La Paz (Baja California)

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
02/08/2025
Discover the tranquil beauty of La Paz sand dunes against the vibrant sunset sky.
Yunuen Caballero, Pexels

La Paz, Mexico, is a vibrant coastal city and the capital of Baja California Sur, known for its rich marine life and stunning beaches, particularly Balandra Beach. It offers a more laid-back experience compared to other Mexican tourist hubs, appealing to those seeking nature-based adventures and a local atmosphere.

The Malecón, La Paz's waterfront promenade, serves as a central social hub, bustling with restaurants, shops, and street performers, especially in the evenings. The downtown area also offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and galleries for visitors to explore.

Top 5 Things to do in La Paz (Baja California)

Activities in La Paz primarily focus on engaging with its remarkable marine environment, exploring stunning coastal landscapes, and experiencing the city's local charm.

1. Explore Espíritu Santo Island and Snorkel with Sea Lions

Embark on a full-day boat tour to Espíritu Santo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its pristine beauty and abundant wildlife. A highlight of this excursion is the opportunity to swim and snorkel with playful California sea lions in their natural habitat at Los Islotes. Beyond the sea lions, tours often include scenic cruises past unique rock formations, stops at secluded beaches for swimming and relaxation, and sometimes opportunities for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Many tours provide lunch, typically ceviche, on one of the island's secluded beaches. Please note that swimming with sea lions at Los Islotes is prohibited during their breeding season, typically from June to August.

Cost: Shared tours typically range from $120 to $162 USD per person. This cost generally covers snorkeling equipment, wetsuit, a certified guide (often a marine biologist), national park entry permits, and usually lunch and refreshments. Private tours are also available at a higher cost.

Transport: Tours depart from various marinas in La Paz, such as Muelle Fiscal on the Malecón. Many tour operators offer convenient hotel pick-up services within the downtown area.

2. Swim with Whale Sharks in La Paz Bay

Experience the incredible opportunity to snorkel alongside whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean, in the plankton-rich waters of La Paz Bay. These gentle giants visit the area seasonally. The experience is highly regulated to ensure the safety and conservation of the whale sharks and their habitat. Tours typically involve a boat trip to the whale shark aggregation area, a briefing on responsible interaction, and guided snorkeling sessions. The best time for this activity is generally from December to February, though the official season runs from October to April, depending on the presence of the sharks.

Cost: Whale shark tours typically cost between $100 and $229 USD per person. Combo tours that include other activities, such as a visit to Espíritu Santo Island or Balandra Beach, may range from $180 to $250 USD. The price usually includes snorkeling gear, a wetsuit, a certified guide (often a marine biologist), and the necessary whale shark sanctuary entry permit.

Transport: Tours generally depart from La Paz marinas. Many operators provide hotel pick-ups from various locations within the city.

3. Visit Balandra Beach

Discover Balandra Beach, frequently recognized as one of Mexico's most beautiful beaches. Its defining features are its exceptionally shallow, clear turquoise waters and soft white sands, set against a backdrop of arid desert landscapes dotted with cacti. The bay itself encompasses seven coves, offering tranquil spots for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A notable landmark is the iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation. Due to its protected status, there are timed entry slots and a nominal entrance fee to manage visitor flow and preserve its pristine condition.

Cost: As of April 2025, a digital bracelet is required for non-residents, costing 120 MXN (approximately $6-7 USD) per person.

Transport: To reach Balandra Beach from La Paz, a car offers the most flexibility, with a drive of about 30-35 minutes north on a paved road with free parking. Alternatively, the 'Playa Bus' departs from the La Paz Malecon Bus Station for around 130 MXN ($6-7 USD) for a round trip, though it requires a 10-15 minute walk from the drop-off point to the beach. Taxis or rideshares cost approximately 250 MXN ($13-14 USD) one way; it is advisable to arrange a return pick-up in advance due to limited cell service at the beach.

4. Stroll the Malecón and Explore the Historic Center

Wander along La Paz's expansive Malecón, a 5.5-kilometer waterfront promenade that serves as the city's social heart. It is an ideal spot for leisurely walks, cycling, or admiring numerous public art sculptures and installations that dot the pathway. In the evenings, the Malecón comes alive with street performers, vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere, complemented by numerous restaurants and shops. Just a short distance away, the Historic Center of La Paz invites exploration with its charming, walkable streets, colorful street art, quaint boutiques, local eateries, historic buildings, and art museums, including the prominent Cathedral Nuestra Señora de La Paz.

Cost: Exploring the Malecón and Historic Center is generally free, with costs only applying to dining, shopping, or museum admissions.

Transport: Both areas are centrally located in La Paz and are highly walkable. Bicycles can be rented for exploring the length of the Malecón. Taxis and rideshares are readily available for transport within the city.

5. Sandboarding at El Mogote Dunes

For an exhilarating desert adventure, try sandboarding on the picturesque dunes of El Mogote. This peninsula, situated across La Paz Bay, offers unique landscapes perfect for sliding down sandy slopes. Guided tours typically provide all necessary equipment and basic instruction, making it accessible even for beginners. Sunset tours are particularly recommended, offering breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon, illuminating the dunes in golden hues.

Cost: Tours for sandboarding typically cost between $65 and $72 USD per person. This usually includes transportation to the dunes and the provision of sandboarding equipment.

Transport: Tours generally include transportation to the El Mogote dunes, which are located a short distance across La Paz Bay from the city center.

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Baja California Sur
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