1.23.2013 9:00am

Bahia Salinas is a big anchorage tucked in the north hook of Isla Carmen, with long stretch of white sandy beach. What also makes it interesting is the “ghost town” resting here. According to the guide book, Bahia Salinas used to have a grand salt-mining operation, which shipped salt worldwide. The company closed down in the 80s, left its buildings and piers in ruins.

We arrived here in strong northerly blows. Bahia Salinas, with its low-lying sand beach, offers little wind protection. We sought for more shelter at Punta Perico, a cove just 2 miles to its east, and headed to Bahia Salinas in the dinghy.

Old boat rusted on the beach.

Pier remains, now occupied by pelicans.

After we dragged our dingy onto the beach, we discovered a new pier not far from us, with a stone path leading to several newly-built houses. There seems to be new life to the old ghost town. Two guys, American-looking, were standing by the pier. We went over and said hi. They were from Kansas, came here for a week-long fishing camp. Those houses are the lodges of this fishing camp operation. They stayed here and the mexicans guides would take them out fishing everyday. They also clean the fish and cook for the guests. Pretty fancy. We were curious, and wanted to check it out. As we walked towards the houses, a mexican guy stopped us. Apparently, Bahia Salinas is now mostly private land, and cannot be entered. Only the beached is publicly accessible. Well, I guess we’d follow the rules. We strolled down the beach a bit more and left.

Fishermen camped on the beach at Punta Perico. Because now Bahia Salinas is private, they are prohibited from camping here.

After a beautiful sunrise, we lifted the anchor and headed for Isla Coronado.

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