Top Authentic Souvenirs to Buy in Baja California: Local Treasures Await

In a part of the world known for its sun-washed beaches and laid-back vibe, you won’t be short of places to buy designer sunblock and tequila. But you should shop the local markets and small boutiques instead. From one-of-a-kind earrings made from local materials to old-school Mexican candies, the Baja Peninsula is a culturally rich slice of paradise with talented makers practicing long-standing traditions. These are some of our favorite Baja finds, available locally and online.

Tamarindo Candies

Found at local markets, this sweet-and-sour treat is a popular Mexican candy made from the tamarind fruit, which you'll find wrapped around a straw (like a lollipop) or packaged in corn husk. ($3)

Las Bayadas Beach Blanket

Made further down the Mexican coastline in Sayulita, the candy-colored recycled cotton beach blankets were inspired by Mexican fabric used to decorate homes and are available at Eclectic Array in Cabo San Lucas. ($48)

Handmade Earrings by Hilaria

Spotted by Fathom contributing editor Larkin Clark at Mercado Organico, the one-of-a-kind handmade earrings are crafted by a local designer who uses raw materials found in the area, like choya wood and catarina shells. (From $30; available for purchase through Instagram.)

Flora Farms Artisan Salts

Flavored with ingredients from Flora Farms, a 25-acre organic farm, the homemade salts are available for purchase at the grocery inside the restaurant. Stash a few in your carry-on to give as gifts when you get home. ($10)

Santo Cabo Soaps

Made by hand with food-grade and natural ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber, and peppermint oil, the rustic soap slabs are both functional and nice to look at. (From $16)

Mexican Liquors

Stock up on hard-to-find native spirits, like Sotol (the delicious cousin of tequila and mezcal) or Pox (a liquor that was traditionally used in Mayan ceremonies), which aren’t easily found outside Mexico. ($23)

Eclectic Array Camera Strap

The colorful camera straps are hand-woven by artisans in Chiapas, Mexico, and sold at Eclectic Array in Cabo San Lucas. ($44)

A Rescue Dog from AcreDogs

If you’re thinking about bringing a dog into your family, consider adopting one from Baja. Rachael Watt, hotel manager at Acre, a design-forward hotel, farm, and restaurant near San José del Cabo, started her dog rescue program after she was given a box of six puppies that she rehabilitated on the 25-acre farm. She takes care of all the paperwork, travel documents, and accessories. If necessary, flight escorts can be arranged for families who aren’t able to make a pick-up in person. For those who would like to donate, funds are greatly appreciated and used for food, vaccinations, emergency medical care, bedding, and blankets. (From $150)

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