If there’s one thing that La Paz, Mexico is known for, it’s amazing beaches. Located in Baja California Sur on the west coast, this laid-back city and surrounding region is the gateway to stretches of beautiful white sand and sparkling blue waters, rich with marine life.
The beaches in and around La Paz are made for rest and relaxation, and are considered some of the best in Mexico. Unwind under the palm leafed palapas, Mexico’s classic shady beachside havens, while gazing out over the picturesque Sea of Cortez. From swaths of sand in the city that offer seaside dining, people watching, and sunset strolling to sandy destinations further along the coast, there’s a beach for everyone within reach of the urban area.
Discover seaside bliss along the shores of Baja California with a visit to some of the top beaches in La Paz, Mexico.
Playa Balandra
Playa Balandra
Visit one of the finest La Paz beaches, Balandra, a desert oasis half an hour outside of the city. Relax on the calm shores of the Gulf of California in the warm Mexican sun and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. This sweep of white sand is a natural protected area, backed by rugged mountains studded with the native cardon cacti, and mangroves growing to one side.
Whether you choose to bask in the sunshine, lounge with a book, take a cooling dip in the aquamarine water, or venture out by rented kayak or stand-up paddleboard, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this stretch of sand. The mangrove forest is rich in wildlife; paddle your kayak here and you’ll spot tropical fish, seabirds in the trees, and crabs scuttling among the tree roots.
Hongo de Balandra
Wade in the shallow waters, and at low tide, it’s possible to stroll out even further. Or take the short hike up to the viewpoint where you’ll be awestruck by views.
One of the most popular photo spots here is the famous Hongo de Balandra, meaning “mushroom rock”. This unique rock formation, a mushroom-like cap perched on a spindly stalk, makes for a great shot.
Playa El Tecolote
Playa El Tecolote
The idyllic El Tecolote Beach lies on the northern edge of the peninsula, about half an hour from the city of La Paz. Enjoy the scenic drive up the rugged coast until you reach this seaside paradise, from which there are sweeping views of the uninhabited Isla Espiritu Santo, as well as great waterfront restaurants where you’ll want to try the catch of the day.
Water sports are a fantastic way to enjoy Playa El Tecolote; kayaks, jet skis, and banana boats are all available for rent here. Keep an eye out for sea lions and other marine life while paddling along the coastline, too.
Palapas are available as a shady respite – or enjoy sunbathing on the soft white sands while soaking in the vista of the cobalt-blue Sea of Cortez.
Playa El Tesoro
Playa El Tesoro
Discover the uncrowded shores of Playa El Tesoro, just a 20-minute drive from La Paz. Meaning “treasure beach”, this relatively undiscovered gem is a serene seaside destination with a restaurant and palapas to rent.
Historically, the beach was given its name thanks to a legend involving a pirate ship and hidden treasure. Although you may not unearth any gold or pearls while visiting Playa El Tesoro, the location itself can be considered treasure enough; it’s one of the best beaches in La Paz, Mexico. Calm, shallow water with excellent visibility and a laid back atmosphere make this stretch of sand an ideal escape for the day.
Lounge in the shade under the palapas or mangrove trees that line the shore, paddle around in a rented kayak, and snack on Mexican specialties at the waterfront restaurant. Or pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on your beach blanket against a backdrop of untamed coastal scenery.
Playa El Caimancito
Playa El Caimancito
Located just outside of La Paz, Playa El Caimancito is a popular spot with locals. Marvel at the scenic rock formations along the coast, particularly the alligator-shaped rocks after which the beach is named. The calm water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Whether you choose to get active or lounge on the white sand, there’s something for everyone in this azure oasis. This small piece of paradise is perfect for rest and relaxation with easy accessibility to the city.
Playa El Coromuel
Playa El Coromuel
Visit the vibrant beach destination of Playa El Coromuel, located within easy reach of the city of La Paz; you could even cycle here. In addition to facilities for restrooms, restaurants, and rentals, this stretch of sand is perfect for those looking to have a little extra fun in the sun, with an aquatic water park that’s popular with families. Two giant waterslides twist down the cliff face, propelling you into the warm sea.
This is also a popular spot for swimming; local open water swimming races are held here throughout the year. Stroll the boardwalk, indulge in a seafood lunch of shrimp or ceviche, sit on the end of the pier on the lookout for dolphins, or snooze under a palapa.
Playa Pichilingue
Playa Pichilingue
Situated just 20 minutes outside of bustling La Paz, Pichilingue Beach is popular with wakeboarders and seafood enthusiasts alike. Admire the sparkling Sea of Cortez, which beckons with its crystal clear shallows, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Close to the shore, you’ll find dazzling marine life, from damselfish to angelfish darting in and out of vibrant coral.
Kayaks and jet skis are available to rent too; choose your speed and get out to explore the waters offshore.
Playa Pichilingue is also known for its delicious seaside dining. Be sure to try the local favorite, the chocolate clams, otherwise known as “almejas chocolatas”. This “Baja seafood candy” is found in the waters surrounding the area and named after its brown colored shells. Enjoy the clams raw, or barbecued with melted butter.
The Malecón
The Malecón
Discover the city’s waterfront along the iconic Malecón, a three mile boardwalk stretching along the bustling shore from the marina to Playa Coromuel. Benches, artwork, parks, historic statues, shops, and restaurants line The Malecón, making it a favorite gathering spot in La Paz. While this isn’t a swimming beach as such, a stroll along the Malecón is a way to enjoy the waterfront with an insight into the local culture and social scene at the same time.
Take a photo next to the famous “La Paz” sign along the boardwalk, watch kite surfers perform acrobatics on the waves, shop for handicrafts and other souvenirs, and order a delicious ice cream to cool off. The Malecón is almost always alive with activity, drawing locals and tourists alike with the promise of an enjoyable stroll, cycle, and views.
Playa El Saltito
Playa El Saltito
To get right off the beaten path, head a little over half an hour outside of La Paz to the eastern edge of the peninsula. Playa El Saltito is one of Baja California’s secluded beaches, perfect for those looking to get away from crowds. Getting to this amazing stretch of sand requires driving down a dirt road, and a short hike but it’ll be worth the journey to experience this rustic paradise.
Playa El Saltito is known for its offshore reef, home to a wide array of diverse marine life. Take your mask and snorkel and swim out on the left side of the shore for the best coral. Stretch your legs on the cliffside trail, where your efforts will be rewarded in the form of sweeping views of the glittering sea, Isla Cerravlo, and the Cupalo Canal.
Isla Espiritu Santo
Isla Espiritu Santo
Venture to one of the most celebrated gems in Baja California Sur. The UNESCO World Heritage site and National Park of Isla Espiritu Santo is only accessible by a one-hour boat journey. Here, you’ll find some of the most pristine and remote beaches in Mexico.
The protected area is home to diverse marine life including sea lions, dolphins, whales, and sea birds, many of which can be spotted during a day trip to the island. Both Isla Espiritu Santo and neighboring Isla Partida have gorgeous beaches that will make you feel like a castaway.
Isla Espiritu Santo
Marvel at the wind and wave-sculpted volcanic rock formations on this scenic island, where desert and sea meet. Enjoy the tranquility of Isla Espiritu Santo’s Playa Candelero, where you’ll be greeted by turquoise waters and rich marine life.
Visit one of the most well-loved beaches in all of Mexico, Ensenada Grande, on neighboring Isla Partida. Laze on the white sand beaches in between forays into the water for snorkeling, swimming, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Playa El Rosario
Situated on the east coast of the peninsula, Playa El Rosario stretches southward from Punta Rosario, a rock-strewn sandbar that spans the mouth of a dried-up river bed.
This quiet beach of sand and rocks, at the end of a track for which you’ll need a 4×4, is perfect for anyone wanting a real taste of the desert wilderness of the Sea of Cortez, with opportunities for snorkeling, and hiking. Take a supply of water and a picnic, and keep a lookout for dolphins cavorting in the water.
Isla Espiritu Santo
A luxury cruise is a fantastic way to experience some of the top La Paz beaches. Sink your toes into the soft white sand, bask in the sun, admire the wildlife and enjoy a variety of watersports. Whatever your style, there’s a beach in La Paz for you. Browse our luxury cruises to La Paz on our website and book your Baja California beach getaway today.
