We recently had the chance to sit down with Alysia Pinter, a real estate professional with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Baja Real Estate based in La Ventana. Though new to the real estate industry, Alicia brings over a decade of firsthand experience living in and exploring the East Cape. In this conversation, she shares what drew her to the region, how the lifestyle continues to evolve, and why more people are choosing to build a life or invest in a property in this unique corner of Baja. Read on and get the local point of view.
How a Chance Trip Led to a Life in La Ventana
What first brought you to La Ventana?
I originally came here by chance. A friend was in San Jose del Cabo and invited me down, so I booked a one-way ticket from Canada and flew to Mexico. I had met some kiteboarders at Nitinat Lake back home, and when they saw I was in Baja, they came to get me and brought me to La Ventana. I was 24, completely hooked, and kept coming back. What started as a one-week visit turned into multiple full seasons between 2015 and 2019. For the past three years, I’ve been living here full-time.
Why La Ventana Keeps Drawing People Back
What do you think makes La Ventana so magnetic for visitors, especially those who end up staying?
The energy here is unlike anywhere else. Sure, it’s known as a kiteboarding destination, but there’s so much more. There’s free diving in the summer, biking trails, and a vibrant creative scene. But above all, it’s the community. It’s small, welcoming, and has a sense of freedom that’s hard to put into words. Dirt roads, open skies, one-stop signs, yet it feels expansive. Many Americans and Canadians come down for a season and end up never really leaving. That’s a familiar story here.
What Daily Life Looks Like in La Ventana
How would you describe the lifestyle in La Ventana to someone who’s never been?
It’s a place where you can slow down without feeling isolated. You’ve got pristine, empty beaches and easy access to the mountains: places like El Triunfo are just a short drive away. The town itself is simple but full of character. Whether it’s locals, expats, or seasonal visitors, there’s a shared desire to build something welcoming and intentional. People ride bikes and quads while kids play in the dirt streets. Although we’re only about 40 minutes from La Paz, it feels like a completely different world.
Understanding the Seasonal Rhythm in La Ventana
What’s the rhythm of life like throughout the year? Are there clear seasons?
Absolutely. The primary season runs from late October through April, when the winds pick up, making it ideal for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and winging. That’s when the town is at its busiest—lots of events, live music, and a great mix of people. Then there’s the shoulder season in May and June, which is warmer and quieter but still beautiful. Summer (July through September) is low season. It gets hot and humid, and many people leave, but those of us who stay enjoy slower days, beach walks at sunrise or sunset, and more time to explore other parts of Baja.
Who’s Moving to La Ventana, and Why They Stay
You mentioned earlier that many people return year after year. What kind of people tend to fall in love with La Ventana and decide to stay?
There’s a mix. Some are in their 30s or 40s and have been coming for years. They’ve built strong friendships here, maybe started families, and are now buying property. Others are retirees from the United States or Canada who seek a quieter, more fulfilling lifestyle. But it’s not just about age. There’s also a creative, slightly eccentric crowd here: people who love art, community events, dancing, dressing up, and making things happen. That blend is part of what makes La Ventana feel so alive.
Land vs. Homes: What Buyers Are Choosing in La Ventana
Let’s shift to real estate. Based on what you’ve seen, is the market more focused on buying homes, or is land in higher demand?
Currently, land seems to be the primary attraction for buyers. People are coming with visions of building their dream homes, guesthouses, or rental properties, and land offers them the flexibility to make these dreams a reality. While some existing homes have sold recently, many were initially constructed by buyers who purchased the land years ago. There is also a growing trend of small-scale developments featuring just a few units with shared pools or patios, which is an exciting new addition to the town.
What to Know About the Short-Term Rental Market in La Ventana
For someone considering buying and renting out a property in La Ventana, what should they know about the short-term rental market?
It’s easier than many people think. Since the town is small and the high season lasts for six months or more, you don’t necessarily have to rely on platforms like Airbnb. Word of mouth is powerful. If someone rents your place for a season, they are likely to return or recommend it to friends. There are also local Facebook groups and a website called The Ventana View, where people post rentals, rideshares, and house-sitting opportunities. Some individuals book week-to-week stays, while others prefer longer stays. There is considerable flexibility available.
Can You Profit from Rentals in La Ventana?
Do you think renting out a home here is a good way to generate real income, or is it more about covering costs?
It can be a solid source of income, especially if your property is already paid for. A well-located home or casita can easily bring in steady revenue during the high season, and some owners extend that into the shoulder season, too. People are also getting creative: building small studios or cabins to rent out separately, offering bikes or scooters, and even helping with airport shuttles. If you treat it like a small hospitality business, it can go beyond just covering expenses.
What Building a Home in La Ventana Really Involves
What about building? Many buyers believe they can simply acquire a piece of land and begin construction immediately. Is it that easy?
It’s definitely possible, but it comes with its challenges. Things have improved significantly in recent years. There are now more local companies with experience, resources, and better timelines. But it’s still not like building in the U.S. or Canada. Materials can take longer to arrive, labor can be unpredictable, and some regulations are very specific, especially when it comes to native plants like the cardón cactus. The key is to talk to people who’ve already been through it, find a good local team, and stay flexible. It takes patience, but the results can be amazing.
What $700K–$800K Can Buy You in La Ventana
Let’s say someone just sold their house in the U.S. and has $700,000 to $800,000 to work with. What could they realistically do with that budget in La Ventana?
With that kind of budget, you have options. You could buy a large, already-built home, perhaps even one with an oceanfront location or a great view, or you could purchase land and build. Land can range from US$70,000 to US$150,000, depending on location and size. That leaves plenty of room to design something personal, such as a two- or three-bedroom home, perhaps even with a rental unit on the same lot. Travelers here don’t need anything flashy. They love simple, well-designed spaces that fit the Baja vibe. So, it’s a place where your money goes further, especially compared to prices back home.
The Growing Wellness Scene in La Ventana
What’s the wellness scene like in La Ventana? Is it something that’s been growing in recent years?
It’s definitely growing. Yoga has been around for years, but now there are more retreats, breathwork sessions, and wellness-focused events happening regularly. There’s a beautiful retreat center called Casa Tara, located right on the ocean, that draws people from all over the world. On a smaller scale, people also host retreats in private homes. Additionally, there’s a weekly market where you can find organic produce, handmade goods, and local food from nearby communities. It’s all very community-driven and accessible.
How La Ventana Is Growing Without Losing Its Character
How do you see the community evolving as La Ventana grows?
People are mindful of how the town is changing. There is a desire to preserve what makes La Ventana special: its natural beauty, the sense of freedom, and the small-town charm. The community, including both locals and long-term expats, wants growth to feel intentional. With more remote workers and full-time residents arriving, you’re seeing new services, restaurants, and creative projects pop up, but it’s not about turning this place into a resort town. It’s about thoughtful growth, where people contribute to the culture and respect the land.
Small-Scale Real Estate Development Trends in La Ventana
What’s the current trend in real estate development, and what should people expect if they want to build here?
Most of the new development remains small-scale, typically consisting of five-unit clusters with shared amenities such as a pool or garden. There are height limits, so nothing goes above three stories, which keeps the skyline low and the views open. Building here requires a bit more planning than in the U.S., Canada, or even Cabo or La Paz. You need to be aware of local regulations, such as protecting native plants, and be prepared for a different pace. However, with the right team, the process can be smooth and efficient. The key is patience and preparation.
Thinking About La Ventana?
If you’re considering buying, selling, or simply exploring what life could look like in La Ventana, Alysia Pinter, real estate professional with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Baja Real Estate, is here to help. Reach out to start the conversation.
