Public places

Although the state has an abundance of natural protected areas that provide the visual backdrop for most of Baja California Sur’s largest cities, these areas are largely inaccessible because of their rugged terrain, harsh conditions (heat, lack of water, and wind), as well as a lack of infrastructure to visit them (transportation, interpretive trails, and rangers).  Public beaches are also popular with the state’s residents, but private tourism-related facilities, such as hotels, golf courses, and marinas, compete for these prime locations, and often restrict public access.

The town square is still the nexus for most public activities, even if it is not very large.  Dances, concerts, and lotería games are common during the evenings and weekends.  Most coastal communities also have a malecón, a seaside walkway for strolling families and couples, although they are often the first target during hurricanes or other natural disasters, taking years to repair.

There is a distinct lack of sports and recreational facilities around the state that serve the needs of the young population.  This is critical for combating obesity, as well as providing organized, after-school activities for schoolchildren.  Without community centers, sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and gymnasiums, the young are turning to drugs and alcohol.  Sports Promotional Councils have been suggested to encourage more civic participation in creating these public amenities.