The peninsula known as Baja California has a long history. Inhabitants of Baja California have included several Indian tribes such as the Pai Pai, Cochimi, Kiliwa, Cucupa and Kumiai. Remnants of these tribes, such as arrowheads and utensils can still be found in the land. The Kumiai Indians lived undisturbed until the Spaniards arrived in 1533 to establish missions throughout the peninsula. In 1773, the Jesuits were asked to leave region, giving religious authority to the Dominicans and Franciscans. The Franciscans controlled what is now California and the Dominicans were given Baja California.

The first Ranchos were established in the Rosarito area in the 1800’s. May 14th, 1885 has been cited as the date of the first registration of a land title in the Rosarito Beach area. The first recognized land owner in the Rosarito area was recorded as don Joaquin Machadoin. The registration took place in the capital city of Baja California. May 14th, 1885 is recognized as Rosarito’s Foundation Day.

Tourism is not new to Baja California or the Rosarito area by any stretch of the imagination. The first tourists to visit Rosarito arrived in this area around 1874 to hunt, and to fish. It was not until 1926 that the Rosarito Beach Hotel, was founded. The opening of the Rosarito Beach Hotel is generally credited as beginning the touristic period in the development of the area. During the 1950’s, Rosarito began more urbanization with construction of streets, restaurants, and retail shops. As time progressed through the 1960’s, Rosarito added industrial projects such as a power plant, and a refinery. Rosarito’s urbanization and industrialization continued at a modest pace through the 70’s. Further construction and development continued through the 70’s and early 80’s with a sharp rise in the late 80’s, and early 1990’s. The construction of new hotels and condominium projects is a clear indicator that tourism is here to stay.

The next landmark in Rosarito’s history came on December 1, 1995 when Rosarito was converted from a Delegation (suburb) of Tijuana to the fifth Municipality of the State of Baja California. Rosarito is now made up of two Delegations, Plan Libertador and Ejido Primo Tapia. Between these two suburbs, Rosarito contains 40 miles of coastline and more than 100,000 residents.

For more information on Rosarito, please contact Your Baja Connection. We will be happy to help you with whatever plans you may have to visit this wonderful area.

Your Baja Connection Team