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Paleto Bay

Paleto Bay is a seaside town located along the western coast of Blaine County, San Andreas. With a population of just under 5,000 people, it is the largest town in Blaine County.

History

Paleto Bay was founded in 1823 by a group of fishermen and loggers settling in the area. Its economy centered around fishing, logging, and some light industry. In 1868, the famous Paleto Bay Lighthouse was constructed on the shoreline, helping guide ships into the bay.

In the early 20th century, tourism started to grow in Paleto Bay, with city folk coming to enjoy the seaside setting and take fishing trips. The town slowly transitioned to catering more to these tourists. By the 1970s, it had become a popular weekend getaway destination for residents of Los Santos looking to escape the big city.

Despite growth in tourism, Paleto Bay has retained much of its small-town charm and slower pace of life. Many lifelong residents continue to work in traditional industries like fishing, logging and agriculture. The downtown area along the shoreline has several locally-owned businesses, restaurants, and bait shops.

Geography

Paleto Bay is situated on a small natural bay, providing calm waters sheltered from ocean waves. The shoreline spans approximately 1.5 miles around the bay. The coastal areas back onto heavily forested mountains of the Mount Chiliad range.218_20230911000026_1.png

The town itself consists of a small downtown with retail stores, government buildings, restaurants, and marina. The residential areas spread inland up into the foothills. The total area of Paleto Bay is roughly 4 square miles.

Climate

Paleto Bay enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with cool summers and mild, rainy winters. Average summer highs are in the 80s Fahrenheit, while winter highs are in the 50s. Rainfall averages 50 inches per year, with the most precipitation occurring between November and March. Occasional snowfall can dust the area but seldom accumulates much.

Government

Paleto Bay has a traditional local government, with a 5-person Town Council and elected Mayor. The Town Hall is located on the downtown Paleto Boulevard. Public services include a volunteer fire department, elementary school, Church and a small public library. 

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Law enforcement is provided by the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office, which has a large station near the main highway leading that goes through the town.

Tourism and Attractions

Paleto Bay’s small-town charm and seaside setting continue to attract tourists and weekend travelers.

Popular attractions include:

  • Paleto Bay Beach – Wide sandy beach with a boardwalk, snack bars, and areas for swimming and fishing. Lifeguards are on duty in summer.
  • Paleto Lighthouse – Historic 68-foot tall lighthouse first lit in 1868 and still actively maintained by the Coast Guard. Tours available.
  • Paleto Forest – Over 6,000 acres of mountain forest with hiking trails leading to scenic overlooks.Popular for hunting and camping.
  • Bobcat Creek – Calm creek running through town, ideal for kayaking and fishing. Guided kayak tours available.
  • Fishing – Charter boats available for deep sea fishing tours. The bay and 

     

    Bobcat Creek are also stocked with trout, bass, and perch.
  • Paleto Bay Museum – Located in a historic waterfront building, the museum celebrates the town’s history and maritime heritage.
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