The Best Activities Near La Paz
We’ve been exploring La Paz for over two decades, and in that time, we’ve fallen in love with its vibrant city, rich culture and history, and most of all the wild natural beauty that surrounds it. The city itself is full of colorful markets, welcoming locals, and stunning beaches, but the real magic of La Paz lies just beyond the city.
This region of Baja California Sur is home to some of the most unique wildlife encounters and remote adventures in all of Mexico. Whether you’re adding a day trip onto your vacation or joining us for a multi-day expedition, we’ve listed out our favorite activities near La Paz to help you plan your vacation.
Spend a Day Swimming with Whale Sharks
La Paz is one of the few places in the world where you can swim alongside the largest fish in the sea—whale sharks. From October through April, juvenile whale sharks feed in the shallow waters of La Paz Bay offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
We meet in La Paz, and after a short boat ride to the designated whale shark zone, you get into the water with your guide and snorkel beside these gentle giants, who can grow up to 24 feet long. With their polka-dotted bodies and slow, sweeping movements, whale sharks are nothing short of amazing. Our tours are led by certified local guides and adhere strictly to park regulations to ensure respectful and sustainable encounters.
Note: Whale shark permits are limited, so we recommend booking early!
Explore The Mining History and Village Life of Baja
For those looking to explore beyond the beach, our cultural day tour into the mountains offers a unique glimpse into Baja’s rich history. You’ll visit the former mining towns of El Triunfo and San Antonio, stroll through historic ruins, and learn about the region’s silver boom at the Museo Ruta de Plata.
A highlight of the day is a home-cooked lunch in a local family’s home, where you’ll get to try your hand at making tortillas. It’s an immersive experience that blends history, hospitality, and the striking beauty of Baja’s inland landscapes all in one day.
Explore Our Mining History & Village Life Tour
Puerto Chale Whale Watching Camp
Every winter, gray whales migrate thousands of miles from the Arctic to the warm waters of Baja California Sur and our whale watching camp near Puerto Chale brings you right into the heart of the action.
Right near the village of Puerto Challe, our camp offers unparalleled access to one of Baja’s best whale calving lagoons. From camp, you’ll set off on daily excursions to watch mothers and calves breaching, spy-hopping and sometimes, if you’re lucky, approaching your boat. You’ll be joined by naturalist guides and experienced local boat captains who share insights into the whale behavior, all while prioritizing respectful wildlife practices.
A few days spent at our Puerto Chale whale watching camp is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself into the wild on your vacation in Mexico. Whether you're sipping coffee with a view of the lagoon or watching as a curious gray whale swims by, each moment brings you closer to the magic of Baja’s natural world.
Explore Our Puerto Chale Whale Camp Tour
Espíritu Santo Sea Kayaking
Just off the coast of La Paz you’ll find paradise on earth, Isla Espíritu Santo. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of Baja’s crown jewels. It’s an uninhabited island with jade-green bays, white-sand beaches, and an abundance of marine life. Year after year Isla Espíritu Santo remains one of our favorite destinations to explore.
Our 5-day kayak tours around Espíritu Santo you snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes, hike through colorful deserts, and relax on pristine beaches with your group. Each day has plenty of time allotted to explore the ocean whether by kayak, snorkeling, or simply wading off of the shore. Each night you camp under skies filled with stars and enjoy fresh local meals prepared by our guides.
Whether it’s your first time in a kayak or your tenth, the island’s magic never fades. To top it off, you can add a day before or after your trip to swim with whale sharks for the ultimate adventure!
Explore Espíritu Santo by Kayak
Sea Kayaking + Whale Watching Combo Tour
Can’t decide between kayaking and whale watching? In La Paz, you can do both!
Our La Paz-based Kayaking and Whale Watching Combo Tour blends the best of both worlds. You spend five days paddling and snorkeling around Espíritu Santo Island, and then cross to the Pacific side for three days at our remote whale camp. It’s one of the most immersive wildlife adventures we offer and is perfect for travelers who want it all: sea lions, whale sharks, gray whales, dolphins, vibrant coral reefs, and Baja’s legendary landscapes.
Loreto to La Paz Sea Kayaking Expedition
For those looking for a true sea kayaking expedition, our Loreto to La Paz sea kayaking trip is a once-in-a-lifetime journey through one of the most remote stretches of Baja’s coastline.
Over 10 days, we paddle 65 miles while exploring sea caves, snorkeling vibrant reefs, and hiking through desert canyons. With the dramatic Sierra de la Giganta mountains as your backdrop and dolphins swimming in your wake, each day is packed with surprises, new discoveries, and beauty.
This tour is panga-supported, meaning your gear travels by motorboat, so you can enjoy the freedom of paddling a light kayak. This trip starts in Loreto and ends in La Paz, giving you a chance to explore the two cities. Each has unique offerings, and this trip is the perfect way to make the most of each while still getting some time off-grid and in the wilderness. After arriving in La Paz, consider adding a day to swim with whale sharks before heading home if you’re looking for the ultimate wildlife adventure!
Explore Our Loreto to La Paz Expedition
Planning Your Perfect Baja Adventure
Whether you're dreaming of paddling turquoise bays, snorkeling with sea lions, or witnessing a gray whale calf peek over the waves, La Paz is the perfect launching point for adventure travelers. From culturally rich day tours to epic sea kayaking expeditions, the wonders near La Paz will leave you inspired and fulfilled.
Need help choosing the right trip? Our Adventure Consultants are here to help craft your perfect Baja experience.
