La Paz, Baja California Sur is one of the lesser known towns in Baja California Sur in comparison to Cabos, or even Todos Santos these days. We chose to spend a weekend in La Paz to explore the area, and it was a great choice. While the town doesn’t have a ton to offer, it’s quiet and close to the main attractions – which are mainly outdoor adventures. Baja California is one of my absolute favorite places in Mexico, and somewhere I see myself going back to and exploring again and again. It also happens to be where my husband and I got engaged, so it has a special place in my heart.
Jump To:
- Getting to La Paz
- Where to Stay in La Paz
- What to do in La Paz
- Where to Eat in La Paz
- More Tours in La Paz
Getting to La Paz
There are two main airports in the lower part of Baja California Sur. There’s the Los Cabos and La Paz international airports. There are many direct flights from the U.S. to Los Cabos, so if you’re coming from the U.S., that might be your best option. If you’re staying in La Paz, the closer airport is La Paz international airport. The best option from Mexico City is Aeromexico to La Paz, and flights cost around $150. The other airlines (Volaris, Viva Aerobus, etc.) only fly to Los Cabos.
Where to Stay in La Paz
La Paz is a small town located on the ocean. You can walk along the sea, and there are many restaurants and bars on the boardwalk. I haven’t been to Cabos yet, but I imagine La Paz is a much more chill vibe. We stayed in an Airbnb in La Paz, which was a great option, however, our friends stayed at the Baja Club ($$$), and it was absolutely beautiful. We also ate there several times. It’s a good option because it’s right in the center of the town on the beach. Perfect for a weekend in La Paz.
Another beautiful option is La Orchidia ($$$). We didn’t stay there, but we looked into it for our wedding, and it looks stunning. The one downside is that it’s slightly outside the town of La Paz, but to be honest, we didn’t spend a ton of time in the town, so it would be a good jumping off point for your adventures.
What to Do in La Paz
The actual town of La Paz doesn’t have much to do. You can walk along the waterfront and go to some restaurants, but that’s about it. Why people spend a weekend in La Paz (or more) is because of it’s proximity to insane natural beauty and outdoor adventures. We worked with a company called Mexico Travel Adventure who are genuinely excellent. Their staff is made up of marine biologists, so they really knew what they were talking about, and explained our surroundings to us versus just going through the motions of a tour. They also helped my husband plan our engagement, so we love them.
Balandra Beach Tour
Balandra is a protected natural area near La Paz. They only let in a certain number of people per day, twice a day, so it doesn’t get crowded. If you book the tour, the guides will prearrange entry to ensure your entry for the day. You will have to go early, but it is so worth it. Our tour included kayaking, snorkeling, and a hike and ended at the beach with lunch and relaxation. This natural area is beyond stunning. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been with stunning green and blue waters and white sand beaches. Along the way, the guides will teach you about the environment there, and you’ll see various birds, fish and sea life. It’s stunning and I can’t recommend it enough.
Isla Espiritu Santo
Another popular thing to do in La Paz is Isla Espiritu Santo. This island is about an hour and fifteen minutes by boat from La Paz. You’ll go in the morning, and the team will point out the islands and the history of the different explorers and indigenous people who have lived there. Depending on the time of year, you may see whales, dolphins or other marine life. Then, you will stop at a cove where you can either dive or snorkel with sea lions. This was amazing because the sea lions are very playful, like puppies, and they’ll come right up to you and sit in your arms of their own volition. I dive, but for this experience I chose to snorkel because the diving wasn’t deep, and the highlight was the sea lions which don’t swim far underwater. From there, you’ll end at a beautiful beach on the island. The landscape in this region is indescribable. It’s somewhere between canyon, beach paradise and desert. I really recommend seeing it for yourself!
There are so many more things to do in this area. Check out all of the tours offered by Mexico Travel Adventure for more.
Where to Eat in La Paz
There are many nice places to eat in La Paz, but you do kind of have to look for them because a lot of places along the boardwalk are underwhelming. I am sure there is a lot more to the food scene in La Paz than we experienced. We were so tired each night after our adventures that we just did dinner and went to bed! Here are a few we really enjoyed, enough for a weekend in La Paz.
Baja Club Restaurant ($$)
We ate breakfast here every day because not much was open before 8 AM and it was great. We also had one lunch there on the first day we got there. It has a Greek style, and if you like seafood, that’s always a good option in Baja. We also enjoyed the rooftop bar at the hotel.
Oliva la Mare ($$)
We went to Oliva la Mare on our last night in La Paz. It’s an Italian restaurant with a beautiful view of the sea. If you go at sunset, it’s worth it for the view and the food is delicious. You may have to take an Uber or taxi to get there.
Seaside Restaurant ($$)
This mediterranean restaurant is located right on the ocean, and is a great option for a night out. You will have to take a taxi to get there, but it’s worth it for the view.
More Tours in La Paz
There is so much to do in and around La Paz. From Todos Santos to whale watching to diving and more. This post is just the tip of the iceberg. For more things to do in La Paz, see below.
Please note, I may make commission on some of the links referenced in this post.
