20 Best Things To Do In La Paz (Mexico) in 2024

George Alvarez
Written By:
George Alvarez
Last Updated:
December 31, 2023
Looking for the best things to do in La Paz, Mexico? This guide will cover the top attractions, where to stay, and other helpful information for your trip.
Best Things To Do In La Paz

Situated within the north of Mexico, La Paz is one of those must-visits when travelling around this area of the country.

And it’s no surprise why, I love it here!

Here you’ll find a perfect climate for relaxing on its numerous beaches, as well as plenty of opportunities for spotting lots of exotic wildlife

La Paz is also located close to the Baja Californian desert, making it a great place to base yourself when exploring this remote and wild region.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about La Paz in Mexico, based on my own experiences spent staying and exploring this glorious part of the country.

This includes where to stay, the top things to do in La Paz, as well as my own top recommendations for tours.

Let’s get stuck in...

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Getting to Know La Paz

Why Visit La Paz

Why visit La Paz

Most travellers who make their way up to Baja California tend to only visit Cabo San Lucas

Whilst it’s a fun and exciting destination, La Paz is the real gem of this region, and is a much more authentic city to explore.

Situated on the east coast of Baja California Sur (the southern part of the peninsular which lies next to the Sea of Cortez), this city is home to many stunning beaches which are much safer for swimming compared to its counterparts along the Pacific coast. 

La Paz is also rich in wildlife too, with places like Isla Espiritu Santo home to many colourful animals and plant species.

The city itself is great for exploring, and is perfect for those looking for a more traditional and relaxed vibe. 

There are many awesome museums to visit here such as the Whale Museum, and when walking its streets you can see some beautiful colonial buildings along with colourful street art too. 

And that’s all without mentioning the street food you can pick up on your adventures! (which are usually fresh catches from the sea that same day)

How to get to La Paz

Getting to La Paz

La Paz is located within the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, which is a small peninsula that juts out from the mainland in the north of the country. 

The main ways of getting here are either by flight, bus or boat.

Fly

You can only fly directly into La Paz with domestic flights within Mexico. 

So if arriving internationally, you’ll either need to fly into Mexico City and then hop on a short flight after, or fly to Los Cabos and take the bus. 

The most popular option is the latter, given the airport of Los Cabos welcomes many direct flights from countries such as the USA and Canada daily. 

Some of the cheapest routes we’ve found leave from Los Angeles and Chicago for around $180 USD per person (a one-way flight which connects in Guadalajara). 

Those in South America can also find a really cheap flight from the Colombian capital of Bogotá to La Paz (again it connects in Mexico City, but only costs $120-240 for a one-way trip!).

You can check out the different flight routes and prices here on SkyScanner

By Bus

Given its location, using the bus is only a viable option for those already within the Baja California peninsula.

Buses in this area of Mexico are very comfortable, with spacious, reclining seats. 

If you’ve been travelling through areas of Central America before, then these will feel like a significant upgrade!

Most head on wheels from Cabo San Lucas, given it’s the lively hotspot of the region. 

If you're already here, then you’ll first need to get to San José del Cabo, which is where the main airport is located. 

From here the buses leave every hour of the day, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours. A one-way bus ticket will cost you around $30 USD.

Those who are in Tijuana further north (and are feeling adventurous) can take the long bus through the Baja region down to La Paz. 

With a lofty distance of 1500 km, the journey takes roughly 24 hours, with some short breaks for food along the way. 

There’s usually a few buses departing daily from companies such as Aguila, with the ticket costing between $120-170 USD. 

Whilst this option puts most travellers off, those who do decide to go for it will see some of the most epic coastal and desert landscapes that can be witnessed when in Mexico! 

You can see all routes and prices here on CheckMyBus.

By Boat

Last but not least I have the option of a boat. 

Although we’ve left it until last, it’s actually quite a popular way of getting into (and out of) La Paz. 

The ferry here has two routes; from Mazatlán (a popular beachside destination in Sinaloa) as well as from Topolobampo (near the town of Los Mochis which is the starting point for journeys into the Copper Canyon). The boat ride takes roughly 12-14 hours.

When it comes to the price of a one-way journey, it can vary. 

This is because it depends on the size of your party, when you are travelling, as well as if you will be bringing any vehicles along on the ride.

Overall I recommend going by ferry the most, as it serves as a connection between La Paz and some really breathtaking destinations (such as the Copper Canyon and Mazatlán, heading down to Guadalajara etc).

It’s also quite a memorable ride too!

You can see schedules and prices here on DirectFerries, although be aware that routes can be temporarily closed due to bad weather conditions, among other reasons.

Getting around La Paz

Getting around La Paz
source

La Paz is quite small for a Mexican city, which is just a few miles long (some argue it’s a town, but I’ll leave those discussions out for the time being!).

You can easily get around by walking or renting a bike, especially for the area around the Malecón. Getting around the city centre and seeing all of the sites is quite quick and easy too.

Of course you can always use taxis as well, however these are going to be more expensive (it’s best to only use them during the night when heading back to your accommodation). 

The other times you’ll need to use a taxi (or public bus, which is a more economical option) is when heading to the further afield beaches such as Balandra Beach, or to the ferry dock which is located just outside of La Paz.

Where to Stay in La Paz

Where to stay in La Paz

The best areas to stay within La Paz are along the Malecón, and also within the safe neighbourhoods of El Esterito and El Centro.

These districts are much safer for tourists, and also have a nice variety of restaurants, bars and accommodation options too.

  • My budget pick - Those who want to keep things cheap will want to stay at Hostal Casa Esterito. Here you’ll be staying in a comfortable dorm room close to the beachfront, which includes good quality WiFi along with an on-site kitchen which is ideal for making your own meals. 
  • My mid-range pick - If you’re looking for a mid-range apartment, then the Seven Crown Malecón is a great option. Located right on the Ensenada Bay, you’ll be staying in a deluxe private room which is close to many great restaurants and nightlife options. 
  • My high-end pick - Those looking for total luxury need look no further than the City Express La Paz. Located just outside of the city, this resort has a private swimming pool and gym. You’ll be staying in a sleek and spacious room, which also has a tasty breakfast included in the rate too. 

As well as Booking.com, there are some other fantastic vacation rental sites to look at if you'd prefer to shop around.

Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico

Now we’ll explore the very best things you can see and do when in La Paz.

1. Stroll along the Malecón

Coromuel Beach, La Paz

In every coastal Mexican destination you can find a malecón, which is usually the beating heart of the city or town. 

In La Paz this is certainly the case, with this long boardwalk always full of life and thriving with novelty. 

Once you’ve arrived in town, I recommend first walking along this 6km walkway, where you can get a more authentic take on Mexican Pacific life.

You can start from the Marina in the south, which has a more exclusive feel to it with its abundance of expensive private yachts and boats. 

There’s also many restaurants to grab a midday bite here too, with The Dock Café being one of the very best. 

From here you can then start your walk, where you’ll see many colourful murals and sculptures along the way! 

The malecón stretches all the way until the white sandy beach of El Coromuel

It’s even better if you come during the evening time, as you’ll be able to see the incredible sunset drop over the Sea of Cortez. 

Given the distance, you’ll want to make sure you bring lots of water and sunscreen, as there’s hardly any shade along the malecón (and it doesn’t take long to start burning either!).

2. Visit the Museo de Arte

Built just a few years ago in 2018, the Museo del Arte is in fact the first of its kind in the state of Baja California Sur. 

Showcasing various art and artefacts, it details the history of La Paz since its founding in the 16th century. 

One of the best things to see is its small outside passage, with as many as 72 lights of different heights (which makes for a great photo opportunity). 

Other awesome sculptures to check out include the two conjoined stone heads, as well as a colourful, classic American car. 

The Museo del Artes remains unheard of by most tourists, which is exactly why I recommend going. You’ll have virtually no crowds among you, and you’ll be able to experience a more authentic take on Baja California life. 

The Museo del Arte is located right on the popular park of Jardín Velasco (which is a good reference point to have when exploring La Paz), and is open from 11:00am until 7:00pm, Tuesday until Sunday.

3. Head on a Snorkelling Tour

Sea Lions Playing in the Reefs of La Paz

Given La Paz is located on the coast (it’s actually next to the Sea of Cortez, whilst most mistake it for the Pacific), there is an abundance of water activities to get involved with when here. 

One of the very best things you can do is to go snorkelling, where you‘ll be guaranteed to see many types of exotic and multicoloured fish. 

Hands down the best spot has to be on Isla Espritu Santo, where you can see seals and even Whale Sharks (the season for these big critters runs from October until April). 

Whilst you can grab some snorkelling equipment and go for it solo, I instead recommend heading on this all-inclusive snorkelling tour

Here your guide will lead you to some of the very best spots near La Paz, where you’ll be both kayaking and paddleboarding too through these crystal-clear waters. 

As well as having all snorkelling gear and equipment provided, you’ll also have lunch along with all drinks included in the tour too! 

For those travelling through Mexico, Puerto Escondido and Isla Mujeres are some other fantastic snorkelling spots.

4. Chill out on Playa Balandra

Playa Balandra, La Paz, Mexico

Many heading to this part of Mexico are usually stunned by the beaches, which are more desert and arid in their nature compared to outright tropical (as one might otherwise expect).

And within La Paz, the cream of the crop has to be Playa Balandra

Often ranked amongst the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, here you can enjoy the long, half-moon shaped bay (which you can even walk across given its so shallow) as well as its white sands. 

Given this region’s unique climate, it also means that a day trip to this beach is highly unlikely to be ruined with rain either. 

I also recommend climbing up into the nearby hills for what is possibly one of the most stunning beach views you can have within this country! 

There’s very little services or amenities here (which I also think is better to help retain its low-key nature), so make sure to bring everything you need with you including lots of water, snacks and any snorkelling equipment. 

Playa Balandra is located some 27 km north of La Paz, which is roughly 30 minutes driving (taking a taxi is the quickest way of getting here).

For an idea of what to pack, check out our beach packing list to ensure you have everything you could need! 

5. See Reptiles at El Serpentario

tortoise walking

If you’ve already visited all of the beaches and historical sites and are wondering what to do next, then this one is a very good contender. 

El Serpentario is essentially a rescue centre for a variety of different reptiles, and is a great way to also learn about the biodiversity and unique species that are found within the Baja California peninsula. 

In total they now have over 150 different types of animals here, making it a really nice half-day activity. 

Some of the best animals to be spotted (and of course snapped for future viewing pleasure) are snakes, iguanas and crocodiles. 

El Serpentario is located in the north-west of La Paz in the barrio of the Sector Inalapa, and is a 10 minute drive from the Jardín Velasco. 

It’s only open on the weekend (Friday until Sunday), from the hours of 9:30am until 3:00pm. Given it’s only open so little time during each week, it’s best to come as early as possible in the day before the crowds and school trips begin to arrive!

6. Wander around the Jardín Velasco

the Jardín Velasco, La Paz
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One of the main squares found within La Paz, the Jardín Velasco is arguably the prettiest (and best first place to head to when arriving in the city). 

Within this leafy square you’ll find plenty of beautiful fountains, as well as a bandstand at its heart which is a good central point for taking photos. 

There’s also many interesting buildings located within the perimeter of the plaza too, such as the pretty colonial church (known as the Nuestra Señora de La Paz) as well as the Museo de Arte

In the evening it really comes to life, with many heading to the numerous restaurants and bars found within the blocks around the plaza. 

I recommend coming in the early morning, as it’ll be more peaceful, as well as giving you plenty of time to explore the nearby landmarks and interesting sites mentioned above. 

The Jardín Velasco is located just four blocks south of the Malecón, near the Aguila Bus Station next to the coast. It’s open all hours everyday of the week, meaning you can come for a quick stroll whenever you like.

7. Eat Tasty Seafood

The food scene in Mexico really needs no introduction, with many considering it to be one of the most popular cuisines on earth. 

In La Paz you’ll find that it is dominated by seafood and the local catches, which is the same with most of the other coastal Pacific destinations such as Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta

Some of the best dishes you can eat in La Paz include ceviche, shrimp, marlin as well as the locals' favourite of baja-style fish tacos. 

And speaking of which, those who are after a more authentic and local experience will want to head to Mc-Fisher, who specialise in Bajan food and serve a large variety of seafood dishes. 

Another locals’ favourite when it comes to eating out is Mariscos Toro el Güero, who are known for their rich octopus and ceviche plates. 

Of course there’ll be many readers who aren’t quite into the seafood scene, and for those I recommend heading to El Aútentico Super Burrito. Here they have a variety of Mexican dishes on offer, from chilaquiles and papa rellena to some really tasty burritos!

If you're continuing your trip through Mexico then Palenque and Valladolid are two other great foodie spots! 

8. Visit Isla Espíritu Santo

Isla Espíritu Santo

Often regarded as one of the most beautiful islands you can visit in Mexico, Isla Espíritu Santo is a paradise for those who love seeing wildlife whilst relaxing on world-class beaches. 

One of the all-time best beaches to explore here is Ensenada, which is a remote white-sand beach with “desert-like” hills surrounding it. 

You’ll also find a large abundance of animals here too, from angelfish, sharks, sea lions and rainbow wrasse in the waters to hummingbirds, snowy egrets and the great blue heron in the skies. 

What isn’t quite as known about the islands is that they were originally formed by a series of volcanic activities as well as numerous earthquakes. This means that the landscapes found here are also pretty extraordinary.

Human presence on this island also began close to 10,000 years ago, and many researchers have since found various ancient artefacts such as shell fish hooks which give us more insight into how ancient civilisations hunted and survived here. 

I highly recommend coming with this tour to Isla Espiritu Santo, which includes all transport as well as plenty of time snorkelling with sea lions and many of the other tropical species found here. 

Given it’s located off-shore, the only way to reach Espiritu Santo island is with a boat, which can be sorted for you in a tour (as I recommend), or by organising it independently. 

9. Head to the more remote Playa el Tecolote

El Tecolote, La Paz
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Back on the mainland, our next must-visit when in La Paz has to be this stunning beach, which faces Isla Espíritu Santo from the mainland.

Given it’s also outside of the city, Playa el Tecolote is a perfect option for those looking to get away from the crowds. 

This beach is also ideal for swimming, where you can walk as far as 30 metres into the sea and still be just waist-deep!

And given the waves are so calm, it makes Playa el Tecolote the perfect place for enjoying a variety of water sports. 

Here you can easily rent a kayak or paddle board and enjoy the tranquil vibe of the area, which is often much more peaceful than the other beaches around La Paz (it’s still best to come early before midday before others arrive). 

Those who want more high-octane fun can rent a jet ski for the day, or even go on the banana boat ride, where you’ll feel every twist and turn on these deep blue waters. 

Playa el Tecolote is located roughly 28 km north of La Paz (around 30 minutes driving distance), and there are several buses that head here from the city.

10. ATV Tour around La Paz

ATV tour

Whilst La Paz is mostly known for its nature and more sleepy vibe, that’s not to say that there aren’t activities here for those after a more adrenaline-fuelling experience! 

This ATV Tour is a great way to freshen things up here, where you’ll start in La Paz and then head out into the remote, desert landscapes that surround this Mexican city. 

Your guide will lead you to some well-known spots such as to the Mogote Dunes, where you can speed across the sands as well as go Sandboarding if you’re up for it! 

Whilst you can also find other tour and activity providers within La Paz, I recommend this one more since you’ll have a certified guide showing you around, with all protective equipment provided. 

You’ll also have all drinks and snacks included too, which are very much needed once out into the more remote wilderness. 

If you're wondering what to do in La Paz then we'd highly recommend exploring by ATV! 

11. Wander around the Colonial Church

Catedral de nuestra señora de La Paz, Mexico

The majority of travellers who head to La Paz focus mostly on the beaches and surrounding day trips. 

Whilst they’re essentials in their own right, not much thought is given to the smaller gems and landmarks found within the city. 

One of these is the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz, which is the main church in town. 

Built in the 18th Century, it’s known for its Baroque architectural style with two bell towers rising up over the rest of the cathedral and surrounding area.

It’s a nice stop-off for when walking around the Jardín Velasco, and is perfect for those looking for a memorable photo too. 

It’s also worth strolling inside the cathedral too, which has a cute altar as well as several stained and painted glass windows. 

It’s best to come here in the evening, where you can first get a nice photo, and then see the cathedral illuminate from the top of the two bell towers. Honestly, visiting the cathedral is one of the best things to do in La Paz at night!

The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de La Paz is located out the south end of the Jardín Velasco, and can easily be seen blocks away with its two spiralling towers rising above the rest of the plaza.

12. Take a day trip to Todos Santos

Todos Santos Town
Source: panza.rayada via Wikipedia

The region of Baja California is very diverse, and when in La Paz it’s really worth exploring the different towns and gems that are located further afield. 

One of the very best has to be the sleepy town of Todos Santos

Known for its epic surfing, it hosts annual surf competitions that see competitors flying in from all over the world to take on its infamous break. 

It’s also a really great place to come and wind down for the day. 

Although La Paz is quite relaxed (especially in comparison with Cabo San Lucas), you still may be after a day of more peace and relaxation. 

In Todos Santos you can easily set-up camp in a hammock, or walk along Playa Balandra (yep they also have a beach of the same name) where you can get lost in nature. 

One of my top recommendations for travellers heading to Todos Santos is to go for an early morning walk along the cliffs to Playa Punta Lobos, which is a secluded beach. 

The scenery is really impressive, although you’ll want to avoid swimming here as the current is very strong. 

Todos Santos is located 82 km south of La Paz, with the drive taking roughly an hour.

13. See Whales Sharks

La Paz Whale Sharks

La Paz is known for its rich abundance of wildlife, and many come here especially to see rare marine life such as those that are found around Isla Espíritu Santo. 

One of the all-time best species you can spot in La Paz (and in Mexico overall) has to be the Whale Shark

These friendly giants are in fact the world’s largest fish, which can measure up to a pretty sizeable 39ft. 

They’re also known for their incredible appearance, with bright white spots all over their darker body. 

Many sea-enthusiasts come here especially to snorkel or dive with them, and it’s quite easy to organise too. 

I highly recommend joining this memorable tour, where your expert marine biologist guide will take you out on a boat, first teaching you about these fantastic species. 

You’ll then spend several hours swimming with them, which includes all snorkel equipment as well as complementary photos and videos of your underwater adventure! 

Of course, you can always snap your own photos with a GoPro or underwater camera alternative, but it's always a bonus if you can just enjoy the experience.

It’s important to remember that Whale Sharks aren’t found here throughout the entire year. They arrive here around October, and remain until late April before migrating back to cooler waters. 

14. Hike along the Cerro de la Calavera

Those who love a good hike will definitely want to take note of this one! 

Cerro de la Calavera (translated as “Hill of the Skull”) is a scenic ridge that overlooks the Sea of Cortez, and is great for a day of walking around and enjoying nature. 

The track is around 6 km in length, where you’ll first hike up to the elevated hills that rise over the coast (at certain points you’ll be as high as 238m above sea-level). 

The hike along Cerro de la Calavera will take between 1-2 hours depending on your fitness level. You can check out the hiking route here!

I highly recommend hiking up and along this ridge in the late afternoon. Not only will the temperatures be bearable, however you’ll also enjoy the postcard-perfect sunset from one of the best spots around. 

If you plan on coming around the mid-afternoon, then please remember to bring lots of water (and lather up with sunscreen) since it’ll be very hot with virtually no shade. 

Cerro de la Calavera is located some 6 km north of La Paz (a 10 minute drive), and you’ll first need to drive to the district of Calavera to begin the hike up.

If you're after free things to do in La Paz, Mexico then don't miss out on this trail! 

15. Rent a Jet Ski for the day 

moored jet ski

Whilst towns along the Mexican Pacific (such as Cabo or Puerto Vallarta) are known for their massive, crashing waves, in La Paz things are also more relaxed when it comes to the big blue ocean. 

And as such, it makes for the perfect place to rent a jet ski and enjoy a day out on the water! 

Playa Balandra is a popular place to come and enjoy this activity, where you’ll find rentals right there on the beach. 

TheCortezClub is another popular rental shop (it’s actually a diving shop but also does hourly rentals on jet skis), which is found on Playa La Concha.

Last but not least, you can also go jet-skiing on the more remote and tranquil beach of El Tecolote (as I mentioned earlier). You can rent here along the beach hourly, and it's a better option than Balandra since that beach is more popular and busy. 

The best time of the day to go jet-skiing will be in the early morning (between 8:00am-10:00am) before all of the crowds arrive, and also just before the hot midday sun makes its way here.

16. Go Sandboarding

When looking at a map, the region of Baja California Sur seems to be nothing more than a thin strip of land surrounded by ocean. 

And whilst most think it’s just beaches here, it’s actually home to many desert and arid landscapes too! 

Near to La Paz are the El Mogote Dunes, which are right next to the sea and prove to be a truly memorable landscape.

I highly recommend joining this sunset dunes tour, where you’ll leave La Paz in the mid-afternoon to go sandboarding in El Mogote Dunes. 

What’s great about this particular tour is that you’ll be in a small group so it will feel more intimate (as well as quicker getting around), and that your guide will take photos and videos for you too. 

It also includes all sandboarding equipment, as well as drinks and snacks. 

You can technically go solo too, where you can take a taxi ride (or local buses) to the small town of El Datilito and walk over. 

El Mogote Dunes are located 27 km west of La Paz, with the ride taking roughly 30 minutes. 

17. Go Kayaking around the Mangroves

The beaches of La Paz really are great in their own right, where you can relax on white sands and enjoy numerous water sports.

However those who want even more peace and quiet will want to head to the mangroves of La Paz, where virtually no other tourists head to (aside from the rare tour here and there). 

This vibrant area is perfect for spotting wildlife, where you can spot many exotic birds as well as fishes too. 

If you’re lucky you may even spot Dolphins near the entrance of the mangrove zone! 

From La Paz there’s a variety of companies that take tourists out to the region. You can either choose to explore by small boat, kayak or even by paddle board.

This kayaking tour is one of the best ways to explore this diverse region. Here you’ll be in a small group, with your local guide showing you the very best spots for wildlife and total relaxation. 

You’ll also have all water and snacks provided for you too. 

Kayaking in the mangroves is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in La Paz, Baja California.

18. Souvenir Shopping

Mexican souvenirs

A big part of travelling is the unique experiences you have, as well as the memories you make. 

Often when visiting numerous places on one trip, you can often forget these as the experiences pile up, hence why getting yourself a quality souvenir is a really good idea. 

You can also pick up several items for friends and family back home, of course! 

The very best artisan shops are found along the Malecón, as well as within the area of the Zona Comercial

The Casa del Artesano Sudcaliforniano is a highly-rated gift shop, and is one of the very best to visit when it comes to bargain hunting in La Paz. 

Here you can find everything from jewellery and bracelets to garments, bottle openers and wooden whale figures.

It’s open from 9:00am until 9:00pm all days of the week, and is located just a couple of blocks south of the Muelle Fiscal. 

Other popular shops to buy a souvenir from include Bermejos Souvenirs & Artesanias as well as Así es México Artesanías, which are all within close walking distance of each other.

Shopping in La Paz is a great option for those who just fancy some down-time! 

19. Learn in the Whale Museum

source

One of the most unique museums that you can visit in northern Mexico, the Whale Museum is a must-visit when heading to La Paz.

Given that these species arrive annually on these shores (and spend as many as 8 months here at a time), they’re more or less considered local residents now. 

And in this museum you can learn about this majestic mammal, which includes a display of skeletons that show how large these whales can grow up to (you’ll feel like an ant in comparison!). 

There are also several exhibition rooms which share more details about the life of a Whale, as well as other species that frequent these waters such as sharks, turtles and dolphins. 

The museum offers tours in both English and Spanish, and even the gift shop is a good place to visit where you can pick-up some truly unique whale souvenirs. 

So if you're wondering what to do in La Paz, Mexico then we'd highly recommend checking this place out! 

The Whale Museum is located along Antonio Navarro street, which is just a 5 minute drive south of the Jardín Velasco. 

It’s open from 9:00am until 2:00pm, from Monday until Saturday.

20. Go Sailing

La Paz, Mexico

The deep blue hues seen from La Paz really are mesmerising, especially given the waves are much calmer here than those found along the main Pacific coast of Mexico. 

Even better than watching them is to go sailing along them, where you can explore this beautiful stretch of ocean along with its local inhabitants that surface from time to time. 

Whale Sharks are a popular species to spot, which are found in these waters between the months of October and April. 

Other species to see include Tuna, Blue Marlin, Swordfish as well as the stunning Dorado.

You could even organise a fishing trip from the harbour of La Paz if you are really intent on seeing many of these different fishes (in this case it’s worth speaking to a captain first about what you might see, given many of these fish are seasonal).

However for the traveller that is more interested in sailing the sea, then I highly recommend joining this private sunset sailing tour

Here you’ll spend the evening on a deluxe, 40ft sailboat, where you can bring along any food and drink and make use of the private on-boat kitchen.

Your captain can even take you to spots where Whale Sharks, Dolphins or any other species you want to see are most frequented.

There are plenty of awesome La Paz activities on offer but a sailing tour is certainly one of the best! 

La Paz Travel Tips & FAQ

When is a good time to visit La Paz?

La Paz is situated within the region of Baja California Sur, and experiences a quite unique desert climate given its location. 

Although very subtle, there is a contrasting dry and wet season here.

The dry season runs through the majority of the year, beginning in November and ending in June. Daily average temperatures range from 64-81°F, with highs of up to 95°F and lows of down to 53°F. 

During each of these months you can expect anywhere from 0-0.5 inches of rainfall. The best months for getting deals during this time are February and March, which are considered the low season.

The wet season is brief and not that different from the dry season, which starts in July and ends in October. Daily average temperatures range from 80-85°F, with highs of 97°F and lows of down to 69°F. 

Each month you can expect between 1-2.5 inches of rainfall falling. In all honesty, whilst it seems more, there really isn’t much difference in the experience you’ll have during this time.

You can check out the weather for La Paz here on WeatherSpark.

How long should you spend in La Paz

La Paz is a vibrant city to visit, and as we’ve seen there’s a lot of experiences to be had. 

For this reason I recommend spending a minimum of 4 days in La Paz. 

This will be enough time to get a good feel for this more authentic Mexican city, and also enough to wind down from the more hectic scenes of Cabo San Lucas (if you were there previously!).

With 4 days you’ll also be able to head on various day trips, such as to the must-see Isla Espíritu Santo.

If you have more time, then I would say a week would be more ideal. Here you could then stay overnight in Todos Santos, or even head up to the more remote towns of Baja Sur, as there are so many fantastic places to visit in Mexico

What is a good budget for La Paz?

Whilst La Paz is growing in popularity as a tourist destination, it still hasn’t reached the levels of that found in Cabo San Lucas or Cancun.

For that reason costs are still low, making it a relatively cheap destination to head to.

Those who want to keep costs low can expect to budget for around $25 per day. With this amount you’ll be staying in a comfortable dorm room with an AC, and also be able to eat some tasty, authentic food from local restaurants. With this budget you’ll also have some leftover for taking a taxi or buying entrance into an attraction.

If you want a more comfortable experience, then you can budget for $35-40 per day. With this amount you’ll be staying in a private room near the beach, and also be able to eat out at nicer restaurants too. You’ll also be able to spend more on using taxis to get around, although I still recommend using a bike or walking given how close everything is.

It’s important to remember that these budgets are only for accommodation and food costs, with just a little left over for an attraction or taxi ride. It doesn’t account for flights, travel insurance, tours or buses between destinations.

To make the most of your money, we always recommend picking up a Monzo or Revolut card

Can you just book a tour for La Paz?

Whilst it would be ideal to spend lots of time getting to know La Paz, I know that this is not always possible. 

In this case it would be best to book a tour, where you can see many of the very top sights of La Paz and the surrounding region in just a day.

I highly recommend this day tour, where you’ll see some of the best nature and landscapes from this area of Mexico. 

Heading to Isla Espritu Santo, you’ll be able to swim with Sea Lions as well as explore this island which is known for its abundance of exotic animals. 

You’ll also have all transport included, as well as lunch too which is always a nice bonus! 

Where to go after La Paz?

Once you’ve enjoyed the stunning beaches and nature that La Paz has to offer, you may be wondering where is next to head (after all, it’s located on a thin strip of land far from the mainland!).

I recommend next heading to Mazatlán along the coast of the mainland, which is located within the state of Sinaloa. 

This popular city is known for its malecón (which is one of the largest in the world), as well as its vibrant culture. 

It’s also home to various islands such as Isla de la Piedra and Isla de los Venados, which are known for their beautiful beaches and local fauna.

Once you’ve arrived in Mazatlán, I highly recommend joining this fantastic half-day tour, where you’ll explore the very best foods of this city. 

Tasting as many as 7 different dishes from this region (as well as from Mexico in general), it’s a really great introduction for those heading to Mazatlán. 

Even better is the fact that you’ll be using a traditional pulmonía to get around!

Here are some other Mexico guides you may find helpful: 

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