Cerritos Beach, Mexico, is quickly becoming one of the most desirable destinations for those seeking a blend of serene seaside living and a vibrant community atmosphere.
In this Q&A, we spoke with Shanon Clairmont, the owner of The Cove at Cerritos, to discuss the remarkable growth of the area, the importance of community involvement in shaping its future, and the unique lifestyle it offers to residents and visitors alike.
Cerritos Beach stands out as a remarkable community, from eco-conscious developments to a strong sense of connection among locals. Curious about what makes Cerritos unique? Read on to discover why this Pacific Ocean gem is thriving like never before.
The Uniqueness of Cerritos and the Vision Behind The Cove
What makes Cerritos unique, and how does The Cove fit into the local culture?
I’ve been living in the Baja for 18 years, primarily in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose, working in the hotel industry. Cerritos Beach was our weekend getaway—a place to escape from the city. What appealed to me was the peacefulness, the sense of community, and the incredible surf lifestyle. Cerritos is like returning to the old Baja days, with dirt roads and a growing community. The Cove is designed to fit naturally into this setting, embracing the tranquility and charm that make this town unique.
Community Growth and Developer Responsibility at Cerritos Beach, Mexico
Cerritos is booming. What responsibilities do developers have in preserving its character?
As developers, we are responsible for focusing on sustainability—thinking carefully about water use, recycling, and building materials. We must be conscious of what kind of impact we’re creating, preserving wildlife, streets, and our sense of community. For instance, our fire department, “Bomberos,” is wholly volunteer-based and funded by community donations, so our support goes beyond construction.
With this rapid growth, managing waste seems crucial. How can the town tackle this?
It’s a mix of infrastructure and cultural adaptation. We have support from groups like Zero Alliance, which works on waste reduction and environmental awareness. We also need to involve both locals and visitors at Cerritos to ensure everyone knows about recycling options and to set up bins and pickups to make it easier for them. Many visitors already practice recycling back home, so it’s about creating the same habit here.
What role does Zero Alliance play in Cerritos Beach, Mexico?
Zero Alliance is a nonprofit working on building infrastructure and raising awareness around waste reduction and recycling. They help us manage garbage more effectively, especially as our population grows, aiming to lower the environmental impact and ensure a sustainable future for Cerritos.
Learning from Cabo’s Development in the Context of Cerritos
As Cerritos grows, are there lessons from Cabo’s urban development that can guide you?
Cabo has had 40 years of urban development, and we can learn a lot from their successes and mistakes. In Cerritos Beach, we’ve created a developer community group that meets monthly to discuss best practices. It’s not just about following municipality guidelines but about taking personal responsibility to build with integrity. We support each other to ensure Cerritos remains beautiful, with a unique aesthetic, rather than a concrete sprawl.
What are the top priorities for this developer group right now in Cerritos Beach, Mexico?
Our main goal is to support each other’s visions, stay aware of each other’s projects, and ensure our developments add unique value to the area. It’s not about competition but about enhancing the overall community in Cerritos. We share ideas that help us avoid overcrowding and maintain Cerritos’ charm.
Collaborating with the Local and Expat Communities of Cerritos Beach, Mexico
How do the expat and local communities work together to maintain Cerritos Beach, Mexico, as a thriving town?
There’s mutual respect between the expat and local communities. For example, our Cerritos Beach community often helps locals in small ways, like giving rides on dirt roads. This is a community where everyone is willing to help one another. We have local chat groups where people reach out for assistance, and there’s a strong sense of safety and mutual support.
What mindset or values are ideal for newcomers or developers in Cerritos?
Those who appreciate the culture and natural surroundings here are a great fit. It’s about embracing the Mexican lifestyle, food, festivals, and traditions. People come to Cerritos to experience something different and connect with the area’s tranquility and beauty.
Local Events and Charitable Efforts at Cerritos
Are there charities or community initiatives in Cerritos that are particularly impactful?
Absolutely. There are quite a few, but as I mentioned earlier, the “Bomberos” (volunteer fire department) and Zero Alliance are two top causes in Cerritos. The “Bomberos” are essential in responding to emergencies and are funded entirely by the community. Zero Alliance focuses on keeping our environment clean and sustainable. Supporting these organizations helps maintain the quality of life here for both locals and expats.
Cerritos has a rich culture. Are there specific festivals or events that you enjoy?
We have several notable events in Cerritos. In December, there is a four-day music festival with different bands performing at local venues. There’s also the Gastrovino festival, a three-day event featuring top chefs and Mexican wines, where people can tour Todos Santos and enjoy local food and art. And, of course, we celebrate the Day of the Dead and many other cultural festivals in the town square.
The Cove’s Vision for the Future at Cerritos Beach, Mexico
What is your long-term vision for The Cove in the context of Cerritos Beach, Mexico’s growth?
The Cove is a unique location that feels like stepping into a different world. We strive to enhance the beauty of Cerritos while fostering a sustainable community. Our role is to remain a responsible and vocal participant in the community and help direct it to an inclusive and respectful future for locals, nature, and visitors.
