La Paz was included by the New York Time in its list of the 52 destinations to visit during 2020, positioning it among the first 20 places. Located on the Sea of Cortez, for its rich underwater biodiversity, it became a protected area of the marine world heritage by UNESCO.
Despite being the capital of Baja California Sur, its geographic location and limited access roads have kept it away from mass tourism. The quiet city of La Paz has a varied offer of activities and experiences for you.
1. Whale Shark Snorkeling
Between the months of October to February, whale sharks migrate to feed in the warm, plankton-rich waters of La Paz Bay. These “Gentle Giants” can reach 18-33 ft /5.5-10 m in length. La Paz is one of the best places in the world to swim with the world’s largest fish because the experience is controlled and regulated to ensure that encounters are sustainable. Learn More
2. Swim with Sea Lions in Espiritu Santo Island
Visiting Espiritu Santo Island is one of the most popular activities in La Paz. The area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 and a National Park in 2007. For its great marine biodiversity the site is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Its turquoise waters are home to a multitude of fish, and colonies of sea lions, with whom you can swim if you go before June or after August. Explore Espiritu Santo Reserve Map
3. Visit La Paz Beaches
La Paz has some of the most beautiful beaches in Baja California Sur. Many of them protected by bays offer calm waters where you can swim or just relax.
Playa Balandra is one of the most popular, usually ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, its calm crystal clear waters will never overtake your waistline. Explore La Paz beaches map
4. Enjoy the sunset on the malecon
In the afternoon, when temperatures drop, the malecon comes alive. A social meeting point, its bars and restaurants begin to fill up. The temperature and the atmosphere are perfect to enjoy a beautiful sunset. As you walk along the malecon you can enjoy a series of artistic monuments. Learn More
5. Whale Watching (Grey Whales)
Each winter the Gray Whale ends its 12,000-mile migration from the artic circle in Baja’s pacific lagoons. During the Whale watching season, generally from the end of December to the beginning of March. Excursions are arranged daily to Magdalena Bay, three-hour drive up the Pacific coast from the city of La Paz, where these Whales can be observed close up. Explore Magdalena Bay Wildlife Map
6. La Paz City Tour
In the surroundings of the malecon you will find historical buildings such as the municipal palace, today the Cultural Center of La Paz, the Juarez theater and the mission of Our Lady of Pilar. Near downtown is the museum of anthropology and history (INAH) which preserves the history of Baja California Sur. Another highlight is the museum of marine science and whales where you can learn about these magnificent cetaceans that visit the state year after year. The city also has a tour of beautiful street art. Explore La Paz Cultural Map
7. Go Sandboarding
Adventure also awaits outside the sea. For example a very trendy activity is the Sandboarding, which consists of descending on a board on sand dunes. The best place to do it is El Mogote, it is located about 20 min outside the city. From there you can enjoy a very fun activity with the best views to the city and astonishing sunsets. Learn more
8. Go Diving
Diving in the Sea of Cortez, the world famous aquarium, will be an unforgettable experience. Its clear waters provide a visibility of 100 ft/ 30mts and a temperature of 30 degrees in summer and fall. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these protected waters are home to species such as whales, whale sharks, sea lions, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, sharks, orcas, and many more. Discover the best places to dive in La Paz. Explore La Paz diving spots
9. Go Fishing
The calm waters of the Sea of Cortez offer a tremendous variety of fishing for both traditional fishing methods and fly anglers. Here you will have the Opportunity to catch Marlin, Dorado, Yellowtail, Grouper, amberjack, sailfish, roosterfish, Snapper, and many other species. You will target different species depending on the season. Explore La Paz fishing spots
10. Fly over La Paz Bay in a Seaplane
Enjoy a scenic flight over the Gulf of California aboard a seaplane and help monitor and conserve the marine species that inhabit and transit the bay of La Paz. Flights start at Pichilingue beach and last approximately 20-25 min. Learn More
11. Visit Todos Santos
Todos Santos is one of the most popular tourist attractions, located on the Pacific Ocean 62 mi/100 km, 1,5 hs away from La Paz. Founded in 1724 as a Spanish mission, Todos Santos today maintains its small town charm and walking through its cobblestone streets is like a trip back in time. It was officially declared a “Publo Magico” for its beauty and cultural richness.
Walking through this beautiful and quiet town is a pleasure, some of the places to visit are the historic Santiago Mission, its art galleries and the famous Hotel California, where according to local legend, the Eagles were inspired to create their famous song (a fact that was denied by the band). Cerritos beach located 8 mi/13 km from Todos Santos is an ideal spot for those looking to get started in surfing. Another activity to highlight are the hiking trails by the sea where you can enjoy incredible panoramic views.
12. Baja California Sur Mining Heritage, El Triunfo
Located 52 km / 32 mi, 45 min from La Paz, El Triunfo preserves the mining legacy of Baja California Sur. This small mountain town reached its peak of development between the 1790s and 1900s when immigrants from Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and China decided to move to this region in search of gold and silver. La Ramano, the abandoned mine chimney was designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1890. Explore El Triunfo Map
