Geology

San Felipe, Baja California history showcases everything from ancient seas to fiery volcanoes and shifting tectonic plates drama.

Prebatholithic Foundations

Deep below San Felipe’s sands lie rocks that date back hundreds of millions of years to the Late Proterozoic and Early Cambrian periods. These rocks—quartzite, marble, and meta-argillite—were once part of a shallow sea floor. Imagine a tropical marine environment, teeming with life, leaving behind these ancient layers that now form the town’s solid foundation.

The Tuff of San Felipe

About 12.6 million years ago, during the Miocene epoch, San Felipe experienced a volcanic event that left a lasting mark. A massive pyroclastic flow—essentially a river of hot ash and rock—blanketed the region, creating what’s now called the Tuff of San Felipe. This dense, crystal-rich deposit is not just a fascinating relic but a clue for geologists studying the creation of the Gulf of California.

Geothermal Potential

San Felipe isn’t just about ancient rocks—it’s also about what’s happening underground today. The area has geothermal energy potential, with hot springs and heat sources bubbling beneath the surface. While not yet developed, these resources could one day provide sustainable energy for the region.

Late Quaternary Developments

More recently in geological terms (just a few thousand years ago), water played a big role in shaping the landscape. Rising and falling sea levels left behind gravels, sand dunes, beaches, mudflats, and salt deposits. These layers tell the story of ancient shorelines advancing and retreating, creating the dynamic environment we see today.