Where Desert Meets Turquoise
La Paz’s beaches are paradise. Placed along the stunning coast of Baja California Sur, this vibrant town offers more than just great weather and warm waters—it offers an opportunity for adventure or relaxation at every beach in Los Cabos. Whether you’re into lounging in the sun, snorkeling with marine life, or exploring hidden coves on a kayak, La Paz’s beaches have everything and more than what you’re looking for.
#1 Balandra: The Iconic Beauty
Without a doubt, Balandra Beach is the crown jewel of La Paz. Its shallow, turquoise waters and the famous mushroom-shaped rock formations are unreal. Beachgoers online say, “it’s like swimming in an aquarium,” and honestly, they are not wrong! The water is so clear, and the sand is so extremely soft and soothing.
It’s good to note that Balandra is a protected natural area. Therefore, strict regulations are in place to preserve its delicate ecosystem. For instance, there are 2 open windows each day, permitting a certain number of guests. Every single day, hundreds of people try to get into Balandra, and only the people who arrive extremely early typically make it in. If you’re just trying to enjoy a day at the ocean, you may want to opt for another one of La Paz’s beaches. Also, motorized water sports are prohibited.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular. And snorkeling is fantastic too, due to the calm and clear waters. Despite this, limited amenities are available. It’s recommended by previous visitors and locals to bring your food and drinks as only local vendors are only permitted to sell snacks outside of the beach premises. No formal restrooms are available, so plan accordingly.
#2 Pichilingue: Gateway to Espiritu Santo
Playa Pichilingue acts as the starting point for all tours to Isla Espíritu Santo. However, it’s also a destination in its own way. The golden hour transforms the landscape into a perfect backdrop for photos. Pichilingue beach is often described as calm, stunning, and having a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for anyone. Additionally, you’ll find palapa-style restaurants that serve fresh-caught seafood, adding to the laid-back atmosphere. Pichilingue is a known but not extremely popular beach, so general beach regulations apply.
Since Pichilingue serves as the deperature point for Isla Espíritu Santo tours, boating and snorkeling strips are readily available. Whether that’s if you’ve booked your tour beforehand or scheduled it on the beach the same day. You’ll find basic amenities like restrooms and shade – remember to bring some extra cash as some locals charge guests to use the restroom. To continue, many local vendors will walk up and down the beach selling fruit, beverages, desserts, snacks, and beach gear and typically only take cash.
#3 Tecolote: When Balandra is Full
Next, Tecolote is fit for the adventurous soul and, as stated, when the capacity is full at Balandra since it’s 10 minutes down the road. Tecolote has vendors who rent kayaks, paddleboards, and even jet skis, perfect for the family. (Jet skis and some other rentals do require a form of license.) Moreover, it’s incredibly popular with locals and Mexican tourists. The energy at Tecolote is infectious, so you’re bound to enjoy your time there. Plus, with its long stretch of sandy shore, you’ll always find a quiet spot to unwind.
Restaurants and Bars are plentiful and scattered around the beach’s shore. Most commonly, restaurants serve fresh-caught seafood that fishermen bring in from the morning. Tacos and cocktails are also popular. At Tecolote, you’ll also find beach chair rentals and restrooms. Parking at Tecolote isn’t ideal, but it’s adequate.
#4 El Coromuel: Family-Friendly Fun
For those traveling with little ones, El Coromuel is a must-visit. Its calm, warm, and shallow waters with soft sand make it a playground for children and families. “My kids loved building sandcastles here,” a parent shared online. Also, the beach offers shaded palapas to prevent your kids from getting burnt. Some vendors have stands to rent out umbrellas and towels. Playa El Coromuel is also the closest beach to La Paz’s centro and to popular resorts like Puerta Cortes, La Concha, and the Marine Waterfront.
Regardless of where you travel in Mexico, it’s traditional for all Mexicans to respect others, property, and the environment. Family-friendly rules apply at El Coromuel: keep noise levels reasonable, pick up after yourself, and don’t harm wildlife or the terrain purposefully. Swimming, building sandcastles, and playing on the playground are popular with families.
#5 Ensenada Grande: Secluded Serenity
Finally, Ensenada Grande on Isla Espíritu Santo provides the ultimate escape. Although the only way of accessing this beach is by boat trip, the reward is immense. The pristine white sand and crystal-clear water will make you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden paradise. Almost every person who goes to Ensenada Grande goes accompanied by a small group, so it’s most likely that you have this whole gorgeous beach to yourself.
Isla Espíritu Santo is a stunning natural escape with a rugged desert landscape and cool blue waters. Where sea lions lounge on rocky shores and vibrant marine life thrives beneath in the water. Being on Isla Espiritu Santo, respect the natural environment. The only given regulations are pack out what you pack in.
On Ensenada Grande, there are very limited to no amenities. Bring everything you need, including food, water, and shade. Make sure to check beforehand with your boat tour provider what you can and cannot bring! Almost every company will have similar regulations, but they can vary.
Insider Tip: Pack Smart!
One of the things that almost every beachgoer in La Paz regrets is over or under-packing essentials or not packing what’s necessary. Don’t forget the essentials: lot’s of water – stay hydrated! A wide-brimmed hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and plenty of water. Also, consider bringing a snorkel mask to explore the vibrant underwater world. Remember when the sub goes down you can then venture out to experience the best nightlife in La Paz: where to drink, dance and dine!
