With the Sea of Cortez on one aspect and the Sierra Laguna Mountains on the opposite, La Paz is a paradise for outside fanatics and watersport aficionados.

Positioned 160 km (100 miles) north of the extra well-known metropolis of Cabo San Lucas, this conventional city is a must-visit. La Paz itself is a bit sleepy, however worry not, it’s removed from boring.

Throughout my memorable time in La Paz, I snorkeled with whale sharks, paddled a kayak within the sea, went horseback using within the mountains, and did all the sights on the town. I can now say it’s considered one of my favourite locations in Mexico and I can’t wait to return and discover extra enjoyable issues to do in La Paz, Mexico.

21 Finest Issues to Do in La Paz

These recommendations of 21 issues to do in La Paz will maintain you in your ft. I made a decision to spend every week in and round La Paz and loved each single day of our November go to.

Planning a visit to Baja California quickly? Take a look at these prime 21 issues to do in La Paz. It’s one of many greatest locations to go to in Mexico! (Don’t miss the Mexico journey sources part on the finish of this submit.)

1. Stroll Across the Previous City

The place La Paz stands at present was visited by Hernan Cortez again in 1535, however the metropolis solely began to develop within the mid-Nineteenth century due to the growth of the pearl diving business. Many of the buildings and structure mirror that interval and provides the previous city its distinctive character.

The principle sq. of Jardín Velazco, additionally known as the Plaza Constitución, is without doubt one of the locations in La Paz common with the locals. It’s an important place for people-watching. I spent a whole lot of time sitting on one the quite a few benches and watching households strolling by, seniors chatting collectively and sharing tales gone.

The previous city and Jardín Velazco are centred round Revolución de 1910 and Calle 5 de Mayo. You may wander the realm independently or go on a 2-hour free English strolling tour. This is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in La Paz and a good way to get your bearings.

2. Lease a Kayak at Balandra Seashore

A number of seashores north of La Paz are simply accessible inside an hour drive, however Balandra Seashore might be essentially the most protected and ultimate for kayakers. Freed from motorboats, you possibly can take pleasure in kayaking via the inland mangroves, discover the shallow bay, and even get out to the ocean.

Kayak rental is feasible from $15 USD / hour, or e book a full day or multi-day kayak tour from $60 USD. The mouth of the bay tends to see robust waves and currents and could be difficult for novice kayakers. Look ahead to the stingrays that generally disguise within the sandy bay flooring.

An alternative choice is to e book a tour with an area and luxuriate in a small group kayak journey with meals, drinks, and gear included.

If you wish to paddle across the mangroves, turtles, dolphins, and sea lions of the Pure Protected space of El Magote, take a look at this highly-rated journey.

In case you are on the lookout for different seashores to go to with out kayaking, try Playa El Coromuel, Playa El Caimancito, Playa El Tesoro and Playa Pichilingue, and Playa Tecolote. Tecolote presents extra facilities (eating places & restrooms) than different locations, and it turned out to be considered one of my favourite locations in La Paz.

3. See the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de La Paz

The Cathedral was inbuilt 1861 by the Dominicans and stands throughout Jardín Velasco. The tall entrance of the church is without doubt one of the predominant issues to see in La Paz and can get your consideration as quickly as you arrive on the sq.. The within of the Catedral de Nuestra Senora is value visiting, so be at liberty to step in.

Apart from its significance as a Catholic church, musical occasions corresponding to classical and non secular performances are generally held within the constructing. This is without doubt one of the greatest free issues to do in La Paz. The Catedral de Nuestra Senora is on the nook of Revolución de 1910 and Calle 5 de Mayo, and you will discover it on the map right here.

Tackle: Revolución de 1910 S/N, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in Cabo San Lucas – A Record of the Prime 21

4. Go to the Whale Museum

Given their common presence within the Sea of Cortez, it’s no marvel La Paz has a museum devoted to whales. The Museo de la Ballena is on the nook of Nook Calle Obregón and 16 de Septiembre, a brief distance from the Malecón. You may’t miss it due to the large whale skeleton exhibited in entrance of the constructing.

The Whale Museum is on the small aspect however supplies intensive data on whales, porpoises, and dolphins. A worthy cease for everybody, and I loved it very a lot.

The museum is open Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm, Sunday 10 am – 6 pm, and closed Monday, in addition to on holidays (January 1st, Might 1st and December twenty fifth). Entrance tickets are 120 to 160 Mexican Pesos ($6 – $8), which features a 45 minute guided tour (English-speaking information obtainable).

Tackle: Antonio Navarro 855, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico

5. Examine Out the Native Paintings

A white-washed historic constructing on town plaza, the Authorities Palace (Palacio de Gobierno) hosts rotating reveals from the Centro de Artes, Tradiciones y Culturas Populares de Baja California Sur.

Native painters, potters, glassmakers, and artists get an opportunity to characteristic their art work, and also you get to observe them as they showcase their inventive expertise in entrance of you.

The centre, situated on Calle Francisco I. Madero in entrance of the Jardín Velasco, is open Monday via Friday 8 am – 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 9 am – 6 pm, with free entrance.

Tackle: Francisco I. Madero S/N, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico

6. Discover the Museum of Anthropology & Historical past

The Museo Regional de Antropología e Historia is a fascinating museum situated at Altamirano and 5 de Mayo. It options well-researched exhibitions of La Paz and Baja Sur historical past, from the Paleolithic period to the time of the missions, protecting the affect of the Spanish colonization and the way it impacted the unique inhabitants.

Should you’re a historical past buff, this is without doubt one of the issues to do in La Paz that you just received’t wish to miss. Notice that the majority (if not all) descriptions are in Spanish, which I assumed was a great way to observe the language. Entrance prices 65 pesos (round $3) and is open Monday to Sunday 9 am – 6 pm.

Tackle: Calle Ignacio Altamirano s/n, Zona Central, 23000, La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in San Pancho – Don’t Miss These Prime 15!

7. Store on the Market

Scent the flavours of Mexico as native individuals store for contemporary fruits, meats, and greens on the Mercado Francisco I. Madero.

Take a look at the leather-based items, hats, and quinceañera clothes. Seize snacks and contemporary juices from the meals stalls (comedors) on the entrance of the market, and take a couple of minutes to admire the skin mural.

The Mercado is a long-standing establishment in La Paz, and amongst one of many locations to go to in La Paz to take pleasure in an affordable and engaging Mexican breakfast and lunch. Head to the nook of Revolucion De 1910 and Santos Degollado Monday to Sunday in your fill of yummy meals.

8. Loosen up on the Malecón

The 5-km (3-mile) lengthy waterfront Malecón is an area favourite and will probably be yours too. Joggers take pleasure in their run alongside the shore on Sunday afternoons, whereas households and {couples} stroll right here every day.

The Malecón can be the right spot for watching unbelievable sunsets because the pink, yellow and orange rays illuminate the sky above the ocean and marina. One other one of many prime issues to do in La Paz! (Hanging out on the Malecon is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Puerto Vallarta as properly!)

9. Bike In and Round La Paz

Lease a motorcycle for 30 pesos an hour ($1.50) and luxuriate in a leisurely journey on the 5 km (3 mile) bike lane alongside the Malecón, whereas having fun with the ocean views and stopping on the waterfront eating places for a break. Or, hit the coastal or mountain trails of Baja California for a day of mountain biking.

These on the lookout for an prolonged biking journey may wish to take into account the 370 km (230 mile) Pichilingue Peninsula coastal loop path north of La Paz. Truthfully, this was slightly lengthy for me, however I hope to attempt a part of it on my subsequent go to.

Mountain biking excursions begin from $60 relying on trails and period. For these wanting some train, mountain biking is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in La Paz.

☞ SEE ALSO: Manzanillo Colima – The Final Journey Information

10. Snorkel with Whale Sharks

One of many prime issues to do in La Paz is snorkeling with whale sharks. Whale sharks – tiburón ballenas in Spanish – are the biggest recognized fish, as much as 13 m (42 ft) lengthy. They’re current round La Paz between October to March.

Whereas it sounds scary, whale sharks solely eat plankton and care little about people. They’re huge, although, particularly whenever you’re within the water with them.

Swimming by the large fish is a incredible expertise. Nevertheless, be sure that the tour operator respects the rules that shield the welfare of the animals, together with the strict “no touching” coverage, in addition to a restricted quantity of individuals within the water at one time.

Sunrider Excursions is a extremely rated firm that follows the rules on defending the wildlife, but ensures you have got a good time! Hop aboard a 33-foot catamaran and luxuriate in snorkelling with whale sharks (in small teams of 5 solely), snacks on board, and an English information. This is without doubt one of the most memorable issues to do in La Paz, and at $80, it’s value each penny.

Discover out extra about this superb journey right here.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues To Do in Puerto Vallarta – Don’t Miss Out!

11. Go Whale-Watching in Magdalena Bay

From January to March, grey whales come to Baja California to benefit from the heat water of Magdalena Bay’s protected lagoon the place they provide delivery to their younger.

Happening a whale-watching cruise offers you the perfect likelihood of seeing the whales breed and lift their offsprings. Day cruises begin at $130, although multi-day cruises are additionally obtainable.

Different whales migrate to the Gulf of California all year long: March to July to see the blue whale (the biggest whale on the earth), February to June for the humpback whale, and October to February for the pilot whale (calderon negro).

This is without doubt one of the issues to do in La Paz you received’t wish to miss.

12. Swim with Sea Lions on Los Islotes or San Rafaelito

A cluster of smaller islands, Los Islotes is residence to a number of hundred California sea lions. A gaggle of 250 reside there within the winter however the summer time months can see over 350 with new pups arriving yearly.

If you wish to take a look at sea lions up shut, Los Islotes is without doubt one of the predominant locations in La Paz the place you are able to do so. Notice that there are rules that restrict the variety of guests to Los Islotes with a view to shield the positioning’s ecosystem.

An alternative choice for observing sea lions of their pure habitat is at San Rafaelito. Whether or not in Los Islotes or San Rafaelito, be sure that so as to add a go to to the ocean lions as considered one of your prime issues to do in La Paz. A combo tour together with a visit to Espíritu Santo Island and the Sea Lions begins from $120.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in Playa del Carmen

13. Sail to Espíritu Santo Island (among the best issues to do in La Paz!)

Espíritu Santo Island, or Isla del Espíritu Santo because the locals name it, is a few one-hour boat journey north of La Paz. The island is residence to a wealthy and assorted marine life.

The encircling reefs are teeming with sea creatures: Moorish idols, rainbow wrasse, parrotfish, rays, turtles, sharks, and the occasional pod of dolphins or whales passing via!

The island was declared a part of a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1995, and it’s no shock that this space is a paradise for divers and snorkellers.

Most of the actions in La Paz like whale watching, swimming with whale sharks, or snorkelling with sea lions could be mixed with a visit to Espíritu Santo Island.

Some boats allow you to land on the island, the place you possibly can then discover the volcanic rock formations, kayak across the island, or simply chill on the distant seashores. Even when you don’t land on Espíritu Santo Island, cruising the Sea of Cortez is certainly among the best issues to do in La Paz.

Should you’re eager about crusing to Espiritu, take a look at this common journey, or should you’d moderately be on extra of a pace boat, take a look at this tour. Each embody snorkelling and lunch.

☞ SEE ALSO: Issues to Do in Guanajuato

14. Scuba Dive within the Sea of Cortez

Jacques-Yves Cousteau named the realm the “the world’s aquarium,” and by all requirements, the Sea of Cortez presents gorgeous diving alternatives. You’ll see manta rays, dolphins, wholesome reefs, shipwrecks, sea lions, and extra.

Prime diving spots embody Espíritu Santo island and Los Islotes. I went to each, they usually had been each incredible. Visibility is greatest from Might to October.

Guide your 2-tank dive boat journey from round $100 via one of many many dive facilities in La Paz. And should you’re not but licensed, enroll in a PADI class and begin exploring the marine world. A number of the greatest diving in Mexico is discovered right here within the Baja — take pleasure in!

Should you’re planning a visit to the Yucatan, you possibly can really scuba dive in cenotes – that is undoubtedly among the best issues to do in Cancun!

15. Be taught to Cook dinner Mexican Meals

Why not discover ways to prepare dinner yummy Mexican delicacies your self? Buen Provecho presents 5-hour cooking courses for $80 in San Bartolo, a few one-hour drive from La Paz.

An alternative choice is the downtown-based El Nopal Spanish Academy which presents a $20 lesson as soon as a month. Undoubtedly, that is the tastiest of all of the actions in La Paz! I’ll admit that I loved the consuming as a lot, if no more, than the cooking.

☞ SEE ALSO: Backpacking Mexico – 8 Causes to Journey Right here Now

16. Benefit from the Nightlife

If you wish to celebration, La Paz presents a few nightclubs alongside the Malecón. In any other case, Cabo San Lucas is the place to go for Springbreak-esque leisure.

However should you choose a chilly cerveza whereas having fun with views of the ocean and listening to native musicians, then La Paz is your best choice.

The Malecón sees many of the nightlife motion, with mariachi bands strolling round, bars the place you possibly can meet locals, or nightclubs enjoying disco.

A few favorite bars embody Cafe-Bar KM-0 (Paseo Álvaro Obregón), La Morante Artwork Bar (Avenida Revolucion de 1910), Cava Sur – Restaurant & Wine Bar (Calle Ignacio Allende), and Bob Marlin (Calle Ignacio Allende).

17. Discover on Horseback

A number of ranches supply horseback using alternatives that take you alongside the ocean, via cacti, and previous fishing villages. Most of those ranches are genuine working operations, and a visit is a good way to see conventional Mexican ranchers.

A 3-hour horse journey with Rancho El Cajon is about 500 pesos ($25).

18. Brush Up On Your Spanish

Wish to enhance your Spanish? Enroll in courses at both Se Habla…La Paz or El Nopal Spanish College and begin chatting with the locals due to your new language expertise.

Talking with the residents is a good way to find out about Mexican tradition and traditions, and no matter how poor your Spanish-speaking talents are, the locals will admire your efforts.

19. Pattern Recent Seafood

Given its proximity to the ocean, it’s no shock that La Paz is a wonderful place for contemporary seafood. Consuming tasty meals is certainly one of many prime issues to do in La Paz.

One of many native delicacies is the chocolate clams, bought within the streets by the native fishermen. A must-try! Different locations to take pleasure in nice Mexican meals are Rancho Viejo (Márquez de León 228) and Tacos el Estadio (by the Cathedral).

☞ SEE ALSO: Should-Attempt Meals within the Yucatan Mexico

20. Hike within the Sierra Laguna Mountains

Whereas deserts and seashores may be the primary draw of Baja California, the mountain ranges are unbelievable and supply many adventurous issues to do in La Paz.

The Sierra de la Laguna close to the city of Santiago are residence to distinctive mountain climbing alternatives, together with waterfalls and scorching springs. Pack your mountain climbing sneakers and discover Canyon del Zorro (Fox Canyon) or the Aguas Calientes (Sizzling Water).

Guide a information or tour firm to search out your technique to the “secret” swimming swimming pools. Day hikes price from $60, whereas multiple-day treks are round $400+.

For one thing slightly nearer to La Paz, take pleasure in a 10-12 hour day journey contains hikes to lovely view factors and you actually get to see just about all the main websites round La Paz in a single day. Be taught extra about this highly-rated hike right here.

21. Attempt Kitesurfing in La Ventana

Should you’re feeling energetic, head to La Ventana and discover ways to kitesurf. An exciting wind and watersport, kiteboarding will see you browsing the waves of the bay. Given the ability of the kite in windy situations, be sure that to take correct coaching earlier than heading out by your self.

La Ventana is about an hour drive from La Paz, and the windy season runs from October to April. Skilled riders can lease gear from $120 for a full day. Freshmen can look into lesson packages, with costs various on expertise and period.

Prime Accommodations, Hostels & B&Bs in La Paz

I stayed in a number of locations throughout my time in La Paz, and I additionally requested most of the foreigners I met the place they most popular to remain. Listed here are a few of the greatest.

Finances

Peace Hostel MX – rated “Glorious” 8.9/10. Only a brief stroll to the Malecon, and that includes a recreation room, backyard, lounge, and breakfast. Double rooms right here go for round $36/night time within the excessive season. Click on right here to study extra and e book this hostel.

Pension Baja Paradise – rated “Glorious” 8.7/10. Should you’re travelling with a canine, excellent news this place is pet pleasant! There’s a shared kitchen, BBQ services and a terrace. Rooms are small, however sufficient and at $35 for a double room within the excessive season, you actually can’t complain. Click on right here to study extra and e book this hostel.

Midrange

Casa Juarez B&B – rated “Fantastic” 9.4/10. Stunning, fashionable, vibrant rooms, outside pool, nice breakfast and glorious location. Top-of-the-line locations to remain in La Paz. Double rooms from $65 within the excessive season. Click on right here to study extra and e book this B&B.

Resort Catedral La Paz – rated “Fantastic” 9.2/10. Boasting a ravishing outside pool (with bar), incredible views of La Paz and cozy beds, it is a best choice lodging. A incredible breakfast is included and the meals on the onsite restaurant is nice. Click on right here to study extra and e book this resort.

Prime Finish

Hyatt Place La Paz – rated “Very Good” 8.4/10. Providing all the common facilities you possibly can anticipate from the Hyatt resort chain, together with fashionable rooms, massive outside pool, health heart, onsite restaurant and bar, and golf course (shut by). The situation is true on the water, a few 10 minute drive from La Paz. Click on right here to study extra and to e book this resort.

FAQs About What to Do in La Paz, Mexico

Listed here are solutions to some ceaselessly requested questions concerning the many enjoyable issues to do in La Paz, Mexico.

Now You Know What to Do in La Paz and Baja California!

La Paz can simply be explored by your self — strolling or biking your manner round. If you wish to dive, snorkel with whale sharks, or head to Espíritu Santo Island, reserve a tour via one of many tour operators advisable above.

Not solely they know the perfect spots to discover, however they’re educated about marine life and the native historical past. Whereas I like exploring on my own, the excursions I took in La Paz offered me with experiences that wouldn’t have been doable alone. I obtained to fulfill some fascinating and informative locals as properly.

This native experience is particularly important when trekking within the mountains, scuba diving, or collaborating in any of essentially the most adventurous issues to do in La Paz. Security is vital, so all the time guarantee your information is respected and educated.

Beside La Paz, Todos Santos is one other favorite of Baja California Sur due to its historic centre, wildlife, and browsing alternatives. And you may simply spend a number of days in La Ventana and Los Barriles having fun with water sports activities corresponding to windsurfing, kiteboarding, and kayaking.

Depart touristy Cabo San Lucas behind, and discover the various wonders of Baja California Sur — you received’t remorse it!

Notice: Until in any other case acknowledged, pictures on this article are courtesy of Shutterstock. Goats On The Highway sources royalty-free pictures from this firm. Be taught extra right here.

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