History & Maps

Cabo Pulmo History

The Cabo Pulmo area is located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico. The region is rich in history and has a fascinating past that dates back thousands of years.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was first inhabited by indigenous tribes as early as 10,000 BC. These tribes were hunters and gatherers who lived off the land, and they left behind artifacts and tools that provide insight into their way of life.

In the 16th century, the area was explored by Spanish explorers who were searching for new trade routes and resources. They established a presence in the area, and over time, the region became an important center for fishing and trade.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, the region saw significant development as new technologies and industries emerged. The construction of railroads and highways made it easier to transport goods and people to and from the region, and the fishing industry continued to thrive.

In the mid-20th century, the Cabo Pulmo area began to attract tourists who were drawn to its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The region's natural beauty and abundant wildlife made it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, and over time, tourism became an important part of the local economy.

Today, the Cabo Pulmo area is a protected national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to an incredibly diverse range of marine life, including whale sharks, sea turtles, and giant manta rays. It is also home to the only living coral reef system on the western coast of North America, making it a unique and valuable ecosystem.

Despite the challenges of climate change and overfishing, the Cabo Pulmo area remains a beacon of hope for conservation efforts and sustainable tourism. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and important ecological significance, the region continues to be a source of inspiration and wonder for visitors from around the world.

Cabo Pulmo Area Early Local Maps


Early map makers played a crucial role in exploring and documenting the geography of Cabo Pulmo, BCS, Mexico. These explorers used a variety of methods to create maps of the area, including personal observation, conversations with local inhabitants, and even drawing on their own imagination.

One of the most famous early map makers of Cabo Pulmo was Jacques Cousteau, the renowned French oceanographer and explorer. In the 1960s, Cousteau led a team of researchers on an expedition to explore the waters surrounding Cabo Pulmo. Using underwater cameras and other advanced technology, Cousteau was able to create detailed maps of the marine ecosystem and document the diverse array of marine life that inhabited the area.

Another early map maker of Cabo Pulmo was Charles F. Lummis, an American journalist, and explorer. In the late 1800s, Lummis traveled extensively throughout Mexico and wrote extensively about his experiences in the region. His detailed maps of Cabo Pulmo and the surrounding area were based on firsthand observations, and helped to document the geography and culture of the region for future generations.

In addition to Cousteau and Lummis, many other early map makers contributed to our understanding of Cabo Pulmo and the surrounding area. Their work helped to document the unique beauty and cultural significance of this region, and laid the foundation for further exploration and study in the years to come.

Overall, the work of early map makers in Cabo Pulmo, BCS, Mexico played an important role in documenting the geography and cultural significance of this region. Their efforts helped to pave the way for further exploration and study, and provided a valuable record of the unique beauty and diversity of this remarkable area.

EARLY MAPS OF THE CABO PULMO AREA. (Note how the reefs were marked)

Jacques Cousteau's Cabo Pulmo 


Jacques Cousteau, the renowned French oceanographer and explorer, made a visit to Cabo Pulmo, BCS, Mexico in the 1960s, where he led a team of researchers on an expedition to explore the waters surrounding this remote area.

During his visit, Cousteau was struck by the remarkable beauty and diversity of the marine life that inhabited the area. He used underwater cameras and other advanced technology to create detailed maps of the marine ecosystem and document the diverse array of species that called the area home.

One of the most significant findings of Cousteau's expedition was the discovery of the vibrant coral reefs that surrounded Cabo Pulmo. These reefs were found to be some of the most intact and vibrant in the world, and were home to a diverse range of marine species, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.

Cousteau's visit to Cabo Pulmo helped to bring international attention to the unique beauty and ecological importance of this area. His research and documentation of the marine ecosystem helped to lay the foundation for further study and conservation efforts in the years to come.

Today, Cabo Pulmo remains a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers, who come to explore the vibrant coral reefs and witness the diverse marine life that call this area home. Thanks to the efforts of Cousteau and other early explorers, Cabo Pulmo continues to be recognized as a precious natural resource and a true jewel of the ocean.

Local Fishing Lore


The local fishing lore around Cabo Pulmo is rich with tales of legendary catches and close encounters with sea creatures of all shapes and sizes. For generations, fishermen in this area have relied on their skills and knowledge of the local waters to make a living and feed their families.

One of the most famous stories in Cabo Pulmo fishing lore is the tale of the "big one" - a legendary fish that is said to inhabit the deep waters off the coast. According to local legend, the "big one" is a massive marlin or swordfish that can weigh hundreds of pounds and is nearly impossible to catch.

Despite the many attempts to catch the "big one" over the years, the fish remains elusive, leading many to believe that it is simply a myth or legend passed down through generations of fishermen.

Another popular story in Cabo Pulmo fishing lore is the tale of the "fisherman's curse" - a superstition that warns against catching certain types of fish during certain times of the year. According to local tradition, catching a certain type of fish during its "off season" can lead to bad luck and a lack of success in future fishing expeditions.

While some may dismiss these stories as mere superstitions, they are an important part of the local culture and traditions that have been passed down through generations of fishermen in the area. They serve as a reminder of the deep connection between the people of Cabo Pulmo and the sea, and the respect and reverence they hold for the creatures that call it home.

Pulmo Buried Treasure Lore


Legend has it that there is buried treasure hidden somewhere in the waters off the coast of Cabo Pulmo. According to local lore, the treasure was stolen from a Spanish galleon that sank off the coast in the late 18th century.

The story goes that the galleon was carrying a valuable cargo of gold, silver, and precious gems when it was caught in a violent storm and forced to run aground on the treacherous reefs near Cabo Pulmo. The ship sank quickly, and most of the crew perished in the disaster.

However, a few enterprising sailors managed to salvage some of the treasure before the ship went down. They buried it on a nearby beach, hoping to return and claim it at a later time.

Over the years, many treasure hunters and adventurers have searched for the lost treasure, but none have been successful. Some say that the treasure is cursed, and that anyone who tries to find it will meet with misfortune and tragedy.

Despite the warnings, many continue to search for the lost treasure, using the latest technology and equipment to scan the ocean floor and locate the hidden cache. Some even claim to have seen ghostly apparitions of the doomed crew, warning them away from the area.

While the treasure may remain elusive, the story of the Spanish galleon and its lost cargo continues to capture the imaginations of locals and visitors alike. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of Cabo Pulmo, and the many mysteries and legends that still remain hidden beneath the waves.

Old Maps Of Cabo Pulmo

Early Travel To Pulmo Stories

John had always been drawn to adventure. As a young boy, he would spend his days exploring the wilderness behind his family's farm, imagining himself as an intrepid explorer in a far-off land. As he grew older, that spirit of adventure never left him, and he found himself yearning for new and exciting experiences.

It was that restless spirit that brought John to Cabo Pulmo, a remote and rugged national park on the coast of Mexico. He had heard stories of its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and incredible biodiversity, and knew he had to see it for himself.

Getting there, however, was no easy feat. The road to Cabo Pulmo was bumpy, rugged, and treacherous, winding its way along the rocky coastline and through the desert landscape. But John was undaunted - he relished the challenge of navigating such a difficult road, and the thought of the adventure that lay ahead filled him with excitement.

As he drove, the scenery around him became increasingly wild and untamed. The rocky cliffs and jagged coastline seemed to go on forever, and the sound of crashing waves echoed in his ears. The road itself was little more than a dirt track, and John had to navigate around boulders and over potholes to keep his car on track.

But as he drove deeper into the park, he began to see signs of life. Colorful birds flitted overhead, and he caught glimpses of lizards and small mammals darting between the rocks. And then, as he rounded a bend in the road, he saw it - the breathtaking vista of Cabo Pulmo's coastline, with its turquoise waters and white sand beaches stretching out as far as the eye could see.

For John, it was a moment of pure awe and wonder. The journey had been long and difficult, but it had been worth it to experience the sheer beauty of this place. And as he stepped out of his car and breathed in the salty air, he knew that this was just the beginning of his adventure. There was still so much to see and explore in this wild and untamed corner of the world, and he was determined to experience it all.