**Playa El Saltito in Private Hands**
In Baja California Sur, the natural beauty of Playa El Saltito, located in the municipality of La Paz, faces threats as more spaces are being occupied by private entities. This has sparked a struggle over access, with activists revealing restricted public access to this beloved beach.
Arturo “El Comandante” Hernández from Los Supercívicos addresses the troubling trend of beach privatization, highlighting how such actions prevent Cabo locals and tourists from enjoying natural treasures. Despite efforts from local authorities to open access, as seen in April 2023 when the city administration dismantled a gate blocking it, the issue persists.
A recurring obstacle is Carlos, a vigilant guard who restricts car entry, forcing visitors to trek several kilometers on foot to the beach. The reasoning is clear: open the beach but offer no visitor services.
Arturo Hernández documents these incidents, drawing attention to how private ownership limits beach access. While Playa El Saltito’s access issue remains unresolved, there is hope it will soon be legally addressed, encouraging public support to keep beach access free.
**Secondary Article: Beach Access in Mexico – A Wider Issue**
The dilemma at Playa El Saltito is not isolated. Across Mexico, from Quintana Roo to Jalisco, beaches confront privatization threats. The legal battles often hinge on proving public access rights over private property claims.
In a recent outcome, Puerto Mejía’s case showcases the challenges. After authorities initially won access rights, an appeal favored private interests, illustrating the complexities and impacts of these legal battles on public accessibility.
These disputes underline the necessity for collective action and legal clarity to ensure Mexican beaches remain accessible to the public, preserving the nation’s rich natural heritage for generations to come.