The anchorage for San Quintin for the most part is very satisfactory with some few exceptions, swells from a southwest storm and southerly winds. There is some protection for swells from a southwest storm but not very much, the swells can roll in at a height of six to eight feet and more and in this case it would be best to proceed up the coast to Isla San Martin which provides excellent protection for southerly weather. These statements are based on an actual experience, the author and another boat spent a rock and roll night in the anchorage due to extreme fatigue after battling the storm all night and day. Several other boats went up to Isla San Martin and spent a comfortable night. As a general rule however, the anchorage can provide outstanding rest for a weary sailor. Kelp has grown around the anchorage area so some care should be taken in this regard.
The general region is quite interesting, the inner bay is too shallow for most boats as outlined by Charlie, the author has observed small fishing boats, the 18' with an outboard variety, enter the bay and promptly collide with rocks. The town of San Quintin is one of the newer towns(100 years) strung along highway 1 and has a population of about 30,000. During the early 19th century a colonization was attempted by British and American companies however the crops failed and the franchise was revoked. There was a flour mill and a railroad that extended about 20 miles and was intended to go to San Diego according to the locals. Many lives and fortunes were lost at this attempt at colonization. and the only remains today are the iron rails and a few graves. There is also an old steam engine that was probably brought in as part of the plan probably to power the mill or the railroad. In front of the old mill is a dam that was built across the bay, no one seems to know why it was built in front of the mill. Near the mill are located two hotels, both have restaurants and both are expensive.  It is unfortunate that the bay is too shallow for navigation, a weary north bound sailor would welcome the opportunity to anchor in front of the restaurant as described below for a few days.
        Bahia San Quintin
Remnants of the old flour mill.  The mill building has been converted to a restaurant and bar replete with happy hour beginning at 5:00 P.M.
Dam and tidal race in front of the old flour mill.  Probably the tide was used to power the mill, evidence of a steam engine was not found.
Walkway in front of the restaurant, leads to the mill and motel.
The restaurant and bar.
Looking to the exit of the bay showing the docks as well.
Sailing vessel anchored off the beach in front of the restaurant, appeared to be a derelict and there were several anchored as such.