A peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean from the south end of the U.S. state of California, Baja California provides some of Mexico's most dramatic sea and landscapes. This includes everything from vast and remote deserts, dormant volcanoes and wonderful old mission towns. The first political capital of "old California" is found here as well as remnants of the colonial past. Camping and hiking opportunities are plentiful, and much of the region is sparsely or even unpopulated. The "Baja" is also home to world class surfing, sailing and deep sea fishing destinations. Lastly, traditionally the peninsula has provided south-of-the-border fun for youthful miscreants from the USA in both the border region to the north and at the far end of the peninsula in the resort towns of Los Cabos. The Baja peninsula is one of the longest in the world and offers an interesting mix of cultures with a wonderful mix of Latino, Hispanic, pre-Hispanic and Anglo influences. It varies greatly even from the Mexican "mainland" with its own lifestyle and identity within Mexico.