, contact me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com  or (310) 402-2209 ext. 4161.

Equestrian Center, Horse Riding Lessons, Living in the Baja | No Comments » July 12th, 2010

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Raul Uzeta: Equestrian Expert at Bahía de los Sueños


Raul’s childhood experiences would prove to provide the platform from which he would realize his future dreams of training, riding, teaching others to ride, and living with horses every day at Bahía de los Sueños.  Raul’s earliest memories are filled with visions of horses.  Growing up in Mexico City, one may think that Raul would not have had much, if any, exposure to the equestrian world.  Although his father worked as reporter, and his grandfather was in the grocery store business, the family enjoyed horses and rodeo as a sport.  They owned horses, and boarded them at an equestrian center outside the city.  At every opportunity, his father and grandfather would bring young Raul as they traveled to train their horses, and participate in rodeos throughout the Mexican mainland.

At the young age of ten, Raul’s father sent him away to learn how to train.  When he was fourteen, he trained his first horse, Cimarron, a three year old colt.  At about this time, Raul started competing in rodeos throughout mainland Mexico.  By the age of nineteen, he was a regular figure on the Mexican rodeo circuit, winning awards, and competing in big events.

Even though Raul’s father exposed him to the sport of rodeo at a young age and encouraged his advanced development in training horses and competing, he yearned for Raul to receive a formal education, and pursue a modern career.  Respecting his father’s desire that he graduate and become a mainstream business professional, Raul entered into a computer systems administration program.  After successfully completing the program and graduating, he accepted a position to oversee a company’s computer operations in Mexico City.  The life of horses he once knew and loved had escaped him; he was now confined to an office environment.

 
After two years, Raul realized that he was not being true to himself.  His dreams and passions were born from his childhood experiences of being around horses; he could no longer ignore this reality.  Raul had a burning desire to recapture the equestrian way of life.  The monetary rewards of training, rodeo riding, and taking care of horses paled in comparison to the pay he received from his corporate computer related position, yet he realized that his dreams were not about money.  Having great respect for his father, Raul reluctantly approached him to inform him of what was on his mind.  He explained to his father that his heart belonged with horses, and he wanted to realign himself with this lifestyle.  His father hesitated upon hearing about Raul’s desires, yet eventually encouraged him to be true to himself, and lead the life he felt so passionate about.

Cimarron, Raul’s first horse, died at the age of sixteen years old.  The horse who he had trained as a boy, showed off at rodeo events, and took such pride in, was now gone.  This was a very difficult time for Raul, but his love for horses remained strong.  He decided to start his own horse training business.  Not only did he train horses, yet he instructed others how to train.

While in mainland Mexico, Raul had a long time affiliation as member of the Mexican Rodeo Federation.  This relationship eventually led to his acceptance of the Federation’s offer for him to travel to Baja, Ca, and open Mexican rodeo schools across the state.  He moved from the Mexican mainland seventeen years ago to begin this challenge.  Since that time, Raul has created seven Mexican rodeo arenas in Baja, including one in La Paz, BCS, and another in Cabo San Lucas, BCS.

Ultimately, Raul’s equestrian career path led to his decision to call Bahía de los Sueños home in 2005.  He was given the opportunity to use his thirty-seven years of experience to create the dream masterpiece equestrian center at the Gran Sueño Resort Hotel, located in the center of Bahía de los Sueños.   He strategically placed and designed the stalls, arena, stables, and training ring based on his many years of studying various equestrian design layouts throughout Mexico.  The equestrian center grounds at Bahía de los Sueños are spotless; there is no mud because used water is funneled and captured below the ground.  The stalls are equipped with removal rubber floor mats, providing comfort for the horses, and more efficient daily cleaning by the equestrian staff.  The grounds are covered with lush landscaping, including Palm trees and a wide variety of colorful flowers.

At the time Raul made the decision to establish an elite equestrian center at Bahía de los Sueños, he also thought it was a good time to retire from Mexican rodeo.  With the opportunity to make Bahía de los Sueños his final and ultimate destination, he would be able to continue his joy and passion for equestrian activities, yet in a more relaxed environment.  His decision was in large part due to the fact that he was overcome, as so many people are, by the beauty of “The Bay of Dreams”.  It made sense to him that the equestrian center and the development would be successful not only due to the magnificent beauty of Bahía de los Sueños, yet the opportunity for people to have an ultimate lifestyle.

Bahía de los Sueños is grateful for Raul’s efforts in maintaining the most magnificent equestrian center in Baja, CA.  The service he and his staff provide aims to exceed visitor’s expectations.  Guests at the Gran Sueño resort hotel have the opportunity to meet with Raul, and take a lesson or escorted arena ride.  Trail riding in the foothills of the Laguna Sierra Mountains, or along the white sandy beach of the aqua blue Sea of Cortez can also be arranged.

In addition to world class equestrian adventures, visitors at Bahía de los Sueños can take advantage of unique opportunities such as world class golfing, whale watching, spa treatments, snorkeling with whale sharks, sport fishing, spearfishing, snorkeling with a colony of sea lions, scuba diving, kayaking, sailboarding, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing, waverunner riding, hiking, bird watching, tide pool exploring, or a day cruise to Jacques Cousteau Island.

 
For more information about equestrian or other lifestyle activities at Bahía de los Sueños, contact me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com or (310) 402-2209 ext 4161.

Equestrian Center, Horse Riding Lessons, Living in the Baja | No Comments » July 10th, 2010

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Equestrian Center Adventures and More at Bahía de los Sueños!


While I have always admired the beauty of horses, I have never had the opportunity or a strong desire to ride them.  Since arriving at Bahía de los Sueños (The Bay of Dreams) in March, I have become increasingly intrigued with the elite equestrian center at the world class resort Gran Sueño hotel. 

   

The million dollar facility is equipped with an outdoor show arena that will comfortably seat 100 people.  The stables are padded with removable floor mats.  The padded floor mats serve a dual purpose:  they allow for easy clean up, and they provide the horses with a soft standing area.  Three staff members are dedicated exclusively to the maintenance of the facility and care of the horses.  Activities include clean up, feeding, horseshoeing, and monitoring the general well-being of the horses.  Visitors will be impressed with the cleanliness of the facility, and the absence of odor typically associated with equestrian centers.

There are a total of five horses at the center.  Roberto, from Cabo San Lucas, visited the equestrian center recently.  He is a horse owner, and stated “Those are the most beautiful horses I have ever seen.”  The horses look proud, and they should be; they are a select group enjoying the good life at beautiful Bahía de los Sueños.  

 
Besides world class equestrian adventures, visitors at Bahia de los Suenos can take advantage of unique seasonal opportunities such as world class golfing, whale watching, spa treatments, snorkeling with whale sharks, sport fishing, spearfishing, snorkeling with a colony of sea lions, scuba diving, kayaking, sailboarding, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing, waverunner riding, hiking, bird watching, tide pool exploring, or a day cruise to Jacques Cousteau Island.  Two pods of Orcas were recently spotted between Bahía de los Sueños, and Jacques Cousteau Island.

Life at Bahía de los Sueños is an adventure without the crowds and hustle of Cabo San Lucas.  It is a place where families feel safe, worries drift away, and laughter permeates the picturesque bay.  The calm, aqua blue waters at Bahía de los Sueños beckons beachgoers to swim, splash, and play.  The water is swimmable all year round, and currents are not an issue as is the case in Cabo San Lucas.  People who visit are overcome by a feeling of bliss, and captivated by the tranquil surroundings.

 
Are you ready to join the lifestyle at Bahía de los Sueños?

For more information, contact me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com or (310) 402-2209 ext 4161.

Equestrian Center, Horse Riding Lessons, Living in the Baja, Tom Doak Golf | No Comments » July 7th, 2010

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World Record Swim Event Starts at Bahía de los Sueños


From all of us at Bahía de los Sueños, thoughts of admiration, warmth, and appreciation go out to the Sea of Cortez 2010 Swim Team and crew members; their journey started with us here at the bay early in the morning on May 24th, 2010.  We reported on this event earlier this year, in anticipation of an exciting weekend.  They braved fatigue, ocean swells, and stinging jellyfish in an attempt to break the world record and raise money for cancer awareness and wounded warrior charities.  Their collective inspiration drove them to band together, test their emotional and physical boundaries, and enjoy the challenge.  

Media Event at the Gran Sueno Hotel

Their willpower guided them to swim over 36 hours straight, and 63.8 nautical miles out to sea; they were unable to complete the next 49.2.  They made it over halfway across the Sea of Cortez, and close to mainland Mexico.  Their efforts fell short mainly due to massive and painful Jellyfish stings.  Even after the dreadfully painful stings, they pressed on, each swimmer jumping off the boat and into the water knowing the chances of getting badly stung were very high.  Eventually, the painful stings rendered some of the swimmers unable to swim, as Vito Bialla, the event organizer recalled, “. . . Nora was seriously attacked by Jellyfish paralyzing her arm, stomach, and leg-looked like acid was poured over her body . . . Edna was attacked . . . Paul had multiple attacks, and Monica had to have the Jellyfish pulled off her face.”  With a limited number of available swimmers, Jellyfish surrounding them, and five foot seas, they had to abandon their swim of dreams.   

   

I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Andy LeBuhn, a crew member and the person in charge of navigation during the Swim Sea of Cortez 2010 event.  I wanted to find out what it was like to be with these elite swimmers during their incredible demonstration of steadfast courage and determination.  I had anticipated Andy to be feeling morose about the crossing attempt.  To the contrary, Andy’s eyes lit up with excitement as he recalled occurrences, and showed me the incredible photos he had taken.  He described the range of emotions the swimmers demonstrated after each finished their hour long swim rotation, and stepped back aboard the boat.  He recalled how some swimmers felt euphoric, joyful, and rested.  This especially was the case at night, when they had just finished a swim under the moonlight.  It was as if the Sea of Cortez and the glow from the moon above had matched forces while they were stroking across the water, sending the swimmers into a state of tranquility, he recalled.  He said that other times, swimmers came from the water immediately demanding what their body needed; their cravings included candy, fruit, and water.  Sometimes, Andy explained, they would come on the boat after their hour-long swim rotation feeling lethargic, confused, and unable to express their desire for food or water.  In these instances, he would assess what they needed, and convince them to eat or drink as necessary.   

 

While they did not make it across this time, the character of the Swim Sea of Cortez 2010 team has gained my ultimate respect.  Made up of a combination of Americans and Mexicans, this elite team of swimmers are to be admired for their charitable efforts coupled with their burning desire to cross the Sea of Cortez.  With so much focus on negativity in the media today, this event is a reminder that there are many good things happening in the world.  Saving the best for last, here is a photo of this amazing group of swimmers:
Muscles abound!

Swim Team: Vito Bialla, Paul Lundren, Christine Gonzalez, Nora Toledano, Monica Ramirez, and Edna Llorens

Bahía de los Sueños, otherwise know in English as “The Bay of Dreams,” is a world class resort and development located on the Sea of Cortez.  It is located thirty miles away from La Paz, the beautiful coastal capital city of Baja Ca Sur.  The Bay offers clear aqua blue waters for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding, jet skiing, fishing, and wake boarding.  World class kite boarding is also just minutes away.  Non water sports include horseback riding, hiking, spa treatments, and fine dining.  For more information about our bay and resort you can register here.
 
If you enjoy golf, we are offering a limited time preview play opportunity to experience master golf architect Tom Doak’s only Latin American course here at Bahía de los Sueños.  The course recently opened, and we have received rave reviews from golf enthusiasts and visitors around the world who have enjoyed playing here.  Our overnight Play at the Bay package includes accommodations at the incredible Gran Sueño Resort Hotel.  For more information, or if you would like to visit, you may contact me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com or (310) 402-2209 ext 4161. 

   

Living in the Baja, Seen & Heard | No Comments » June 9th, 2010

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Spear Fishing in Baja: A Whole New Experience


Prior to arriving at Bahía de los Sueños two months ago, people advised me that life would be different.  They said it would be necessary for me to make adjustments, and have a flexible mindset in order to adapt.  Little did I know that one of my first lessons of adapting to life in Baja would come in the form of one of my favorite hobbies: spearfishing.
    
I strolled down to the beach from my office last Friday, and met James.  He had been here for a few days, and his boat was moored a few hundred feet away in the beautiful Bahía de los Sueños.  James, a spearfisherman, had hired Captain Fernando earlier in the day to take him out to Jacques Cousteau Island (formerly named Cerralvo Island).  They had just returned from their trip, and James showed me a very nice thirty pound Wahoo he had speared on the southeast side of the Island.  I offered to take a photo, and e-mail it to him.

Spearfishing

 
James’ method of spearing fishing was confusing to me, and a stark contrast to my spearfishing experiences in Northern California.  First, he had no scuba gear; I have always used scuba gear when spearing fish.  Second, his speargun was at least six feet long; the speargun I own is only three feet long.  Third, and most importantly, James’ Wahoo was enormous compared to any of the fish I have ever speared.
 
I have always taken breathing air underwater while spearfishing for granted, because I always used scuba.  Although most of the fish I have speared thrashed, pulled, and resisted, it was fairly easy to remain calm and breathe steadily.  I wondered what would happen underwater if I speared a large fish such as James’ using only snorkeling equipment.  What if it went crazy, and dragged me into the abyss?  How would I be able to breathe?  Would I have to let go of my spear gun, and abandon both the gun and the fish?  I asked James about this, and he calmly explained, “Whether we want to believe it or not, we have the ability to hold our breath for up to a minute and a half before passing out.”  I pondered this, and decided I would want to start and complete an eight week exercise regimen, and practice holding my breath before attempting this underwater.
 
James explained that a buoy is used when spearing big fish in Baja.  He said that the speargun you carry underwater is connected to the buoy on the surface above by a rope or line.  The big fish often thrash and pull you deeper once they are speared, he noted.  If this happens, and you have not been able to breathe for a long time, he advises to immediately abandon your speargun, and rise to the surface for air.  He commented that should you need to take this option, locating your speargun and big fish is as simple as finding the buoy on the surface.

Thanks to James, I have been exposed to the technique of spearing big fish at Bahía de los Sueños, located near La Paz, the capital of Baja Ca Sur.  As I was advised by many, this was an example of how life would be different here–in a very positive way.  I now had an opportunity to embrace change, adjust accordingly, and take my enjoyment of spearfishing to a higher level.  This new approach will include putting my small speargun in the closet, and purchasing a six foot “Baja size” gun.  Additionally, a buoy and rope will be needed to secure my speargun and fish.  Most importantly, proper instruction will be crucial in order to learn more, have fun, and stay safe.  There are two local expert spearfishing guides/instructors in the area, and I will be contacting them soon for an official lesson.  Stay tuned, as I will have much more to blog about after my first “hands- on” Baja spearfishing experience!
 
There is a perfect opportunity for world class spearfishing here at Bahía de los Sueños.  Located just thirty minutes from La Paz, Bahía de los Sueños is an exclusive resort community boasting many amenities including our recently completed golf course designed by Tom Doak.  Whether your interest is to charter a yacht, fish with a local panga fisherman, or experience the underwater adventure of spearfishing, contact me and I will arrange a trip for you.  I can be reached at Bahía de los Sueños via e-mail at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com, or by phone at 310-402-2209 ext. 4161.

Fishing, Living in the Baja, Spearfishing | No Comments » June 5th, 2010

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Orcas Surface near Bahía de los Sueños

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Breaking the Surface

Juan Antonio Sr. turns sixty-two!

After a great day of fishing at Cerralvo Island, Jaun Antonio Sr. did not realize the special birthday present  the Sea of Cortez  was about to bestow upon him on his sixty-second birthday.
 
As we headed from the Island back towards Bahía de los Sueños after a successful day of fishing, we noticed a disturbance in the water up ahead.  Juan Antonio Jr., who had organized the trip for his father’s birthday, pointed forward and yelled, “What is the activity on the water ahead of us?”  After a quick glance, I responded, “Those are dolphins.”  He gave me a stern look and replied, “No! Those are not Dolphins.”  As we cruised closer, it was very apparent that he was correct.  “What are the names of those in English?” Juan Antonio Jr. queried.  “Orcas!” I yelled.  Pausing, I repeated with excitement, “They are Orcas!” 

More great photos

 

Of course, I had failed to bring my new miniature HD video camera to record this once-in-a-lifetime event.  Luckily, I did bring my Canon digital camera.  We motored cautiously towards the pod of whales, and watched in awe as they rolled on the surface, splashed, and exhaled tremendous volumes of air through their blowholes.  The sights and sounds were incredible, and I felt as though we were a privileged few who had been temporarily granted permission to experience their world and happiness.  The Orcas finished their awesome display, and disappeared beneath the surface.
After they were gone, we all turned and looked at each other in a state of bewilderment.  It was one of those surreal experiences that captivates your senses, makes you feel an immense connection to life on earth, and reinforces the importance of respecting and revering our planet.  Gazing out upon the beautiful combination of aqua and deep blue waters with the magnificent backdrop of the Laguna Sierra Mountains standing proudly in the background, I said inwardly to myself “Thank you”.
 
As our excitement settled, we decided to continue our return trip back to beautiful Bahía de los Sueños.  Soon after we started motoring, one hundred yards away, another pod of Orcas surfaced in front of us.  This time, we were extremely close to them, and several were twenty to thirty feet away from the boat!  One dove straight under us, and I saw its silhouette disappear into the depths below.   We watched this scene unfold around us for about ten minutes. Eventually, they all disappeared far beneath the deep blue sea, continuing their concerted journey onward.

Second Pod of Orcas

 

Orcas, the largest species of the oceanic dolphin family, are also known as Killer Whales, or “Ballena Asesinas” in Spanish.  The locals refer to them as “Bufeo”.  They are more commonly spotted in the colder waters of the Pacific, and it is uncommon to see them in the Sea of Cortez ̶-especially in a warm month such as May.

The boat crew I was privileged to be with on this special day was Juan Antonio Jr., the chief maintenance supervisor at the Bay of Dreams; his father, Juan Antonio Sr., and Fernando, the panga captain.  Fernando’s local fishing knowledge and expertise was the key to a day we will never forget.

Juan Antonio Jr.

Fernando catching sardines for our fishing adventure

Fernando and Juan Antonio admiring the nice Pargo.

Are you interested in going fishing at Bahía de los Sueños?  Whether your preference is a yacht or a panga, contact me and I will organize a fishing expedition for you.  You may reach me at dennis.carr@bahiasuenos.com, or (310) 402-2209 ext. 4161.  While I cannot guarantee you will have the opportunity view Orcas, you can rest assured knowing that you will have your own unique adventure.

Fishing, Living in the Baja | Comments Off May 28th, 2010

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Tom Doak – Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course – Overview: Hole 18, Par 4

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It’s hard to believe 18 weeks have passed since we started on Hole 1 of the Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course designed by Tom Doak. Granted these descriptions don’t do the course, and the surroundings, justice, you can at least get a small idea of how spectacular it is to play it in person, and we hope you will be able to join us and share your own experiences with your friends and family.

Hole 18 at the Tom Doak-designed Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course is a great finishing hole on his first course in Latin America. Whether you are into or with the wind, this challengin 430 yard par 4 requires an quality tee shot despite the wide open fairway off the tee.

From the fairway on hole 18 at the Tom Doak-designed Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course

From the fairway on hole 18 at the Tom Doak-designed Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course

You should try and play for the right side of the fairway for the shortest approach in in two, and make sure you take an extra club into this green and adjust accordingly for the wind. There is a very large bailout area on the left that will leave you a pitch or chip down to a large green in case the hole is playing too long for you to reach in two.

From whatever distance you are approaching the green, stay to the left side of the pin, as the natural ravine running in front and down the right side is not where you want to be hitting from. 

Sunrise on the 18th green at Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course, designed by Tom Doak, in Baja California Sur, Mexico

Sunrise on the 18th green at Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course, designed by Tom Doak, in Baja California Sur, Mexico

However, you will want to putt out and take a quick picture just off the green and facing the water, as you can hear the tiny waves breaking at the shore and see why Bahia de los Sueños, or Bay of Dreams in English, really is a magical place to be a part of where families can gather and enjoy all the amentities of this world class master planned resort community. We hope you will plan your next trip to visit us, and we look forward to helping anyway we can.

Tom Doak Golf, Tuesdays on the Tee | Comments Off March 23rd, 2010

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Tom Doak – Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course – Overview: Hole 17, Par 4

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The last two holes at the Tom Doak-designed Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course just outside of La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico are two great par 4’s and unique in their challenges.

Hole 17 is a good 450 yards from the back tees. Step up with a driver and be confident you can hit it hard and set yourself up for an uphill second shot. The transition area towards the green really shouldn’t come into play unless a severe wind is into your face and leaves you with a long shot in.

The 450 yard par-4 17th hole at Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course, Tom Doak's first design in Mexico

The 450 yard par-4 17th hole at Bahia de los Sueños Golf Course, Tom Doak's first design in Mexico

This hole is longer than the next one and the elevated green is a bit smaller and more challenging. If you have to miss it, it is best to do so on the left side, which will leave you an uphill chip shot to a green with quite a few slopes and breaks that will make two putting from any distance a good accomplishment.

From the green, however, you get yet another look at the Bay and the vast amounts of beautiful cardon cactuses that are always a part of the incredible surroundings at the master planned community of Bahia de los Sueños. If you walk away with par on this hole, you can focus on the spectacular views and challenging finishing hole that caps off a Tom Doak golf experience at Bahia de los Sueños. 

If you are interested in learning more about Stay and Play packages or ownership opportunities at Bahia de los Sueños, please register online and we will be in touch.

Tom Doak Golf, Tuesdays on the Tee | Comments Off March 16th, 2010

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