Did you spend a few days in La Paz visiting downtown or cruising the Sea of Cortez and running out of activities? Did you check our Top Things To Do in La Paz – you might find something new to do! But if you are to stretch your legs or get active enough to justify another round of tacos tonight, check out these fun day trips from La Paz.

Indeed, Baja California Sur is known for its beautiful coasts, stunning beaches, marine life, and outdoor activities. If you’re planning day trips from La Paz, you should consider several exciting destinations and travel tips, which you can reach within a one- or two-hour drive from La Paz.

Day Trips from La Paz

La Paz is an excellent hub to explore Baja California Sur. Go south to Todos Santos, or Cabo San Lucas. Go east to the Sea of Cortez. Go west to the Pacific Ocean. Go north to Loreto.

Kitesurfing and Windsurfing in La Ventana

Windsurfing has been around for decades, but Kiteboarding is relatively new on the wind scene. Both sports can be practiced safely in two spots near La Paz. Kitesurfing in La Ventana is the nearest kites sport from La Paz, barely one hour away.

Los Barriles, a two-hour drive from La Paz, is the second spot for wind activities, where the conditions are best from November to April.

Kiteboarding in La Ventana

Surf in Todos Santos

A small town on the Pacific side of Baja California, artists and surfers are the main residents of the quiet place. Those looking for activities will hike on the nearby hills by Point Los Lobos. Or learn to surf along its famous white sand beaches. Todos Santos also hosts a turtle conservation program with almost daily releases of baby turtles from November to April. Stroll on the Church Plaza, visit the Cathedral, and eat Tacos by the road for a quiet time.

Hike in the Sierra de la Laguna

Mostly accessible from Santiago, either as a long day or book a multi-day trek to explore further into the Sierras. The most popular trail goes to Agua Caliente, a hot spring east of Santiago that can be reached after a challenging hike and even bouldering. Other trails require longer overnight stays, with a minimum of three nights.

Kayak in Balandra Beach

Balandra Beach is a short drive (21 km / 14 miles) from La Paz and yet feels in another world. The beach is protected and has limited amenities, but the sandy and shallow cove is excellent for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Spend the day relaxing on the beach, watching pelicans fish at low tide. Rent a kayak at the small truck, which also provides drinks and fresh ceviches for lunch. Most people kayak up to the sea, but the mangrove area is pretty neat, too.

Kayaking in La Balandra Beach

Snorkel with Whale Sharks in the Sea of Cortez

It’s not technically a real day trip from La Paz since boats depart from the pier downtown. You are away for the day, so I figure this counts! Swimming by the gentle beasts is a fantastic experience. Known as the Tiburon Ballenas, the Whale Sharks are the largest fish in the world and have no fear; they only feed on plankton. The best time to see them is November and April.

Close view of a Whale Shark

Between December – March, you might also see grey and humpback whales. Tour companies offer a half-day activity so that you can check these different whale shark cruise options. Unsure what a day out looking for whale sharks feels like? Check out our blog post featuring our experience swimming with whale sharks and our video. Note that bad or too windy weather might cancel the tour.

Horseback Ride through Cactuses in El Cajete

Ride through the iconic Saguaro cactuses around El Cajete north of La Paz. A local ranch, Rancho El Cajon, provides guided tours through the dunes and down to the beaches. Horses are well taken care of, and riders of all abilities can enjoy the ride. Don’t miss a chance to gallop on the sandy beach – priceless!

Horseback Riding at El Cajete

Swim Cabo San Lucas’ Turquoise Waters

If you want to go for a relaxing swim in stunning settings, Cabo San Lucas is the place to go. Not all Cabo San Lucas beaches are safe for swimming (think rip currents, big waves, and jellyfish), but you are sure to find something to work on your form and your tan simultaneously!

The famous Arch of Cabo is also a great spot for kayaking!

Sandboard the Dunas del Mogote

Rent a sandboard and glide down the beautiful sand dunes! You can go anytime but watch for the hot day sun! Most people tend to go for the sunset, but go there a couple of hours before to enjoy your ride down!

Dunas del Mogote Photo Credit Raúl Mendoza Salgado Pixabay

Day Tripping Baja California Sur Travel Tips:

• Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases in case you visit more remote areas.
• While many people in La Paz speak English, especially in tourist areas, knowing some basic Spanish phrases is helpful, as it can enhance your travel experience and interactions with locals.
• La Paz is generally a safe city, but it’s essential to take precautions like any destination. Be mindful of your belongings, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and use reputable transportation services.
• Check the weather forecast before planning your day trips, as conditions vary. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, as the sun in Baja California can be intense.
• Most of these activities are relatively low-key, but use a reputable company before joining a whale-shark cruise to ensure proper guidelines for limiting wildlife interaction and stress. Also, as with any outdoor activity, accidents happen, so ensure you are insured should anything occur.

Have you been to La Paz? What was your experience? Are you planning your Baja California Sur travel soon? Please share with us your adventures in this lesser-known part of Mexico.

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